International Collaboration for Tropical Crop Genetic Resources
On July 17–19, 2025, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanwisa Siriwong, Director of the Knowledge and Technology Center for Cassava, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalermpol Phumichai from the Faculty of Agriculture, Kasetsart University, and Dr. Arunothai Sawwa, Director of the Plant Diagnostic Development Research Group, Department of Agriculture—key members of the knowledge hub network—participated in the 2nd International Conference on the Conservation and Utilization of Tropical Crops Genetic Resources held in Sanya, Hainan, China.
They were joined by Dr. Wichan Ingsrisawang, Director of the Agricultural Research Development Agency (ARDA), along with delegates from the Department of Agriculture, Naresuan University, and the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT).
During this visit, the Thai delegation engaged in discussions with the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS) to explore collaborative opportunities-particularly in plant breeding, genomic applications, and genetic resource data management to meet the demands of markets and changing climates.
As a result of this dialogue, ARDA and CATAS will co-fund joint research for an initial period of three years, focusing on:
Crop improvement for cassava, mango, lychee, and coconut, with emphasis on enhancing yield and disease resistance—especially against cassava mosaic disease, witches’ broom, and the emerging brown root rot disease in Asia.
Development of alternative forage crops for livestock farmers.
Exchange of knowledge and expertise between Thai and Chinese researchers through joint projects on these key crops.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional food security and sustainable agricultural development.
