South Korea: New Market Opportunities Open for US Potatoes in 2026

In 2026, U.S. potatoes will enjoy expanded access to the Republic of Korea (ROK) market thanks to the addition of 11 new export-eligible states and the phase-out of seasonal tariffs on chipping potatoes. In January, the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) approved market access for U.S. chipping and table stock potatoes from 11 additional states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wisconsin), a milestone the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has worked toward since 2007. Combined with the elimination of seasonal tariffs under the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) in 2026, U.S. potato exports to the ROK are poised to grow from 2025's total of $12.8 million.