After more than 20 years of research, Argentina's National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) is beginning to see concrete results from a genetic improvement program that could reshape banana production in the country's north. In Laguna Naineck, Formosa, researchers have developed 30 advanced Cavendish banana lines adapted to local growing conditions, offering higher yields, improved commercial quality, and greater disease resistance.

Following four evaluation cycles and extensive field trials, INTA identified 12 elite clones using agronomic analysis and molecular markers. These varieties were grouped by suitability for national, regional, and local markets, allowing producers to choose options that best match their production systems rather than relying on a single variety. Program leader Gerardo Tenaglia said the approach is designed to ensure production stability across different regions and marketing channels.

Varieties aimed at the domestic market stand out for their medium size, strong pseudostems, firm skin, and yields exceeding 33 tonnes per hectare, well above the national average. Their quality and presentation allow them to compete with imported bananas and withstand long-distance transport to major urban centres.

For regional markets such as Resistencia, Corrientes, and Santa Fe, INTA has developed materials with good agronomic performance and moderate tolerance to yellow Sigatoka, one of the sector's main diseases. While these bananas require careful post-harvest handling, they deliver high yields and uniform fruit suitable for medium-range distribution.

Local-market varieties focus on direct sales, offering more fingers per bunch and flavours highly valued by consumers. Although their skin is more fragile, they achieve medium to high yields and perform well in short supply chains.

Banana production remains socially and economically important in provinces such as Formosa, Salta, Jujuy, and Misiones, but faces challenges from plant health issues, high costs, and competition from imports. INTA argues that locally produced bananas have a flavour advantage and strong potential for import substitution. According to Tenaglia, elite varieties account for up to 20 per cent of crop profitability, with the remaining 80 per cent dependent on management practices and technology adoption.

The program is being implemented with support from the Formosa Ministry of Production and Environment and the Centre for the Validation of Agricultural Technologies (CEDEVA), which provides infrastructure and technical assistance.