In a recent blog post, Charles Miller, the Director of Strategic Alliances and Development at Solynta and a member of the American Seed Trade Association’s (ASTA) international committee stated that potato plant breeding and seed spuds production companies must expand to support farmers globally in achieving maximum yields.

Miller claims that there has been a ‘paradigm shift’ in the way that technology is viewed in the potato seed business.

“It’s not just about evolving conversations around gene editing and new breeding techniques; we are moving towards a comprehensive understanding of how technology can tailor seeds for specific environments, ensuring better yields and farmer resilience against unpredictable climatic challenges. More regions are embracing this technology, understanding its tangible benefits to their agricultural sector. As acceptance grows, continuous research, education, and dialogue become paramount, including with all players in the value chain, as well as governments and regulators,” Charles Miller wrote.

Regarding trade policies and their effects, Miller clarified that although the technological aspect of the seed potato business is thriving, its prosperity depends on stable and advantageous trade policies.

“The discussions at ASTA spotlighted the need for modernized phytosanitary rules and collaborative trade agreements. Such policies ensure that seed movement becomes more efficient and advantageous for the countries involved. The International Seed Federation (ISF) estimated the global commercial market for planting seeds at USD45bn, with the U.S. contributing approximately 26% of this value, or roughly USD11.7bn. With a market this large, other protections are needed too,” he also mentioned.

Miller further noted how important ASTA meetings are for industry collaboration and the creation of innovative approaches.

“Members, representing various stakeholders, convene to address current issues, ensuring outcomes benefit the industry as a whole as well as customers and consumers. These gatherings fortify the industry’s forward-thinking and cooperative approach, actively contributing to the sustained resilience and adaptability observed across the sector,” he summed up.