India's potato industry convened in New Delhi for a National Potato Stakeholders' Meet hosted by APEDA and Media Today Pvt. Ltd. The meeting brought together more than 60 participants from government agencies, research institutions, processors, exporters, and grower organisations. It also marked the official launch of preparations for the Global Potato Summit 2025, scheduled for 11–12 December 2025 in Greater Noida.
Global Potato Summit 2025 convener Sachidanand Madan said, "India's potato story is now at an inflection point; what we need is convergence, collaboration, and commitment." APEDA Secretary Dr. Sudhanshu encouraged an integrated approach across production, post-harvest systems, processing, and exports, referencing APEDA-commissioned studies by CRISIL and ICRIER on market and infrastructure opportunities.
Research and industry representatives highlighted the need for modernised facilities and improved variety development. CIP India's Neeraj Sharma called for deeper R&D and stronger traceability systems. CPRI's Dr. V. K. Gupta proposed branding India's potato varieties and updating cold storage infrastructure. MoFPI Joint Secretary Ranjit Singh said, "The future of Indian potato lies in processing and value addition."
Processing and seed companies pointed to logistical and structural challenges, including dispersed processing capacity and outdated varieties. They stressed the need for contract farming, regional clusters, and cold-chain-linked processing units. Technology-focused contributions included the use of AI, blockchain, and IoT for real-time traceability, and calls for digitised export processes.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev noted that India produces nearly 55 million tons of potatoes annually, but exports remain limited. He highlighted prospects in Russia, Africa, and parts of Asia.
APEDA announced two working groups focusing on export promotion and domestic consumption. Proposed actions include bilateral trade mechanisms, promotion of Indian seed varieties abroad, cold storage upgrades, regional processing hubs, a national consumption campaign, and a digital traceability platform.
Government attendees included officials from APEDA, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Industry participants included stakeholders from SK Group, MS International, HyFun Foods, HyFarm, Survir AgriTech, Sangha Farms, MS Foods, Kiremco India, GreenFay Farm Foods, ITC Foods, Allana Group, and NextOn Foods.
The meeting concluded with a call for industry participation in the Global Potato Summit 2025.
Source: FoodTechBiz
