Argentina has reached a new milestone in the agricultural sector with the first-ever export of seed potatoes by HZPC América Latina, a subsidiary of the Dutch seed company HZPC, based in Argentina since 2008. The initial shipment of 50 tons of G2-grade seed potatoes to Uruguay represents a pivotal moment for the company and highlights Argentina’s emerging role as a key supplier of high-quality seed potatoes to the Latin American market.
According to Iván Ramallo, Managing Director of HZPC América Latina, the export of seed potatoes offers a significant advantage for countries in the Southern Hemisphere and the Caribbean. Argentina’s strategic location enables earlier planting dates and the production of seed potatoes with optimal physiological maturity. For countries like Uruguay, this provides a valuable head start in planting for their spring harvest season, which occurs from late July to early September.
Strong Agronomic Potential for Regional Export Growth
Argentina’s strength as a supplier of seed potatoes lies not only in its geographic advantages but also in its robust agronomic conditions. The seed potatoes in this inaugural shipment came from southeastern Buenos Aires, a region known for its ideal growing conditions for high-quality potato crops. Varieties included in the shipment, such as Memphis and Sunred (red-skinned varieties favored in Uruguay), and Sagitta (a white-skinned variety with high dry matter content), were selected for their market suitability and potential yield performance.
One of the key advantages of Argentina as a seed potato exporter is the commonality of potato varieties shared with neighboring countries like Uruguay and Brazil. This overlap in cultivar preferences strengthens Argentina’s position in the regional market. Additionally, Argentina boasts strong phytosanitary standards, and existing agreements with several Latin American countries ensure the quality and safety of exported seed potatoes.
“The quality of our seed and the timing of planting provide distinct advantages, and with established phytosanitary agreements, we are well-positioned to expand trade within the region,” said Ramallo.
Expanding Markets and Future Outlook
This first export to Uruguay is just the beginning for HZPC América Latina. Ramallo has high expectations for future campaigns, foreseeing the opportunity to plan for higher volumes and expand into new markets. With increasing demand from countries in the Caribbean for varieties like Sababa and Farida—soon to be commercialized in Argentina—the company is poised to scale its operations.
The potential for growth in the regional seed potato market is considerable. Uruguay’s spring potato crop represents about 33% of the country’s total production, and with reliable supply from Argentina, the country can ensure a consistent and high-quality seed stock. Furthermore, as demand for specific potato varieties grows in Latin America, Argentina’s role as a local supplier will likely increase.
Argentina’s first seed potato export by HZPC América Latina marks a significant achievement in the region’s agricultural trade. With favorable planting conditions, strong phytosanitary standards, and a growing demand for diverse potato varieties, Argentina is well-positioned to become a key player in the Latin American seed potato market. The success of this first shipment to Uruguay sets the stage for future exports, with the potential to strengthen regional ties and boost economic growth in the agricultural sector.
