Caribbean interest in sweet potato production

Interest in sweet potato production is growing across the Carribean as several varieties have shown drought restistant properties. Research has found that orange-colored varieties, as opposed to yellow-skinned varieties, are better at surviving drought and this is important as the region is experiencing more frequent and severe dry seasons. From a food security perspective, sweet potatoes are beneficial as they have more nutritional value than regular potatoes. From an economic perspective, the region is a net importer of sweet potatoes to the tune of $57 million, and this provides a market opportunity for farmers.