Decline in North American Potato Production: A Closer Look
WASHINGTON, DC – The North American potato production landscape witnessed a shift in 2025, as growers opted to plant fewer acres instead of experiencing significant yield declines. The annual potato survey conducted by the USDA highlights the emerging tighter supply conditions across the region.
Production Estimates
Combined potato output from the U.S. and Canada is projected at 539 million hundredweight, reflecting a 2 percent decrease from 2024. Specifically, U.S. production has dropped to 413 million hundredweight, also down by 2 percent. This reduction primarily stems from the sharp decline in planted acreage amid fluctuating costs and uncertain market returns.
Acreage Trends
In 2025, U.S. potato plantations fell to approximately 902,000 acres, marking the lowest level recorded in nearly a decade. Though yields showed a modest improvement compared to the previous season, they failed to compensate for the significant acreage reduction, thereby placing additional pressure on overall production.
Canada’s Performance
In Canada, potato production saw a slight decrease of 1 percent, despite a growth in planted acreage. This was mainly attributed to a year-over-year dip in yields. Conversely, Mexico experienced a positive shift in 2024, increasing potato output thanks to higher yields and a greater harvested area, which somewhat mitigated the declines witnessed in the northern regions.
Overall Acreage Insights
The total acreage dedicated to potato farming across North America in 2025 represents the smallest footprint since the mid-2010s. This trend reinforces cautious planting decisions, a theme consistently highlighted in the USDA’s annual potato survey.
Conclusion
In summary, the primary factor behind the reduction in potato production this year is a decrease in planted acres rather than a significant drop in yields. As growers continue to navigate rising costs and market uncertainties, these trends are likely to shape the future of potato farming in North America.
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