Weekly Potato Report

Home Market Prices: (Ex-farm) Week beginning 20/10/03

Plus a minimum of €25/t for 10kg bags

A sudden change in the weather to more normal seasonal conditions may help to give the market the lift it needs. Despite the rain and plummeting temperatures the harvest is progressing well, particularly in the South and North West of the country. However, some growers are only getting started, as crops are slow to become fit for storage. Overall, progress is estimated to be in the region of 40% completed, this compares to 20% this time last season. The majority of available supplies are now being diverted to storage, as many growers are anxious to finish the harvest in case of a major break in the weather. In general, trade in terms of volumes or prices are unchanged from last week.