Between July 2024 and March 2025, U.S. potato exports presented a mixed performance, with notable increases in frozen, fresh, and seed potatoes but significant drops in dehydrated and chip products. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, total export volume fell by 4% (to 2.3 million metric tons, fresh-weight equivalent), while export value dipped only 1%, remaining strong at $1.7 billion.
Category Breakdown: Winners and Losers
- Frozen Potatoes (49% of exports, +3%)
The largest export category saw growth in key markets:- Japan (+9%)
- South Korea (+11%)
- Canada (+10%)
- Taiwan (+13%)
- Guatemala (+15%)
- Saudi Arabia (+4%)
- Fresh Potatoes (20% of exports, +1%)
Strong demand in select markets drove growth:- Japan (+76%)
- Taiwan (+23%)
- Dominican Republic (+71%)
- Guatemala (+98%)
- Seed Potatoes (1% of exports, +16%)
Though a small segment, seed potatoes posted strong growth, signaling rising global demand for U.S. varieties. - Dehydrated Potatoes (24% of exports, −16%)
Eight of the top ten markets declined, including Canada, Mexico, Japan, and China. Exceptions were Indonesia (+127%) and Malaysia (+26%). - Potato Chips (−17%)
A sharp drop suggests shifting consumer preferences or increased local production in key import markets.
Market Insights and Challenges
- Asia-Pacific remains a critical growth region, with Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan showing strong demand for frozen and fresh potatoes.
- Latin America (Guatemala, Dominican Republic) is emerging as a high-growth market for fresh potatoes.
- Competition from China and India is reshaping trade flows, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Adapting to Global Trends
While U.S. potato exports face challenges in dehydrated and chip categories, growth in frozen, fresh, and seed markets highlights opportunities for farmers and exporters. Diversifying markets, improving competitiveness, and monitoring trade dynamics will be key to sustaining growth.
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