Egyptian new-crop potatoes arrive in Europe from January, when stored northern-European crops are running low and retailers want fresh-looking potatoes with clean skin. Egypt has become one of the largest suppliers of early potatoes to the EU.
Season and varieties
The export season runs from January to June, with the largest volumes from February to April. Spunta is the classic Egyptian export variety, valued for its long shape and smooth, light skin; Diamant, Cara and other varieties are also grown. Processing programmes use varieties selected for dry matter and frying colour.
Table potatoes versus processing potatoes
Separate the two requirements from the first enquiry:
| Table potatoes | Processing potatoes | |
|---|---|---|
| Key criteria | Skin finish, shape, calibre, cleanliness | Dry matter, sugars, frying colour, internal defects |
| Typical pack | 10–25 kg mesh bags, retail bags | 25 kg bags or 1–1.25 t bulk bags |
| Carrying temperature | +4 to +6 °C | +8 to +10 °C (to limit sugar build-up) |
EU plant-health rules
Potatoes are a regulated product in the EU. Imports of Egyptian potatoes are permitted only from areas recognised as free from potato brown rot (Ralstonia solanacearum), and consignments are subject to official checks. Growers, lots and bags must be identified so that each consignment can be traced to an approved area.
Rules change, so your importer should confirm current requirements with the competent authority in the member state of entry before the season starts. We confirm the eligibility of our production for each programme.
Pesticide residues
EU maximum residue levels (MRLs) apply to all potatoes placed on the market. Many retailers set stricter internal limits. Share your retailer standard at the start so the right lots and tests can be planned.
Packing and labelling
- Mesh bags of 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25 kg for wholesale and repacking
- Printed retail bags with your brand and barcode
- Ventilated bulk bags for processors
- Bag labels showing origin, variety, calibre, lot and packer
Shipping
Potatoes ship in reefers from Egyptian Mediterranean ports, with transit of roughly one to two weeks to most EU ports. Good ventilation and a stable set-point prevent condensation and sprouting. Avoid mixing potatoes with ethylene-producing fruit.
Specification checklist
- Use: table or processing
- Variety and calibre band (e.g. 45–65 mm)
- Washed or brushed; skin finish
- Defect tolerances (greening, mechanical damage, rot)
- Bag type and weight; bags per pallet
- Set-point and ventilation
Frequently asked questions
When do Egyptian potatoes arrive in Europe?
From January to June, with peak volumes from February to April.
Why are Egyptian potatoes checked for brown rot?
The EU only allows potatoes from Egypt that are produced in areas recognised as free from potato brown rot, and official checks verify compliance.
What temperature should processing potatoes travel at?
Typically +8 to +10 °C, warmer than table potatoes, to limit the build-up of sugars that darken fries and crisps.