In 2024, Australia is proud to host the 12th World Potato Congress in Adelaide from June 23-26, marking a pivotal moment for the global potato industry. Beyond the opportunity to showcase the excellence of the Australian potato sector on the world stage, this congress aims to catapult potatoes into the spotlight as a compelling, nutritional and health-conscious food choice, both domestically and internationally.
As the leading networking organization for the global potato value chain, the World Potato Congress has chosen the theme “Old World Meets New” for 2024. This theme encapsulates the rich historical legacy of potatoes as a food staple, the cutting-edge innovation and technology applied to their production, and substantial investments in research and development. The focus extends to addressing global changes in sustainability, climate, culture, and population dynamics.
The 12th World Potato Congress in Adelaide presents a unique opportunity to not only share knowledge and breakthroughs in innovation but also to enhance industry productivity and sustainability. Crucially, it serves as a platform to review business trends across the global supply chain. Moreover, the Congress will provide a high-level insight into global trade, emphasizing the transformation of agrifood systems to ensure food access for the world’s most vulnerable populations.
Recognizing the increasing interdependency between global trading partners, the Congress underscores the critical importance of transparent, predictable, and rules-based multilateral trade, especially in the face of climate change impacts, particularly water availability, and rising energy and fertilizer costs.
Globally, potatoes play a vital role in sustaining food security and achieving UN sustainability goals. To meet the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2) on Zero Hunger, there is a pressing need for a 28% increase in average agricultural productivity over the next decade, while simultaneously aligning with the Paris Agreement targets on agricultural emissions—a more than triple increase compared to the last decade.
Anticipated to attract over 1000 delegates from around the world, the World Potato Congress 2024 promises an exciting and informative program covering all facets of the potato supply chain. Join us in Adelaide for a transformative experience that goes beyond borders and contributes to the global dialogue on sustainable agriculture and food security.