There's no rush on the potato market at the moment. Despite the high expectations it is still calm in the area of export. "There is sometimes some activity, especially towards Eastern Europe. It isn't large amounts, but there is some going," says Jurgen Duthoo of Bart's Potato Company.
Focused demand
He emphasises that it isn't a general market demand. "Certain customers specifically want certain varieties. There are opportunities arising left and right." The prices vary per variety, quality and size sorting. "If people want a washed Agatha, high prices are paid for it. A brushed Bintje, on the other hand, costs less."
Price corrections
Growers' expectations were very high this season. "Many people wanted to continue storing, as they were hoping for a quick export demand. Now it is slowly becoming clear that this demand isn't there yet and the harvest in Europe was better than expected. Growers are realising that they can't continue to wait and I expect to get price corrections in the market due to this. This will certainly affect the export and offers new possibilities."
Jurgen expects a bit more movement for the holidays. "But this is traditional. In general it will probably be calm until the end of January, start of February. Two things will have to find each other. The export demand and the price here. I expect a match sooner or later."
For more information:
Jurgen Duthoo
Bart's Potato Company bvba
Westvleterenstraat 25a
8640, Vleteren, Belgium
Tel: +32 57 40 91 20
Fax: +32 57 40 91 21
www.lamaire.be
