Argentina: The potato cluster of Mendoza was presented.

The meeting was held in conjunction with International Potato Day, with the aim of integrating diverse experiences and presentations offered by local and international speakers. Topics covered included scientific advances, marketing strategies, technological innovations, and proposals to promote regional production diversification.

We have two Popes.

Numerous interested parties attended the INTA Luján de Cuyo headquarters to participate in the technical session of the event called "Habemus Papas II".

Cluster launch

With the aim of advancing the formation of a cluster that brings together different actors in the sector, Alfredo Draque, Director of Agriculture of Mendoza, explained that this initiative is jointly promoted by INTA, Conicet, various municipalities, as well as producers and industrialists related to potatoes.

The official highlighted the interest in the project and noted that work has already begun on a collaborative model to create networks among farmers, manufacturers, and suppliers. This effort seeks to replicate successful initiatives like "Tomate 2000" to boost the cultivation of industrial potatoes and strengthen their consumption as fresh potatoes. The main objective is to improve overall productivity and promote diversity within the sector.

Draque also emphasized the emerging development of Andean potatoes in Mendoza, a type of production intended for fresh consumption with a special focus on haute cuisine. He highlighted the unique characteristics of these tubers: diverse genetics, vibrant colors, and high levels of minerals beneficial to health. He further stressed that this type of cultivation could become a strategic tool for diversifying the province’s agricultural production, providing new alternatives beyond traditional crops.

The director expressed optimism about the cluster’s prospects, considering it a long-term project. He noted that this structure will not only improve production efficiency and environmental management but will also increase profitability for local producers. Furthermore, he called for the active participation of farmers, organizations, input suppliers, and key entities to ensure the project’s success.

Development of the Meeting

The technical workshops featured a presentation by Rodrigo López, representative of Simplot, a company operating in Mendoza with a plant in Luján de Cuyo and fields in Pareditas, San Carlos. They primarily produce frozen pre-fried fries in a stick cut format. López explained that they cultivate between 750 and 780 hectares annually, using mostly potatoes from Mendoza and some from Buenos Aires. He also noted that they export between 70% and 80% of their production, with Brazil and Latin America as their main markets, allocating the remainder to domestic consumption in Argentina.

The event also included conferences on agricultural trends in Latin America and the world, sustainable practices such as regenerative agriculture, and presentations by speakers from Peru, Ecuador, and Argentina. In addition, there were discussions on Mendoza’s productive advantages for potato cultivation; an analysis of the current market for fresh consumption, processing, and Andean potatoes; and the launch of the book "Andean Potatoes and Quinoa." The program also included a gastronomy masterclass and a themed luncheon.

Export of processed potatoes

The second day of "Habemus Papas II" took place at Estancia Atamisque, located in La Carrera, Tupungato. This day was dedicated to Andean potatoes and included talks led by experts from INTA, the Simplot company, and the International Potato Center. The event was further enhanced by a diverse menu prepared by renowned guest chefs, as well as a fair featuring local producers, a selection of wines, and the majestic mountain scenery that served as a backdrop.