Let’s start with a question that sounds crazy at first: Can potatoes be worth more than gold?
Well, maybe not per gram, but if you’re in the global agri-trade business, the answer might surprise you.
Every year, India quietly ships out hundreds of thousands of metric tons of potatoes. What was once a humble kitchen staple has now become one of India’s fastest-moving, high-demand export commodities.
And here’s the kicker: it’s not just about volume. It’s about timing, pricing, climate edge, and logistics mastery that makes Indian potatoes a hit across Asia.
A Root Crop with Global Reach
India ranks among the top 5 potato producers in the world, with over 50 million metric tons produced annually. But it’s not just about growing – it’s about moving the crop strategically.
In recent years, Indian exporters have capitalized on:
- Climatic advantage: Indian harvests often arrive before major global competitors.
- Cost-effective cultivation: Lower input costs mean better margins for both exporters and importers.
- Strategic geography: Quick access to ports like Mundra and Kandla reduces delivery time.
This mix has turned Indian potatoes into a go-to source for countries like Nepal, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka – where demand is rising but local supply is limited.
Why Buyers from Nepal, Indonesia & Sri Lanka Prefer Indian Potatoes
Let’s break it down region by region:
🇳🇵 Nepal
- Proximity = lower freight costs
- Land border advantage with quick customs clearance
- Trusted Indian varieties like Jyoti and Kufri Pukhraj are already popular in Nepalese markets
🇮🇩 Indonesia
- Growing demand for processed food & snacks (potato chips, fries)
- Indian exporters offer consistent sizing and skin quality needed for processing
- High price competitiveness compared to European supply
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka
- Strong demand during off-season and festivals
- Indian exporters often supply cargo within 7–10 days
- Indian exporters are known for flexible payment terms and MOQ support
This isn’t just a trade relationship. It’s a strategic supply chain partnership.
Potato Export Trends: Why the Boom Now?
A few key factors are behind this growing surge:
- Rising Global Food Demand: From fries to curries, potatoes are core to many diets.
- Trade Treaties & Relaxed Quotas: Several regional agreements have eased potato movement.
- Technology & Cold Storage: Indian suppliers have improved post-harvest handling dramatically.
- Government Support: Through APEDA and state-level subsidies, India is pushing agri-exports.
In fact, India’s potato exports crossed $500 million last year – and are expected to double by 2030.
What Makes a Good Export Potato?
Not all potatoes are created equal. Buyers often look for:
- Uniform size and shape
- Firm texture and good shelf life
- Clean, blemish-free skin
- No sprouting or rotting signs
- Low moisture for better transport stability
At Aarvi Group, our potatoes are handpicked, sorted, and packed to meet international standards, certified by FSSAI, APEDA, and Phytosanitary authorities.
We ensure cargo is shipped via refrigerated containers or insulated trucks based on route and buyer preference.
Real-World Example: A Sri Lankan Buyer’s Experience
One of our long-standing buyers in Colombo faced inconsistent supply from other countries. They needed a monthly shipment of 200 MT.
After shifting to Aarvi Group, not only did their cost per ton reduce by 11%, but the delivery timeline improved to just 9 days door-to-door.
They now rely on us for 70% of their annual potato imports.
That’s the power of choosing the right Indian supplier.
FAQs
Q1: Can you export small MOQ for trial orders?
Yes, we support trial orders starting from 20 MT.
Q2: Do you handle documentation and clearing?
Yes, we support with all export documents, including CoO, Phyto, and FSSAI certificates.
Q3: What packaging options do you offer?
We offer 25kg & 50kg mesh/jute bags, custom-printed if needed.
Q4: What varieties do you supply?
Popular varieties include Khyati, Pukhraj, Colombo, Badshah and Locker.
Q5: Can you supply year-round?
Yes, thanks to cold storage and multiple sourcing zones, we offer year-round supply.