[Market Monitor March] Trade volumes rebound, prices soften

Tracking trends that shape the industry

Every month, we analyze the global frozen potato market to help you stay ahead in a fast-moving trade landscape. This edition highlights a strong rebound in trade volumes and the continued rise of Asia as a key player in global supply chains.

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Market pulse: trade volumes recpver, prices ease

In March 2025, global trade volumes rose 4.9% year-over-year to 846 thousand tonnes. At the same time, average prices dropped by 3.1% to €1.29/kg, signaling a recovery after the dip in January and February.

For Q1 2025, total trade volume increased by 1.7% compared to the same period last year, while average prices declined by 2.9%.

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European exports rebound in March – however still see decline over Q1 2025

European exporters experienced a net decline of 46 thousand tonnes in Q1 2025. However, this was more than offset by a 51.4 thousand tonne increase from Asian exporters, underscoring a broader shift in global supply dynamics.

The Netherlands: Recovered in March, with exports climbing to 152.1 kt—up 35.5 kt from February and 5.2 kt year-over-year. Still, Q1 exports dropped by 43.0 kt to 396 kt.
Belgium vs. France: Belgium’s exports fell to 17.2 kt in March, while France saw a sharp rise of 22.9 kt.

Dutch exports grew outside Europe, particularly to Brazil and Australia, but declined in Italy, Germany, and the UK. Belgium and France expanded within Europe, though their exports to the Middle East fell.

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Chinese exporters are pricing aggressively in the largest Asian import markets

In Q1 2025, Chinese exporters gained ground in major Asian markets by adopting aggressive pricing strategies, often outcompeting U.S. suppliers.

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Japan: Imports rose 10.9% to 109.3 kt.

China: +5.5 kt to 11.5 kt (+92% y-o-y) at €1.22/kg (-17%)
US: +6.2 kt to 66.2 kt (+10.3%) at €1.56/kg (+1%)

Philippines: Total imports declined 5.8% to 51.6 kt, but marketshares shifted.

China: +4.9 kt to 20.3 kt (+31.6%) at €1.15/kg (-13%)
US: -5.1 kt to 10.3 kt (-33%) at €1.61/kg (+2%)

South Korea: Imports increased 9.2% to 39.3 kt.

China: +1.9 kt to 4.6 kt (+72.9%) at €1.32/kg (0%)
US: +1.8 kt (+9.3%) at €1.65/kg (+2.5%)

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*Table 1: Q1 2025 import volume and price by region compared to Q1 2024*

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M&A Watch: Simplot–Clarebout deal could reshape global supply

Simplot is reportedly in advanced talks with Clarebout about a possible €2.5 billion acquisition or strategic partnership—potentially reshaping the global frozen potato market.

The deal would add 1.8 million tonnes of European capacity to Simplot’s operations, making it the world’s third-largest frozen potato processor.
Combining Clarebout’s strong EU presence with Simplot’s global reach could improve supply flexibility amid growing protectionism and geopolitical uncertainty.
The move could also allow Simplot to enter the European foodservice market, where Clarebout is currently a private label supplier.

Still, some QSR chains might reconsider theirsourcing strategies after the merger, and European buyers may be wary of increased U.S. ownership.

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Why monitoring trade data matters more than ever

Real-time insights for better decisions

As Asian exporters expand, M&A reshapes the industry, and trade flows in regions like the Middle East grow, the global landscape is evolving quickly. With tariffs and market access changing, processors, suppliers, and buyers need timely data to stay competitive.

At A-INSIGHTS, we provide monthly updates based on official customs and statistical sources—offering accurate intelligence on global trade volumes and prices.

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