The Paraguayan government is taking steps to boost the production of cassava, a crop that has made the country a regional leader in cassava starch production. According to Javier Viveros, Vice Minister of Industry, the goal is to improve the quality, productivity, and competitiveness of cassava starch to maintain its position in international markets.
A meeting was held with representatives from the cassava sector, including the Paraguayan Chamber of Cassava and Starch (Capama), the Paraguayan Institute of Agricultural Technology (IPTA), and the National Service for Plant and Seed Quality and Health (Senave), to define strategies for strengthening the cassava value chain.
Two new varieties of cassava were presented, which are characterized by their high dry matter and starch content. The distribution of high-quality seeds to producers was also agreed upon. Vice Minister Viveros emphasized the need to continue improving the quality, productivity, and market conditions for cassava starch.
The Vice Minister of Agriculture, Juan Molinas, noted that the objective is to recover and strengthen the sector after several years affected by climate phenomena, pests, and diseases that impacted production. He also highlighted the importance of developing varieties with higher industrial yields and advancing soil recovery work, especially in family farming.
The president of Capama, Oscar León, valued the articulation between public institutions and the industry, stating that the formation of a working group will allow for concrete actions to strengthen the sector.