Mexican importers and retail professionals explored the U.S. fresh potato supply chain during the 2025 Mexico Fresh Potato Reverse Trade Mission (RTM), hosted by Potatoes USA from September 29 to October 2.

The program brought together wholesalers, category managers, and importers from across Mexico — the United States’ largest export market for fresh potatoes. Participants toured farms, storage facilities, and packing sheds in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, as well as research centers and retail merchandising operations in Denver.

A reverse trade mission enables international buyers to experience production processes firsthand and engage directly with growers and exporters. This year’s edition included a grower panel and seminars focused on consumer behavior, nutrition, and flavor trends. Networking sessions facilitated dialogue between U.S. suppliers and Mexican retail chains.

According to Potatoes USA, the event is designed to deepen commercial cooperation and support the continued growth of U.S. fresh potato exports to Mexico. One Mexican retailer attending the RTM noted that since participating in the 2024 mission, they “have doubled their imports of U.S. potatoes, which are mostly russets,” adding that they are now expanding their range to include yellow and purple varieties.

Mexico remains the top export destination for U.S. potatoes for the July 2024–June 2025 marketing year. The market fully opened to U.S. fresh potato imports in May 2022, following years of bilateral negotiations and phased market access.