Potatoes 2013
Potato prices are currently twice as high as last year, raising the question of the causes.
- The previous year's harvest in 2012 was below average due to the effects of the drought.
- The surplus stocks of potato products have been severely depleted, meaning that there is only a weak supply cushion for the 2013 harvest.
- The cold spring and the delayed start of vegetation in Germany and other parts of southern Europe have contributed to a considerable delay and reduction in the supply of early potatoes and exacerbated the supply situation.
- In parts of France and Great Britain, potato cultivation literally fell through, i.e. the areas were not accessible for timely cultivation. This resulted in unusually high potato imports from these regions, which further reduced the available supply.
- The potato cultivation area is estimated to be at the previous year's level. However, the late start to spring could also contribute to a reduction in the harvest of late potatoes.
Overall, 2013 was an extreme potato year with small quantities and high prices. Nevertheless, prices can be expected to fall with the start of the main harvest in the fall months if the weather cooperates.
