CIP Deposits 1,027 Additional Seed Accessions at Svalbard Vault to Safeguard Peru’s Potato Diversity

The International Potato Center (CIP), based in Peru, has deposited 1,027 additional seed accessions at the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, strengthening international efforts to preserve agricultural biodiversity and safeguard the future of food.

With this latest deposit, 91% of CIP’s seed collection is now backed up at the Arctic seed vault, ensuring that valuable plant genetic resources remain protected for future generations. The deposit includes crop diversity important for research, crop improvement and the development of more resilient food systems.

Strengthening Global Crop Diversity Conservation

According to the Crop Trust, the October 2026 deposit brought together contributions from genebanks around the world, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in protecting the genetic diversity on which global food security depends. CIP’s contribution included seeds from wild relatives of potato and sweetpotato, as well as maca and ahipa — plants that form part of Peru’s rich agricultural heritage.

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault serves as a secure backup facility for seed collections held by genebanks worldwide. Located in the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, it helps protect crop diversity against potential losses caused by conflict, natural disasters, climate-related risks and other threats to conservation infrastructure.

Peru’s Commitment to Preserving Plant Genetic Resources

Peru’s Ambassador to Norway, Rolando Ruíz Rosas Cateriano, witnessed this important contribution, underscoring Peru’s commitment to conserving its valuable plant genetic resources and supporting global efforts to protect biodiversity.

By safeguarding these seeds, CIP is helping preserve genetic resources that researchers and plant breeders can use to develop crops better equipped to withstand pests, diseases and the impacts of climate change. The effort also helps ensure that the agricultural diversity cultivated and conserved over generations remains available to support future innovation and food security.

Securing the Future of Food Through International Cooperation

This milestone reflects a shared responsibility to protect the world’s agricultural heritage. Through international partnerships and long-term conservation, Peru is contributing to a global safety net that helps keep the foundations of tomorrow’s food systems secure.

For more information, read the Crop Trust’s full article on international cooperation to secure seeds for the future of food at Svalbard.