As China stands as the world’s largest producer of potatoes, its annual production of nearly 100 million metric tons on some 5 million hectares of arable land reflects the central role potatoes play in the country’s food security and agricultural development.
Dr. Simon Heck, director general of the International Potato Center (CIP), said China’s geographic diversity allows for year-round potato production, a significant advantage, and its businesses on potato cultivation and production thrive through global cooperation and technological innovation.
In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Heck stressed that currently, there has been a new wave of investments in potato production in China from companies outside of agriculture, such as in the construction and real estate sectors, indicating the growing economic significance of this crop.
“Potatoes are one of the most important food crops in China, especially in northern and northwestern regions, where the harvest season is currently in full swing,” he said, adding that the adaptability of potatoes to different growing conditions makes them vital for the country’s food security.
In addition to providing new varieties, CIP has been instrumental in training Chinese scientists and students, fostering advanced research on breeding, irrigation, and crop rotation technologies, Dr. Heck said.
Moreover, CIP is encouraging Chinese companies to adopt innovations from other sectors, such as biotechnology startups that traditionally worked with strawberries but are now looking to apply their expertise to potato production.
“This cross-sector collaboration presents a significant opportunity for China to catch up with the advancements in other high-value crops,” Heck remarked.
Source: China Daily. Read the full story here
Image: Dr. Simon Heck, director general of the International Potato Center (CIP). Photo provided to China Daily
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