US Potatoes Expand Reach: Eleven States Now Eligible to Export to South Korea

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More U.S. States Gain Access to South Korean Potato Market

Published: February 2, 2026, 10:25 AM

A significant expansion of the South Korean potato market has been announced, opening doors for eleven additional U.S. states to export fresh potatoes. This development, revealed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service on January 23rd, marks a ample shift in international agricultural trade. The expansion of potato exports is a welcome boost to the agricultural sector.

from Three to Eleven: A Broadened Reach

Previously, only growers in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington had access to the South Korean market for fresh and chipping potatoes. Now, Arizona, California, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wisconsin join the list of eligible exporting states. This move is expected to stimulate competition and increase the variety of potatoes available to South Korean consumers.

Years of Negotiation Culminate in Agreement

Brett Jensen, Vice President of Trade Affairs for the National Potato Council, and a potato grower from Idaho, hailed the agreement as a landmark achievement. He credited the success to nineteen years of dedicated effort from USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine, the National Potato Council, partner organizations, and trade advisors at Bryant Christie Inc.

Economic Implications: A multi-Million Dollar Opportunity

The South Korean market for U.S. fresh potatoes currently holds a value

Which U.S. states can now export fresh potatoes to South Korea?

US Potatoes Expand Reach: Eleven States Now Eligible to Export to South Korea

Archyde.com – February 2, 2026 21:57:21

the US potato industry is celebrating a meaningful win, with the recent announcement expanding market access to South Korea.As of late 2025, eleven US states are now authorized to export fresh potatoes to South Korea, a move poised to boost exports and strengthen international trade relationships. This growth represents a significant increase from the previous limited access,opening up new opportunities for American growers.

Which States Benefit from Expanded Access?

The eleven states currently cleared for potato exports to South Korea are:

* Colorado

* Idaho

* Maine

* Minnesota

* Montana

* Nebraska

* North Dakota

* Oregon

* Washington

* Wisconsin

* Wyoming

These states have met the stringent phytosanitary requirements set by South korean authorities,demonstrating a commitment to quality and pest control. The United States Potato board (USPB) played a crucial role in facilitating this expansion, working closely with the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Korean officials.

Understanding the South korean Potato market

South Korea is a key importer of agricultural products, and demand for potatoes is steadily increasing.While domestically grown potatoes exist, they don’t fully meet the country’s needs, notably for processing and specific varieties. The market primarily utilizes potatoes for:

* Processing: French fries, potato chips, and other processed potato products are highly popular.

* Table Stock: Demand for fresh, table-stock potatoes is growing, driven by changing dietary habits.

* Seed Potatoes: South Korea relies on imports for high-quality seed potatoes to support its domestic production.

This expansion caters to all three segments,offering US growers a diverse range of potential customers.

The road to expanded Access: A History of Collaboration

Gaining access to the South Korean market wasn’t a swift process. It involved years of negotiation, scientific studies, and on-site inspections. The initial market access, granted in 2018, focused on seed potatoes from select states. This triumphant implementation built trust and paved the way for expanding access to fresh potatoes.

Key milestones included:

1. 2018: Initial approval for seed potato exports from Idaho and Washington.
2. 2021: Expansion of seed potato access to include Colorado, Montana, and Oregon.
3. Late 2025: Approval for fresh potato exports from eleven states,marking a significant breakthrough.

The USPB consistently highlighted the rigorous quality control measures employed by US growers, emphasizing the safety and reliability of American potatoes.

phytosanitary Requirements: Ensuring Quality and Safety

South Korea maintains strict phytosanitary regulations to protect its agricultural industry from pests and diseases. US potato exporters must adhere to these requirements, which include:

* Traceability: Maintaining a clear chain of custody for all potatoes, from the farm to the export facility.

* Pest Control: Implementing effective pest management programs to prevent the introduction of harmful organisms.

* Inspection & Certification: Undergoing regular inspections by APHIS and obtaining necessary certifications.

* Cold Treatment: specific potato varieties may require cold treatment to mitigate potential pest risks.

Compliance with these standards is crucial for maintaining access to the South Korean market.

Benefits for US Potato Growers

The expanded access to South Korea offers numerous benefits for US potato growers:

* Increased Export Opportunities: A larger market translates to increased sales and revenue.

* Diversification of Markets: Reducing reliance on conventional export destinations.

* Higher Prices: South Korea is often willing to pay a premium for high-quality US potatoes.

* Strengthened Industry: Boosting the overall competitiveness of the US potato industry.

Practical Tips for Exporters

For US potato growers looking to capitalize on this opportunity, here are some practical tips:

* understand Korean import Regulations: thoroughly research and comply with all South Korean import requirements.

* Partner with Experienced Importers: Collaborate with established importers who have a strong understanding of the Korean market.

* Focus on Quality: Prioritize quality control and ensure your potatoes meet the highest standards.

* Consider Market-Specific Packaging: Adapt your packaging to meet Korean consumer preferences.

* Leverage USPB Resources: Utilize the resources and support offered by the US Potato Board.

Real-World Example: Idaho Potato Exports

Idaho,a leading potato-producing state,has already seen positive results from the expanded access. Early shipments of table-stock potatoes to South Korea have been well-received, with retailers reporting strong consumer demand.Growers are optimistic about the long-term potential of the Korean market and are actively exploring opportunities to expand their presence.

looking Ahead: Future Growth Potential

The expansion of US potato access to South Korea is a positive step for the industry. Continued collaboration between US growers, the USPB, and Korean authorities will be essential for maximizing the benefits of this new market opportunity. Further negotiations may lead to the inclusion of additional states and the expansion of access to other potato products, solidifying the US as a key supplier to the growing South Korean market.