FAO Announces Theme for International Day of Potato 2026: 'Where Potatoes Grow, Livelihoods Flourish'

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has announced the official theme for the International Day of Potato 2026: Where potatoes grow, livelihoods flourish, placing a strong focus on the contribution of potatoes to farmers’ livelihoods, food security and sustainable development worldwide.

Now entering its third annual observance, the International Day of Potato aims to raise awareness about the importance of potatoes in transforming agrifood systems and supporting millions of people involved across the potato value chain. 

Potatoes remain one of the world’s most important food crops, consumed by nearly two-thirds of the global population and ranked among the top three staple food crops globally. The crop plays a crucial role in supporting nutrition, employment and economic opportunities across diverse agricultural systems in regions including the Andes, Africa, Europe and Asia. 

Despite steady growth in potato production in recent years, FAO warned that maintaining this momentum continues to face major challenges such as climate shocks, pests, diseases and weak value chains in several parts of the world. Small-scale farmers, who preserve much of the crop’s genetic diversity and contribute significantly to food security, still require greater targeted support and investment.

FAO calls for stronger support for small-scale potato farmers and resilient value chains

According to FAO, the 2026 theme emphasizes the importance of advancing potato farming and strengthening value chains to improve rural livelihoods, reduce poverty and build more resilient and inclusive agrifood systems. 

Building on the impact of the International Year of the Potato in 2008 and the successful observances held in 2024 and 2025, the organization stressed the need for continued investment in improved potato varieties, sustainable farming methods, storage infrastructure and market access.

Yurdi Yasmi, Director of the FAO Plant Production and Protection Division:

"Improved varieties, sustainable farming practices, better storage and stronger market access can help farmers increase productivity while protecting natural resources."

FAO continues to support countries through technical assistance, capacity building and policy guidance aimed at conserving potato genetic resources and developing climate-resilient, disease-resistant potato varieties. The organization also promotes good agronomic practices and integrated pest management through farmer training programmes and agricultural advisory services. 

To support this year’s observance, FAO encouraged stakeholders worldwide to participate in local events and make use of resources including the International Day of Potato guide, digital media hub, social media content platforms and discussion forums dedicated to sustainable potato production and consumption. 

Through global participation and collaboration, FAO hopes to further raise awareness of the potato’s importance and ensure that wherever potatoes grow, livelihoods flourish.