DIRECTIONS OF CHANGES IN THE POTATO PRODUCTION, GROWING AREA AND TRADE IN THE YEARS 2010-2016

Abstract

The aim of this article has been to demonstrate problems related to the cultivation and market of potatoes in Poland. The most important economic, production-oriented and social problems which are the underlying conditions of the profitability of potato tuber production have been discussed. Production-wise, it is most important to intensify potato cultivation so as to improve the competitiveness of potato relative to other crops. The demand side plays an important role, as it initiates many changes in the approach to crop cultivation. Both the consumer and intermediary parties between potato producers and consumers have high expectations in terms of the price and the quality of potatoes. With respect to quality, it is necessary to take into account the demand for organic products, and production of organic potatoes can become a niche on the market to be supplied especially by small farms, with an extensive cultivation technology.