February 17 2006, 10:04

Demand on seed potato can exceed the suppliers' resources

According to the information provided by the experts of "Agrooglyad: Vegetables and Fruits" journal, demand on seed potato can exceed significantly the suppliers' resources this year. This situation is caused by the decrease of marketable potato production and the simultaneous decrease of seed potato production observed past year. High potato prices in season 2005/06 inspired many producers to focus on this crop again.

The situation went worse after January frosts, as in many farms the stored seed potato was frost-injured. So, these farms are seeking for seed potato now, though it has not been planned before. The situation provides seed potato suppliers from the other countries with a great opportunity to enter Ukrainian market and seek for recognition. The demand on this product is starting to exceed the supply now, the prices on seed potato remain quite high.