Peru: The native Huánuco potato begins to conquer international markets

Native potatoes from Huánuco are reaching international markets thanks to the Native Potato Project, promoted by the Huánuco Regional Government (Gorehco) through the Regional Directorate of Agriculture. The initiative seeks to add value to local production and guarantee fair prices for farmers.

Producer Enrique Reyes, from the Yarumayo district, managed to sell more than 3 tons of yellow tumbay potatoes at S/3.50 per kilo, more than double the traditional price of S/1.80. Alcampo Foods acquired the produce to process and export it as frozen products, opening up new business opportunities for regional agriculture.

Governor Antonio Pulgar highlighted the impact of this strategy. “This is a clear example of how development policies, when coordinated with producers and technical institutions, can transform the countryside. We will continue to promote these production chains so that more Huánuco families can benefit.”

Regional Director of Agriculture Vilmia Saldivar del Águila emphasized that technical support, training, and commercial coordination have been key to helping producers overcome local market barriers.

For his part, the beneficiary farmer affirmed that the project makes a difference. “Before, we sold our potatoes at low prices and barely covered our costs. Now we have a better income and more real opportunities to get ahead.”

The sale of the three tons generated revenue of S/10,500, compared to the S/5,400 it would have represented at the traditional price. This improved profitability strengthens the native potato production chain and positions Huánuco as a benchmark in agricultural production for international markets.