Belgian Potato Tradition and Exports Drive Growth in the UK Market

Belgium has a long tradition in potatoes that goes far beyond taste. Potatoes form a cornerstone of the country’s culinary identity, with the traditional fast-food kiosk specializing in fries — the frietkot — found in every city, town, and village. The frietkot is even recognized as national intangible cultural heritage.

Across the English Channel, Belgians share their enthusiasm for potatoes with international markets — including the United Kingdom, where Belgium’s high-quality potato exports have become a staple on British dinner tables.

In the UK, consumers enjoy more than 100 kilograms of potatoes and potato products per person each year. Although local farms produce large volumes, demand exceeds supply, creating a growing need for high-quality imports. Belgium plays a key role in meeting this demand, ensuring British consumers have consistent access to premium processed potato products. 
 

A Reliable Partner Focused on Sustainability

In 2024, Belgium exported just under 500,000 tonnes of potatoes to the United Kingdom, primarily in frozen form.

Katrien De Nul, Promotion Manager Potatoes at VLAM (Flanders Agricultural Marketing Board):

"British consumers appreciate the taste and texture of Belgian processed potatoes, while UK partners value their consistency, traceability, and strong sustainability credentials."

Sustainability remains central to Belgium’s potato production and processing sector.

Katrien De Nul, Promotion Manager Potatoes at VLAM:

"Belgian potato growers combine generations of know-how with forward-looking innovation focused on sustainability. They are implementing techniques to reduce environmental impact such as efficient water management and digital tools like WatchITgrow to monitor crop performance. Belgium’s proximity to the UK also helps reduce carbon emissions related to long-distance transport, further supporting sustainability goals."

Frying Up Fun at Home

Belgian companies have adapted to modern consumer habits by developing new formats that reflect contemporary cooking and eating trends — from frozen, ready-to-cook products to a broad range of fresh processed options including mashed potatoes, duchess potatoes, waffles, hash browns, wedges, slices, and cubes.

Katrien De Nul, Promotion Manager Potatoes at VLAM:

"During the cost-of-living crisis, sales of air fryers surged due to their energy efficiency. Today, air fryers are part of everyday life for most UK households and are more popular than conventional ovens. This shift has opened new opportunities for Belgian potatoes."

Fries hold a strong cultural significance in Belgium, and the same can be said in the UK, where they are seen as the ultimate comfort food associated with family gatherings and festive occasions.

Katrien De Nul, Promotion Manager Potatoes at VLAM:

"Belgian fries are loved in the UK, but the same applies to other potato products. Belgian processors have expanded their fresh processed range to meet modern consumer expectations for convenience and health. Products such as hash browns, wedges, and potato slices offer quick, easy, and nutritious meal options when paired with fresh vegetables."

Chef’s Choice: Festive-Style Belgian Potato Wedges

• Toss Belgian potato wedges with olive oil, sea salt, rosemary, and a pinch of paprika.
• Air-fry at 200°C for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Serve as a side for holiday meals or casual gatherings.