Last season, Castilla y León maintained its position as Spain's top potato producer, with over 17,000 hectares planted out of nearly 70,000 hectares nationwide. Despite a 1.9% decrease in overall Spanish potato acreage, Castilla y León saw a 2% increase. Of Spain's nearly two million tons of potatoes, approximately 790,000 tons were produced in Castilla y León, representing 40% of the total.
However, the influx of foreign potatoes in local supermarkets has raised concerns among the Professional Agricultural Organizations (Opas). This situation is seen as typical for this time of year, given the scarcity of domestic production.
The sector emphasizes that imported potatoes must meet the same standards as Spanish products to avoid unfair competition. There is concern that foreign potatoes could secure a market presence, affecting domestic producers as the new Spanish crop begins to emerge, particularly in the southern regions of Castile and León.
Donaciano Dujo, president of Asaja Castilla y León, acknowledges the current scarcity of national potatoes, stating, "The truth is that national production is scarce; there is no potato harvesting campaign throughout Spain." He notes the importance of a free market while ensuring that imported potatoes meet required standards.
Jesús Manuel González Palacín, coordinator of the Peasants' Union of Castile and León, highlights the ongoing planting process in the region, with the first potatoes expected to sprout soon. He stresses the need for imported potatoes to meet phytosanitary standards and not to unfairly compete with local products.
Palacín points out that imported potatoes, primarily from Egypt and Israel, may not comply with European regulations. He calls for clear labeling to distinguish between domestic and imported potatoes, emphasizing the importance of consumer awareness.
Coag reports that the current domestic supply from regions like Seville and Malaga is sufficient to meet demand. However, there is concern over the continued presence of imported potatoes, which could impact the market for local produce.
UPA Castilla y León warns that increased imports could affect the region's crops, which are expected to expand this season. The organization calls for responsibility from both distributors and consumers to prioritize national potatoes on supermarket shelves.
Source: Argenpapa