Yam Prices Explained

The yam market is forecasted to experience volatility as the commodity will be indirectly influenced by the expected tariff changes from the US. On the demand side, Gen Z consumers are the projected top buyers of yam-based products because of sustainable marketing. 

On the supply side, top yam country producers reported an increase in agricultural output, particularly in Nigeria and Cameroon.

On the application side, the global yam powder market continuously expands due to steady innovation in the food industry. Moreover, the increasing demand for organic yams contributes to the marketability of this commodity and its future price fluctuation.

Why are yam prices fluctuating?

1. Transportation Costs

Transportation expenses have an impact on yam prices since they must be transported from farms to markets quickly and efficiently due to their perishable nature. As a result, wholesalers and retailers charge higher prices to cover extra costs and guarantee profits due to increased transportation costs.

Additionally, fuel prices, distance traveled, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and market charges are some of those components that affect transportation expenses. For instance, the war between Russia and Ukraine caused a surge in fuel prices which ultimately affected commodity value, including yam prices.

2. Quality and Variety

Yams vary widely in size, shape, color, flavor, texture, and nutritional value; thus, these aspects all affect the price of yams. Consequently, some yam varieties are more popular than others because of how well they work with particular recipes or markets.

For example, ube powder, a starchy ingredient from purple yams is extensively used in sweet baked products, cakes, ice cream, jams, and curries.

3. Weather Conditions

Unfavorable weather events like heat waves, floods, or droughts cause yam quantity and quality to decline, resulting in a yam shortage and higher pricing. On the other hand, yam costs decrease in an environment that supports yam production, such as one with sufficient rainfall, mild temperatures, and rich soil.

The ideal temperature range for yam growth is 25 to 30°C, and it thrives in well-drained fertile soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 in full sun or part shade.

Which variables impact the price of yam?

• Transportation Costs
• Quality and Variety
• Weather Conditions
• Supply and Demand
• Import and Export
• Market Competition

Where does yam come from?

Yam is a tuber vegetable that grows in tropical and subtropical climates. It is a staple food in many countries, particularly in Asia.

Additionally, yam species’ related tubers are said to be rather small and their vines grow to heights of three meters or less. Here are the lists of top yam varieties:

1. Purple Yam – The most widely cultivated yam species. It has a mildly sweet, earthy, and nutty flavor, similar to taro or sweet potatoes. Also, purple yams thrive in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.

2. White Yam – This variety is distinguished by its cylindrical form and white flesh. Additionally, it mostly grows in West Africa.

3. Yellow Yam – Known for its orange or yellowish flesh, these yams are an important source of nutrition in West Africa and the Caribbean.

4. Lesser Yam – This has an oval form and weighs between half and two pounds on average also known as Chinese Yam. Its outer skin is hairy and brown and its flesh is either white or pale yellow. Furthermore, it has firm flesh and a subtle flavor as well.

5. Aerial Yam – They are a unique species of yam that produce little tubers at the base of the leaves. Additionally, this variety finds extensive use in traditional medicine in various tropical countries.

6. Okinawan Yam – Their shapes are tubular and oval and their sizes vary from medium to large. Also, its skin is uneven, tough, and speckled with earthy brown lines. The flesh of Okinawan yams is violet-purple.

7. Japanese Mountain Yam – This type of yam thrives throughout Asia and Japan. Additionally, it has a somewhat sweet taste and a slimy, sticky feel when shredded.

What are the uses of yam?

Yams are rich in potassium, vitamin C, fiber, thiamine, manganese, B6, and other nutrients.

Its unique compound promotes neuron growth and impedes the progression of osteoporosis and arthritis. Additionally, it enhances overall brain function. Some of the common industrial applications of yams include:

1. Starch Production – Yams are an important component of starch and their starch is used in some industries, such as the food, pharmaceutical, textile, and paper industries.

2. Flour Production – Yam powder from dried and crushed yams is used to thicken traditional dishes and food processing.

3. Animal Feed – Its byproducts, such as peels and leftovers from the starch extraction process are used as animal feedstock.

4. Pharmaceuticals – Some chemicals found in yams, such as diosgenin, are used by the pharmaceutical industry to make steroidal medications. This includes hormones and contraceptives.

5. Traditional Medicine – Due to their supposed health advantages, it is used as a traditional medicine in some cultures as certain chemicals found in yams have therapeutic benefits and are used in herbal treatments.

6. Industrial Adhesives – Its starch has adhesive properties and in some cases, it is used in the production of industrial adhesives.

7. Alcohol Production – Yam tubers are used for the production of alcoholic beverages, such as yam-based spirits.

What is the future price of yam?

The increasing consumer knowledge of yams’ health advantages fuels their demand worldwide. Due to their use in food processing, medicine, and cosmetics, yam exports are growing, especially from Africa to markets in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Also, the commodity contains a unique compound called diosgenin. This type of steroid promotes neuron growth, enhances brain function, and slows down the progression of both osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, it helps in maintaining cholesterol levels. Thus, these perceived health benefits will fuel yam prices and its market growth.

Overall, the price of yam will be $1.61 per kilogram in 2028 and its global market is projected to register a CAGR of 3.5% in 2025.