Fresh Potato Glut in France: Quality and Quantity Create Market Tensions
The French fresh potato market has entered a period of significant stress in early 2025, marked by high inventories, declining prices, and limited export activity. According to the latest figures from French market observers and trade associations, 1.26 million tonnes of potatoes destined for the fresh market remain in storage—nearly 500,000 tonnes more than this time last year.
While France’s processing potato segment holds firm, maintaining a relatively stable balance between supply and demand, the fresh table potato market tells a different story. Growers are pushing to clear stock, including lower-grade lots, which are struggling to find buyers, both domestically and in export markets.
Price Trends: Lower Across the Board
French market data from late March 2025 show steep week-over-week price declines:
- Most fresh potato varieties saw price drops of €2.00 per 100 kg (dt).
- Export-grade potatoes lost approximately €1.00/dt, with particularly poor demand outside of France.
- Unwashed, non-premium tubers (45+ mm) are now trading at just €14.00–€18.00/dt (bulk in BigBags), with the average at €18.00/dt.
- Washed, retail-ready lots are fetching between €22.00–€27.00/dt, with the market center at €25.00/dt.
In comparison, reds (rotschalige Ware) are holding up slightly better, though still experiencing downward price pressure. To boost sales, many producers have turned to promotional offers and discounts.
Supply Chain Insights: Processing Sector Offers Stability
Despite the fresh market turbulence, French fry processors continue to operate with stable pricing, reflecting better balance in that segment. Several processors are still working through early-year purchase commitments, and trade on the open market is minimal.
According to the latest update from the French Potato Trade Association, of the 3.25 million tonnes of potatoes in total storage at the end of January 2025:
- Approximately 2.0 million tonnes are earmarked for processing (similar to 2024),
- While 1.26 million tonnes are intended for the fresh market,
- Compared to just 0.79 million tonnes in storage for the fresh market at the same point in 2024.
This 60% year-over-year increase in fresh market volume is a key factor behind the ongoing price pressure and slow sales.
Export Outlook: Eastern Europe Offers Some Relief
France’s traditional export markets for fresh potatoes remain relatively inactive, adding to domestic market strain. However, Eastern European buyers, particularly from Poland and the Czech Republic, are showing some interest—especially in brushed (bürstenfähige) lots where competition has been less aggressive.
This presents a modest opportunity for shippers looking to relieve domestic oversupply, especially for mid-quality stock.
Planting Update: Early Varieties Underway
Despite market difficulties, planting of early processing varieties has begun on light soils in favorable conditions. However, the heavy carryover and weak pricing environment may influence some growers’ planting decisions for the upcoming season, especially for fresh-market-focused varieties.
France’s fresh potato market is currently navigating a challenging environment, driven by excess supply, subdued demand, and stagnant export markets. While the processing sector offers some price stability, growers focused on table potatoes face shrinking margins. Targeted exports to Eastern Europe and strategic storage management will be critical in the coming weeks. Going forward, balanced planting strategies and increased market intelligence will be essential to avoid a repeat of this oversupply situation in 2026.
