India’s Frozen Fries Exports Soar: US, China and South Korea Markets Witness Record Growth and Premium Prices

India is increasingly recognized as a significant presence in the global potato processing sector and is now counted among emerging French fry producing countries. Along with China, Egypt, and Turkey, India’s rise is contributing to tighter global frozen fries markets and increasing competitive pressure on traditional European suppliers.

Competitive Dynamics in the Frozen Fries Market

The expansion of new processing countries such as India is reshaping established EU-4 markets (Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands). According to the North-east Europe Potato Group (NEPG), growing imports of processed potato products from emerging exporters like India are one factor behind weak free-buy potato prices in Europe.

Recent trade data highlights India’s footprint in three key import destinations: the United States, China, and South Korea.

Performance in the United States Market

India’s processed potato exports (HS 200410 – frozen fries) to the United States have recorded exceptional growth.

In the 12 months ending August 2025, U.S. imports of Indian fries reached 4,315 tonnes, up 353.3% from 952 tonnes a year earlier. Export value rose to INR 587 million (USD 7.1 million), a 297% year-on-year increase. The annual average export price declined 12.4% to INR 1,37,000 (USD 1,650) per tonne.

In August 2025 alone, exports fell to 229 tonnes, reflecting price sensitivity, as Indian fries were sold at a higher level of INR 1,70,265 (USD 2,050) per tonne.

Trade with China: High Price Strategy

India has positioned itself as a premium supplier in the Chinese processed potato market. 

In October 2025, China imported 53 tonnes of Indian processed potatoes at an average price of INR 1,37,000 (USD 1,650) per tonne higher than prices offered by some EU suppliers. 

For the 12 months ending October 2025, India exported 271 tonnes to China, valued at INR 36.2 million (USD 436,000), maintaining the same annual average price of INR 1,37,000 per tonne (USD 1,650).

India continues to supply frozen fries to South Korea, though trends remain mixed. 

In October 2025, South Korea imported 151 tonnes from India, up 55.7% year-on-year, despite a price increase to INR 1,41,000 (USD 1,700) per tonne.

However, over the 12 months ending October 2025, imports declined sharply to 1,051 tonnes, down 58.2% from 2,514 tonnes in the previous year. Total annual value stood near INR 148 million (USD 1.8 million), with prices remaining stable.

Summary of India’s Competitive Position

India’s potato processing sector is strengthening its role in global frozen fries trade. Rapid growth in the U.S., premium pricing in China, and fluctuating volumes in South Korea reflect a market still evolving. Overall, India is emerging as a serious competitor to established European exporters while increasingly commanding international prices in key markets.