Aviko expands flake capacity in China to meet global demand

Aviko expands flake capacity in China to meet global demand

Steenderen, 24 June 2025 – Aviko, part of the international agro-food cooperative Royal Cosun and global market leader in the production of potato flakes and granules, is increasing its production capacity in China by no less than 70 percent per year. With this expansion, Aviko strengthens its position as a global player in the potato processing industry and responds to the growing demand for potato flakes and granules in rapidly developing markets such as Asia. Earlier this month, Aviko celebrated the expansion of a French fry line at one of its production sites in Xilinhot, China. This tripled the capacity of that facility.

Focus on Asia as a Growth Market

Global demand for potato products is rising sharply. This applies not only to chilled and frozen products, but also to dried ingredients such as potato flakes and granules. These plant-based ingredients are used worldwide in mashed potatoes, ready meals, snacks, bakery products, soups, and sauces.

From Europe, Aviko serves the global food industry, foodservice channels, and retail markets. To meet the growing demand for flakes and granules, Aviko aims to further strengthen its leading market position in the coming years. The focus is on sustainability, efficiency, and scaling up. The expansion of the flake factory in Gansu aligns perfectly with this ambition and offers ample opportunities for sustainable growth in a strategically important region.

Maarten van Delst, CEO of Aviko:

This expansion fits perfectly within the Unlock 30 strategy of our parent company Cosun, where we focus on a solid earnings model, value-driven growth, and a future-proof sustainable chain. At Aviko, we have ambitious growth plans and are actively responding to the global increase in demand for potato flakes and granules, driven by the growth of salty snacks across all five continents. In addition to Europe, China and Southeast Asia are particularly important growth markets. The Gansu plant enables us to serve both local and international customers even better and to further strengthen our position in this region – with continued attention to sustainability.

Strategic Partnership

The Gansu plant has been a joint venture between Aviko and the local government of Minle County for over 15 years, with Aviko holding a majority stake. The location was strategically chosen due to the availability of suitable farmland, the favorable climate for growing potatoes for flakes, and the well-developed infrastructure.

To support the expansion, the local government is investing in an additional 50,000 tons of potato storage capacity, as well as in water supply and agricultural infrastructure. This plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable and continuous supply of potatoes.

Opportunities for the Potato Chain and Sustainability

Aviko processes more than 2,000,000 tons of potatoes annually, sourced from growers both domestically and abroad. Although the Gansu plant uses locally grown potatoes, the growing production also offers opportunities for collaboration with Dutch supply chain partners. The expansion plans for Aviko Gansu also place extra emphasis on sustainability. The new production line will be operational by the end of 2027 and will contribute to more efficient and sustainable potato processing.