The “Huazhong Agricultural University-Guangxi-ASEAN Forum on High-Quality Development of Fruit and Vegetable Industry” was successfully held on December 3, 2024, at Huazhong Agricultural University in Wuhan. The forum, focused on advancing sustainable agricultural practices and promoting international collaboration, brought together experts, scholars, and leaders from Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and China.
The Forum, co-hosted by Huazhong Agricultural University, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and key horticultural research institutions, aimed to explore new pathways for high-quality development in the fruit and vegetable industry and promote the exchange of advanced agricultural technologies between China and ASEAN countries.
The opening ceremony featured speeches by Professor Yao Jianglin, Vice President of Huazhong Agricultural University, and Mr. Zuo Ming, Chief Agronomist of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Guangxi. Professor Yao emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration in addressing global challenges in agriculture. He highlighted the forum’s role in exploring new models for the development of the fruit and vegetable sector in Guangxi and ASEAN, as well as promoting the international exchange of agricultural technologies. Mr. Zuo stressed Guangxi’s commitment to modernizing its agricultural sector and expressed hope that the forum would provide valuable insights for advancing rural revitalization efforts in the region.
Following the opening speeches, a series of academic presentations showcased the latest advancements in horticultural research and technology. Leading experts from ASEAN and China shared their findings on topics ranging from seed innovation and post-harvest technology to smart farming systems and sustainable agriculture practices.
Professor Chew Fook Tim from the National University of Singapore presented on the role of seed innovation in urban farming, while Professor Phebe Ding from Universiti Putra Malaysia discussed advances in durian post-harvest treatment. Dr. Samoeun Dana from Cambodia’s Royal University of Agriculture shared insights into chitosan-based methods for controlling micro-vegetable growth, and Dr. Huang Rukui from the Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences presented on new vegetable varieties and technologies developed in Guangxi.
Professor Zhang Fei from Huazhong Agricultural University discussed the molecular regulation of citrus oil glands, while Associate Professor Chen Yaohui from the College of Engineering presented on intelligent citrus farming technologies. These discussions underscored the importance of scientific innovation in achieving sustainable agricultural development.
One of the highlights of the forum was a hands-on demonstration at the National Digital Plantation (Orchard) Innovation Sub-center. Participants toured the facility, where experts showcased advanced agricultural technologies such as intelligent fruit-picking robots, orchard inspection systems, and real-time quality control platforms for fruit.
Dr. Van Lu Doan, Senior Consultant from Vietnam National Agricultural University, had the opportunity to experience the visualization of a digital orchard and its virtual reality system. Using drone sensors, the system creates 3D models of orchards, providing real-time data on the growth and health of individual fruit trees. Dr. Doan noted that the system offered a valuable tool for intelligent orchard management, enhancing productivity and precision in farming operations.
Associate Professor Bao Xiulan from the College of Engineering concluded the session by emphasizing how robotics and automation are transforming orchard management, making it easier to carry out production tasks with greater efficiency and accuracy.
A key outcome of the forum was the further strengthening of academic and research ties between China and ASEAN countries. During the academic cooperation seminar, representatives from universities in ASEAN, the Guangxi Agricultural Department, and Huazhong Agricultural University discussed potential collaborative research projects, talent development initiatives, and ways to foster high-quality growth in the agriculture sector.
Professor Chai Lijun from Huazhong Agricultural University highlighted the significance of the forum in advancing China-ASEAN agricultural cooperation. He stressed the importance of joint research, shared knowledge, and mutual support in addressing the challenges of modern agriculture. Representatives from ASEAN universities also expressed interest in collaborating with Huazhong Agricultural University on research initiatives and talent training programs.
This cooperation signals a growing partnership between China and ASEAN in addressing global food security challenges and improving agricultural sustainability through innovation and knowledge sharing.
After the successful Wuhan session, the forum moved to Nanning on December 5, where additional discussions were held at the Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The event further strengthened the bonds between China and ASEAN, with participants committed to advancing the fruit and vegetable industry through joint research, the exchange of best practices, and the promotion of innovative technologies.
The forum marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to build a sustainable, high-quality fruit and vegetable industry in both China and the ASEAN region, with the shared goal of enhancing global competitiveness and ensuring food security for the future.
Source: HZAU News
