Situación actual y perspectivas del procesamiento de papa en la zona andina: Implicancias para el mejoramiento genético y la selección de variedades

This regional study analyzes the current situation and prospects for potato processing in the Andean region, with an emphasis on Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Based on a review of secondary data, interviews with researchers and processing companies, and a regional workshop, the document shows that potato processing still represents a limited proportion of national production (between 1.5% and 10.7%), but with growing demand, especially for potato chips and French fries. The industry relies heavily on older and dual-purpose varieties (Capiro, Desirée, Única), many of which are susceptible to late blight and poorly adapted to new climate scenarios. The study identifies critical gaps in seed systems, research-industry collaboration, and varietal dissemination, and proposes moving toward a regional Andean agenda for genetic improvement geared toward processing, strengthening public-private partnerships to reduce imports, improve competitiveness, and generate value for small-scale producers.