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The Dutch potato industry is concerned that the South American market may be closed for frozen french fries. Colombia announced the introduction of anti-dumping duties on frozen potato products from the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.
If no action is taken, the whole continent could begin to ban European fries. "With a total blockage in South America, more than 100 million euros are at stake," said Hylke Brunt, secretary of the Dutch Potato Processing Association (VAVI). ), with companies such as Aviko, McCain and FarmFrites.
"We see this as a serious threat to the sector.Colombia is a small market, but it hurts and what they do is contrary to the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO, eds.). sad, what's going on here, "says Brunt, South Africa has already complained and Brazil last year.
The damage of a "panic war" would be several million. "The European Commission must now bring the case before the WTO. South America are ready to follow Colombia. "
European Commission" seeks active contact "with Colombia
The European Commission announced Thursday that Colombia has not yet notified the levies. Brussels follows the case closely and "actively seeks contact with Colombia and the companies concerned to avoid this result".
EU trade ministers, including Minister Sigrid Kaag, met Friday in Brussels. The conflict was put on the agenda at the request of Belgium and with the support of the Netherlands. Countries want the market to remain open. No decision is made on Friday.
The Netherlands is the largest producer and exporter of potatoes in the EU. The export of frozen potato chips has experienced very strong growth over the past three years. This was an increase of 37% to nearly 500 million euros. Last year, EU exports reached 1.5 million tonnes and a value of more than 1.13 billion euros.
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