European ware potato production is set to contract significantly in 2026 after growers across the North-Western European Potato Growers (NEPG) region responded to a prolonged period of extremely weak market conditions by reducing planted area.

According to the NEPG, official figures from Belgium show a 16.6% decline in ware potato plantings compared with last year, while the Netherlands recorded a 15.1% reduction and France a 9.7% decrease. Estimates from Germany point to a similar trend, resulting in a provisional overall reduction of around 11% across the NEPG region.

The organisation estimates that the ware potato area has fallen from 604,100 hectares in 2025 to approximately 536,900 hectares this season, representing a reduction of around 67,000 hectares.

The decision follows what the NEPG describes as one of the most difficult marketing years in decades. Spot market prices remained between €0 and €2 per 100 kg for extended periods, while processors also offered substantially lower contract prices for the 2026 crop.

“Potato producers realized that the only way to improve market conditions was to plant less potatoes. A responsible decision to pave the way for a more balanced market,” the organisation said.

Despite limited profitability in alternative arable crops, including cereals, vegetables, rapeseed and flax, growers chose to reduce potato acreage in an effort to restore market balance.

While the reduction in planted area is now confirmed, the NEPG cautioned that it remains too early to estimate the size of the 2026 harvest. Weather conditions during the remainder of the growing season, particularly following the recent heatwave across parts of Europe, will determine both yields and tuber quality.

The organisation also expressed concern over ex-field contract prices, which it said were offered by processors at around €12.50 per 100 kg. According to the NEPG, some growers had little choice but to accept contracts at those levels despite continuing increases in production costs, including fertiliser, fuel, electricity and machinery.

The organisation warned that prices at current levels could undermine the long-term viability of potato farms and ultimately affect the processing industry itself.

“The sector’s long-term viability depends on balanced contractual relationships that guarantee remuneration in line with producers’ economic realities,” the NEPG said.