- Global potato starch prices remained firm in Q1’26 as steady demand and higher logistics costs supported market sentiment, while supply stayed largely balanced across major regions.
- Feedstock availability remained stable, with potato harvest volumes and storage conditions dictating production levels and cost structures.
- Downstream demand stayed consistent from food processing, paper, and industrial applications, maintaining steady procurement patterns.
Asia
Potato starch prices in Asia followed a stable-to-firm trend in Q1’26, supported by consistent demand and rising compliance and logistics costs. In China, regulatory changes became a key factor, as the updated edible starch standard came into effect on March 16, 2026, increasing compliance requirements for producers and raising processing costs. This added upward pressure despite stable potato availability. Demand from noodles, sauces, and processed foods remained steady, while higher freight and energy costs linked to global shipping disruptions supported firm pricing toward the end of the quarter.
Europe
Potato starch prices in Europe showed a firm trend in Q1’26, supported by stable feedstock availability and steady downstream demand. The region’s strong production base remained intact, ensuring adequate raw material supply for starch processing. However, energy-intensive processing and storage costs supported upward pressure. Trade flows showed weaker import activity, with EU agri-food imports declining by 7% month-on-month in January 2026, indicating softer inflows and supporting domestic market balance. Demand from food processing, paper, and industrial applications remained consistent, sustaining the firm trend.
North America
Potato starch prices in North America remained stable to slightly firm in Q1’26, supported by adequate potato stocks and steady downstream demand. Supply conditions remained balanced as storage levels across major producing states ensured consistent feedstock availability. However, higher logistics and processing costs added pressure, while stable demand from food, clean-label ingredients, and industrial applications maintained consumption levels. Domestic supply reduced exposure to global trade disruption, though higher freight costs indirectly influenced market sentiment.