Potato industry boosts rural vitalization in Zhangye

Staff members breed potatoes in Minle county of Zhangye, Gansu province. [Photo provided to gozhangye.com]

Nestled at the northern foot of the Qilian Mountains, Minle county in Zhangye offers ideal conditions for potato cultivation with its cool climate, fertile soil, and minimal pests.

The industry's foundation lies in advanced seed breeding. Minle has established the province's largest original seed greenhouse covering 50,000 square meters, producing 140 million mini-tubers annually.

The county also operates 45,000 mu (3,000 hectares) of seed potato bases, supplying over 130,000 metric tons of premium seeds each year.

A comprehensive breeding system from virus-free seedlings to certified seeds has been established, making Minle a key hub for seed potato production and technology.

Standardized planting bases support the industry's growth. Minle promotes a model involving village collectives, leading enterprises, cooperatives, and farmers. The potato planting area remains stable at over 150,000 mu.

The potatoes produced here contain 23 percent dry matter and 19 percent starch, exceeding the national average. Due to this high quality, the county has been recognized as a key raw material base for potato staple food processing.

Twelve processing enterprises drive value addition, focusing on potato flakes, starch, and staple foods. Through contract farming, these companies engage 26,000 households in cultivation and processing.

The complete industrial chain generates over 1 billion yuan ($140.47 million) in annual output and creates 40,000 jobs. This golden industry continues to power local prosperity through technological advancement and market-oriented strategies.