Italy sets reference price for potatoes as supply tightens in Northern Europe

Italy has launched the marketing season for classic Selenella potatoes, with a minimum reference price of €0.46/kg for top-quality produce, amid reported supply tensions from Northern Europe.

The commercialisation of classic Selenella potatoes officially began in Italy on 25 July 2026, following a successful early potato campaign. Despite high temperatures and occasional product shortages in some regions, the Selenella supply chain managed to maintain consistent market presence by integrating production from various Italian territories. Early harvests in July confirmed high product quality, and the sector expects a positive market response in the coming months.

The Italian Potato Exchange has set a minimum reference price of €0.46/kg for first-quality potatoes destined for storage for the 2026-2027 season. This figure reflects both the good market performance and the high expectations for the upcoming campaign. The sector highlights continued organisational resilience in the face of weather challenges and supply tensions linked to lower availability from Northern European countries.

In Ukraine, the focus of the vegetable market remains on carrots, cucumbers, and eggplants, with no mention of significant changes in potato prices or volumes. However, regional trade activity is at a 2026 high, with increased offers from Ukraine, Türkiye, and Iran, and reduced availability from Uzbekistan, Egypt, and Moldova. Poland is among the top five countries active in this regional platform, indicating ongoing cross-border trade dynamics for vegetables, including potatoes.

Spain is preparing for the Fruit Attraction 2026 trade fair, where the potato will be the featured product due to its strategic role in food security and diet. The event will gather suppliers and buyers from over 150 countries, potentially influencing European potato trade flows and supplier competition, including for the Polish market.

High temperatures in Italy have required accelerated harvest operations to preserve potato quality. The Italian sector reports continued capacity to meet demand through efficient crop management and a diversified supply network.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker