Adelaide will host World Potato Congress in 2023

Adelaide has won the rights to host the 2023 World Potato Congress, after Potatoes South Australia successfully led a bid that will lead to over 1000 delegates arriving in Adelaide in 2023, estimated to generate $4.5 million to the state’s economy.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone shared the good news at the Potatoes South Australia Annual Dinner and Auction.

“Hosting the World Potato Congress is a massive coup for South Australia and this is the first time the event has been held in Australia. I’d like to congratulate Potatoes South Australia on the hard work they put in to leading a successful bid for this major event,” said Whetstone.

South Australia produces over 500,000 tonnes of potatoes annually and 80% of the nation’s fresh potatoes. The congress provides an opportunity to showcase Australia’s potential as a leader in the potato industry to an international audience. The show also provides many trade and investment opportunities to the state, with showrunners encouraging delegates to stay longer and enjoy the experiences on offer in South Australia’s tourism regions.

Potatoes South Australia CEO Robbie Davis, who led the bid with a national committee to host the congress in South Australia, was thrilled at the success of the proposal.

“This congress will see world leaders in the industry congregate in South Australia, the nation’s largest producer by volume and value,” said Davis.

The congress is an opportunity for primary producers, researchers, processors, exporters, and wholesale and retail merchants to build stronger networks and discuss all aspects of the industry, from developed countries and those growing their industry.

“The Adelaide Convention Bureau is proud to have partnered with Potatoes South Australia to bring this globally significant agriculture event to Adelaide and we thank the state government and our Team Adelaide partners for their support,” said Damien Kitto, Adelaide Convention Bureau CEO. “Congratulations to Potatoes South Australia on their initiative to create the ‘WPC Trust for Developing Nations’, which will play a significant role for the world potato industry for decades.”

The 2023 Congress will follow the 2021 Congress, which will be hosted in May 2021 by the Irish Potato Federation in Dublin, Ireland.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/natara