Peruvian native potatoes are earning international acclaim for their exceptional diversity, nutritional value, and increasing market demand. With over 4,000 varieties cultivated in the Andean highlands, they stand among the world’s most diverse and resilient food sources. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, these potatoes contribute to global food security while creating new opportunities for sustainable, high-value market integration. Their appeal is expanding beyond traditional markets, positioning Peru as a leader in innovative and nutrient-rich food production.
Thanks to the Hand-in-Hand Initiative, a country-led program by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),small-scale farmers in Junín, Peru, have secured a major commercial agreement to supply 600 tons of native potatoes to the snack industry, according to a press release. This deal, valued at approximately USD$ 373,014, was made possible through commercial coordination efforts by the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI) via its Agromercado program, strengthening the market integration and economic prospects of family farmers.
The Nueva Esperanza de Ranchopampa Agrarian Cooperative in Huancayo has already shipped its first batch — eight tons of Cacho de Toro potatoes — to Tiyapuy, a snack company with a processing plant in Lima. Under the agreement, deliveries will continue biweekly in February and shift to weekly from March to April. By July, following the main harvest in May, the full 600-ton supply — featuring Sumac Soncco, Cacho de Toro, Cceccorani, and Huayro Macho varieties — will be completed, marking a significant milestone for Peru’s native potato industry.
The 600-ton supply of native potatoes will come from two agrarian cooperatives: 500 tons from Sierra Central and 100 tons from Nueva Esperanza de Ranchopampa. These potatoes are cultivated across 60 hectares in the rural communities of Patalá, Cullhuas, Chicche, and Pomamanta, located in the Cullhuas and Pucará districts. Collectively, these areas have an annual production capacity of 700 tons, reinforcing their role in the sustainable growth of Peru’s native potato industry.
The Role of Hand-in-Hand
The Hand-in-Hand Initiative empowers country-led agricultural development by equipping partners like MIDAGRI with geospatial data, high-level partnerships, and technical expertise to enhance strategic investment decisions. By analyzing key factors such as soil quality, climate conditions, infrastructure, and market demand, the initiative ensures that resources are allocated for maximum impact, strengthening rural livelihoods and fostering sustainable agrifood systems.
Peru is a prime example of how targeted investment can transform agrifood systems. “Peru shows we are on the right track, combining innovation and strategic investment to build synergies that go beyond food production, creating sustainable livelihoods and stronger rural economies,” says FAO Chief Economist Máximo Torero. By linking tradition with global market potential, this approach strengthens Peru’s potato sector while setting a model for other regions seeking to integrate smallholder farmers into global markets.
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