News on Research

Joseph Ifeanyi Ulasi leads a groundbreaking project to boost late blight resistance in diploid potatoes by introgressing novel Rpi genes from wild species. Using Solanum verrucosum as a genetic bridge, he advances resilient breeding for future crops.

Russian researchers unveil a new, low-cost method to grow potatoes at home, addressing rising prices and shortages. The innovation enables indoor cultivation without special equipment, offering a timely solution to the nation's potato crisis.

The 13th World Potato Congress will be held in Naivasha, Kenya, from October 26–30, 2026—the first in Sub-Saharan Africa. Hosted by NPCK and FreshCrop Ltd, the event will spotlight global potato innovations, food security, and trade.

Royal Avebe and TNO are pioneering 3D food printing using potato starch to create plant-based meat alternatives. Discover how this sustainable innovation could transform global food production and improve food security worldwide.

A research team, including Michigan State University Assistant Professor Olivia Smith, gained international recognition in 2024 for a study showing that agricultural diversification benefits both growers and the environment worldwide.

Europatat Congress 2025 in Lille brought together Europe’s potato leaders to tackle challenges like climate change, shifting consumption, and global trade. With optimism, speakers stressed innovation, sustainability, and adapting to consumer demands.

Groupe Florimond Desprez (GFD) acquired DLF’s 49% stake in Danespo A/S, becoming majority owner. The move strengthens GFD’s seed potato business, aligning Danespo and Germicopa under shared leadership and future investments.

The International Potato Center (CIP) will establish its South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) in Singna, Agra. The Union Cabinet, led by PM Modi, approved the move based on a proposal from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.

The International Potato Center (CIP) has announced that Dr. Hugo Campos, Deputy Director General for Science and Innovation of CIP, has been selected as a 2025 Top Agri-Food Pioneer (TAP) by the World Food Prize Foundation.

De la mano de instituciones gubernamentales el país logra importantes avances en la certificación de su proceso de producción de semilla. Se espera que miles de familias puedan abastecerse pronto del nuevo material genético.

The DKHV launched its 'Potato Specialist' training in Lüneburg Heath. Over 3 days, 46 participants explored potato botany, cultivation, plant protection, and quality standards through expert lectures and hands-on sessions. Next module is in autumn.

Open Farm Sunday 2025 saw a 20% rise in host farms, welcoming 200,000 visitors. The event strengthened public connections to farming, highlighted sustainability, and inspired youth interest in agriculture. Next year’s event is on 7th June 2026.

The WPC congratulates Julio Kalazich, as he makes the transition from WPC International Advisor to WPC Director. New International Advisors are welcomed to the World Potato Congress Inc.

Experts from Harper Adams University have co-authored a comprehensive new guide to managing potato cyst nematodes (PCN), updating previous advice and combining biology, control strategies, and sampling methods into one essential resource.

Potatoes in Practice, the UK’s biggest field potato event, is on 7 August at Balruddery Farm. Hosted by James Hutton Institute, it brings growers, researchers, and industry leaders together to share innovations and advance the potato sector.

UPL Corp and CERSA at NC State University hosted the Global Mancozeb Summit at Rothamsted Research, UK, gathering global experts to discuss mancozeb’s vital role in crop protection as the EU prepares to review its regulatory status.

The 2025 Fight Against Blight campaign begins with new tools to track late blight in UK potatoes, warning of evolving fungicide resistance and urging growers to stay vigilant.

Cavendish Farms is launching a sustainability project on Prince Edward Island to help potato growers adopt eco-friendly practices, focusing on water use, pest control, and soil health. A farm advisory group will guide research and share results with local farmers.