As the world marks the International Day of Potato under the theme “Shaping history, feeding the future", the call to invest in potato research and development has never been more urgent. 

The potato feeds over a billion people every day and is cultivated in 159 countries; its future depends not only on innovation in the field, but also on accessible, evidence-based agricultural knowledge.

This is where the International System for Agricultural Science and Technology (AGRIS) plays a vital role. Developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), AGRIS is a global platform that hosts millions of bibliographic records in agriculture, food systems, and plant science—available in more than 100 languages and sourced from thousands of institutions worldwide.

Three Key Research Aims Supported by AGRIS:

Preserve and Share Knowledge on Genetic Diversity
AGRIS provides open access to research on potato varieties, germplasm conservation, and traditional knowledge, supporting scientists, policymakers, and farmers in preserving the crop’s genetic richness and resilience.

Promote Innovation in Disease Resistance and Breeding
Late blight remains one of the greatest threats to potato crops. AGRIS helps disseminate cutting-edge research on disease-resistant varieties and modern breeding techniques—tools that can future-proof the crop against climate and biological threats.

Support Data-Driven Agronomic Practices
From seed systems to storage and market access, AGRIS connects users to evidence-based solutions and country-specific insights, helping translate research into improved productivity and livelihoods.

The potato has shaped our history. With the right tools, such as AGRIS, we can ensure that it continues to shape our future.
Explore more: https://agris.fao.org