Potato grower sees huge potential in Indonesia

Potato grower sees huge potential in Indonesia

Farm and Ranch Report April 20, 2011 Indonesia imports some, but not a lot of U.S. fresh potatoes, though those imports did double in the past year. And Colorado potato grower Monty Smith thinks the market potential in what is the world’s fourth most populous country, is huge. Smith, who co-chairs the U.S. Potato Board’s International Marketing Committee, went on a trade mission to Indonesia last December.

Smith: “You know Malaysia, which is in the same region over there, the exports of fresh potatoes to Malaysia have gone up exponentially over the last couple of years and I think Indonesia provides the same type of opportunity.”

There are currently some phytosanitary barriers to U.S. fresh potato exports to Indonesia but Smith is optimistic they will be overcome.

Smith: “Then new innovations in shipping and refrigeration and different ways to deliver the product in a better state is always a concern. And then I think a continued presence in those countries. Just keep their mind on it and keep it at the forefront and the Potato Board is working hard to do that.”

That’s the U.S. Potato Update. Brought to you by the United States Potato Board, maximizing return on grower investment. I’m Bob Hoff for Northwest Aginfo Net.

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