Seeds in the potato value chain in Mauritius[Les semences dans la filière pomme de terre à Maurice]

The specific aim of the FoodSec-Semence project (2021-2025) in the Indian Ocean is to improve farmers' access to quality seeds and seedlings. In Mauritius, the project focuses on two crops considered strategic at national level: potatoes and beans. This report presents the results obtained for potatoes under Activity 1, which aims to acquire in-depth knowledge of the seed industry, the agro-economic context and farmers' seed needs and expectations. Surveys were carried out in 2022 among the main stackholders in the potato, consumption and seed sectors, and in particular among growers and consumers. In-depth bibliographical work enabled us to draw up a detailed general framework and an updated presentation of the seed system, which is currently being reorganized. The surveys carried out enabled us to update existing analyses of the sector and produce data on the production practices and costs of the two main types of grower: corporates and small and mediumsized growers. The potato sector plays an important role in public policies for agricultural development and food security. It is largely supported by a State with substantial resources and a long-term political will. The general context is favorable to the development of national production. However, production has fallen over the last ten years, due to a decline in the area under cultivation, a drop in the number of small and medium-sized growers, and stagnating yields. Apparent potato consumption has risen over the last ten years, with the greatest increase for processed potatoes (frozen French fries). The potato seed sub-sector is an essential link in this chain, particularly in terms of food security. At present, seed production/multiplication represents just under 30% of needs, which is already a substantial level, and provides the necessary institutions and organization, from the creation of improved varieties to the distribution of certified seed. National production of certified seed should increase, even if constraints remain high. The results of a simulation carried out with assumptions that prolong trends indicate that seedling production could reach 50% of requirements in 2031, i.e. 1,125 tonnes (and considerably more if the processing sector develops in Mauritius). The main results were presented and discussed at a feedback workshop, which initiated further work (Food- Sec semence activity 5) on a participatory development plan for seed potato production.