At the 11th International conference on "Successful horticulture, vegetable growing, and processing," key strategies for enhancing Ukraine's potato farming were highlighted. The conference, organized by "Technologies and Innovations," emphasized the importance of a comprehensive strategy to improve the sector. This includes the implementation of irrigation systems, the construction of specialized storage facilities, and the expansion of the processing industry. These steps are deemed essential for ensuring a stable production cycle, minimizing crop losses, and broadening market access.
Irrigation systems are critical for maintaining consistent potato production, particularly with the challenges posed by climate change and occasional droughts. The USAID AGRO program, which supports the installation and upgrade of irrigation systems, is a vital resource for potato farmers in Ukraine.
Specialized storage facilities play a key role in maintaining the quality of the harvest over time and reducing losses. Although the current state program "Affordable Loans 5-7-9" does not offer preferential lending for building such storages, efforts are being made by the Ukrainian Association of Potato Producers to include this option, aiming to significantly aid the development of the industry.
Lastly, advancing the processing industry is identified as a pivotal element for the future of potato farming. By enabling product diversification and adding value, processing not only stabilizes market prices but also opens additional channels for producers to sell their goods.
Source: techhorticulture.com