In this monthly Frozen Potato Products update, our analysts will share valuable insights about the Frozen Potato Products industry. This month: Global trade volume down 6.7% YTD compared to 2019, prices down 2.4% YTD.
Market Monitoring of Frozen Potato Products
Market monitoring helps agri food companies to objectively evaluate their current position within the market and the development of that position. Furthermore, it helps to spot new growth opportunities and whether the market is saturated.
For the A-INSIGHTS MarketMonitor, we analyze the global trade in frozen potato products on a monthly basis. Derived from local customs agencies and statistics offices, the data gives us insight into monthly trade volumes and prices for all major importers and exporters. Combined with our sector expertise, we can provide you with an up-to-date view of the developments in the global frozen potato market.
Global trade shows further recovery but remains below pre-COVID levels
In March, global trade showed a further recovery despite the ongoing pressure on Belgian export volumes. The total trade volume was up 2.0% compared to March 2020, when the first effects of the global pandemic were noticeable in potato trade flows. Prices continue to be affected more by the pandemic and remain down 1.2% compared to March 2020. Compared to pre-COVID levels in March 2019, the 2021 trade volume was down 2.3% whilst prices were down 5.8%. Interestingly, Belgium continues to experience pressure on both the export volume (-6.8% y-o-y) and price (-9.9% y-o-y), whilst other producers such as the Netherlands and Canada managed to increase volumes at relatively stable prices compared to March 2020.
UK imports show signs of recovery in anticipation of lockdown relaxation
Whilst imports from the US (+13.4 th. tonne y-o-y) and Mexico (+19.2 th. tonne) show strong year-on-year recovery in March, UK imports remain well below previous years' level (-10.2 th. tonne). However, imports have increased with 30.8% (14 th. tonnes) compared to February, showing a strong recovery in anticipation of lockdown regulations announced for the end of March. The recovered import is supplied by Belgium (31.4 th. tonnes) and the Netherlands (24.7 th. tonnes) at relatively stable price levels. With continued relaxation of foodservice regulations in April and May, it is likely that imports will continue to increase in the coming months.
Curious how A-INSIGHTS can help you to incorporate objective insights into your decision-making processes? Read more about how our Performance Monitor will empower your perspective.
