Honduran potato producers protest as prices drop below survival level

Thousands of potato growers in Intibucá, Honduras, are warning of severe economic losses due to a surge in low-cost potato imports, particularly from Mexico. Local producers say the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG) has issued import permits without considering the impact on national supply and pricing.

Producers claim they can no longer compete, as imported potatoes flood the market and drive down prices. While they need to sell at seven lempiras per pound (approx. $0.27 USD) to break even, current market prices have fallen to 3.50 lempiras (around $0.13 USD) — slashing their returns by half.

The result, farmers say, is an estimated 50% loss in investment and the potential collapse of an industry that supports more than 15,000 Honduran families. They warn that if the situation continues, widespread unemployment could follow.

Protests have intensified after SAG Minister Laura Suazo allegedly failed to respond to producers’ concerns and, according to them, made misleading promises during limited meetings.

Farmers are now urging the government to halt imports and revise its trade policies. Without intervention, they fear a contraction in the local agricultural sector and growing dependence on foreign food sources.

source: tiempo.hn, argenpapa.com.ar

photo: cipotato.org