Dutch potato sector backs National Potato Week as open market faces pressure

Zoetermeer - The Dutch Potato Organisation (NAO) welcomes the National Potato Week initiative, organised by No Waste Army from April 17 to 26. Additional attention for potatoes fits with the sector's ambitions to stimulate consumption and reduce food waste. At the same time, the NAO is explicitly pointing to the exceptional market situation the sector is currently facing.
 

Open potato market under heavy pressure

The market for open potatoes came under heavy pressure in 2025. Due to an early harvest and disappointing demand from export markets, there is currently hardly any market for non-contracted potatoes, according to the Dutch Potato Organisation (NAO).

Janine Luten, Director of the Dutch Potato Organisation (NAO):

"It is an exceptional year. The new harvest reached the market early, while there were still large old-crop stocks. At the same time, demand remained weak, causing the open market to almost come to a standstill."

A large share of production was sold through contracts and remained stably priced. However, the pressure on the open market is affecting the entire sector. According to the NAO, the situation shows how sensitive the potato market is to fluctuations in supply and demand.
 

National Potato Week aims to stimulate consumption

During National Potato Week, the NAO mainly wants to inspire consumers to choose potatoes more often. Potatoes are versatile, sustainable and fit well into a healthy diet. Aardappels.nl offers a wide range of recipes and preparation tips - from classic dishes to modern variations.

The sector's call is therefore clear: make every day a potato day. By consciously choosing potatoes, consumers contribute to reducing food waste and support a strong, innovative Dutch potato sector.