Markets Being Sought For N.Z. Potatoes

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31123, 28 July 1966, Page 24

Markets Being Sought For N.Z. Potatoes

The Potato Board is exploring every possibility of exporting potatoes, says the | latest newsletter issued by ithe board. Market possibilities in Australia this year, ihowever appear to be remote, the newsletter says. The board had a survey 'made at the end of May of potato supplies on hand, and it was estimated from this that table supplies amounted to 72,800 tons, compared with 86,500 tons at the same time in 1965 and 59,400 tons in 1964. “While supplies are down on last year,” the newsletter says, “it must be remembered that in 1965, in spite of considerable difficulties a good quantity was shipped to Australia, and even so the year finished with a surplus of 9000 tons. On the other hand, possibly because of low prices, consumption is

reported to be much better this year. ■ “The board has and is exploring every export possibility. The chance of exporting to Australia for either domestic or processing use appears quite remote. “ ‘The Potato Grower News’ of Victoria, reports ‘heavy potato supplies for the rest of the season with prices at 36 to 40 dollars a ton.’ This has been substantiated from other sources. The same paper features an article which ‘sees danger in imports of processed potatoes.’ The Minister for Trade and Industry has been asked to give protection by total prohibition or by higher tariffs. “Having regard to the situation in Australia the board and members of the New Zealand Grain, Seed and Produce Merchants’ Federation, with the help of the Industries and Commerce Department, is investigating every other possible export outlet Inquiries have been made in Singapore, Hong Kong, Ceylon, South Africa, Mauritius, Trinidad, and Peru. Small quantities have been sent to Asian countries, and it is hoped to develop this trade in spite of problems in the way, such as strong com-' petition from other countries, irregular shipping, and a need to improve our packing and grading standards.”