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Stable potato volumes from Egypt despite lower yields

The Egyptian potato season is progressing with exports to Arab and African countries and will soon begin in a few days in Europe. According to Abdelkader Habony, "Fresh potatoes are eagerly awaited in Europe, and we're ready with good volumes, quality, and prices."

According to Habony, the area devoted to potatoes has increased significantly, offsetting the yield drop. The grower explains, "We've had some difficulties with production, coupled with the cyclical drop in yields that comes every two years. Yields have fallen from 20 tons per feddan to 12 on average (feddan = 0.42 hectare). However, the potato sector has attracted many growers this season. I think production will be no less than 6.5 million tons nationally in the most conservative estimate."

"This amply covers the needs of the local market, where prices are stable, so there won't be any problems on the export front," continues the grower. "We have started with countries in the Arab region and African markets, which prefer varieties produced in clay soils. Harvests from sandy soils will follow in a few days and are mostly destined for European markets, and I can announce very good quality in sufficient volumes."

Exports to Africa have been impacted by lower subsidies. Habony explains, "There are fewer shipments than usual. The government decided in November to cut agricultural export stimulus subsidies, in addition to cutting transport subsidies that were specific to the African market. This has discouraged many exporters who were relying on these subsidies."

Exporters have high hopes for the start of exports to Europe, and the wind seems to be in their favor, according to Habony. He says, "European markets are currently waiting for fresh potatoes. Production has dropped in almost all European origins, and there are no more fresh potatoes, not to mention quality issues. Prices are also high. For example, Dutch potatoes arrive in Romania at 670 USD per ton."

"Everything points to a good season for the year, and Egypt will help break the potato shortage in all varieties of table or processing potatoes, with prices competitive compared to what's currently on the market," Habony concludes.

For more information:
Abdelkader Habony
Samah for Import and Export
Tel: +20 1090999229
Email: [email protected]