North-Western European Potato Growers (NEPG): European Ware Potato Area Falls 11% as Growers Cut Plantings

After more than a year of urging growers to reduce potato production, the North-Western European Potato Growers (NEPG) says European farmers have responded by significantly cutting planting areas for the 2026 season. Official figures from Belgium, the Netherlands and France, together with estimates from Germany, indicate that the ware potato area across the NEPG region has declined by approximately 11%, reflecting growers' efforts to restore balance to an oversupplied market.

The reduction follows one of the most challenging marketing years in recent decades, with prolonged periods of extremely low spot prices and contract prices that have failed to keep pace with rising production costs.

Growers Reduce Plantings to Restore Market Balance

According to NEPG, the total ware potato area is expected to fall from 604,100 hectares in 2025 to approximately 536,900 hectares in 2026, representing a reduction of around 67,000 hectares.

Country-specific figures show significant declines across the region:

• Belgium: -16.6% 
• Netherlands: -15.1% 
• France: -9.7% 
• Germany: Estimated reduction contributing to the overall 11% decline

NEPG said growers made a responsible decision to reduce potato acreage despite the absence of significantly more profitable alternatives among other arable crops such as cereals, vegetables, rapeseed and flax. 

The organization noted that the decision was driven by exceptionally poor market conditions, with spot prices remaining between €0 and €2 (USD 2.29) per 100 kilograms for many weeks and months—levels not seen in decades. By planting fewer potatoes, growers aim to improve supply-demand balance and create healthier market conditions in the coming seasons. 

Despite the confirmed reduction in planted area, NEPG cautioned that it is still too early to estimate the size of the 2026 harvest. Weather conditions over the coming months will play a decisive role in determining both yields and crop quality, particularly following the recent heatwave affecting parts of Europe.

Low Contract Prices Raise Concerns Over Farm Viability

While growers have reduced production, NEPG expressed serious concern over ex-field contract prices offered by processors for the upcoming season. Contracts have been offered at approximately €12.50 (USD 14.30 ) per 100 kilograms, a level the organization says does not reflect the continuous increase in production costs, including fertilizer, fuel, electricity and machinery expenses.

NEPG noted that some growers had little choice but to accept contracts at these prices despite concerns about profitability. 

According to the organization, maintaining contract prices at current levels could threaten the long-term economic viability of many potato farms. NEPG also warned that the pricing strategy may ultimately have consequences for potato processors themselves, as a sustainable processing industry depends on financially viable growers.

The organization emphasized that the future of the European potato sector requires balanced contractual relationships that provide fair remuneration while reflecting the economic realities faced by producers. NEPG believes that equitable pricing will be essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the industry.