Sources with the Ministry of Agriculture have listed three opportunities which lie ahead of China's potato sector: larger world market after China's entry into the World Trade Organization, growing potato consumption in both cities and villages, and burgeoning fast food industry.

By 2005, the country's farming areas for potato will reach five million hectares and total production will top 18 million tons, according to the ministry.

Instead of being used for direct consumption, more potatoes will be sent for in-depth processing into dehydrated mashed potato, potato chips and instant potato flour.

To reach the goal, experts say that China should boost its acreage in potato planting, strengthen its cultivation of improved species and quality control, and invest more in spreading agricultural technologies.

The country should also exert efforts to encourage core potato-processing businesses which can help foster more modern potato production and management methods, according to the experts.

(People's Daily June 18, 2002)