Peru’s commitment to revitalizing native potato cultivation is making substantial progress, with an ambitious goal to triple the seed availability of native potato varieties by 2025. This effort, driven by the Regional Government of Huánuco, focuses on advancing the native potato production chain, which has been integral to local culture and nutrition for centuries. Targeting key farming areas in the provinces of Huánuco, Ambo, Pachitea, Dos de Mayo, Huamalíes, and Yarowilca, the project supports farmers through technology, training, and high-quality seed supply.
The “Native Potato Productive Chain Improvement” Project
The “Mejoramiento de los Servicios Agrarios de la Cadena Productiva de la Papa Nativa” project is central to this effort. Led by Yarusel Valenzuela, the Regional Director of Agriculture, the project is focused on enhancing native potato production through knowledge transfer and advanced agricultural technology.
Key to this initiative is the establishment of 139 demonstration plots across the six provinces. These plots serve as hands-on training sites where farmers learn essential practices, including seed selection, soil preparation, and optimized cultivation techniques. “These productive projects emphasize the transfer of knowledge and technology,” said Valenzuela. Such training aims to improve not only the yield but also the quality of native potatoes by introducing virus-free and pathogen-resistant technology.
2024 Milestones and Seed Expansion
In 2024, the project achieved significant milestones, including the acquisition of 50,000 kg of native potatoes. Valenzuela noted that this number is expected to increase in the coming year. Among the varieties benefiting from this initiative are Peruanita, Huayro, and Cacho de Toro, distinct varieties native to the region and valued for their unique flavors and resilience.
Looking to 2025, the project’s goal is to double or even triple the distribution of high-quality potato seeds, aiming for yields up to 16,000 kg per hectare. This would mark a significant improvement from the current regional averages of 12,000 to 13,000 kg per hectare. Though there are budget constraints, the Regional Directorate of Agriculture (DRA) is working to extend technical assistance to a broader group of farmers in more provinces.
The Role of a New Specialized Laboratory
A vital component of the project is the planned construction of a specialized laboratory in the district of Qisqui, with an investment of over 2 million soles. This facility will focus on plant tissue culture to produce virus-free and disease-free plantlets and seeds, critical for maintaining the health and productivity of the native potato varieties.
“High-quality, virus-free seeds are what Huánuco needs to sustain growth in the native potato chain,” Valenzuela explained. The laboratory’s work will not only boost yields but also improve the overall quality of native potato production, aligning with Peru’s broader goals of preserving its agricultural heritage while enhancing productivity.
Peru’s native potato project stands as a model for sustainable agricultural development, demonstrating how targeted investments in training, technology, and infrastructure can elevate traditional crops to meet modern demands. With its comprehensive approach, the project promises to strengthen Peru’s native potato sector, supporting farmers, protecting indigenous varieties, and meeting the needs of a growing market. By 2025, Peru is poised to become a leader in sustainable, high-quality native potato production.
