Panama: Potato prices skyrocket! Shortage drives up costs
The price of potatoes has reached historic levels in Panama due to low production caused by bad weather and lack of seeds. Farmers warn that the crisis could repeat itself if urgent measures are not taken.
If you thought rice was expensive, prepare to be surprised by potatoes. The shortage of the tuber has raised its price to historic levels, with the pound being sold in the field for $1.10, which in the markets could translate to up to $2.00.
The reason for the increase is the low production caused by heavy rains in November 2024 in Tierras Altas de Chiriquí, one of the main potato producing regions in the country. According to farmer Lorenzo Jiménez, the weather conditions delayed planting and the harvest was reduced by half, which now affects supplies throughout Panama.
Less harvest, more expensive
To give you an idea, the monthly consumption of potatoes in Panama is 50 thousand quintals, but in this harvest only 26 thousand quintals were harvested. In light of this, the authorities have decided to import 20 thousand quintals to reduce the impact of the shortage.
Jiménez also warned that, in addition to the rains, the shortage of seeds has been another serious problem. “If the program of the Institute of Agricultural Innovation (Idiap) is not resumed, this situation could repeat itself and affect both producers and consumers,” he warned.
Fuente: midiario.com
