The New Zealand Potato Association has shown that it is showing steady growth in the volume and value of potatoes, and currently the industry's annual value is more than 1 billion New Zealand dollars.
“The latest data for 2018 indicates that we maintain our position in exports, and the value in the domestic market has increased. These are good results, but we would like to boost our export market, ”said Chris Clarridge, CEO of Potato New Zealand.
The industry is targeting the domestic market, where it has achieved a 37% increase in value since 2013. The strategic goal is to increase domestic market value by 50% by 2025.
According to the association, potato volumes have increased due to increased productivity in the industry. In addition to growth in volume, value has also risen. Estimated annual cost growth is 6%. The release also notes that the export market has not yet reached its goal. The industry's goal until 2025 is to double exports, but it remains to be seen whether this is feasible.
There was also a decrease in the cost of exporting fresh table potatoes to the Pacific Islands, while maintaining an unchanged supply volume. In addition, there was also a reduction in the export of chips, primarily due to the yield and availability of varieties in 2017.
On the other hand, New Zealand Potato writes that access to the frozen potato market is not limited by any phytosanitary requirements, which is why the market is adequate, especially due to the drought in Europe.
