"Potato season comparable with 12 years ago"

According to Rudi Callens of Dauchy, The Netherlands, it is still very quiet on the potato market. "Last year export was good during the entire year and about this time the export to Poland started to increase, but at the moment nothing is happening," the trader mentions. "The demand is just not there. As it looks now there will not be a quick change unless something out of the ordinary happens. We are of course also very dependent on the weather." At the moment Dauchy supply a lot to Southern Europe. "Also a lot goes to the processing industry."

At the moment the growers' price is about 2.5 Euro and that is too cheap." The potato exporter realises that it has been 12 years ago since the market was this bad. "The year 2000 may be compared with the present situation. Then as well prices were extremely low. According to him the carrot market is doing better and the price is at a good level.

A striking development in the last few years is the decreasing demand for Bintje. "Especially France is a big competitor and this country often introduces new varieties. As far as sales are concerned they are often in the way. Last year Russia was their most important market and now it is Spain." Rudi hopes, that the new potato season will look better. The expectations are good and therefore we hope for a recovery."

For more information:
Rudi Callens
Dauchy Potatoes
46, Sulferbergstraat
8954 Westouter - Belgium
T +32 57 44 48 72
F +32 57 44 70 98
www.dauchypotatoes.be