Potato markets buoyant in Ireland, European yields ‘average at best’

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) reports that markets and consumption in Ireland remain buoyant as consumers are back to work and school. Colder weather has also stabilised retail sales. Processing trade remains ‘stable and steady’. Liftings continue at pace around the country before wetter forecasted weather conditions set in. It is estimated that around 60% of crops remain to be lifted in Donegal. Reports from growers maintain that yields are average at best.

This Friday, October 1^st marks National Potato Day in Ireland and consumers are reminded to support local Irish growers as part of the initiative. 

Across Europe, first harvester liftings of maincrop indicate that yields are only going to be average at best and wastage levels are likely to be higher than normal, due to the adverse growing conditions this year. End of season growth has not fully compensated for the slow start to the season. Lack of transport continues to impinge on export markets.  

In the U.K, it is reported that lifting into store has only just started in the true maincrop areas, including Lincolnshire and the Fens but also in Scotland. 

Ex-farm potato prices reported to the IFA (28/09/2021)