European potato harvests projected to fall below 40 million tons

European potato harvests for the 2026/2027 season are projected to fall below 40 million tons, representing a decrease of approximately 15 million tons compared to the previous year. This decline is attributed to an 11 percent reduction in planting areas across major North-Western European producing regions, including Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Poland.

Extreme weather conditions, specifically heatwaves and prolonged droughts, have further impacted both the quantity and quality of the crop. Reports indicate smaller tubers and lower starch content, which may hinder the production of processed goods such as fries and chips.

Market prices are already reacting to the anticipated shortage. In Belgium, the benchmark industrial price for Fontane potatoes rose from 10 euros per ton in late July to 150 euros per ton in early August. While processors currently hold stocks and contracts, the impact of reduced supply is expected to reach retail consumers by late 2026 and early 2027.