'KWS hybrid potato is also for Europe'

Breeding companies KWS and Simplot announced at the beginning of October that they would be joining forces to accelerate the development of the hybrid potato varieties. These varieties are also intended for the European market. Paul van den Wijngaard, Hybrid Potato manager at KWS, explains what we can expect.

Simplot applies the Crispr-Cas technique for breeding hybrid potato varieties. This is currently not allowed in the European Union (EU). Are the developments of Earth Vo therefore only aimed at the United States (US)?
"In the short term, Aardvo will focus on the production of diploid hybrid potatoes using classical breeding methods. KWS has previously published a statement about their position on Crispr-Cas. Dr. Léon Broers, member of the board of directors at KWS, says that the prospects for the technology in Europe are bleak. Other countries that do allow the technology have a great advantage. However, the acceptance is widespread. The biggest developments in the future will probably come from the countries that allow Crispr-Cas. It is So it makes sense that KWS is targeting these markets and crops. The US could be such a region."

Which developments are interesting for Europe?
"Aardevo focuses on conventional breeding techniques to market hybrid potato varieties. In this way, we expect to be able to market improved varieties with unique properties faster. This is also interesting for Europe. By sticking to conventional breeding, these new varieties are also legal within Europe. We believe that new variety characteristics add value to the European market."

Does KWS expect the EU to review its plant breeding policy?
"That is a long-term question. The Court of Justice of the European Union has passed the ball back to the European Commission and the Member States. They now have to decide on new breeding methods. In the meantime, however, KWS continues to research new ways of targeted mutagenesis such as CRSPR."

Aardvo operates the KWS location in Nagele as the main location for Europe. What will happen to the current activities there?
"The current activities will continue. In addition, KWS will continue to use the Nagele site for research into other crops. All potato activities are led by Aardvo. Thanks to the collaboration with Simplot, we hope to increase the pace in this area considerably."

Aardvo sounds (internationally speaking) like a special name. Why that choice?
"Aardevo refers to potatoes and the connection that the Netherlands has with this crop. It is also a reference to the evolution of potato breeding. Our goal is to take the next step in this evolution."

Niels van der Boom

Niels van der Boom is a senior market specialist for arable crops at DCA Market Intelligence. He mainly makes analyses and market updates about the potato market. In columns he shares his sharp view on the arable sector and technology.

n.vanderboom@boerenbusiness. Nl

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