The Calendar Year 2024 marked a period of significant transformation within India’s potato processing sector, particularly french fries, characterised by notable advancements in export performance, strategic diversification of international markets, and evolving dynamics in global trade.
A key development during this period was the substantial expansion in the export of Indian frozen potato fries. Statistical data reveals a remarkable year-on-year increase of 48.6% in export volume, culminating in a total of 172,444 tonnes. This figure nearly doubles the export volume recorded in 2022, establishing the growing international demand for processed potato products originating from India. This significant volumetric growth was accompanied by a considerable 32.5% increase in the value of these exports, reaching ₹17.251 billion (US$200 million), highlighting the escalating economic importance of this segment within the Indian agricultural and food processing industries.
Interestingly, the rate of value increase exhibited a slight deceleration when compared to the substantial volumetric expansion. This observation correlates with a discernible downturn in export volumes directed towards India’s historically primary markets, namely the Philippines and Thailand. Exports to the Philippines experienced a contraction of 4.3% in 2024, while sales to Thailand also registered a decrease of 1.2% on an annual basis. The collective contribution of these two nations to India’s total frozen fry exports diminished from 68% in 2023 to 44% in 2024, indicating a strategic imperative for the Indian industry to reassess and potentially recalibrate its engagement strategies within these previously dominant markets.
However, the potential adverse effects of these declines have been effectively mitigated by India’s proactive and strategic approach towards diversifying its export destinations. Malaysia emerged as a particularly noteworthy market, demonstrating an extraordinary surge of 222% in its imports of Indian frozen fries, reaching a volume of 19,873 tonnes in 2024. Saudi Arabia also exhibited a strong and increasing appetite for Indian fries, with import volumes doubling during the same reporting period. Furthermore, new avenues for export have materialized, with both Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates importing over 10,000 tonnes of Indian frozen fries in 2024, signifying a broadening global acceptance and demand for Indian processed potato products across diverse geographical regions.
Analyzing specific market trends, Indian fry sales to Saudi Arabia experienced a substantial increase of 423.4% over the year, reaching a total volume of 10,520 tonnes. The price competitiveness of Indian fries within the Saudi Arabian market, averaging US$1,250 per tonne, has positioned them favorably in comparison to supplies originating from established European exporters such as the Netherlands and Belgium. This price advantage is likely a significant determinant contributing to the rapid and substantial growth observed in this particular export market.
Source: World Potato Markets
