As we move into April and closer to planting season, Canadian potato growers continue to face uncertainty in the market.
“The imposition of tariffs for a brief period in March caused disruptions among fresh growers trying to move products across the border,” says Victoria Stamper, General Manager of the United Potato Growers of Canada. “Even regions that typically perform well have seen postponements and cancellations due to this uncertainty.”
The situation has also created delays in the processing sector, with many contracts still in limbo. This leads to unease for growers who are in the midst of making planting decisions, and trickles down to seed growers, who are concerned about order commitments.
“Growers are kind of waiting for the other shoe to drop,” Stamper says.
Weather conditions have also added to the complexity of the situation.
“Temperatures are fluctuating, and some regions are experiencing late winter snow while others are facing unusual weather patterns,” Stamper says. She notes the importance of moisture levels in light of ongoing drought concerns in the Prairie provinces, even with recent Spring snowfalls “We need to assess whether we have enough snowpack to support upcoming crop needs.”
The next Canadian Potato Holdings report in will release in mid-April.
United Potato Growers of Canada is a non-profit association with the mission is to provide potato industry information, intelligence, and analysis, that allows producers to make timely informed production and marketing decisions.
