North America’s Leading Potato Expo Returns to Prince Edward Island in 2012
Charlottetown, PE- The International Potato Technology Expo returns to the Charlottetown Civic Centre February 24-25, 2012. This popular event has been running in Charlottetown every two years since 1992. Over the years, this has become a must-attend industry event for potato farmers from across the Island, while attracting visitors from as far away as Manitoba and the United States.
“Booth sales are going nicely this year and this venue is still a winner, as PEI and potatoes are synonymous with each other. We are excited to return to the Island for this event to showcase the latest equipment, products and services available to the region’s potato producers,” says Show Manager, Rob Etmanski.
2012 is expected to be a good year for exports, which bodes well for all Maritime potato producers and especially Prince Edward Island, because the agri-food sector continues to account for the lion's share of PEI's exports, and the sector is forecast to rebound with 8 per cent growth this year, followed by a further 5 per cent gain in 2012.
"PEI's export rebound is supported by gains in all key sub-sectors, and the reviving U.S economy suggests stronger demand and higher prices, bolstering the value of the province's foreign sales," said Peter Hall, Chief Economist for EDC. "Sales to non-traditional markets have also gained traction, which speaks to improved diversification to fast-paced emerging markets."
The same report indicated that the pricing and demand environment in the first half of this year will be favourable for producers of processed and table potatoes, as reduced supply in other parts of the world, including California's frost-affected desert crop, drive up prices and demand for PEI produce. In the second half of 2011, global production will recover, dampening demand and pricing into 2012. While the U.S. is still the primary market, PEI is seeing growth potential from the Caribbean this year.
The International Potato Technology Expo is in the planning stages of its extensive educational component and other developments are in the works and will be rolled out in the near future.
This year’s show will boasts over 100 booths filling the entire Charlottetown Civic Centre and will encompass everything from seed to soil to growing to harvesting. You will see the latest from the manufacturers of harvesters, sprayers, pilers, cultivators, storage and climatization technology, tractors, bagging machinery, seed cutters, the very latest in plant genetics, research and the list goes on….
To keep up to date on the latest development, visit www.potatoexpo.ca
Media Inquiries:
Denise Miller, Publicist
Master Promotions Ltd.
1-888-454-7469