The recent exchange event facilitated enhanced knowledge-sharing among potato research experts. Keynote speaker Federico Fulligna from the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) - La Consulta provided a detailed overview of Argentina's potato production landscape. He noted that 85,000 hectares are under cultivation, primarily concentrated in southeast Buenos Aires, contributing 50% to 55% of the total. The central regions, including Córdoba and San Luis, account for 30%, followed by Tucumán with 9%, and Mendoza with around 6% to 7%, depending on the season.
Analysis of usage patterns reveals that 50% to 55% of the harvest is for direct consumption, 30% to 35% for industrial purposes, and 5% to 6% is reserved for seed. In Mendoza, the Uco Valley leads in potato cultivation, especially for Simplot and industrial varieties. This region's production is pivotal in fulfilling domestic demand, focusing on seed and consumption potatoes.
Amidst these dynamics, challenges arise from pricing and profitability issues. Omar Carrasco, president of the Mendoza Fruit and Vegetable Association, stressed that despite reaching expected volume levels, pricing remains a concern. He stated that "a bag of potatoes is currently sold well below cost," underscoring that low consumer prices hinder investment recovery.
Within Malargüe, seed potato production faces challenges from viral contamination, exacerbated by dependency on imported varieties. Producer Guillermo Aguado highlighted efforts in establishing labs to combat this issue, enhancing tuber health over four to five years. According to him, maintaining potato quality includes isolating crops to prevent pathogen invasion.
Aguado also discussed the economic complexities, including the goal of exporting more production to stabilize revenue. Addressing these concerns, he emphasized the need for a stable dollar to succeed abroad.
In Tupungato, Juan Gómez Saá emphasized the necessity of aligning variety development with environmental adaptability. Certification ensures product quality, with virus-free assurances for buyers.
Eduardo Barraud, focusing on Andean potato cultivation in Uspallata, faced initial market challenges. However, his harvest has grown significantly, now reaching 110,000 kilos. Distribution occurs directly to 20 restaurants, broadening the market applicability of diverse potato varieties.
Source: Argenpapa