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The global potato industry is at a pivotal juncture, demonstrating robust growth driven by changing consumption patterns and technological innovation. The Indian Potato Team convened a strategic brief discussion with Mr. Nripendra K. Jha (NK)- CEO Technico Agri Sciences Limited to gain expert insights into the forthcoming season.
At the onset of discussion, NK emphasises that the Potato crop has shown steady growth recording a 2.6% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). Global market analyses forecast the potato industry to expand further, with a projected CAGR at 3.3% in the coming years.
To understand the industry’s trajectory, the Indian Potato Team discusses on three major parameters of market dynamics, production forecasts, and the challenges ahead.
Q: What are the factors that are driving India Potato market?
NK: The Indian potato market is witnessing structural transformation driven by multiple forces:
- Rising consumption and processing demand: Increasing urbanisation, changing food habits, and the rapid growth of quick-service restaurants and snack industries have significantly boosted the demand for processing-grade potatoes.
- Technological advancements: Introduction of aeroponics seed production, disease-free planting material and advanced cold-chain infrastructure are improving yields and reducing post-harvest losses.
- Private sector participation: Companies like Technico, PepsiCo, McCain etc. are partnering with farmers to promote contract farming and ensure stable market linkages.
- Export and policy support: The Government’s emphasis on agricultural exports and investment in food processing zones has further strengthened India’s position in the global potato value chain.
- Climate resilience efforts: Research institutions are developing heat-tolerant varieties to counter the effects of climate change on potato productivity.
Q: What about the global scenario?
NK: Globally, the potato continues to hold its position as the third most important food crop after rice and wheat.
The world’s total potato production is currently estimated at around 385 million tonnes annually, with China being the largest producer, contributing nearly 95 million tonnes, followed by India, with an output of about 60 million tonnes. Together, the two Asian giants account for more than 40% of global potato production.
In 2025, the global potato market is witnessing price volatility caused by an oversupply in several major producing regions. While Asia dominates in production volume, Europe and North America continue to lead in terms of value, driven by large-scale processing, exports of frozen fries, and high-value varieties.
The post-pandemic recovery in the sector has been shaped by rapid technological progress — from the development of climate-resilient and heat-tolerant varieties to advancements in storage, logistics, and processing. However, global production growth has begun to outpace consumption in some regions, leading to temporary market corrections and downward price pressure, often referred to as the “potato surplus cycle.”
Despite these fluctuations, the long-term outlook for the global potato industry remains positive, supported by rising demand for processed potato products, expanding quick-service restaurant chains, and a growing focus on sustainable farming and water-efficient technologies. US & Europe have already initiated corrective steps to balance production and demand, ensuring long-term market stability.
Q: What would be the anticipated area and production of potato this year in India?
NK: There has been a consistent rise in farmers’ inclination towards potato cultivation over the past few years, supported by favourable market trends and relatively stable input costs.
In 2024–25, higher acreages and conducive weather conditions contributed to a record high production of around 60 million tonnes, cultivated over 2.4 million hectares. This has marked India’s best potato production year so far.
For 2025–26, the scenario appears more cautious. Following last year’s bumper harvest, market prices have softened due to surplus supply. While it is still early to provide a firm forecast for the upcoming crop, the planting area is expected to remain largely similar to last year, aided by higher seed availability and continued farmer interest.
However, the final output will depend significantly on climatic conditions. There is a possible occurrence of late blight in eastern regions which could impose yield challenges. Despite these risks, India’s overall potato acreage is likely to sustain its momentum, maintaining the country’s position as the world’s second-largest potato producer after China.
