Spain: The Álava Potato will have a Designation of Origin that will support and strengthen this crop with a great historical tradition.

Potatoes grown in Álava may be close to obtaining their own quality seal. Currently, the Basque Government and the agricultural sector are collaborating on a plan to achieve the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) for "Patata de Álava" (Álava Potato).

This project comes at a complex time. For years, potatoes were one of the most important crops in the fields of Álava, but their importance has declined over time. The area dedicated to this crop and production levels have fallen significantly, due in part to international competition and increased production costs.

In addition, a large part of the potatoes consumed in Spain are imported, mainly from France, which makes it difficult for the local product to compete in both price and quantity, despite its high quality.

European recognition for a local product  

If the designation of origin is obtained, the Álava Potato will join a select list of Spanish potatoes that already have European protection, such as the Galician Potato (PGI), the Prades Potato (PGI) and the Ancient Potatoes of the Canary Islands (PDO).

In Álava’s agricultural sector, potatoes share the spotlight with sugar beets as one of the most important irrigated crops. In 2024, more than 37,000 tons of potatoes were harvested in the region.

Reclaim space and added value  

The "Sectoral Plan for Potatoes for Consumption and Seed in the Basque Country" aims to reverse the current situation of the crop. The potential Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) would add value to Álava potatoes in the market, strengthen their identity, and increase their competitiveness. It also seeks to recover some of the lost ground and improve the profitability of farms.

Furthermore, promotion will play a central role. Informative campaigns aimed at consumers are planned to raise awareness of the different potato varieties, their optimal harvest periods, and their specific culinary uses, essentially offering a mini masterclass.

Revitalize the entire production chain  

One of the major challenges for the sector is generational renewal. Fewer and fewer young people are choosing to dedicate themselves to agriculture, and even fewer to potato farming. For this reason, the plan also includes measures to facilitate their entry into the sector and make this activity more attractive and sustainable in the long term.

On the other hand, modernizing the production process will be essential. Among the proposals are promoting the use of more efficient machinery, optimized irrigation systems, and new technologies that will increase production and reduce operating costs.

Likewise, the aim is to promote research into varieties that are more resistant and better adapted to current market demands. 

The benefits of the project would not be limited to the agricultural sector. Álava has a significant industrial network focused on processing this tuber: washing, sorting, packaging, and transformation. Therefore, revitalizing the crop could generate a positive impact throughout the entire production chain and contribute to the economic growth of the region.