West Bengal to Allow Conditional Potato Exports Amid Price Surge

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sanctioned the export of up to 2 lakh tonnes of potatoes to other states within a week, according to a minister. This decision emerged from a review meeting at the state secretariat Nabanna, attended by various stakeholders.

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In June, potato prices surged, prompting the West Bengal government to restrict exports to other states. This move led to a brief strike by potato traders. During today's meeting, Banerjee agreed to permit the export of up to two lakh metric tonnes of potatoes weekly. One lakh metric tonnes can be exported from North Bengal and another one lakh from South Bengal.

Stakeholder Involvement in Potato Export Decision

Agri-Marketing Minister Becharam Manna stated that neighbouring states must first place a demand for the potatoes. Representatives from the Progressive Potato Traders Association and Cold Storage Association were present at the meeting. Manna added that Banerjee would review the impact of the export on local prices after a week.

Progressive Potato Traders Association Secretary Lalu Mukherjee mentioned that the chief minister has agreed to start exports to neighbouring states from Wednesday. However, she insisted that the price of potatoes should not exceed the current level.

Monitoring and Future Reviews

Manna also highlighted that Banerjee praised North Bengal potato traders for not participating in the strike against the government's export halt decision. Conversely, she criticised South Bengal traders for their past strikes. Traders and cold storage officials had urged the government to allow exports to prevent farmers from potential losses.

The government is closely monitoring traders since high prices have not benefited farmers, who sold their produce at Rs 14 per kg. Manna noted that while traders went on strike due to export restrictions, North Bengal traders did not join in.

The chief minister's decision aims to balance local supply and demand while ensuring fair prices for both farmers and consumers. The review meeting underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in addressing agricultural challenges.

Banerjee's approval for potato exports reflects her administration's responsiveness to market dynamics and trader concerns. The outcome of this decision will be assessed after a week to ensure it aligns with state interests.