At the 10th Kiskunhalas Potato Days event, István Nagy highlighted the importance of Hungary achieving self-sufficiency in potato production. He pointed out that changes in consumer habits and climate have impacted Hungary's potato self-sufficiency. The government is committed to supporting the sector to ensure Hungarians have access to domestic potatoes throughout the year. This involves backing domestic potato breeding and ensuring retail availability. Potatoes, cultivated in 159 countries with over five thousand varieties, are crucial for food supply and combating climate change. Hungary's potato production fluctuates between 190,000 to 300,000 tons annually. The Ministry of Agriculture prioritizes horticulture, with the Common Agricultural Policy supporting technological advancements in potato cultivation.
In 2021-2022, development support was approved for over 10,000 agricultural and food industry enterprises, totaling HUF 1,200 billion. The Rural Development Program has facilitated investments exceeding HUF 184 billion through over 6,900 applications, aiming to enhance horticulture sector competitiveness. Additionally, the program supports machine and tool purchases and the construction of vegetable storage facilities. A recent HUF 50 billion tender aims to boost post-harvest horticultural infrastructure, with a focus on greenhouses and cold storages. New policies extend project implementation periods to thirty-six months and offer substantial support for potato processing investments, with potential increases in funding for renewable energy technologies, young farmers, ecological practices, and collective investments. Plans are underway to reintroduce support for purchasing horticultural machinery next year.
Source: Trade Magazin