HS Code:
The Potatoes category, classified under HS Code 0701, includes fresh or chilled potatoes, whether or not in seed form. Potatoes are a staple food in many countries, playing a significant role in global agriculture and food security. They are cultivated across diverse climates and are a key commodity in international trade, often influenced by seasonal production, storage capabilities, and trade policies. The trade of potatoes is driven by demand for both consumption and seed purposes, with major exporters focusing on high-yield varieties and importers seeking to meet domestic food needs or diversify agricultural inputs.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 1.1 billion
21.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 850 million
16.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 600 million
11.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 500 million
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 400 million
7.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local agriculture)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Increasing demand for processed potato products
Growth in exports of frozen and dehydrated potatoes, particularly from Europe to Asia and North America, driven by fast food and convenience food industries.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable farming practices
Rising preference for organically grown potatoes and reduced pesticide use, influencing trade patterns as consumers and importers prioritize certifications.
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Erratic weather patterns in major producing regions like Europe and South Asia have led to supply shortages, increasing prices and shifting trade flows to alternative suppliers.
2019-2022
The European Union, led by the Netherlands and France, reported a significant increase in potato exports due to favorable weather conditions and improved storage technologies.
March 2023
Strengthened EU dominance in the global market, putting pressure on smaller exporters like Egypt and India.
Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, tariffs on potato imports between member countries have been reduced to 0%, facilitating smoother trade flows.
January 2023
Increased potato imports into Mexico from the US and Canada, benefiting North American producers.
Several Asian countries, including India and Bangladesh, have tightened phytosanitary requirements for potato imports to prevent the spread of pests like potato cyst nematodes.
October 2022
Reduced export opportunities for European and African countries, prompting a focus on compliance and alternative markets.