Paraguay

Paraguay’s eastern departments, particularly Alto Paraná, Itapúa, and San Pedro, have emerged as prominent potato-producing regions, playing a key role in the country's agricultural development. The expansion of potato cultivation in these areas dates back to the 1960s and the government-driven "March to the East" initiative, which encouraged farmers to settle in the fertile eastern lands due to greater land availability and favorable climatic conditions.

Over time, these regions have developed a strong foundation for potato farming, with the primary cultivation focused on varieties particularly from the Chilotanum group—well-suited to the local environment and current technological practices. According to FAO data, Paraguay recorded a total potato production of 3,958.58 tonnes in 2023, reflecting the crop's growing importance in the nation’s food security and agri-economy.

Supporting advancements in this sector, the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA) plays a pivotal role by developing potato varieties tailored to Uruguay's agroecological conditions, contributing regional expertise and innovation.

The potato, a staple crop native to the Andes, is deeply rooted in the agricultural heritage of South America, including Paraguay. While detailed historical records of potato cultivation in Paraguay are limited, it is believed that the crop was introduced through indigenous farming systems and later influenced by Spanish colonization. Spanish conquistadors first encountered the potato in the Inca Empire around 1537 and introduced it to Europe by the late 16th century.

Paraguay’s subtropical climate, however, posed significant challenges for growing traditional European crops like potatoes. Early settlers, including Mennonite communities, initially attempted potato farming but struggled with unfavorable soil and climate conditions, leading them to focus on native crops such as manioc (mandioca), which thrived locally.

In recent years, the Paraguayan government has made strategic efforts to revitalize and expand potato production to diversify agriculture and reduce dependency on potato imports. A key initiative includes promoting potato farming in the Amambay region, an area not historically associated with this crop.