Honduras: Farmers ask SAG to stop the entry of foreign potatoes

Those affected, from the Intibucá production areas, reported that the SAG has granted import permits to Mexico and other countries, preventing them from competing on price and excluding them from the market.

"The farmers who came here produce potatoes; we have a work plan to supply the country year-round, every year, and today the government readily grants import permits to Mexico and other countries," said one of the producers in HCH.

Although foreign potatoes fetch a lower price, their abundance in the market has reduced the value of local potatoes. This has caused losses for more than 15,000 Honduran farmers.

Oversaturation does not allow competition

Producers stated that they need to sell the pound for seven lempiras to cover their costs, but it is currently trading at 3.50 lempiras due to massive imports.

They estimated a loss of 50% of the investment in the fields, which puts the economic stability of local farmers at risk.

They also warned that if the influx of foreign potatoes is not halted, there could be a wave of unemployment, as thousands of Hondurans depend on this agricultural activity.

According to the protesters, SAG Minister Laura Suazo has ignored their demands. They also reported that in the few meetings they have had, she has "blatantly lied to them."

Producers argued that if import policies are not revised, the sector will face a contraction. This would affect thousands of families and jeopardize domestic production, increasing dependence on foreign markets.