According to Potatoes New Zealand's chief executive Kate Trufitt, the potato sector faces challenges including regulation changes and the need for fair returns. Trufitt highlights the importance of recognizing the integrated nature of potato farming within broader agricultural systems, often overlooked in regulatory processes. She emphasizes the critical role of potatoes in New Zealand's economy and outlines her commitment to supporting growth and excellence within the industry.
Trufitt's tenure has seen significant achievements, such as a successful levy vote with 94.74% approval from voting growers and the development of Strategy 2028, aimed at guiding the sector's growth and resilience. Despite challenges, she maintains a positive outlook for the industry, focusing on enhancing relationships, expanding market opportunities, and improving practices for future sustainability.
Key statistics reveal the industry's dynamics: the top three potato-producing regions in New Zealand are Canterbury/Westland, Auckland, and Manawatu, with the domestic table potato sector constituting 36% of the total domestic potato sector value. In the 2021-22 season, production was valued at over $1 billion, although this figure dropped to $931m in 2022-23. The domestic market for processed and frozen potatoes represents 62.5% of the industry's value in 2023, with exports accounting for 12.5%, marking an increase from the previous year. However, the planted area and total production have seen declines over the past five years.
Source: RuralNews