U.S. fresh potato exports soared 16% in the 12 months from October 2022 through September 2023, USDA trade numbers say.
Total U.S. fresh potato exports in that period totaled $334.5 million, up 16% from the previous period.
Mexico and Canada continue to dominate, but USDA trade numbers show faster growth is happening in some Central American and Asian markets.
Mexico is the top destination for U.S. potato exports, with shipments growing 43% year over year to $111 million in 2022-23. This represents about a third of total U.S. potato exports, according to USDA trade data.
Exports to Canada, the second-largest market, grew 7% to $100 million in 2022-23, accounting for about 30% of total exports.
Trade numbers reveal strong growth was seen in smaller markets like Honduras (up 79%), Guatemala (up 41%) and South Korea (up 67%).
Japan saw a 16% drop in imports from the U.S. but remains a major market at over $20 million.
Taiwan and the Philippines saw slight declines but remain top 10 export destinations, according to USDA trade data.
Emerging markets like the Cayman Islands and Costa Rica saw double-digit growth, suggesting potential for further expansion.
