There has been a slight increase in new season early potatoes on the market, however, it will be another two weeks before we see any volume on the market.
Prices remain very strong and it now looks likely that due to the continuing drought that Queens will remain in short supply for the remainder of the season. There are now serious concerns about the supply of potatoes for the coming season.
It is estimated that only 20% of the potato crop is irrigated to any great significance. With current moisture deficits of up to 95mm, any rain which will now fall will be too little too late for many crops. In fact, continuous rainfall could do more harm than good at this stage as there will be problems with secondary growth, delayed maturity etc.
The poor yield prospects for the crop is being reflected in the peeling price of potatoes which has doubled in price this week to €200/tonne.
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