Organizations in the News

Strong El Niño puts potato storage economics under scrutiny in new NAPSO bulletin

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) warns that the intensifying El Niño phenomenon could significantly impact potato storability, energy costs, and market returns post-2026 harvest. A recent bulletin merges climate assessments with potato-storage research, highlighting challenges from warmer temperatures and uncertain precipitation patterns. Essential factors for storage management include tuber condition, local weather, and monitoring variables such as bruising and moisture levels, influencing economic outcomes.

October 12, 2026

Beyond the harvest: England’s potato growers face a critical winter water test

The recent drought update highlights the urgent need for England’s potato industry to focus on replenishing irrigation reservoirs, as many are only 0-20% full. A temporary regulatory measure allows some growers to refill outside typical periods but requires compliance with environmental protections. The situation emphasizes the importance of water management for future production, stressing that separate assessments of past yields and future resource availability are crucial for planning.

October 10, 2026

Assessing the autumn potato crop: Germany’s harvest outlook depends on both production volume and marketable quality

Germany anticipates a significantly reduced potato harvest of about 10.4 million tonnes in 2026, down from 13.9 million tonnes in 2025. Weather factors and decreased planting area have influenced this decline. Industry representatives emphasize that while production is lower, it does not necessarily mean supply shortages due to existing demand, storage conditions, and market specifics. Further assessments will clarify how the crop meets market needs throughout the season.

October 8, 2026

From resistance genes to hybrid seed: CIP sets out two routes to stronger potato production

A recent update by the International Potato Center (CIP) highlights advances in late blight resistance and diploid hybrid breeding techniques presented by Director General Simon Heck at the World Agrifood Innovation Conference in Beijing. The emphasis on local partnerships aims to enhance farmer access to these innovations. Multiple approaches, including biotechnology and hybrid breeding, aim to improve potato varieties, addressing biological challenges while ensuring market compatibility and reliable seed supply for sustainable agricultural practices.

October 8, 2026

First International Potato Symposium: Europe’s potato sector calls for closer cooperation as climate and market pressures mount

The 1st International Potato Symposium in Madrid on October 5 gathered approximately 250 professionals to discuss challenges and opportunities within the potato sector. Organized by FEPEX and Europatat, the event focused on production, market developments, plant health, and sustainability. Key speakers addressed the complexities of potato production amidst climate change and resource pressures. The symposium emphasized collaboration across the value chain to address shared challenges and ensure a strong European potato sector in future policy discussions.

October 8, 2026

Beyond the congress hall: Will Kenya 2026 leave a lasting potato legacy?

From 26 to 30 October, the World Potato Congress will meet in Kenya—the first edition held in sub-Saharan Africa. Delegates from 62 countries are already registered, but the event’s significance extends beyond attendance figures. Its lasting value will depend on whether global science, investment and technology connect with farmers’ everyday constraints, and whether African growers, researchers, young people and businesses help set the agenda rather than merely host it there.

September 29, 2026

Potato growers welcome new USDA protections against potato wart

Potato growers are supportive of new USDA regulations designed to combat potato wart from Prince Edward Island. National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles highlighted the absence of the disease in the U.S. and the potential risks it poses. He also touched on anti-dumping orders affecting U.S. potatoes in British Columbia and the resulting trade tensions with Canada, potentially increasing costs for growers. Quarles expressed hope for Congress to pass the Farm Bill by year-end.

September 1, 2026

GB Potatoes at four: What are the challenges and priorities?

GB Potatoes, established four years ago following the dissolution of AHDB Potatoes, serves as an essential representative for potato growers in the UK, according to Emma Gillbard in Farmers Weekly. Chief executive Scott Walker highlights the organization’s critical role in filling the void left in industry advocacy. With robust support from the supply chain, GB Potatoes aims to expand its membership to enhance its influence and effectiveness.

September 1, 2026

French potato production could fall 23% as drought and heat cut yields: Lowest yields in more than 30 years

French potato growers are facing the lowest average yield in over 30 years due to extreme weather conditions, with projections showing a 14% decrease in yield for 2026. Factors such as heatwaves, drought, and reduced planted area could result in a 23% decline in production. Concerns about contract fulfillment and a potential economic loss of €400 million have prompted calls for government assistance. The outcome remains uncertain as harvest results become clear.

August 24, 2026

‘The algorithm and the acre’: Why the future of potato breeding will still be decided in farmers’ fields

The GAIN-RT initiative, announced on August 18, 2026, aims to enhance potato breeding through artificial intelligence, focusing on climate resilience and disease resistance. Collaborating with institutions such as the International Potato Center and KALRO, GAIN-RT will combine genomic and environmental data to improve selection processes. However, concerns remain about AI’s limitations and the necessity for local insights, training, and effective seed systems to ensure successful variety adoption by farmers.

August 19, 2026

Global partnership launches AI project to accelerate development of climate-resilient potato and sweetpotato varieties

A global initiative named GAIN-RT has been launched to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in the rapid development of crop varieties, primarily focused on potatoes and later sweetpotatoes. This collaboration includes the International Potato Center, the James Hutton Institute, and African partners, aiming to address challenges posed by climate change, pests, and diseases. The project also emphasizes training for scientists, particularly women, to enhance local research capabilities and improve food security.

August 19, 2026

Tasmanian potato growers ongoing contract dispute with US French fry giant, Simplot

Tasmanian potato growers are in conflict with chip manufacturer Simplot over a new contract, which may impose liability on growers for chip recalls after the potatoes have been sold. Simplot recently halted price negotiations, proposing reduced prices that farmers find unacceptable. Additionally, Simplot’s approach of negotiating directly with individual growers has intensified tensions, as farmers express concern over treatment and contract cancellations amidst rising production costs.

August 19, 2026

The global potato industry in 2026: More potatoes, less certainty – and a seed system beginning to change

Global potato production is at an all-time high, yet complexities loom. North America is reducing acreage, Europe faces shifting blight populations, and trade policies are uncertain. Notably, a diploid potato variety has been registered in the Netherlands, signaling progress in breeding. Overall, while production rises, profitability and system resilience remain critical as the industry adapts to new challenges, including reliance on integrated supply chains and disease management strategies.

August 18, 2026

Global potato outlook: Second half of 2026 likely to test supply discipline, climate resilience, and processing demand

At mid-year, the global potato industry faces a cautious second-half outlook. Europe is trying to reset after oversupply, North America is watching processor demand and new-crop signals, and emerging frozen fry exporters such as China, India, and Egypt are changing trade dynamics. Weather stress, fertilizer costs, storage risk, and quality will likely determine whether 2026 ends in better balance or renewed pressure.

June 28, 2026

European potato markets shift; Ireland’s Queens enter strong-demand market

The prolonged spell of warm weather in Ireland this week has dampened home consumption of potatoes, according to the Irish Farmers Association’s latest Potato Market Report, issued on June 24. However, IFA noted that the food service sector should see a welcome boost as school holidays get underway next week. Queens are slowly coming onto the market, with demand reported[Read More…]

June 24, 2026

Western potato varieties in Egypt: Can Russet, Innovator, Santana and similar varieties succeed?

Egypt can successfully grow Western potato varieties, but their success hinges on local climate suitability, irrigation, seed quality, and market needs. Some varieties, like Santana and Innovator, have demonstrated potential in the country’s processing sector. However, caution is advised with varieties like Russet Burbank due to their specific agronomic demands. Ultimately, disciplined trials and understanding local conditions are essential for commercial viability.

June 22, 2026

FAO Treaty Secretary highlights potato genetic resources as shared global heritage

On International Potato Day 2026, Kent Nnadozie emphasized the potato’s role as a vital food source and genetic resource, essential for global food security. Celebrating its cultural significance and agricultural contributions, he urged for continued investment in conservation and research. Highlighting successful collaborative projects that benefit farmers, the call to action advocates for renewed cooperation in preserving potato diversity to ensure future resilience and adaptability in changing environments.

June 22, 2026

NAPSO and Spud Smart to host free potato storage webinar on finishing the season strong

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) will host a free online webinar on June 19, focusing on potato storage management. Titled “Storage Turnover: Finishing Strong & Preparing Ahead,” it is aimed at helping growers and storage managers optimize their processes. Expert speakers Tyson Arnold and Nathan Gelles will cover key topics such as sanitation, storage planning, and crop protection to enhance profitability and crop quality in the storage season.

June 18, 2026

Europatat elects Peter Ton as its new President

Last week, Europatat held its annual Congress in Brussels, attended by 90 members. A new Board was elected for 2026-2030, appointing Peter Ton as President, alongside Vice-President Vlastimil Rasocha and Treasurer Francisco Moya. Key priorities include trade, plant health, food safety, and sustainability reporting. The 2025-2026 Activity Report was presented, detailing Europatat’s initiatives and is publicly accessible on their website.

June 10, 2026

GB Potatoes CEO warns sector is under pressure

Scott Walker, CEO of GB Potatoes, highlights that the potato industry illustrates the challenges faced by modern agriculture, emphasizing its historical importance in the UK food system. The sector has endured multiple crises, including Brexit, the pandemic, and inflation, impacting business resilience. Despite ongoing pressures, Walker expresses cautious optimism for future growth, citing the upcoming GB Potato Summit as an opportunity for collaboration and innovation.

June 3, 2026

‘Planting the seed’: New Potatoes New Zealand partnership celebrates potatoes, people and the next generation

Potatoes New Zealand has partnered with Garden to Table to promote food education on the International Day of Potato. This collaboration aims to connect young New Zealanders to their food’s origins, emphasizing the versatility and nutrition of potatoes. Through hands-on programs in schools, the initiative teaches children about growing and preparing food, fostering a genuine appreciation for food and local growers while instilling lifelong skills and confidence.

May 29, 2026

AIVA Network launches to strengthen real-world validation of agtech on Canadian farms

AIVA, the Agriculture Innovation, Validation and Adoption Network, has launched in Winnipeg to help Canadian farmers adopt agtech with greater confidence. Founded by FCC, EMILI, and WHIN, AIVA will test early-stage and market-ready technologies under real-world farm conditions. For 2026, its Validation Hubs will conduct nine national, multi-site projects involving tools such as spray drones, remote sensors, and farm management software.

May 12, 2026

Tasmanian potato price negotiations clouded by fuel uncertainty

Tasmanian potato growers are negotiating prices for the 2026/27 crop amidst concerns about diesel supply. Premier Jeremy Rockliff recently confirmed stable fuel supplies but emphasized the need for farmers’ involvement in contingency planning. TasFarmers expressed the importance of clarity regarding supply risks. The government has activated an incident management team and is prioritizing critical sectors, monitoring fuel stocks, and preparing allocation plans if necessary.

April 16, 2026

Celebrating the birthday of Potatoes New Zealand: ‘Reflecting on our past, standing with growers for the future’

Potatoes New Zealand celebrates its anniversary on April 17, reflecting on its journey since 2012 as an advocate for the country’s potato growers amid industry challenges. The organization emphasizes innovation, resilience, and commitment to enhancing crop performance and biosecurity. Chief Executive Kate Trufitt highlights the current difficulties growers face. Looking forward, Potatoes New Zealand is dedicated to supporting the industry with practical solutions to ensure a sustainable future.

April 16, 2026

‘Potato risk management more important than ever’

Potato production in the UK faces significant risks due to weather volatility and reduced farming subsidies, as discussed in a recent GB Potatoes webinar. Experts highlighted the importance of innovative risk management strategies, such as parametric insurance, which offers quicker payouts based on measurable weather events rather than traditional assessments. This new coverage aims to provide essential financial protection for growers, allowing them to safeguard their crops against increasingly unpredictable conditions.

April 14, 2026