Seed Program

Sowing the (Potato) Seeds of Change

U.S. seed potatoes continue to take root in new areas around the world, thanks to the Potatoes USA Seed Export Program. This program identifies and introduces U.S. seed potatoes to new potential markets.

It facilitates trade by obtaining and expanding market access, convincing foreign growers of the benefits of U.S. seed potatoes and connecting those growers and importers with U.S. suppliers.

Exceptional Seed Potatoes

This program plays a key role in building the global reputation of U.S. seed potatoes by promoting their exceptional quality, diverse varieties, and rigorous certification standards. These efforts are carried out through field trials and production training, market visits, reverse trade missions to the United States, and a biannual International Seed Symposium.

Potatoes Enter New Markets Abroad

The Potatoes USA Seed Export Program continues to expand seed export sales into new international markets, with a focus on Central America and Africa. On-going variety trials are underway in Cuba, Nicaragua, Panama, and Honduras, while new trials are being established this year in Senegal and the Dominican Republic. Although both of these countries have previously imported US seed potatoes, the program recognized a need to reinvest in these markets to better compete with non-US seed exports.

In Market Year 2023, the program successfully registered new US varieties for Nicaragua and Panama. Both countries have since begun importing these varieties, and efforts to expand sales are ongoing. In Market Year 2024, Honduras registered a new US variety, with initial sales expected in Market Year 2026.

Meanwhile, US seed sales of Uruguay continued to grow, reaching 400 metric tons in Market Year 2024. These developments underscore the importance of consistent, long-term engagement in international markets to maintain access and create new opportunities for US seed growers.