French process almost no free potatoes

Potato processors in France have processed 9% more potatoes so far this season compared to the same period last year. A significantly larger amount of potatoes was also imported. This amounts to 25,000 tons, which is quite remarkable. Between July and October, French potato processors processed a total of 665,000 tons of consumption potatoes, which is 9% more than in the same period last year. This is quite remarkable considering that the French fry export market for European companies has taken a considerable step back. It should be noted that France has largely escaped the worst. It is mainly Belgium and the Netherlands that are facing significant declines. In September, 186,342 tons were processed in France, and in October, 179,897 tons. This is an increase of 13% and 10% compared to the same months in 2024. The total contract volume for this season amounts to 487,000 tons. This is an increase of 14.3% compared to the 2024/25 season and almost 30% more than the five-year average. Significantly more imports The volume of imported potatoes is also higher this year. It amounts to 176,000 tons compared to 151,000 tons last year. In October, over 45,000 tons of potatoes were even imported. On one hand, this is not surprising given the good yields. This mainly concerns Belgian potatoes grown for French companies or for Belgian processors that also have a factory in France. For example, think of Clarebout. The share of free potatoes processed this season amounts to a meager 3,000 tons. This is only 0.45% of the total volume and 93% less than a year ago. Normally, around 30,000 tons are typically imported during these months, but this year the sector is working with a zero. This further illustrates how low the demand for potatoes is. Ample potatoes Last season, the French industry processed 1.92 million tons of potatoes. After four months, 35% of the total seasonal volume has been processed. The industry must process an average of 160,000 tons per month to achieve this. This season, the available amount of potatoes is not a limiting factor. Despite the agricultural ministry Agreste having reduced the harvest forecast, it is estimated that 11% more potatoes have still been harvested than in 2024. In potato processing, a clear seasonal pattern can be observed. Normally, processing slows down in November and December, only to pick up again in March. If processing performs well, a large part of the additional potato volume will indeed be handled. The big challenge for the French is to market all these potato products on the world market.