Kartoffeln News, 01/26/2024

The demand for free lots of the fries raw material in France has not yet increased significantly and is quite stable and steady at the previous week's level. This means that sales remain relatively low. There are still warehouse-critical cargoes that need to be cleared and processed as a priority. Producers and storekeepers show little willingness to sell, which has resulted in the price of the Fontane variety increasing by one euro in the range. The industry is signaling interest in additional volumes for later delivery dates and is willing to pay higher prices. In Belgium, demand for free processing potatoes has increased over the past week and exceeds existing supply. This leads to a significant consolidation of prices. After trading was very cautious and quiet at the beginning of the year, trading is now going briskly. On the food market, supply and demand are fairly balanced. The prices were mostly updated at the previous week's level. According to market participants, food retailers are picking up goods satisfactorily. Packers report that many lots find buyers, especially nationwide, and that the quantities offered can be marketed well. In Lower Saxony, the remaining stocks are expected to be significantly lower compared to the previous year (-25%). Furthermore, the rejection rate is described as high. Imported goods are now also supplementing the range on the shelves. Orders are currently being placed particularly from France. But the first new potatoes are also finding buyers in this country. Stable prices are expected in the coming weeks. However, with a view to the coming months, surcharges are expected.