The Regional Government of Magallanes, Chile, is backing a new multi-phase initiative to enhance sustainability and value generation across the potato supply chain. Implemented by INIA Kampenaike and funded by the regional council, the program aims to expand certified seed production, integrate climate-resilient technologies, and introduce value-added processing facilities tailored to smallholder farmers.

Launched in November 2024, the initiative—titled “Transfer, Application of Techniques, and Processing for the Sustainability of Potato Production among Farmers in Magallanes”—marks a renewed commitment to strengthening the regional potato economy amid changing climatic and nutritional challenges.

Three-Pronged Approach to Sector Development

Led by INIA Kampenaike’s regional deputy director, Carolla Martínez, the program is structured around three key pillars.

The first focuses on expanding certified seed availability. The seedbed area will be increased to five hectares and include two new potato varieties, Yaike and Porvenir, developed by INIA. The move is expected to boost both yield and crop resilience. “The program already benefits more than 300 farmers, and with this new phase, we hope to reach around 500 farmers throughout the region,” Martínez stated.

The second component targets climate adaptation through technology adoption. Measures include the introduction of drought-tolerant potato varieties, strategic irrigation practices to optimize water use, and the application of endophytic microorganisms to reduce chemical inputs and strengthen disease control.

The third component involves the development of value-added products. Two minimally processed potato facilities are being established in Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales. These plants will work directly with smallholder producers to create innovative potato-based offerings including snacks, plant-based beverages, and even jams. “We want to innovate,” Martínez said. “We’re trying out snack-style chips, potato-based vegetable milk, and other byproducts.”

Support from Regional Government and Agricultural Institutions

Regional Governor Jorge Flies highlighted the initiative as one of the most successful agricultural programs under the government’s current agenda. “For several years now, the Institute has not only supported genetic recovery of the potato but has worked with small-scale farmers and organizations like the SAG to improve production and conservation,” Flies said.

INIA Kampenaike Director Claudia Gómez emphasized the role of innovation in redefining the economic potential of traditional crops. “By innovating in a traditional crop like potatoes, we are reinforcing the supply chain and increasing the value of our regional agricultural products. The aim is to build local branding and certification around Magellanic potatoes.”

Building on Years of Development

The current program builds on nearly a decade of focused work by INIA Kampenaike. Since 2015, initiatives have included seed variety consolidation, early frost warning systems, and frost mitigation technologies like sprinkler irrigation and protective netting. The 2019 phase saw the cultivated area increase fourfold, with regional marketing initiatives leading to retail distribution.

During the pandemic, potatoes not suitable for seed production were redirected for social use, highlighting the program’s broader community impact. “A technological package was developed that has been widely adopted by producers,” added INIA professional Nicolás Ojeda.

With 56 hectares now projected for cultivation—up from just 13 hectares in 2015—the Magallanes region is positioning itself as a growing hub for certified potato seed production, climate-smart agriculture, and value-added processing in southern Chile.