Brazil: Strong expansion of demand for frozen potatoes in the Brazilian market

A study by The Insight Partners projects that the frozen French fries market will reach more than $92 billion by 2030 globally, with an annual growth rate of 4.6% (from 2020 to the end of the decade).

In this content we will learn more about imports in the frozen potato segment, also known as pre-fried potatoes, widely used in restaurants and fast food chains, but which have also increased their presence in retail. We will see data and information such as the values ​​and volume imported in 2024, main supplier countries, importing states and the logistical aspects of this product.

In 2024, frozen potato imports reached US$ 446.84 million and 323.76 thousand tons. These figures, compared to 2023, represent a growth of more than 25% in value. In terms of volume, the increase was 23.64%. These data indicate a strong expansion of the demand for this product in the domestic market.

The main frozen potato supplier countries to Brazil, in FOB values, for 2024 were:

Argentina: 51,45%

Belgium: 28.91%

Netherlands (Holland): 12.22%

Egypt: 6.48%

Poland: 0.28%

Fuente: Comex Stat

Among the main importing states of frozen potatoes, Santa Catarina stands out, receiving more than 184 thousand tons, corresponding to US$ 269 million last year. This value represents 60% of the product imports in Brazil.

The other states in the ranking have a less expressive participation:

• Paraná: US$ 41 million and 31 thousand tons

• Pernambuco: US$ 37 million and 29 thousand tons

• Rondônia: US$ 19.9 million and 18 thousand tons

• Rio Grande do Sul: US$ 18.9 million and 13 thousand tons. (Data related to imports in 2024)

About 53% of frozen potato shipments arriving in Brazil use sea transport, while the remaining 47% arrive by road. As this is a frozen product, temperature control during logistics must be at -18ºC.

To meet this requirement, refrigerated containers are used for maritime transport. These containers have their own refrigeration systems, ensuring an adequate internal temperature throughout the journey. These containers are constantly monitored to avoid variations that could compromise the quality of the product.

In road transport, transportation is carried out using refrigerated trucks, also known as reefer trucks, which also have refrigeration systems to ensure that the potatoes reach their final destination in proper condition.

In addition, it is essential to adopt good logistics practices, such as:

• Inspect the truck or container before filling it, checking that it is clean.

• Take care when handling, loading and unloading boxes, as frozen potatoes are fragile products and may break.

• Respect the maximum stacking of boxes, respecting the height limit to avoid damage and ensuring adequate air circulation inside the container or vehicle.