Prices on the food market are stable to slightly weaker in a weekly comparison. Inter-regional shipping has recently decreased as all regions can supply themselves due to the well-progressing harvest. Farmers are already storing potatoes from the main crop at high speed. Exports to other European destinations are not yet taking place noticeably. Since the Austrian potato harvest was also small and Sweden also recorded a below-average harvest this year, traders are hoping for new opportunities to place quantities in these countries. There is also currently a stable potato market in France and the Netherlands. Supply and demand are usually balanced. Processing potatoes are still not in demand outside of existing contracts. In Lower Saxony, prices were recently quoted between 10 and 12 euros, Innovator achieves up to 12 euros/dt in North Rhine-Westphalia. Belgapom is today quoting a price of 10 euros/dt for Challenger. The factories continue to process predominantly contract goods. In Belgium and the Netherlands, free quantities are occasionally bought up.In France, the factories are also cautious and primarily process contract potatoes. However, free quantities are certainly being traded for later delivery dates this year or at the beginning of next year. As in Belgium, prices of around 8 euros/dt are paid in France for lots that cannot be stored. The RNM is currently quoting 11 euros for Innovator. Reka did not change its quotes today. Few contracts were traded on EEX this week, but open interest has increased slightly. Prices have developed less on a weekly basis.
ZMP Live Expert Opinion
The harvest is progressing well. That's why all regions are well supplied with table potatoes and in the surplus areas they are already being stored diligently. Prices on the food market are generally stable with only small changes. The processing market, however, is likely to remain under pressure. However, price increases are likely as the season progresses. The demand for frozen products is high and, as the latest figures from the EU Commission show, European fries are selling well on the global market.