In the regions of Los Lagos and Los Ríos (southern Chile), the Bi-Regional Potato Committee (Mesa Bi-Regional de la Papa) convened to advance a comprehensive strategy for strengthening the local potato farming sector. Representatives from industry associations, farming unions, regional agricultural ministries, and research institutions joined forces to coordinate strategic priorities.
Southern Chile is a vital hub for certified seed and table potato production, supported by favorable climatic conditions and an officially protected phytosanitary status.
Key Action Areas of the Bi-Regional Committee
- Establishment of a Seal of Origin (Sello de Origen): Active efforts continue toward securing official certification and geographical indication status for southern Chilean potatoes. This initiative aims to highlight the crop’s distinct quality and culinary profile, protect local branding across domestic markets, and enhance value addition for regional growers.
- Driving Domestic Consumption: The committee is developing targeted promotional and educational campaigns to encourage potato consumption nationwide, dispel dietary misconceptions regarding nutritional value, and showcase the crop’s culinary versatility.
- Strengthening Phytosanitary Protection: High priority is placed on enforcing strict quarantine protocols and maintaining rigorous oversight of planting stock. Specialists emphasized the necessity of preserving the pest- and disease-free status of Chile’s southern production areas in close partnership with the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG).
- Agrotechnical Innovation and Crop Promotion: Initiatives focus on introducing innovative agronomic practices, supporting small- and medium-scale growers, and facilitating the direct transfer of research advancements from institutions such as INIA to field operations.
Meeting participants underscored that bi-regional collaboration between Los Lagos and Los Ríos provides an effective framework for resolving systemic industry challenges, boosting farmgate profitability, and reinforcing national food security.
