World trade in frozen fries has reached a new record. The World Potato Markets Frozen Fry Trade Index is at a new high, with volumes 19% above the pre-Covid benchmark year of 2019. The figure comes from World Potato Markets issue 786 of 22 September 2026.
The index already hit an all-time high in issue 783 of 1 September. Stronger sales by China and India made up for weaker exports from Europe and North America.
Lower prices drive the gains
World Potato Markets says recent trade gains come from lower prices among the largest suppliers. India and China have become more competitive by cutting prices. The trend may continue, as European and American processors must pay more for their raw potatoes.
China’s fry exports grew by more than 40% over the year, although growth is now slowing. The report names China, India, New Zealand and Egypt as suppliers poised to gain ground.
Production is not keeping pace
- The world produces a little under 400 million tonnes of potatoes a year. Output is not growing as fast as the population.
- Europe had its hottest summer on record, and planted area fell after the large 2025 crop.
- The US expects one of its smallest crops ever, just under 18 million tonnes, according to North American Potato Market News.
- Canada is heading for a record crop, although the harvest is not finished.
- China and India report relatively good crops.
Ware and dehydrated product exports have eased but remain above their level of seven years ago.
Why it matters
The balance in fry trade is moving east. European and North American processors face higher raw material costs, while Asian suppliers win customers on price. For importers, this means more choice and more price competition.
Sources: World Potato Markets 783 (1 September 2026) and 786 (22 September 2026), Supply Intelligence Ltd, publisher’s summaries.
Photo: Potato strip production line (illustrative). SortingExpert / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
