Processed Potato Import chipping away at Aussie potato profits

March 16, 2010

Australian potato producers are feeling the pinch, due to an increase in processed potato imports from Europe, American and New Zealand.

Since 2004, annual processed potato imports have risen 400 per cent, from $20 million to $109 million.

Tim Heissen, from the South Eastern Potato Growers Association in South Australia, says the high Australian dollar, cheap shipping rates and lower overseas production costs are making it difficult for Australian growers to compete.