Mexico: A campaign has been launched to promote the consumption of fresh, locally grown potatoes.

Gildardo González Saldívar, president of the National Confederation of Potato Producers (Conpapa), stated that the increasing importation of processed potatoes, commonly sold in bags, is affecting the domestic market. In response, they have launched the "Apapáchate" campaign, designed to highlight the qualities and benefits of potatoes grown in Mexico.

He explained that the price of processed potatoes imported from countries like Canada, the United States, and Belgium is up to three times higher than that of potatoes produced in Mexico. According to González Saldívar, this phenomenon is not so much due to economic factors, but rather to the convenience these products offer to retailers.

The leader pointed out that Mexico produces around 1.9 million tons of fresh potatoes each year, representing investments of nearly $2 billion and generating direct benefits for more than 8,700 farmers. However, imports of processed potatoes have been increasing and currently exceed 300,000 tons annually, an amount equivalent to the production of an entire agricultural region, such as northern Sinaloa.

Furthermore, he explained that merchants opt for processed potatoes because it avoids the work of preservation, cutting and peeling, demanding this type of product that is usually presented as popular snacks or accompaniments, such as in hamburgers.

The campaign aims to counteract this trend and increase Mexican potato consumption by 20% in its first phase. González Saldívar emphasized that the initiative seeks to highlight the versatility and nutritional value of the national tuber to encourage consumer preference.

Leonel Cota Montaño, Undersecretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted Conpapa’s efforts to promote the consumption of domestically grown potatoes and strengthen local agriculture. He recognized this action as fundamental to guaranteeing a high-quality staple food in the Mexican diet.

Jorge Esteve, president of the National Agricultural Council (CNA), praised the campaign. According to him, this initiative celebrates the consumption of Mexican potatoes and fosters a sense of pride in national products. He reiterated the CNA’s commitment to supporting this project and promoting greater awareness among Mexicans about the cultural and economic value behind every potato produced in the country.