Potato problems: Greek farmers warn of large -scale reduction in production

The reduction of internal production led to an increase in potato imports and a significant increase in prices for it. And the problem did not arise today.

According to the Association of Greek companies for export and distribution of fruits, vegetables and juices (Incofruit-shellas), in the first two months of 2024, 63,467 tons of potatoes were imported into Greece compared to 53,644 tons for the same period of 2023, which is 18.31% more. It mainly comes from Egypt, Cyprus and France.

According to the organization of central markets and fishing (OKAA), The wholesale price for domestic potatoes increased by 15.4%reaching 0.75 euros per kilogram. In supermarkets and in farmer markets, the price flew up to 1.20 euros per kilogram, which is 39.5% more than in 2021. And the price of potatoes from the island of Naksos, classified as a product with a geographical indication (πγε), reaches 1.60 euros per kilogram. It’s to blame for the situation The combination of several factors:

• weather conditions (prolonged drought);
• increased production costs;
• abandonment of rural areas.

Adverse conditions led to a significant reduction in potato production and price growth, Notes Newsbeast.gr. Serious problems literally jeopardize its survival in the domestic market.

Another problem is a phenomenon when Import parties “represent” as potatoes from the island of Naksoswithout any control. As the President of Naxos Production, Dimitris Kapunis, emphasizes, declared infrastructure projects were not implemented, but Farmers leave their fields.

Manufacturers in Crete report that consumers now buy less potatoes due to price growth, and weather conditions and lack of precipitation cause the manufacturers a concern about the sufficient availability of products.

A similar situation makes Greek potatoes with an endangered view that will have Serious consequences for domestic agricultural production and economics.

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