High-Tech Potato Sorter Triples Processing Capacity at Goseong Agricultural Cooperative

Geojin Agricultural Cooperative in Goseong, Gangwon Province, has significantly enhanced its potato sorting capabilities by introducing a state-of-the-art carrier-type sorting machine, replacing the outdated cup-type model. The upgrade, funded through collaboration with local government, has tripled daily processing capacity from 6–7 tons to 20–23 tons while reducing damage to potatoes during sorting. To maximize the new system’s efficiency, the cooperative has adopted a day-and-night two-shift operation and deployed public-sector seasonal workers in teams of six to support sorting and shipping tasks. This infrastructure boost is expected to raise the cooperative’s annual potato procurement volume to approximately 230 tons this year.

Impact on Farmers and Local Economy:
The improved sorting infrastructure directly benefits local growers by ensuring stable market supply and higher farmgate prices. Premium-sized potatoes (large grade and above) are purchased at 1,400 KRW per kilogram, helping to stabilize farm incomes—a crucial support for farmers who previously struggled to find reliable cash crops. Cooperative Chairman Kim Kyung-soo emphasized that the modernization effort, made possible through close cooperation with municipal authorities, enhances the marketability and distribution competitiveness of Goseong potatoes. He reaffirmed the cooperative’s commitment to further increasing farm household income through continued investments in quality and logistics infrastructure.