Scotland exported over 92,000 tonnes of seed potatoes in the 2023/24 season, with Egypt being the largest market, receiving 60% of the exports. Morocco follows as the second largest market with 10%, while the remaining exports are spread across 26 other countries, with varying volumes.
Looking ahead, Scotland aims to expand its seed potato exports to countries such as Jordan and Brazil. During the 2023/24 season, Scotland exported approximately 700 tonnes to Jordan. The Scottish Agri Export Hub has hosted a delegation from the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture to showcase Scotland’s export procedures, with a goal of increasing exports to Jordan to 10,000 tonnes over the next five years. Similar outreach efforts are also planned for Brazil and other emerging markets.
While the Scottish Agri Export Hub will not be attending Fruit Logistica this year, there is optimism for Scottish seed potatoes to re-enter the European market soon. Since Brexit, access to the EU market has been restricted for Scottish seed potatoes, but negotiations continue. The industry remains hopeful that a change in government may facilitate renewed access. In the meantime, the focus will shift to Potato Europe in The Netherlands in September to engage with European stakeholders.
Scotland has the capacity to significantly increase seed potato production, and local growers are eager for the opportunity to resume exports to Europe. Prior to the ban, Scotland exported 25,000 tonnes of seed potatoes to Europe annually. While recent years have posed challenges due to high input costs and difficult market conditions, the outlook has improved this season, with lower availability and higher prices leading to renewed optimism in the sector.
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