Belizean Delegation Explores New Potato Varieties in Guatemala

A delegation of six technicians from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE) and fifteen local vegetable producers is on a two-day visit to Poptún, Petén, Guatemala. The group is exploring new potato varieties that could benefit Belize’s agricultural sector, particularly for processing markets. The visit aims to discover new ways to improve potato cultivation and marketing, especially as the country faces challenges with crop access and oversupply. According to the ministry, historically, crops like potatoes and carrots have struggled to find consistent markets in Belize due to difficulties with distribution and surplus. However, the Ministry of Agriculture has been actively seeking solutions to reduce crop losses and enhance the financial stability of local farmers. The potatoes grown in Petén are primarily used for industrial purposes such as the production of potato chips. Farmers in the region supply these potatoes to major processing companies, including Frito-Lay, where the potatoes are turned into chips. The delegation believes that the potato varieties cultivated in Petén could potentially thrive in Belize, given the similar altitudes and climates shared by the two regions. The delegation is set to return tomorrow after a day of meetings and field visits. The delegation is being led by Minister José Abelardo Mai, Senior Technical Advisor Hugh O’Brien, and District Agriculture Officer for Orange Walk, Sergio Hernandez.