Last year's favorable climate conditions in Huánuco, Peru, enabled extensive sowing, leading to abundant production into the early weeks of the current year, according to Alejandro Mendoza Aguilar, an agricultural researcher. Despite the quality of Huánuco potatoes, market prices are low, with white potatoes from the Peruvian coast priced at 0.40 cents per kilogram, undermining Huánuco farmers' profitability. Mendoza Aguilar attributes this issue to the lack of demand-driven sowing planning, exacerbated by the inefficiency of regional governance.
In Huánuco, 8 to 10 thousand hectares of white potatoes were cultivated, with a significant shift towards yellow potato planting anticipated in February. Despite challenges, Huánuco remains a key supplier of the "tumbay de ojos azules" variety to Lima, fulfilling 70% of its demand. Mendoza Aguilar also notes the potential of native potato varieties, with organizations like Plaza Punta de Panao securing lucrative contracts in Lima for unique varieties.
Additionally, the Tranca Buenos Aires farmers' association has found success with the huayro moro variety, now used by a Lima-based vodka company, 14 Incas. Mendoza Aguilar suggests post-potato planting of corn to take advantage of the nutrient-rich soil, potentially yielding higher profits due to seasonal corn shortages. He emphasizes Huánuco's unmatched agricultural production capabilities, attributed to its geographical and climatic advantages. Furthermore, Mendoza Aguilar has independently developed four potato varieties for poultry feed, showcasing the region's innovative potential in agriculture.
Source: ArgenPapa