While Europe is currently experiencing low prices due to an increase in volume, this causes no impact on the American potato market. However, the Idaho Potato Commission is experiencing a disadvantage in overseas shipping. “The European market is not affecting us,” states Muir, “but we are greatly affected by west coast shipping problems.”
Although Idaho’s shipping pace is ahead of last year, delays by the longshoremen’s union have created a hold up on international exports. “A strike has not been declared, but junior workers with less experience are handling all shipments. There is no hurry and shipments are slowing down.”
West coast shipping problems have been happening for several months and are causing a big impact on the US market. “They are essentially controlling the market,” declares Muir, “their actions are causing companies to lose customers throughout the Northwest.”
Idaho potatoes are shipped in three main varieties: fresh, frozen, and dehydrated. Delays have affected all three categories. “Asia buys a lot of dehydrated potatoes for snacking and cooking needs,” explains Muir, “delays in fresh potato shipments are most devastating as they have a shelf life. Frozen potatoes keep longer, however it is costly to store them.”
For more information please contact:
Frank W. Muir
President/CEO
Idaho Potato Commission
Tel: 208-334-2350
Fax: 208-334-2274
Frank.Muir@potato.idaho.gov
http://www.idahopotato.com