Good year expected for Bulgarian potato farmers, despite irrigation issues

“The major troubles faced by the potato producers in Bulgaria were connected with irrigation,” said Ventsislav Kaymakanov, chairperson of the National Association of Potato Producers, said speaking for FOCUS News Agency.



“Water is the most needed resource for the growers of vegetables. The Bulgarian Ministry of Agriculture and Food has a vision on the issue, but no measures are being taken to tackle the issue at this point.



“The major aid, if it is directed for irrigation, i.e. the farmers to be given financial aid for the purchase of irrigation systems – it will be well enough. I have sent many letters on the issue but there are conditions set so as to avoid it,” the expert added.



However, “Bulgaria’s potato harvest was satisfying,” said Ventsislav Kaymakanov, chairperson of the National Association of Potato Producers, said speaking for FOCUS News Agency.



“We managed to sell more than 200,000 tonnes of potatoes. Against a demand of 400,000-500,000 tonnes, these 200,000 tonnes produced amidst a dry year, which caused serious harm, is absolutely satisfying.



I know that the export is big but yet these are the possibilities of the country at the moment,” Kaymakanov added.



In his words, 2014 will be a good year and the producers will manage to produce further 70,000 – 80,000 tonnes, so as to reach a target of 300,000 tonnes.