The government is planning to diversify potato markets in the face of low potato prices, which have remained stagnant over the years. Agriculture and Livestock Minister Younten Phuntsho was responding to questions about the government’s plans to address the issue in the National Assembly today.
The Nyisho-Saephu Member of Parliament (MP) Kuenga while asking the agriculture and livestock minister about the government’s plans to address the issues of declining potato prices also proposed two measures. The measures are to establish local auction yards and to attract buyers from diverse backgrounds to create a more competitive market environment.
In response, agriculture and livestock minister, Younten Phuntsho said that to store potatoes for longer duration after harvesting, the government is working on establishing integrated facilities. The minister added that the government has established around 12 cold storage facilities in various potato-producing districts.
“In places such as Paro, Lingmithang, Samdrup Jongkhar and Phuentsholing, we have built cold storage facilities that can store up to 100 metric tonnes. We hope to solve this issue if our people make use of them.”
Furthermore, the minister elaborated on the measure to attract diverse buyers. He said that the government has plans to explore more trade opportunities beyond the Indian market.
“For example, we are working on this by talking with relevant institutions and businesses in Nepal and Bangladesh. Recently, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment has been working with the Government of Nepal on a free trade agreement between the two countries.”
The minister also added that the government is exploring setting up online potato auction systems. He said such system would help reduce the costs of transporting potatoes and travel expenses.
“Firstly, we will be able to use modern technology. Secondly, people will be able to auction their produce without having to move from their location. Therefore, this will help people cut down on transportation costs and I hope they will also get better prices for their produce.”
The government also plans to improve the production of potatoes by distributing better quality seeds.
Currently, potatoes prices at the FCB Phuentshogling auction yard range between Nu 10 to 27 depending on the size.
Sangay Chozom/Tenzin Loday Gyeltshen
Edited by Kipchu
