LAHORE, Feb 17 (ABC): Large-scale potato processing and dehydration are creating new growth avenues for Punjab’s growers after a bumper harvest generated fresh opportunities for value addition, export expansion, and rural job creation.
Punjab produced 12 million metric tons of potatoes in the 2025-26 season. This marks a 25% increase over last year. The higher output has increased supply across markets. However, experts say the surplus offers a clear opportunity to expand potato processing and strengthen the value chain.
“Value addition of the potato crop offers the most effective way to generate sustainable income for farmers,” Dr. Ahmad Din, Assistant Professor at the National Institute of Food Science and Technology in Faisalabad told Wealth Pakistan.
Global trends favor potato processing
Dr. Ahmad Din said consumers use less than half of global potato production as fresh produce. Food companies process the remaining volume into frozen French fries, crisps, flakes, powder, starch, and canned products. As a result, countries that invest in potato processing capture higher value.
He explained that processors can convert surplus potatoes into high-value products for domestic and export markets. This shift can stabilize prices and protect farmers from market gluts.
With competitive pricing and strong production volumes, Pakistan can expand its potato processing footprint. The country can also increase its share in global potato exports.
Export potential and infrastructure needs
Pakistan already produces potato crisps and French fries on a relatively large scale. However, manufacturers produce limited quantities of potato starch and other derivatives. Industry experts see strong potential in these segments.
French fries offer strong export prospects. Global demand continues to rise. Domestic consumption also shows steady growth.
To boost exports, investors must expand frozen food infrastructure. They also need to improve cold chain logistics. In addition, entrepreneurs should set up modern dehydration plants. These steps can strengthen export readiness.
Experts have urged the federal and Punjab governments to offer targeted incentives for new potato processing units. Such policies can absorb surplus output. They can also create manufacturing jobs and promote rural industrialization.
Suitable varieties key to value addition
Growers stress the need to cultivate varieties that support potato processing. “For value addition, potatoes must have high Dry Matter Content (DMC) to produce quality chips, snacks, flour, and starch,” said Chaudhary Maqsood Jutt, Chairman of the Potato Growers Society.
He said varieties such as Lady Rosetta, Sante, Mozika, and Astrex deliver higher DMC levels. These varieties suit industrial processing.
Farmers grow more than 100 potato varieties nationwide. However, only about six meet industrial standards. Therefore, farmers must plan crops according to market demand.
Maqsood Jutt, also former chairman of the Potato Research and Development Board, told Wealth Pakistan that farmers should divide production wisely. “A portion of the crop should serve table consumption, while a larger share should go to commercial and industrial processing,” he said.
Strengthening grower participation
Pakistan has around a dozen large potato processing plants. However, growers own only one or two of these facilities. Industry stakeholders encourage farmers to invest in their own processing units.
Greater grower ownership can improve bargaining power. It can also ensure fair returns and long-term sector growth.
Rising production, better technical knowledge, and growing global demand have strengthened Punjab’s potato sector. With focused investment in potato processing, variety development, and infrastructure, stakeholders can convert current gains into lasting economic growth for farmers and the wider agricultural economy.