U.S. Fresh Potato Exports had a Boom Year in 2021

During 2021, U.S. fresh potato exports soared 13% in value and 19% in volume compared with 2020, according to USDA numbers.

The top export market for U.S. fresh potatoes in 2021 was Canada, and shipments there showed an 18% increase in value and a 23% jump in volume. Mexico was the second largest destination for U.S. fresh potatoes and U.S. exports there were up 8% in value and 18% higher in volume.

Japan experienced a huge surge in U.S. potato purchases in 2021. U.S. fresh potato exports to Japan were up 96% in value and 103% in volume.

Exports sales to Taiwan, however, were down 17% in value and 20% lower in volume.

Value and percentage change of 2021 fresh potato exports compared with 2020 were:

• World: $275.8 million, up 13%
• Canada: $110.4 million, up 18%
• Mexico: $60.3 million, up 8%
• Japan: $25.1 million, up 96%

EDITOR’S TAKE:

Good news for U.S. potato farmers. With few exceptions, exports of U.S. potatoes were up around the globe. It is interesting to note the huge increase of volume to countries who typically consume more rice. That’s not to say they will abandon rice any time soon, but the upward trend in the consumption of a competing starch is worth noting. Once again, exports are such an important piece of the puzzle for commodities such as potatoes, this is welcomed news!