Strengthening resilience in the European potato value chain

The Northwest European processed potato sector remains fundamentally strong, but risks are increasing, particularly in primary production. Climate volatility, pest and disease pressure, and tightening environmental regulations, including those related to nitrates and crop protection, are raising production uncertainty. Downstream risks are more manageable, supported by diversified export markets, although growing competition from emerging exporters is increasing pressure on EU processors.

Farmers can reduce their vulnerability through irrigation, integrated pest management (including biological crop protection and diversified crop rotations), and improved nitrogen-use efficiency. Processors and retailers can strengthen resilience through sourcing diversification, operational efficiency, and a stronger local-for-local approach when serving non-EU markets. The introduction of more resilient potato varieties requires collaboration of the entire value chain.