In Madagascar rice is staple food. Even so, in the highlands agricultural conditions for potato growing are favorable. The main problem facing cultivators is the presence of crop diseases due to poor stock and lack of fertilizer. The Netherlands have a reputation as potato growers. In Fifam,anor, a research center for seed potato propagation in Antsirabe, Dutch potato seed trading houses and the Malgache government are coöperating to improve potato cultivation.