Bayer, a global leader in agricultural innovations, has entered into a strategic partnership with Solynta, a Dutch company specializing in hybrid potato breeding, to commercialize and distribute true potato seeds in India and Kenya. This collaboration marks Bayer’s significant entry into the global potato market, spanning 20 million hectares, and highlights its commitment to enhancing potato cultivation with innovative solutions.
The agreement, announced today, will see the introduction of robust hybrid potato varieties through true seeds, which are expected to transform potato farming in these regions. “This partnership is a milestone for Bayer, marking our foray into the potato sector with a focus on sustainable and scalable agricultural practices,” said Frank Terhorst, Head of Strategy & Sustainability at Bayer’s Crop Science Division.
Advancing Potato Farming Through True Seeds
India, the world’s second-largest potato market, and Kenya, a rapidly developing agricultural economy, will benefit significantly from this collaboration. The use of Solynta’s true potato seeds offers numerous advantages over traditional seed tubers, including disease resistance, ease of transport, and extended shelf life. “True potato seeds are a game-changer,” explained Peter Poortinga, CEO of Solynta. “They are clean, disease-free, and can be stored for years, making them economically efficient and reliable for farmers.”
True potato seeds only require 25 grams per hectare to start a potato crop, compared to the 2,500 kilograms of seed tubers previously needed. This reduction not only cuts down on transportation costs but also minimizes the risk of disease spread, as seed tubers are more susceptible to contamination. By providing smallholder farmers with high-quality, disease-resistant starting materials, the partnership aims to boost potato production, enhancing food security in these regions.
Leveraging Digital and Distribution Networks
Bayer will leverage its extensive distribution channels in India and Kenya to ensure that these innovative potato varieties reach even the most remote farming communities. Inci Dannenberg, President of Global Vegetable Seeds at Bayer, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers: “This partnership aligns with our goal to provide the latest agricultural innovations to enhance the livelihoods of growers and secure food supplies.”
Solynta’s expertise in hybrid breeding technology, which has been a proven method in various food crops, will be instrumental in developing new potato varieties with beneficial traits such as disease resistance and climate resilience. Joost van Regteren, Solynta’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “We are eager to work with Bayer to bring our true potato seeds to the Indian and Kenyan markets, showcasing their effectiveness through extensive field and commercial trials.”
Impact on Local Communities and Food Security
The introduction of true potato seeds is expected to have a profound impact on local communities in India and Kenya. With Bayer’s regenerative agriculture strategy, which focuses on building resilient and sustainable food systems, the partnership aims to address the challenges of food security and nutritional needs in these regions. “This collaboration will enhance food and nutritional security in Kenya and India, contributing to more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices,” added Terhorst.
The benefits of true potato seeds extend beyond immediate agricultural improvements. They represent a shift towards more sustainable farming practices, reducing the reliance on bulky and perishable seed tubers. By providing a reliable and clean alternative, Bayer and Solynta are paving the way for a more resilient and productive potato farming system.
Future Prospects and Expansion
As Bayer and Solynta continue to innovate and expand their presence in the potato market, the focus will be on ensuring the widespread adoption of true potato seeds. “This partnership is a major step towards establishing new, sustainable potato cropping systems,” concluded Poortinga. The collaboration signals the beginning of a broader commercial rollout in Kenya and India, with plans to further develop and introduce new potato varieties that meet the evolving needs of farmers and consumers.
With the combined expertise and resources of Bayer and Solynta, the future of potato farming in India and Kenya looks promising, heralding a new era of agricultural innovation and sustainability.