The 12th World Potato Congress (WPC) held in Adelaide was a landmark event for the global potato industry, marking the first time the congress took place in Australia. Hosted by Potatoes Australia, the WPC brought together 927 delegates from over 40 countries, including industry experts, growers, researchers, and industry leaders. The event provided a unique platform to address challenges, share advancements, and explore future opportunities in the potato sector. 

Key highlights included sessions on sustainable farming practices, innovative technologies, biosecurity measures, and emerging market trends, all designed to address the needs of a rapidly evolving global food landscape.  

Challenge  

The WPC sought to create a robust international value chain network that fosters sustainable growth and innovation in the potato sector. This aligns with a broader strategy to promote potatoes as a healthy, versatile, and essential staple crop in both developed and developing countries. A key objective was to unite global industry players to drive collaboration and innovation.  

Response  

Extensive planning and collaboration underpinned the success of the WPC. Preparations included:  

• Developing a sponsor prospectus to attract commercial sponsorship, and a trade exhibition display
• Developing Congress partner program
• Establishing a dedicated Congress Steering Committee
• Crafting a comprehensive Congress technical program to address sector priorities. 

These efforts ensured the event not only met but exceeded the expectations of attendees and stakeholders.  

Benefit  

The WPC demonstrated the vital role of potatoes in global food security and cemented Australia’s reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation and biosecurity. Attendees gained actionable insights, formed valuable international connections, and explored opportunities for future collaboration.  

The congress also elevated Australia’s standing in the global potato industry, offering local industry stakeholders a unique chance to engage with international experts, showcase their innovations, and explore emerging market trends. 

The 12th WPC was a transformative event, paving the way for sustainable growth and innovation in the global potato industry.  

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Potato – Fresh Fund
• Potato – Processing Fund