Peru (Piura): Regional investment aims to promote potato cultivation in the Huancabamba region

The potato planting season in Huancabamba is progressing slowly due to various technical and sanitary limitations that are jeopardizing the achievement of this year’s target. Of the 3,000 hectares planned, only approximately 600 have been planted in the districts of Sondorillo, Huancabamba, Sondor, and Sapalache. These figures are occurring within an adverse context, marked by persistent rains that are hindering both planting and proper crop management.

According to the Huancabamba Agricultural Agency, one of the main problems lies in the scarcity of certified, high-quality seeds, which significantly impacts productivity levels. This situation is exacerbated by deficiencies in phytosanitary management and limited specialized technical assistance, key aspects that negatively affect yield per hectare and the health of the plantations, especially during the rainy season.

Despite having an estimated productive potential of between 5,000 and 6,000 hectares, reaching these figures depends on overcoming existing technical barriers and creating better conditions for producers. Current limitations not only restrict the expansion of the cultivated area but also affect the economic sustainability of many farming families engaged in this activity

In response to this problem, the Regional Government of Piura, through the Regional Directorate of Agriculture, has designed a Public Investment Project valued at S/ 14,373,137.77. The main objective of this project is to strengthen support for potato cultivation in the provinces of Huancabamba, Ayabaca, and Morropón. Its proposals include technical assistance, improved input supply, and strategies to increase the sector’s competitiveness. This intervention is expected to directly benefit 7,950 producers in the Piura highlands.