The 1st International Symposium of Potato is set to become one of the most significant gatherings for the global potato sector in 2026. Scheduled for 5 October 2026 at the North Convention Centre, IFEMA Madrid, Spain, the symposium will unite potato professionals, industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Europe and around the world to discuss the future of one of the world's most important food crops.
Organized by the Spanish Federation of Fruit, Vegetable, Flower and Live Plant Producers and Exporters (FEPEX) in collaboration with Fruit Attraction 2026 and Europatat, the event takes place on the eve of Fruit Attraction, one of Europe’s leading fresh produce exhibitions. With potatoes selected as the Star Product of Fruit Attraction 2026, the symposium offers a dedicated platform to highlight the crop’s growing importance in global food systems, agricultural sustainability, and economic development.
A Global Meeting Point for the Potato Sector
The symposium is expected to attract more than 400 participants, representing every segment of the potato value chain. Attendees will include potato growers, seed producers, traders, processors, exporters, retailers, researchers, technology providers, agricultural consultants, and institutional representatives. This diverse audience will create a unique environment for networking, knowledge sharing, and strategic discussions aimed at strengthening the sector’s future.
Key Topics Shaping the Future of Potatoes
Through expert presentations, panel discussions, and industry insights, the symposium will address the most pressing issues and emerging opportunities facing the potato industry, including:
- Sustainable potato production and resource-efficient farming practices
- Plant health management and disease prevention strategies
- Advances in potato breeding and genetic improvement
- Seed potato innovation and quality standards
- Consumer trends and evolving market demands
- Marketing and value-chain development
- Food security and the role of potatoes in feeding a growing population
- Climate resilience and adaptation strategies
- Digitalization and technological innovation in potato farming and processing
- Strengthening international trade and cooperation within the potato sector
Highlighting Potatoes as a Strategic Crop
As a staple food consumed worldwide, potatoes play a crucial role in ensuring food security, supporting rural livelihoods, and contributing to sustainable agricultural systems. The symposium will emphasize the crop's economic, social, and nutritional significance while exploring ways to enhance productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness across the industry.
Participants will gain valuable insights into how potatoes can continue to address global challenges such as population growth, climate change, resource efficiency, and changing consumer preferences.
Promoting Collaboration and Industry Development
One of the primary objectives of the symposium is to foster stronger collaboration among stakeholders from different regions and sectors. By bringing together experts, businesses, researchers, and policymakers in a single forum, the event aims to encourage dialogue, facilitate partnerships, and support innovation throughout the potato supply chain.
The symposium will serve as a catalyst for exchanging best practices, sharing research findings, exploring new business opportunities, and identifying collective solutions to industry challenges.
Networking and Business Opportunities
Following the symposium sessions, participants will be invited to a networking reception, providing an ideal setting for building professional relationships, discussing potential collaborations, and expanding business networks within the international potato community.
Companies interested in enhancing their visibility can also take advantage of various sponsorship opportunities, including:
- Brand promotion and event visibility
- Exhibition and showcase spaces
- Speaking opportunities
- Networking sponsorship packages
- Direct engagement with key decision-makers and industry professionals
Why Attend?
The International Symposium of Potato 2026 offers a unique opportunity to gain industry insights, explore innovations, connect with global stakeholders, and contribute to discussions that will shape the future of potato production, trade, sustainability, and food security. As the inaugural edition of what is expected to become a flagship industry event, it provides an essential platform for anyone involved in the potato sector to stay informed, build partnerships, and help drive the industry's long-term growth and success.
