India, a significant potato-growing nation and the second largest producer globally after China, is increasingly making its mark on the international frozen potato product market, particularly frozen fries. While traditionally focused on fresh consumption, the Indian potato processing sector, though currently utilising only 5% to 8% of the total crop, is experiencing significant growth driven by urbanisation, changing lifestyles, the expansion of fast-food chains, and investment in processing facilities. This growth is reflected in recent export performance.
The early months of 2025 saw notable developments in India’s frozen fry export trade (Harmonised System code 200410). February 2025, marked a significant milestone, with frozen fry exports reaching a record monthly high, breaking the 20,000 tonnes barrier for the first time. The volume exported in February was 20,284 tonnes, a 46.1% increase compared to February 2024 and more than double the volume exported in January 2025.
The strong performance in February contributed to robust figures over the preceding 12 months. Exports in the year ending February 2025 totalled 181,773 tonnes, representing a substantial 44.9% increase compared to the previous 12-month period. However, despite the volume gains, the value of February exports was not the highest monthly total due to a drop in prices. The average price for Indian frozen fry exports in February 2025 was ₹97,195 per tonne (US$1143), which was 7.3% lower than the price in February 2024.
March 2025 data indicates some fluctuation in specific markets. Sales to Japan fell by 110 tonnes to 742 tonnes, despite a slight price increase to ¥197,737 per tonne (US$1373/t). Exports to the United States in March were 228 tonnes, at a price of US$1694 per tonne, which was US$330 higher than the previous month. Sales to South Africa saw a significant drop, down 90.1% in March compared to the previous year, totalling only 43 tonnes. Over the year ending March 2025, India’s sales to South Africa were down by 28.9%, partly attributed to higher duties imposed on European products.
India is diversifying its export destinations. While the country has lost ground in traditional major markets like the Philippines (annual sales down 8.3%) and Thailand (annual sales down 9.8%), potentially due to increased competition from China, new markets are emerging or growing. For instance, sales to Brazil began in January 2025, with a total of 605 tonnes shipped by April. Exports to Australia have also increased significantly, with annual sales (likely for the year ending Jan 2025 or Feb 2025 based on the report date) rising from 86 tonnes to 1,355 tonnes. Sales to Malaysia in January 2025 were up 82.2% compared to the previous year.
The growth in processing and exports is supported by investments from major processing players, and the development of indigenous potato varieties suited for processing. Trade deals, such as the one recently signed between India and the UK, could further increase demand for Indian frozen potato products in the future.
Source: World Potato Markets.
