Farmers, agronomists, entrepreneurs, and industry specialists discussed innovations in potato cultivation and export opportunities
On July 17th, the city of Kostroma in the Russian Federation hosted Potato Day, bringing together farmers, agronomists, potato entrepreneurs, plant protection managers, fertilizer and plant protection product manufacturers, scientists, and food industry specialists. Participants came from various regions of Russia. The event focused on new technologies for potato cultivation for processing, economic aspects of this activity, and export opportunities for Russian potatoes to foreign markets. Russian storage equipment was also showcased during the event.
Potato Day, known as the Field Academy, was conducted with the active participation of the Potato Union of Russia, which actively promotes proper potato cultivation techniques. The event program included presentations and roundtable discussions aimed at deepening knowledge and strengthening cooperation within the industry.
Key speakers included Tatiana Gubina, Head of the Apparatus of the Potato Union, Sergey Khavanov, CEO of Agrotrade Group, Fedor Puzdrya, representative of the Lorch Potato Research Center, Sergey Marchenko, Commercial Director of Vi Fry Plant, Anna Khrabrova, Commercial Manager of HZPC Sadokas, Eduard Oreshkin from Doka – Gene Technologies, and Anna Tsareva, the event organizer.
Tatiana Gubina emphasized the importance of implementing advanced cultivation technologies that contribute to increased yield and quality of potatoes, especially for processing. Sergey Khavanov shared insights on the economic feasibility of processing-oriented potato farming, focusing on effective practices and potential profitability. Fedor Puzdrya provided an overview of ongoing research at the Lorch Potato Research Center, covering innovative breeding methods and disease resistance.
Sergey Marchenko and Anna Khrabrova discussed commercial aspects, from market demand to the quality standards required for processing. Viktor Kovalev spoke about the global situation in potato processing and the prospects for exporting Russian processed potato products. The event concluded with a discussion on export opportunities, led by Anna Tsareva, who explored new markets and strategies to increase the global presence of Russian potatoes.
Potato Day in Kostroma served as an important platform for exchanging knowledge, exploring new technologies, and identifying opportunities for growth and collaboration. The active participation and valuable presentations from representatives of various sectors underscore the importance of innovation and cooperation for the development of the potato industry.
