The Ministry of Agriculture has revealed that Spain produced a total of 1,948,369 tons of potatoes on 60,799 hectares. This is 13,600 tons lower than the previous estimates of the World Potato Market, and the third consecutive year in which production has remained below 2 million tons.
Compared to 2023, total production decreased by 1.4% and the cultivated area fell by 1.9%, standing at 60,799 hectares; the second lowest figure after 2022. However, the average yield increased by 0.55% over the previous year, reaching 32 tons per hectare, the third-highest yield since 2017.
The late potato harvest is estimated at 719,566 tons, up 1.2% compared to last year. However, the average yield decreased by 2.2%, standing at 40.5 tons per hectare. Castile and Leon, the main late-potato-producing region, recorded a harvest of 570,006 tons.
In contrast, the mid-season harvest has been adjusted upwards to 741,885 tons. However, it will be 7% lower than the previous year and the lowest yield since 2017. Castilla y León recorded an 11.9% drop in its mid-season production.
The early harvest, which includes early and extra-early potatoes, was adjusted downwards to 486,918 tons, 4% more than in 2023. The average yield of this crop increased by 8.8% compared to last year.
Regarding prices, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, the average price up to November 3 fell slightly to €433.50 per ton. However, it continued to be the highest price recorded at this time of year. In Castile and Leon, prices have remained stable over the last two weeks.
In Galicia, the situation has become critical due to the incessant rains, which have particularly affected Xinzo de Limia, in the province of Ourense. According to estimates, 20% to 30% of the total area has suffered losses, and the recently harvested potatoes are rotting in the warehouses due to excess moisture.
Source: revistacampo.es