Gujarat Leads the Way in Processed Potato Production and Export in 2025
In a significant milestone for India’s agriculture and food processing sectors, Gujarat has officially claimed the top spot in the country’s processed potato production and export. The state has set a benchmark in the French fries and wafers industry by surpassing other major potato-producing states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
From Importer to Export Leader
Processed potatoes, particularly in the form of French fries and wafers, have seen a rapid rise in both domestic and global demand. Gujarat’s impressive scale-up in this domain has helped India reposition itself from a net importer to an emerging exporter of processed potato products. With a record-breaking 11.5 lakh tonnes of processed potatoes produced in the state during 2024–25, Gujarat has not only strengthened its internal supply chain but also carved a path into international markets.
Production Figures Tell the Story
In 2004-05, Gujarat's processed potato production was below 1 lakh tonnes, with just 4,000 hectares under cultivation. Fast forward two decades, and the transformation is remarkable. Backed by consistent support from the state government and adoption of modern farming practices, the sowing area for processed potatoes has expanded nearly tenfold to 37,000 hectares.
As per government data, Gujarat produced 48.59 lakh tonnes of potatoes in the 2024–25 season. Out of this, more than 25% were processing-grade potatoes, while the remaining consisted of table varieties like Kufri, commonly used in households for cooking.
Backbone of the French Fries and Wafers Industry
The potatoes grown specifically for processing are supplied to leading food manufacturing units that produce French fries, potato chips, and other frozen snack items. Industry data shows that approximately 60% of Gujarat's processed potatoes are directed toward wafer production, while the remaining 40% are used for French fries.
These products are not only sold within India but are now gaining traction in international markets due to their improved quality and cost competitiveness. The growing export volumes reflect India’s evolving role as a supplier in the global processed food ecosystem.
Districts Driving the Growth
The districts of Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli have emerged as the strongholds of Gujarat’s potato revolution. In the 2024–25 agricultural year, these three districts alone accounted for potato cultivation across 1.19 lakh hectares. Collectively, they contributed a staggering 38 lakh tonnes of production, boasting an average productivity of 32.36 tonnes per hectare.
These achievements were made possible through strategic initiatives, such as:
- Adoption of high-yielding seed varieties
- Drip irrigation and scientific farming methods
- Farmer training and capacity-building programs
- Improved access to cold storage and processing units
Government’s Role in the Growth Story
The rise of Gujarat as a processed potato hub is not accidental. Over the years, the state government has invested heavily in agricultural infrastructure, encouraged farmer participation in contract farming, and facilitated private sector collaboration. These efforts have resulted in enhanced farm incomes and greater resilience for the potato farming community.
Additionally, various support schemes under the PM-Kisan initiative and food processing incentives under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana have played a crucial role in enabling farmers to move up the value chain.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Gujarat's transformation into India's leader in processed potato production reflects how strategic planning, farmer empowerment, and government support can revolutionize an entire agricultural segment. As French fries and wafers from Gujarat enter more global markets, the state sets a strong example for other regions aiming to modernize and scale up their agricultural exports.
With quality production, market connectivity, and export growth on the rise, Gujarat is not just cultivating potatoes—it’s cultivating success.