Québec, January 6, 2026 – Production Sembec (Sembec) is proud to announce outstanding results for its 2025 seed potato harvest. Sembec cultivated 20 potato varieties across 105 acres, and more than 50 distinct seed lots were tested in the Pre-Elite, Elite-1, Elite-2 and Elite-3 classes. All varieties, all lots and all classes tested 0% positive for PVY and PRLV viruses in post-harvest testing. This remarkable performance confirms, for the second consecutive year, Sembec’s leadership in biosecurity, phytosanitary protection and integrated management of insect vectors. It also reflects the rigorous operational standards applied at every stage of the production process, from greenhouse propagation through to storage.
Thanks to sustained investments in high-precision hydroponic greenhouse systems, specialized planting equipment and optimized storage infrastructure, Sembec continues to meet the growing demand for high-generation, virus-free seed potatoes that comply with the highest industry standards.
A concrete response to a major industry challenge
Potato viruses remain one of the most significant agronomic risks for growers. Even a virus rate as low as 1% in seed potatoes can result in minimum yield losses of 20%, directly affecting farm profitability. In this context, access to seed potatoes that are completely free of viruses becomes a key strategic advantage. With 0% virus detected across its entire 2025 production, Sembec stands out as a trusted partner, providing growers with both the volume and reliability needed to secure stable, high-quality yields.
About Production Sembec
Located in Pointe-aux-Outardes on Québec’s Côte-Nord region — more than 300 km from the nearest potato grower and 7 km off the main road in a forested environment — Sembec benefits from a unique natural isolation that is ideally suited to the production of high-generation seed potatoes.
Production Sembec remains a leading reference in the Québec and Canadian seed potato industry.
Over the coming weeks, I will personally be reaching out to our customers to discuss these results and to work with you on medium- and long-term planning to ensure your seed potato needs are fully met.
André Gagnon 418 802-1671
Director of Research and Business Development
Production Sembec