News on The Potato Supply Chain from Canada

World Potato Congress Inc. (WPC) will host a webinar, 'Biology and Integrated Management of Potato Common Scab,' October 20, 2025. The speaker is Amanda Gevens, PhD, Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Prince Edward Island researchers are testing the Weed Zapper, an electric tool offering a chemical-free alternative to herbicides. The 2-year study aims to cut costs, limit weed spread, and support sustainable pest management in horticulture crops.

Cellar Insights raised an oversubscribed seed round, co-led by Tall Grass Ventures & Accelerate Fund IV, to scale its AI-powered potato storage tech, preventing spoilage and reducing crop losses across North America.

A new webpage by the Michigan Potato Industry Commission offers growers tools to identify and manage late blight, featuring pathogen details, outbreak protocols, fungicide advice and links to monitoring organizations.

P.E.I. potato farmers face major crop losses as drought grips the island. With only 10% irrigated land, yields are falling below average. Farmers like Andrew Lawless expect 30% losses, warning climate change demands urgent investment in irrigation.

Renaissance BioScience Corp. secured an Australian patent on Sept 4, 2025, for its yeast-based RNA platform, targeting the Colorado Potato Beetle with eco-friendly biopesticides. It also eyes animal and human health markets.

False claims suggest Canada cut potato exports to the U.S. and signed a $1.6B Asia deal. No such deal exists. The U.S. remains the top market, with only a 17% dip in 2025 exports, not 41%. Under CUSMA, tariffs don’t apply. Viral posts are clickbait.

A Canadian study shows regenerative practices in potato farming boost soil health, yields and carbon capture. Trials found plant diversity raises marketable yield and resilience without more diseases, supporting long term farm viability

The University of Manitoba has named Dr. Linda Schott as the first UM Research Chair in Potato Sustainability, a key role focused on educating students and promoting innovation and sustainability in Manitoba’s growing potato industry.

The WPC congratulates Julio Kalazich, as he makes the transition from WPC International Advisor to WPC Director. New International Advisors are welcomed to the World Potato Congress Inc.

Cavendish Farms is launching a sustainability project on Prince Edward Island to help potato growers adopt eco-friendly practices, focusing on water use, pest control, and soil health. A farm advisory group will guide research and share results with local farmers.

Chad Hutchinson of TriCal Group joins the World Potato Congress Inc. Board as a Director. A global expert in potato research and soil health, he brings decades of experience supporting growers and advancing crop production worldwide.

WPC Inc. announces leadership changes: Nora Olsen, Jang Sangha, and Martin Acosta retire, with Greg Donald named Vice President and Brian Douglas appointed Treasurer as preparations begin for the 2026 Congress in Kenya.

P.E.I. launches a buy-back program for potato wart index fields to combat the fungal disease. It aids farmers, protects land, and boosts trade, with over USD 40M spent since 2021 on wart control efforts.

PEI celebrates the 2nd International Day of Potato, honoring its historic role and global impact. With innovation and sustainability, Island farmers grow 2.6B lbs yearly - feeding over 25 million people and securing the future of this vital crop.

On May 30, International Day of Potato, Peak of the Market Ltd. and the Keystone Potato Producers Association proudly recognize the dedication and hard work of Manitoba’s potato growers.

Food Innovation Online Corp., the company behind the leading potato industry portal PotatoPro.com, is proud to announce the launch of its 'PotatoPro Puts You on the Map' initiative.

Celebrate the International Day of the Potato on May 15, 2025, with a global webinar hosted by the World Potato Congress! Discover how this vital crop drives food security and rural resilience through expert insights and global case studies.