Shan State Opens 2,000-Tonne Cold Storage Facility to Boost Seed Potato Sector in Heho

A new 2,000-tonne seed potato cold storage facility was officially opened on Sunday in Heho, Kalaw District, with Shan State Chief Minister U Sai Htein Soe presiding over the inauguration ceremony. The facility, operated by H & J Success Company Limited, represents a significant investment in the region’s agricultural infrastructure. Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister emphasized that the storage complex will play a crucial role in ensuring the proper preservation and efficient distribution of high-quality seed potatoes, directly supporting local farmers and stimulating the overall development of the potato farming sector in Shan State.

The new cold storage addresses a long-standing constraint for potato growers in the region—the lack of adequate temperature-controlled facilities to preserve seed viability between planting seasons. By maintaining optimal storage conditions, the facility is expected to reduce post-harvest losses, improve seed quality, and enable farmers to access reliable planting material when needed. Following the ceremony, the Chief Minister toured the cold storage units and workshop facilities, and held discussions with local farmers to better understand their needs and explore further opportunities for agricultural support. The opening marks a positive step toward strengthening the potato value chain and enhancing food security in the region.