National Campaign Launched by Government for Potatoes – Bloomberg HT

Due to planning issues in the agricultural sector, many products have suffered losses this season. Producers of numerous vegetables and fruits, such as paste tomatoes, melons, watermelons, beans, peppers, and eggplants, have had to sell their products at a loss or were unable to sell them at all. This situation has led to regional protests.

Similarly, following an imbalance in supply, demand, and prices for potatoes, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has taken action. According to a decision prepared by the Strategy Development Directorate, it has been requested that the consumption of surplus potatoes be increased in public institutions. Furthermore, there has been a call to prioritize potato consumption in public institutions.

The official statement indicated that the excess supply of potatoes in production has caused price fluctuations, negatively affecting producers. Therefore, it was emphasized that to manage the expected increase in potato production in the 2024 production season and to ensure sustainable production, the consumption of potatoes in the public sector needs to rise.

Producers are facing losses due to high costs and low prices. Although the price of potatoes fluctuates between 4-6 TL per kilogram, producers cannot make a profit due to high costs. If this situation continues, there are concerns about the storage of potatoes and further declines in prices.

While an increase in potato production is anticipated across Turkey, measures to ensure that producers can operate profitably and the sustainability of the sector are crucial. In this context, it is necessary for public institutions to prioritize potato consumption and to create awareness.