Bolivia: Production of disease-free pre-basic potato seed is progressing successfully.

According to a report from Iniaf (National Institute of Agricultural Research and Development), the production of pest- and disease-free pre-basic potato seed at the Biotechnology Center for Pre-basic Potato Seed Production, located in the community of Chachacomani, municipality of Batallas, in the department of La Paz, is progressing successfully.

Personnel from the National Institute of Agricultural and Forestry Innovation (Iniaf), through its Departmental Office in La Paz, verified the production process.

During the visit, compliance with procedures to guarantee the quality of the genetic material and the production of pest- and disease-free seed was verified, benefiting the potato production sector. The inspection included the laboratory, disinfection area, greenhouses, and cold storage, ensuring compliance with regulations and quality standards. Approximately 200,000 families are dedicated to potato production in Bolivia, where there are 4,236 varieties, the most common being Huaycha, Desirée, and Marcela.

The process of producing high-quality potato seeds, especially for industrial varieties, involves several stages. First, vitro plants are produced at Iniaf’s innovation centers; then, the seedlings are transferred to greenhouses for the production of pre-basic seeds, which are of high genetic quality; and then, certified potato seeds are produced in the field, according to generational seed categories (basic, registered, and certified).

Finally, they are delivered to producers for multiplication and production.

Through various research processes, Iniaf works to ensure sustainable, high-quality production, guaranteeing the country’s food security.

In 2024, the government allocated more than Bs 101 million to increase potato production yields, reaching 23,289 hectares. Through the Tubers and Roots program, 93,158 producer families in 125 municipalities across seven departments were supported through technological innovation, phytosanitary management, technical assistance, the delivery of high-genetic-value seed potatoes, fertilizers (urea and diammonium phosphate), and phytosanitary supplies.