World Potato Congress announces Host Countries for the 2026 and 2028 Events

As the world shares its stories of celebration around the first International Day of Potato, and as WPC set their sights on the 12th World Potato Congress to be held in Adelaide, Australia, the World Potato Congress has announced the locations of the 13th and 14th World Potato Congress events. 

13th World Potato Congress 2026 : Gdansk, Poland

The Polish Potato Federation is honored to have been chosen to host the 13th Congress in Poland. The picturesque city of Gdansk, located on the Baltic coast, will be the host city for the esteemed World Potato Congress event. 

Set to take place in late June 2026, this global event will shine a spotlight on Poland’s thriving potato industry and the surrounding potato-growing regions. 

The Polish Potato Federation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the interests of the Polish potato industry. Representing growers, processors, researchers, and other stakeholders, the Federation works to enhance the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the potato sector in Poland and beyond. 

Peter Vander Zaag, President of World Potato Congress:
 

"Poland’s potato-growing regions are emblematic of the resilience and adaptability of the people of Poland as well as their potato industry."

Gdansk and its surrounding areas boast a rich agricultural heritage and a favorable climate for potato cultivation. 

The region's sandy soils, maritime influence, and moderate temperatures create optimal conditions for producing high-quality potatoes prized for their taste, texture, and versatility.

We are thrilled to bring the World Potato Congress to Gdansk, a city renowned for its history, culture, and vibrant potato industry. Gdansk and its surrounding regions are home to some of the most productive and innovative potato growers in Poland, and we are excited to showcase their achievements to a global audience." Attendees will have the opportunity to explore Gdansk's potato-growing areas firsthand through field tours, farm visits, and interactive workshops led by local experts.

Originally planned for Nairobi, Kenya in 2026, the WPC Board and the organizing committee in Kenya agree that more time is needed to facilitate the details around a Congress in Kenya. As such, discussions are currently underway with the Kenya team suggesting the possibility of hosting this biennial event sometime after the 2028 Congress.

The Polish Potato Federation extends a warm invitation to all potato industry stakeholders to join us in Gdansk for the 2026 World Potato Congress.

14th World Potato Congress 2028 : Ghent, Belgium

In 2028, The World Potato Congress is set to make its mark in Ghent, Belgium, with an exciting announcement confirming the city as the host for this prestigious event. The successful bid, led by Belgapom, was supported by many public and private sector partners.

Scheduled to take place in late November 2028 , the World Potato Congress will kick off a series of potato-focused activities leading up to the renowned Interpom exhibition, offering attendees an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of potatoes.

Interpom 2024

Ghent, known for its historic charm and vibrant cultural scene, provides an ideal backdrop for the World Potato Congress. Belgium's rich potato tradition, coupled with its innovative agricultural practices, makes it a fitting destination for this global gathering of potato industry leaders, researchers, and enthusiasts.

Christophe Vermeulen CEO of Belgapom:

"We are thrilled to bring the World Potato Congress to Ghent, a city steeped in potato heritage and agricultural innovation. By hosting the Congress just days before the Interpom exhibition, we aim to create a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and business opportunities that will benefit the entire potato value chain."

The Belgian fries portion

Peter VanderZaag:

"The World Potato Congress serves as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation within the global potato community. As we confront challenges such as food security, climate change, and shifting consumer preferences, it is more important than ever to come together to share insights, best practices, and solutions."

The 2026 and 2028 Congresses will have a particular focus on the unique challenges and opportunities facing potato growers in the European Union. 

In addition to their agricultural significance, Gdansk, Poland and Gent, Belgium offers attendees a wealth of cultural attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, and culinary delights. Congress participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of these cities while forging new connections and collaborations with fellow potato enthusiasts from around the globe.