Unseasonably Cold Temperatures Impact Potato Harvest and Prices
According to Potatopro, Argentina is experiencing its coldest temperatures in recent years, resulting in significant impacts on potato production. Recent weeks have seen extensive frost damage to potato crops in key production areas, leading to a sharp decrease in supply and subsequent price increases in wholesale markets.
Frost Damage Across Major Potato-Producing Regions
In Argentina, recent frosts have severely affected potato production, particularly in the regions of Córdoba and Villa Dolores. These areas have recently begun their harvest, and losses are reported to be as high as 40-50% in some cases due to the unusually cold temperatures.
The frosts have also impacted crops in Tucumán and Catamarca. In these provinces, where crops were more advanced—reaching 70-80 days into their growth cycle—frosts have caused significant delays in the production cycle. These delays are expected to affect both the yield and the timing of the harvest.
In the Southeast of Buenos Aires, where harvests are further advanced, the cold temperatures have also had a detrimental effect. Some areas experienced temperatures as low as -10°C, impacting the quality of the underground crops and leading to substantial losses. This has further compounded supply issues for fresh market distribution in the upcoming quarter.
Price Increases Reflect Supply Shortages
The adverse weather conditions have led to noticeable price increases in the Mercado Central. For example, the price of Spunta potatoes from the Southeast has surged to $9,000 per bag, reflecting a 20% increase. Similarly, Spunta Blanca potatoes from Córdoba have risen to $10,000 per bag, also marking a 20% increase.
Given the ongoing frost damage and the anticipated restricted supply, prices are expected to continue rising in the coming weeks. The market will need to adjust to these new conditions as the full extent of the frost’s impact becomes clear.
