Prices of a Staple Food Affecting the Rate of Inflation: The Case of Potato Production in the Brazilian Economy

Potatoes play an important role in the global agricultural sector with annual production of approximately 3.5 million tons. However, it is exposed to both climate variations and changes in market trends that directly influence supply and demand, determining product prices. This paper aims to analyse and characterize the potato market, to determine its relationship with the variation in inflation in Brazil. To this end, the Broad Consumer Price Index - IPCA, planted area, harvested area, yield per hectare, the gross value of production, and potato prices were used as variables. The results demonstrate a minimal correlation between the quantity produced and the area planted with potatoes and the IPCA, with these two variables participating in the formation of the potato price at the retail market.