U.S. potato exports topped $1.5 billion in fiscal year 2012, increasing 17 percent in value and 10 percent in volume from the previous fiscal year, according to a recent U.S. Potato Board report.
USPB officials and other industry experts credit the improvements to a strengthening global economy, a rising middle class in Asian countries, new trade agreements and an increased emphasis on expanding business in foreign markets.
In FY 2012, which ended on July 1, the U.S. exported about 1.507 million metric tons of potatoes, valued at nearly $1.584 billion.
Export values by sector included roughly: $204.5 million in fresh, $989.3 million in frozen, $193 million in dehydrated, $188 million in chips and $10.3 million in seed. Total potato export value was up 43 percent from five years ago.
SOURCE: John O'Connell, Capital Press
http://www.capitalpress.com/newsletter/JO-PotatoExports-092012