Central America

Potato cultivation in Central America is primarily concentrated in the highland regions of Guatemala and Honduras, where cooler climates and fertile soils create ideal conditions for growth. Guatemala leads the region in production, harvesting approximately 666,064 tonnes in 2023, according to the FAO, and is recognized for its high productivity levels, ranking among the top in Latin America. In Honduras, potato production has remained relatively stable over the past five years, with minor fluctuations; in 2023, output reached around 27,161 tonnes. This regional focus on highland agriculture underscores the significance of potatoes as a vital crop for food security and rural livelihoods across Central America.

The potato was introduced to Europe in the second half of the 16th century following the Spanish conquest and settlement of the Andean region. From Europe, it spread globally as part of European colonial expansion. Although Europe was the primary destination for the potato, the crop eventually made its way to other regions, including Central America. While the precise timeline of the potato's arrival in Central America is not well-documented, it is believed to have occurred during the Spanish colonial period, likely in the 16th or 17th centuries.