Guyana

Potato cultivation in Guyana is concentrated in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Region 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), and Region 9 (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). Region 3 has been involved in Irish potato trials, while Region 4 is a key hub where the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has tested varieties like Spunta, Kennebec, Chieftain, Bristol Pride, and Shepody, with Bristol Pride showing excellent yield potential.

Region 9 faces challenges with seed potato storage, leading to poor germination and fungal growth. NAREI has addressed this by securing advanced storage equipment and conducting trials in areas such as Mahaicony, Little Biaboo, Laluni, and Kairuni. In 2021, NAREI partnered with local farmers for Irish potato trials in Little Biaboo and Dora to identify suitable cultivation areas and optimize harvest conditions. This effort is part of a broader strategy to reduce food imports and boost local agricultural self-sufficiency.

Potatoes were introduced to Guyana in the 1970s, with initial cultivation efforts focused on the Pakaraima Mountains. However, high transportation costs and logistical challenges hindered large-scale production.

In 2014, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) launched a demonstration project in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, to cultivate English potatoes. The success of the first batch, harvested after just 42 days, marked a significant milestone in local potato production.

Encouraged by this achievement, NAREI expanded its research to include a variety of potato types. By 2016, six varieties—Spunta, Picobello, Actrice, Dido, Sheprody, and Chieftain—were planted across 13 locations in regions such as Laluni, Kairuni, and Ebini. These trials aimed to identify the best agro-ecological zones for successful potato cultivation in Guyana.