Spanish potato sector warns of climate risks and import dependency

The European and Spanish potato sectors are facing significant challenges due to climate change and a heavy reliance on imports. During the First International Potato Symposium, industry representatives warned of a downward trend in European production, which currently stands at 48 million tons.

In Spain, the seventh largest producer in the EU, there is a notable dependence on imports, totaling over 1.5 million tons annually, primarily from France and Portugal. Officials noted that recent years have seen unpredictable harvests, including price drops due to overproduction in 2025 and decreased productivity in 2026 caused by adverse weather conditions.

Castilla y León, which accounts for approximately 50% of Spain's potato production, is taking proactive steps to protect its regional industry. The regional government is working with producers to develop a quality brand to certify the origin of the tubers. This initiative aims to increase added value, improve commercial positioning, and ensure economic benefits remain within local farming communities amidst rising costs and external competition.