Potato-related products are displayed during the 2026 China Dingxi Potato Conference. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 2026 China Dingxi Potato Conference commenced in Anding district, Dingxi, Gansu province, on Sept 16.

Focusing on strengthening the national potato industry chain, the event attracted over 600 participants from research institutions, government bodies, industry associations, leading enterprises, and e-commerce platforms worldwide.

Marking its 18th consecutive year, the conference has become a key platform for global dialogue in the potato industry, highlighting the evolving role of Dingxi potatoes from supporting poverty alleviation to promoting prosperity and rural vitalization.

Known as China's largest virus-free seed potato breeding base, Dingxi saw a value of 28 billion yuan ($4.17 billion) across its entire industrial chain in 2025. Potatoes account for 22 percent of farmers' per capita disposable income, with a planting area of 200,000 hectares and a total output of over 5 million metric tons.

Dingxi's seed potato production accounts for half of the national market, with a brand value of 39.6 billion yuan. The "Dingxi Wide Noodles" brand — noodles made with potato starch — alone generates over 5 billion yuan annually, earning national and international recognition.

The event features the Dingxi Pavilion, International Pavilion, and "Ganwei" Pavilion, with four specialized zones for technology, culture, trade, and agricultural equipment. It also includes investment promotions, technical seminars, and visits to local potato plantations.