Market trends - week 5 / January 2026
1. supply situation & demand (Germany & EU)
The potato market continues to be characterized by a high supply surplus in week 5, without any noticeable change compared to previous weeks.
-
Current producer prices for table potatoes in Germany are again quoted in the range of around €10.00 - €14.00 per tonne (waxy) and €10.00 - €13.00 per tonne (mainly waxy) - without any significant movement compared to the previous week.
-
Despite seasonal demand effects and individual sales promotions in the food retail sector, demand remains moderate as stocks are still high.
-
A European comparison also shows an oversupplied market: Austria is reporting sufficient good stocks with stable prices and quiet sales, although export prices are below the domestic level.
In NRW, producer prices for table potatoes are stable at around €16.00 per tonne, while industrial potatoes are still hardly being sold - free industrial goods are traded very cheaply or not at all.
2. price development & wholesale
Free wholesale remains characterized by stable low price levels. According to data from the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Agriculture, wholesale prices have hardly changed recently.
Producer prices (wholesale/collection) week 5:
-
Firm-boiling: 10.00 - 14.00 €/dt
-
Pre-boiling: 10.00 - 13.00 €/dt
Consumer prices in the food retail trade are accordingly around 0.39 - 1.99 €/kg, depending on packaging size.
3. industrial goods & European Processing Potato Index
The weak price level is confirmed for the industrial goods segment (e.g. chips):
-
According to trade data, the European Processing Potato Futures for April 2026 remained at a very low level of around € 4.90/100 kg at the end of January 2026 - an indicator for processed goods-related price trends.
The EPPI index as a benchmark is continued on a seasonal basis and the last available publication of 08.01.2026 remains a relevant reference. The low indicator value underpins the low willingness to buy among processors and the surplus of industrial goods in Europe.
4. demand behavior & export outlook
🔎 Domestic (Germany): Demand in food retailing remains quiet in week 5, selective buying impulses from discount campaigns in food retailing only lead to temporary effects.
🔎 Exports: No significant impetus - many neighboring countries are well supplied and are reducing their import requirements.
🔎 Processing: Processors are focusing on contract volumes; free batches are difficult to sell.
ZMP Live Expert Opinion
In week 5/2026, the potato market remains characterized by a stable but low price environment and a persistent supply surplus. Domestic demand is providing only limited relief, while industrial commodity prices and export activity remain weak. There are no signs of any noticeable upward price momentum this week.
You see historical data because you're not logged in or not a ZMP Live+ member. Get your information advantage now!
