The meeting of the farmers of Lori and Shirak regions was held at the Congress hotel in Yerevan on August 29, 2016, during which they discussed the recent slump in potato prices in the market. As a result of the meeting, following decision was made:
“Today potato price in the market is not favorable for potato producers, which results in non-profitable production. This in its turn will inevitably have its negative effect on the volumes of potato production for the coming year.
Taking into account the situation, we -the large and medium potato producers of Lori and Shirak Regions – have gathered to discuss the issue and find ways for solution. As a result, we all are compelled to temporary hold back mass potato sales to regulate the situation in the market. We also call all our partner potato producers to join this initiative.
We call the Government to adopt certain economic policies that would increase the competitiveness of the local produce in the market and will boost village development”.
The meeting was organized by World Vision Armenia international charity with an aim to develop the local value chain of potato.
Before organizing the meeting World Vision’s Marz Development Program in Lori Region had held the market research for potato, analyzed the problems of price slump and, as a result of preventive actions, had discovered the places from where potato is being brought to market.
During the meeting potato producers met individual drivers in order to realize the transportation in a new way without any middlemen. Arrangements have been made between the buyer and the farmer about the daily delivery of potato.
A video call has been made with the Belarusian “Belbulba” company which has introduced itself as an organization engaged in exportation of potato seeds and special drugs for cultivating them. The quantity of seed usage was introduced and the types of seeds, climate conditions and the price were discussed. The “Belbulba” company has shown its interest in cooperating with farmers and guaranteed to establish and retain a stable relationship with them. Moreover, during the negotiations the Belbulba offered twice cheaper price for potato seeds.
