Turquía: Coronavirus might cause problems in potato stocks
Due to COVID-19, producers have difficulties in finding farmers to work in the fields. Therefore, potato stocks decreased. Producers warn that this might cause shortages and have asked for state support.
Potatoes have already had a difficult few years with constant increases in prices and now producers worry about the yields due to the coronavirus situation. They emphasise that the production is ongoing right now, however, in case the pandemic continues longer there might be some problems in potato supplies.
About two-three weeks ago potato prices ranged from 2,5 to 3 Turkish Lira (0,33 to 0,4 Euro) per kilo. Then, prices increased to 5 - 6 Turkish Lira (0,66 - 0,79 Euro). However, due to higher prices, demand dropped and producers had to lower prices again.
Necessary measures need to be taken, otherwise there will be problems especially in September and October when farmers in Anatolia start planting winter potatoes, said agricultural consultant Kamil Askin. "Depending on how the pandemic evolves, we may need to pay greater attention to seed imports and production," Askin added.
Producer Rasit Alcar mentioned the state’s decision to isolate people over 60-65 and said: "In our cold storages, we have workers aged from 45 to 70. However, the police came several times for ID checks. Workers who are older than 60-65 have been sent home. A lot people cannot work because the job requires close proximity. This also means that we have delays in sending out our products."
Source: Dunya
Fuente: https://www.freshplaza.com/article/9210505/turkey-coronavirus-might-cause-problems-in-potato-stocks/
