Strengthening the Production, Use, and Dissemination of Certified Seed Potatoes in Latin America and the Caribbean: Key Strategies for Food Security

The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the three most consumed foods in the world and a cornerstone of food security, especially in developing countries. In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), its region of origin, it is cultivated by more than a million producers. However, yields in most Latin American countries are low, mainly due to the use of low-quality seed, which often presents sanitary, physiological, and genetic issues. To address this challenge, several LAC countries have joined efforts in this project, which aims to improve potato production in both quantity and quality by increasing access to certified seed potatoes. The project seeks to achieve three main outcomes: 1. Increase the use of certified seed by 5% to 20%. 2. Raise potato production in participating countries by 10%. 3. Expand regional trade of certified seed by 10%. To promote adoption, farmers will receive training through comparative trials using traditional seed commonly used by producers. These trials will be scientifically designed and conducted in various agroecological zones. The project will also include workshops, talks, and informational materials in both digital and printed formats. To boost the production and availability of certified seed, producers, families, technicians, and advisors will be trained in the technological, scientific, and legal aspects of its production, use, and commercialization. Special emphasis will be placed on the participation of women and young people. The initiative is expected to directly benefit 2,500 people and indirectly impact 37,300. Additionally, the project will evaluate the creation of new differentiated areas in four pilot countries, analyzing the presence of pests, diseases, and virus vectors as selection criteria. Finally, to improve the future availability of certified seed, regional trade among LAC countries will be promoted by harmonizing inspection standards and phytosanitary requirements, following the standards of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). The proposal will be made available to national health agencies for potential adoption and could lay the foundation for a regional agreement. Through its strategies and innovations, this project will make a significant contribution to improving nutrition and food security in LAC.