Yakup Karahan’s Dedication to Seed Breeding Yields 23 Local Potato Varieties
At 62, Yakup Karahan is on a mission to place Turkey at the forefront of the global potato seed industry. From his laboratory in Nevşehir, Karahan has developed 23 distinct local potato seed varieties that are not only a source of national pride but also promise to reduce Turkey’s dependency on imported seeds.
Among these varieties are “Zirve,” “Kutup,” “Yaprak,” and “Bahar,” all of which have become symbols of Turkish agricultural innovation. These seeds are specially bred to be resistant to various viruses, a feature that Karahan achieved despite facing numerous challenges throughout the development process. His persistence over 22 years has resulted in a breakthrough, giving Turkey the ability to compete in the international market and reducing its reliance on foreign seed supplies.
Karahan’s vision for the future is ambitious. By 2030, he aims to produce 100,000 tons of potato seeds annually, establishing Turkey as a leader in the global seed market. This would not only position Turkey as a key player in the international potato industry but also bolster the country’s agricultural independence.
His success story highlights the importance of long-term investment in research and development for achieving agricultural breakthroughs. Turkish farmers, agronomists, and industry stakeholders can take pride in the achievements of Karahan and his team, as their efforts pave the way for a more self-sufficient and globally competitive potato industry.
