Potatoes South Africa, the industry body of the potato industry, has stated that the potato supply for 2024 remains stable and that reports of potato shortages and excessively high prices are overexaggerated and unlikely to materialise. While the market is currently experiencing a decline in supply, volumes are not drastically lower when compared to the same period over the last few years.
Frost was widely reported in Limpopo during the winter months of 2024, resulting in limited growth of potatoes. A Potatoes SA survey done among potato producers in Limpopo however shows that potatoes were in different growth stages when the frost occurred, which meant that not all potato plantings were ruined. While it has been difficult to quantify the yields lost, data indicates that 3 674 hectares were affected in Limpopo, with a possible average yield loss of 32%.
This is likely to translate into a 3% reduction in potato supply from the 5-year average nationwide. Willie Jacobs, CEO of Potatoes SA, stated that according to their data, the loss of yield will be greater in terms of tuber size. “We expect fewer extra-large, and large potatoes and more medium and small potatoes for the period of September and October in Limpopo.”
Overall potato supplies are higher for 2024, compared to last year. Jacobs noted that to date the market has received 208 000 10kg bags more than what had been received this time in 2023. The average price for the first 34 weeks of 2024 was R2,22 lower than the 2023 price for first 34 weeks of the year.
Producers are currently working to close the gap in potato supply, with growing regions across South Africa stepping in to ensure supplies remain stable.
“South Africa is fortunate to have potato production spread across a wide range of regions and provinces. This greatly reduces the risk for weather-related shocks in the market,” said Jacobs.
To be informed about the latest market information, please download our Potatoes SA-App on Google Playstore and Apple Appstore.
