An analysis by an agricultural research institute found that domestic potato production is under threat from climate change and rising imports. Potatoes are famous for growing well almost anywhere, but climate change has become so severe that even potatoes can no longer withstand it, and imports are increasing. The institute recommended developing varieties adapted to climate change, among other measures.

The Korea Rural Economic Institute stated on the 2nd in its report ‘Analysis of the Tuber Industry and Policy Tasks’ that “the decline in potato production was driven more by poor yields than by reduced acreage” and that “yield instability caused by climate change is emerging as a problem.”

According to the report, last year’s spring potato output was about 360,000 tons, down 10.5% from the previous year.

As a representative famine-relief crop, potatoes grow well even in poor conditions and are considered highly adaptable to climate change. Because they grow underground, they were called the ‘devil’s crop’ in medieval Europe, but a well-known story holds that potatoes became a staple because they still grew well during the famines that struck Europe in the 18th century.

However, the report noted that disruptions to potato supply are occurring as the frequency and intensity of abnormal weather, such as torrential rains and hot, humid conditions, increase.

In fact, the report explained that even in 2018, when the heat wave was extreme, potato production plunged 24% from a year earlier and wholesale prices rose 282% compared with average years.

Imported potatoes are also narrowing the space for domestic potatoes. Most potatoes distributed in Korea are ‘Sumi’, which are mainly boiled or baked and are not suitable for items like French fries, making imports unavoidable.

The report estimated that although the current food self-sufficiency rate for domestic potatoes, calculated on the basis of raw (fresh) potatoes, remains above 100%, it would drop into the 80% range if recalculated to include volumes for food processing such as frozen potatoes.

The report also pointed out that, as seasonal tariffs levied on imported potatoes are scheduled to be phased out starting this year with U.S. chip potatoes, an increase in imports could erode the price competitiveness of domestic potatoes.

Research fellow Yu Chan-hee suggested, “To strengthen industrial competitiveness and raise the potato self-sufficiency rate, it is necessary to stably produce and supply varieties suitable for processing, for which there is strong domestic demand.”