In partnership with Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA), AUSVEG representatives attended the International Potato Group meeting in China over the weekend, to meet with representatives from other significant potato growing nations.

Representatives from key potato producing countries including South Africa, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom were present at the meeting, which was held to coincide with the World Potato Congress in China.

“During this important meeting, information was exchanged on a number of international R&D initiatives, and the scope for future collaboration was also discussed,” said AUSVEG Deputy CEO Andrew White.

“Given the extensive potato R&D work that is ongoing in Australia and around the world, the meeting was an excellent opportunity to share ideas and learn from some of the world’s most significant potato producers.”

“Key initiatives discussed included soil diagnostics, soil science, potato nutrition, product development, biosecurity and pest and disease management.”

“AUSVEG looks forward to working with the group into the future, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure Australia remains at the forefront of international potato R&D, and that Australian growers have access to the latest international breakthroughs in potato production efficiencies.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing 2,000 Australian potato growers.

“With Australia widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most efficient and innovative producers of potatoes, Australian representatives were well placed to contribute productively to the meeting,” said Mr White.

“By learning from and collaborating with some of the leading minds in the international potato industry, we can ensure Australian growers remain at the forefront of world potato production.”

“AUSVEG appreciated the opportunity to contribute to and participate in the meeting, along with HIA representatives, and looks forward to sharing the knowledge gained with the broader Australian industry.”

Participation in the IPG meeting was funded by HIA using the National Potato Levies and funds from the Australian Government.   

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew MacDonald, AUSVEG Manager – Communications

Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0406 836 330, Email: andrew.macdonald@ausveg.com.au