The Higgins group has deemed its potato trials in Thailand a success following the April harvest.

The trials began in January this year and signalled the start of an innovative set of local crop growing trials. Potatoes are a temperate crop, so Thailand's difficult climatic conditions, combined with pest and disease posed a real challenge to the group.

On harvesting around the areas of Bangkok and Chiang Mai an above average yield of low defect tubers was taken by one of Thailand's major potato processors.

Managing director David Higgins is pleased with the initial crop developments. He said: 'Our work in Thailand to date has certainly upheld our reputation of staying ahead of the field. The harvest experience gained in Thailand will have an important bearing on trials we conduct around the world.' The group is now planning to plant a further 15-20 hectares in November/December this year.

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