RIP(otatoes): South Africa, we have a problem...
The supply of frozen chips is down, what will we do now?!
The import tariff on frozen chips is up 181%. This is steering European suppliers away from South Africa.
SA’s local potato farmers are directing supplies to fast food outlets and the quick service restaurant sector.
Ahead of the festive season, South Africans are getting anxious that they may not be able to make the famous "slap chips" - one of our many South Africanisms.
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The increasing tariffs are causing local potato prices to sky rocket.
South Africa's International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) recently imposed heavy import tariffs to protect the local potato industry against dumping by European suppliers.
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These customers rely on frozen French fry imports to meet their needs for the simple reason that they are not able to get consistent supply locally.
According to Business Insider, Fred Hume warned of exponential price hikes, stating that a 2.5kg bag of frozen chips from Germany with import taxes of 181% could cost between R160 to R170.
Looks like you’re going to have to fork out the big bucks for this delicacy...
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If you don't already know, watch how to make South Africa's iconic Slap Chips in the video below:
Watch some fun below as Americans try South African snacks:
Also, do you know where the term "slap chip" comes from? Click here for the mapping of traditional potato fries (slap chips) from eleven potato cultivars.
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