On October 16, the webinar titled “Potato Seeds in Latin America: Quality, Innovation, and Collaboration for the Future” took place, featuring experts from key organizations such as the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIAP - Ecuador), the National Institute of Agricultural Innovation (INIA - Peru), the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA - Argentina), the Agricultural Research Institute (INIA - Chile), and the Colombian Corporation for Agricultural Research (AGROSAVIA - Colombia). They discussed the importance of using high-quality seeds and the collaboration among various institutions in the region.

During this event, held under the project "Strengthening the Management of the Purple Top Complex of Potato in the Andean Region," co-financed by FONTAGRO, the significance of high-quality seeds was emphasized as an essential element in integrated management strategies for this complex. In a context where the percentages of cultivated land using certified seeds are low, significant opportunities for seed production systems in affected countries or those at risk of introducing this complex were identified.

Experts debated the realities of potato seed systems, analyzing the challenges and opportunities within formal systems. Regional experiences in the production, marketing, and adoption of certified seeds in Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru were shared, providing valuable information for researchers, technicians, and producers interested in strengthening the seed system in the region.

Despite the challenges, certification initiatives and collaboration highlight a positive path in the agricultural sector. These actions aim not only to increase food production but also to facilitate knowledge exchange and improve seed quality, ensuring a more sustainable future for agriculture in Latin America.

Watch the recording of this webinar here.

Learn more about this project here.