Theme: “Accelerating Application of Agricultural Technologies in the Asia-Monsoon Region: Taking Stock and the Way Forward for Enhancing Production Potentials and Sustainable Food Systems”

It has been four years since the UN Secretary-General convened the UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) in September 2021, placing food at the heart of global efforts to end poverty, eliminate hunger, reduce inequalities, combat climate change, and protect biodiversity.

Prior to that milestone event, in May 2021, Japan formulated the Strategy for Sustainable Food Systems “MIDORI”, which aimed to enhance agricultural productivity potential and sustainability through innovation.

Since then, the world has witnessed remarkable changes and increasing uncertainties in the global food system landscape. As the world struggled to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, a series of geopolitical events raised concerns over food security, with the prices of fuel, fertilizer, and food reaching record highs in 2022—particularly in the aftermath of the war in Ukraine.

At the same time, rising global temperatures continue to impact food production. In January 2025, it was confirmed that 2024 was the hottest calendar year on record, with the average temperature exceeding the pre-industrial level by 1.5°C for the first time—the threshold set by the Paris Agreement.

Despite these challenges, momentum is building behind food systems transformation at the global, regional, and national levels. For example:

• At COP28, the Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action was adopted in December 2023, calling for sustainable development of the agri-food sector and stronger collaborative measures to tackle climate change.
• In the Asia–Monsoon region, particularly Southeast Asia, the ASEAN Regional Guidelines for Sustainable Agriculture were adopted in October 2022, followed by the Japan–ASEAN MIDORI Cooperation Plan in October 2023.
• Ahead of COP30, in June 2025, the Japanese Government unveiled the “MIDORI Infinity” initiative (Initiative for Net-zero compatible with Food Security through International expansion of Japan’s Innovative Technology). This aims to scale up Japan’s GHG emission reduction technologies and attract decarbonization investment in the agriculture and food sectors across the Global South.

Amid these developments, the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) has been implementing the Green Asia Project in collaboration with research institutes in Japan and across the Asia–Monsoon region. The project, scheduled to conclude in March 2026, has contributed to advancing research and innovation toward sustainable food systems.

Against this backdrop, the upcoming JIRCAS International Symposium 2025 will take stock of various initiatives driving food system transformation from a global perspective, with a particular focus on the Green Asia Project. The symposium will showcase key achievements and draw lessons applicable to other contexts, offering valuable insights for the future of sustainable agriculture in the region.

Event Details

Date: 27 October 2025 (Mon)

• Time: 13:30 – 17:30 (JST)
• Place: Hybrid (Hitotsubashi Hall & Online)
• Program
• Registration Deadline: 27 October 2025 (Mon), 12:00 (JST)
• Register here

Bangkok, Thailand – 25 July 2025 – The Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) held its 18th General Assembly Meeting (GAM) in Bangkok, Thailand, in a hybrid format. The meeting brought together representatives from 11 member countries and 6 associate members, under the chairmanship of Prof. Lindsay Falvey, Commissioner for International Agricultural Research, ACIAR, Australia. The Assembly reviewed progress, endorsed key governance decisions, strengthened partnerships, and elected new leadership to guide the organization through 2026.

Newly elected member countries and institutions and New Executive Committee leadership include:
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, The Philippines, and from the higher education sector – Vignan University, India.

• Chairperson: Dr. Reynaldo Ebora, Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD)
• Vice Chairperson: Dr. Prabhath Wimal Kumara, Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy (SLCARP)

Visit here to read the full proceedings

Acknowledgements

Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director, APAARI, and his team gratefully acknowledge the contributions of the following representatives:

• Ms. Susmita Islam, Ministry of Agriculture, Bangladesh
• Dr. Md. Mustafizur Rahman, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC)
• Dr. Shalendra Prasad, Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, Republic of Fiji
• Dr. Aniadila Binti Kamaruddin, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI)
• Dr. Peter Aglua Gendua, National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Papua New Guinea
• Dr. Tran Minh Tien, Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences, MARD, Viet Nam
• Dr. Fiame Leo, The Scientific Research Organization of Samoa (SROS) / Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), Samoa
• Dr. Tick Nouanthavong, National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute (NAFRI), Lao PDR
• Dr. Kyung-Tai Lee, Rural Development Administration (RDA), South Korea
• Dr. Chanthy Pol, Cambodian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI)
• Dr. Rinzin Wangchuk, Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Bhutan
• Dr. Babar Bajwa, Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI)
• Dr. Sabyan Faris Honey, Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI)
• Dr. Norihito Kanamori, Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS)
• Dr. Francios Stepman, Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation (GFAiR)
• Dr. Rida Shibli, Association of Agricultural Research Institutions in the Near East & North Africa (AARINENA)
• Dr. Botir Dosov, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (CACAARI)
• Dr. Abid Hussain, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)
• Dr. Jeya Kumar, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)
• Dr. Ramesh Babu, Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology & Research

Luang Prabang, Lao PDR | 08 January 2026 – A one-day Capacity Building Workshop on the International Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM), focusing on phytosanitary certification (ISPM 12) and on international movement of seeds (ISPM 38), was successfully organized by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) for 26 public and private stakeholders in Lao PDR.

The workshop was conducted under the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)–funded regional project “Strengthening Phytosanitary Compliance to Boost Seed Trade in the Asia-Pacific.” It brought together 23 quarantine officer representatives of Lao PDR, alongside 2 participants from the private sector and Mrs. Phonethip, Deputy Director General (DDG), Department of Agriculture, Lao PDR.

The primary objective of the workshop was to strengthen national capacity on ISPM 12 and ISPM 38, with a strong focus on the specific operational needs of Lao PDR quarantine officers. A key activity of the workshop was the translation and discussion of the complete ISPM 12 and ISPM 38 guidelines into Laotian, ensuring that international standards are accessible, clearly understood, and practically applicable by national and provincial phytosanitary authorities.

Key Outputs

• Enhanced awareness and technical capacity among Lao PDR stakeholders on seed movement standards (ISPM 38) and phytosanitary certification requirements (ISPM 12).
• Strengthened national phytosanitary systems aligned with international standards.
• Improved capacity to facilitate safe seed trade while ensuring compliance with international phytosanitary requirements.

This effort represents an important step toward reinforcing Lao PDR’s phytosanitary framework and supporting safe, efficient, and internationally compliant seed trade.

About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership that facilitates safe and inclusive trade. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), which houses and manages the partnership.  In support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF responds to evolving SPS needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and resilience to climate change.

About the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)

Founded in 1990 by the FAO, the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is a membership-based, apolitical, and multi-stakeholder organization that promotes agricultural research and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region. APAARI unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centres, universities, NGOs, and private-sector actors from 33 countries. Its mission is to strengthen agri-food research and innovation systems for sustainable development and food security in the region.

Jakarta, Indonesia — 12 February 2026 — Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) convened an expert consultation with its technical partners Asia & Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA), International Seed Federation (ISF), CropLife Asia (CLA) and American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) to develop and finalize the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the “APSA Phytosanitary Expert Consultation (PEC)”. The consultation also ensured that the mandates of the STDF-funded project are appropriately aligned and incorporated into the PEC to facilitate continued deliberation on project outputs.

The STDF-funded project, “Strengthening Phytosanitary Compliance and Public-Private Partnerships to Boost Seed Trade in the Asia-Pacific Region (STDF/PG/755)” led by Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) and implemented across seven countries, places public–private partnership (PPP) at the center of efforts to enable safe, efficient, and inclusive seed trade. Across the region, differences in phytosanitary requirements, limited dialogue between regulators and industry, and fragmented communication among National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) can slow the movement of seed and increase compliance costs. Recognizing that sustainable solutions require trust, transparency, and regular interaction, the project prioritizes institutionalizing a regional platform where public authorities, private seed companies, researchers, and technical experts can jointly address sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) challenges.

For more than a decade, Asia & Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA) has convened the Phytosanitary Expert Consultation (PEC) as a dedicated Platform for dialogue on global phytosanitary developments and their implications for seed industry particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. Building on APSA’s role as the initiator and lead convenor of the PEC, and in partnership with the APAARI, with the support of STDF, stakeholders have collectively developed and agreed upon the Terms of Reference (ToR).

The formal recognition of the APSA Phytosanitary Expert Consultation (PEC) through the endorsement of the Terms of Reference (ToR) represents a significant milestone under the project.

The agreed purposes of the “APSA Phytosanitary Expert Consultation (PEC) Platform” are to:

• Facilitate exchange of information on global and regional phytosanitary development
• Discuss phytosanitary policies affecting the seed industry in the Asia-Pacific region
• Promote dialogue between National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs), industry, and experts into action
• Support science-based, harmonized and practical phytosanitary approaches and encourage the development of national standards aligned to international standards
• Strengthen collaboration between public and private sectors
• Provide the platform to deliberate on specific components of global or regional projects on seeds (where APSA is a partner or APSA is leading)

The consultation brought together 20 experts, including 13 participants from NPPOs across Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, the Philippines, Viet Nam, India, and Turkey, as well as 4 representatives from the private sector from APSA ISF, and CLA. This participation ensured a mix of regulatory authorities, industry stakeholders, and technical experts, enabling constructive dialogue and consensus-building on the ToR for the platform.

The platform is designed to serve as a bridge between the public and private sectors, while also acting as a catalyst for stronger collaboration among NPPOs across countries (Public-Public collaboration). During the consultation, participants highlighted that such a mechanism is essential for reducing misunderstandings, promote alignment with international standards, and help prevent trade disruptions before they occur.

As a direct contribution of the project, the agreed ToR represents an important step towards establishing a structured and collaborative regional mechanism that strengthens public–private cooperation for phytosanitary compliance and supports the safe movement of seed and seed trade across the Asia-Pacific region.

About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership that facilitates safe and inclusive trade. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), which houses and manages the partnership.  In support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF responds to evolving SPS needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and resilience to climate change.

About the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)

Founded in 1990 by the FAO, the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is a membership-based, apolitical, and multi-stakeholder organization that promotes agricultural research and innovation across 21 countries of the Asia-Pacific region. APAARI unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centers, regional and sub-regional for a, universities, NGOs, and private-sector actors from 33 countries. Its mission is to strengthen agri-food research and innovation systems for sustainable development and food security in the region.

About Asia & Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA)

The Asia and Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA) is the regional seed association comprising more than 500 seed companies and associations from around 50 countries within and outside the APAC region. Our mission is to support sustainable agriculture through the production and trade of quality seed around the world. Our work focuses on advocacy, capacity building and encouraging business collaboration and trade.

About International Seed Federation (ISF)

The International Seed Federation (ISF) represents the global seed industry and advocates for stakeholders involved in the research, breeding, production, and marketing of seeds for agricultural, horticultural, and ornamental plants. ISF includes over 80 national seed associations and 7,500 seed companies worldwide.

About Crop Life Asia (CLA)

CropLife Asia (CLA) is a non-profit regional organization representing the plant science industry across Asia. The association advocates for issues related to crop protection and plant biotechnology and seeds to promote sustainable farming, food security and environmental stewardship. It also engages in discussions on phytosanitary requirements and the impact on trade supporting the development of harmonized measures for the international movement of seed. CLA’s mission is to help farmers access innovative agricultural technologies that enhance productivity while ensuring safety and sustainability.  Working closely with governments, industry and stakeholders, it strengthens regulatory frameworks, promotes the responsible use of agricultural innovations and contributes to resilient regional food system.

About American Seed Trade Association (ASTA)

Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) is one of the oldest trade organizations in the United States. Its membership consists of over 700 companies involved in seed production and distribution, plant breeding, and related industries in North America. ASTA works on behalf of the seed industry to promote the research, development and movement of quality seed to meet the world’s demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel. ASTA’s mission is to be an effective voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life. As an authority on plant germplasm, ASTA advocates science and policy issues of industry-wide importance.

1 April 2026 – Cambodia – A one-day workshop titled “Capacity Building Workshop on ISPM 38 for Plant Quarantine Officers in Cambodia” was organized by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI).

The workshop, organized under the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)-funded project “Strengthening Phytosanitary Compliance to Boost Seed Trade in the Asia-Pacific,” brought together 38 quarantine officers from the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of Cambodia. The event was attended by Dr. Yorn Try, Deputy Director General of the Directorate of Agriculture, as the Chief Guest.

In his opening remarks, Monthivtuh EKR, Director of Plant Protection, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Department, Cambodia, emphasized the importance of the standard, stating:

“ISPM 38 provides a crucial framework for effectively managing phytosanitary risks in the international movement of seeds, introducing a systems approach that evaluates the entire seed production chain—from the field to the container—to ensure high-quality seeds while minimizing unnecessary delays in trade.”

He also extended his gratitude to STDF and APAARI for facilitating the workshop.

The workshop also provided a platform to discuss the translation of the complete ISPM 38 guidelines into Khmer, making the standard more accessible and understandable for Cambodian phytosanitary authorities, quarantine officers, and stakeholders involved in seed production, certification, and trade.

Highlighting the importance of translating international standards, Ravi Khetarpal stated:

“An important fact is that ISPM 38 offers a systems-based framework to manage pest risks across the entire seed pathway, ensuring both plant health protection and the smooth movement of quality seeds in international trade.”

Homaira Jahan Sonom presented the objectives of the project and highlighted key outputs achieved so far. She also emphasized the need for an updated seed pest list and the development of a roadmap toward ISPM 45 tailored specifically for Cambodia.

Rosineide Souza Richards from the International Seed Federation delivered technical presentations on the framework of ISPM 38. In her first presentation, she provided a deep dive into ISPM 38, explaining it as a seed-specific phytosanitary framework within the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) system. In her second presentation, she further elaborated on the practical and operational aspects of implementing ISPM 38, particularly inspection, testing, certification, and evidence-based decision-making to manage phytosanitary risks in international seed trade.

The workshop concluded with group discussions identifying gaps in implementing ISPM 38 and exploring potential solutions and improvements. Moving forward, the NPPO of Cambodia will focus on strengthening operational and technical capacity and enhancing stakeholder collaboration through public–private partnerships (PPP) to effectively implement ISPM 38 and facilitate safe and efficient seed trade.

About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership that facilitates safe and inclusive trade. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), which houses and manages the partnership.  In support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF responds to evolving SPS needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and resilience to climate change.

About the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)

Founded in 1990 by the FAO, the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is a membership-based, apolitical, and multi-stakeholder organization that promotes agricultural research and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region. APAARI unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centres, universities, NGOs, and private-sector actors from 33 countries. Its mission is to strengthen agri-food research and innovation systems for sustainable development and food security in the region.

26 February 2026 – Manila, Philippines. A national capacity-building workshop on electronic phytosanitary certification (ePhyto) was successfully conducted in the Philippines from 24–26 February 2026, accelerating the country’s transition toward faster, more efficient digital agricultural trade.

The training, titled “Advancing Trade Facilitation: Enhancing Capacity Workshop on ePhyto Innovations and Implementation in the Philippines,” was organized under the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)-funded project, “Strengthening Phytosanitary Compliance and Public-Private Partnerships to Boost Seed Trade in the Asia-Pacific Region.”

The project is implemented by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI), in collaboration with its technical implementing partners: Asia and Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA), International Seed Federation (ISF), American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), and CropLife Asia (CLA).

The workshop provided critical “last-mile” support to ensure that Plant Quarantine Officers and Inspectors from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI)—both Regional and Central Offices—along with ICT staff involved in ePhyto operations, exporters of regulated plant commodities, are fully equipped to use the national ePhyto system in day-to-day operations.

APAARI sincerely acknowledges the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) for spearheading this initiative and for fostering a strong collaborative partnership with APAARI for the effective implementation of the program.

The three-day program, conducted in both English and the local language, covered:

• An overview of the global ePhyto initiative, the IPPC Hub, and national implementation milestones
• A step-by-step guide on using the ePhyto Web Application (intercommerce.com.ph)
• Defined roles and responsibilities of BPI officers, exporters, and other stakeholders in the application, review, and approval processes
• Handling common system issues, error resolution, and support protocols
• Ensure data integrity, user authentication, and compliance with phytosanitary standards
• Processes for ePhyto exchange through ASEAN Single Window (ASW), the IPPC Hub, and Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES)
• Stakeholder feedback for user interface (UI) improvements and system upgrades

Dr. Rose Souza Richards, Phytosanitary Affairs Manager, International Seed Federation enriched the program through her session on “ePhyto Implementation in Practice: Operational Changes, Pathways, and Lessons Learned,” expressing her appreciation and enthusiasm for supporting the project.

The programme engaged officers and inspectors of the Bureau of Plant Industry, with 32 representatives participating, bringing the total number of participants in that session to 36. It also convened 38 exporters from across the Philippines in one session, with a total participation of 48, and continued with 35 exporters in the final session, reaching a total of 43 participants. Each session also included four participants who joined virtually.

The Philippines continues to position itself as one of ASEAN’s leading adopters of digital phytosanitary certification. Through this STDF-supported initiative, the country is expected to further accelerate regional trade facilitation and strengthen phytosanitary compliance across the Asia-Pacific region.

About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership that facilitates safe and inclusive trade. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), which houses and manages the partnership.  In support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF responds to evolving SPS needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and resilience to climate change.

About the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)

Founded in 1990 by the FAO, the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is a membership-based, apolitical, and multi-stakeholder organization that promotes agricultural research and innovation across 21 countries of the Asia-Pacific region. APAARI unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centers, regional and sub-regional for a, universities, NGOs, and private-sector actors from 33 countries. Its mission is to strengthen agri-food research and innovation systems for sustainable development and food security in the region.

Siem Reap, Cambodia – September 19, 2025 – A two-day workshop on policy dialogue for developing a third-party laboratory accreditation program was held in Siem Reap, Cambodia, from September 18–19, 2025, organized by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI).

The event, organized under the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)-funded project “Strengthening Phytosanitary Compliance to Boost Seed Trade in the Asia-Pacific”, brought together experts from the National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) of the participating countries—Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, the Philippines, and Viet Nam—along with representatives from STDF, private sector organizations such as East-West Seed, the Australian Seed Potato Industry Certification Authority (AUSPICA), and the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII). The workshop also engaged project implementing partners, including the International Seed Federation (ISF), American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), Asia and Pacific Seed Alliance (APSA), and CropLife Asia.

The workshop provided a platform for dialogue on how governments and the private sector can work together to implement International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 45 (ISPM 45), which sets out the framework for authorizing third-party laboratories to conduct phytosanitary testing. Participants discussed the benefits of third-party accreditation, implementation challenges and opportunities, shared experiences, and explored roadmaps to strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) in implementing ISPM 45 to support safer and more efficient seed trade in the region.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Dr. Hean Vanhan, Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), Cambodia, stated:

“It is a pleasure for Cambodia to host this event. Through this project, Cambodia has had the opportunity to strengthen our phytosanitary systems, build the capacity of our technical teams, and learn from our neighbors.”

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the “Seed Portal Prototype” by Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director of APAARI, which provides users with easy access to the latest information on phytosanitary regulations in Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam.

While explaining the features of the portal, Dr. Shivendra Bajaj from APSA stated:

“We want this portal to be the go-to platform not just for traders, but also for NPPOs of other countries who want to access information on policies and regulations.”

Representatives of the NPPOs expressed their gratitude to APAARI, STDF, ISF, and all technical partners for organizing this workshop and highlighted the key takeaways.

Ms. Jessa Blesilda G. Antero, NPQSD, BPI, Philippines, representing NPPOs, stated:

“The key takeaway of the workshop is to understand the critical importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement in building a transparent, credible, and sustainable regulatory framework to implement ISPM 45.”

The workshop concluded with a strong commitment from all NPPOs to continue strengthening collaboration with private sector stakeholders and technical partners, recognizing the importance of public–private partnerships. Moving forward, the project partners will focus on addressing current legislative and technical challenges in the implementation of ISPM 45 within their respective countries.

About the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF)

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership that facilitates safe and inclusive trade. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO),which houses and manages the partnership.  In support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the STDF responds to evolving SPS needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and resilience to climate change.

About the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)

Founded in 1990 by the FAO, the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is a membership-based, apolitical, and multi-stakeholder organization that promotes agricultural research and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region. APAARI unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centres, universities, NGOs, and private-sector actors from 33 countries. Its mission is to strengthen agri-food research and innovation systems for sustainable development and food security in the region.

Dates: 8th and 9th December 2024
Venue: Seminar Room, Entomology Division, BARI, Gazipur, Bangladesh
Time: 10:00 AM BDT

The workshops were held on two consecutive days addressing the  critical aspects of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Information Management System (SPS IMS) and biopesticides, focusing on trade facilitation, environmental sustainability, and market access. Organized with participation from government officials, academia, researchers, private sector stakeholders and farmers, the events highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regulatory challenges and promoting innovative solutions for agricultural trade and sustainability.

Day 1: Workshop on SPS IMS

The first day centered on the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Information Management System (SPS IMS), which serves as a platform for improving market access and fostering scientific learning.

Key Highlights

1. Introduction to SPS IMS Web Portal

• APAARI gave an introduction to the SPS IMS web portal emphasizing its role in accessing the information to SPS regulations, Export/Import guideline, and trade facilitation Participants provided feedback on usability, accessibility, and relevance for stakeholders.

3. Integration with National and International Systems

• Suggestions were made to link the SPS IMS portal with the Ministry of Commerce’s Bangladesh Trade Portal, supported by the World Bank’s BRCP1 project.

4. Private Sector and Exporter Engagement

• Discussions included pesticide residues, trade barriers, and export challenges. Key recommendations were:
  • Export/Import guidelines
  • Reexport registration guidelines and procedure
  • List of banned pesticides can be provided

4. Academia’s Role and Portal Enhancements

• Representatives from BARI, BRRI, SAU, and BSMRAU explored opportunities for research, policy alignment, and portal improvements.
• Suggestions included pest alerts, training materials, and interactive features to enhance user engagement.

The day concluded with actionable insights into strengthening trade capacities and fostering a robust regulatory framework for SPS measures.

Day 2: Workshop on Biopesticides

The second day focused on biopesticides as sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides, addressing their development, regulation, and adoption.

Key Highlights

1. Opening Remarks

• APAARI and other senior officials emphasized the environmental and trade benefits of biopesticides.

2. Research and Innovation

• Present status on local isolates (Metarhizium anisopliae, Beauveria bassiana), pheromone-based solutions, and advancements in biopesticide technologies were shared.
• Stakeholders noted a decline in chemical pesticide use and a rise in pheromone lure applications.

3. Regulatory and Market Challenges

• Private companies like Russell IPM, Ispahani Agro, and Apex Biofertilizers discussed hurdles in registration processes and scaling production.
• Recommendations included revising registration policies to allow local strain inclusion and streamlining approval protocols.

4. Extension and Collaboration

• BRRI and development partners stressed environmentally friendly alternatives for rice and called for international collaboration.
• A proposal to create a Community of Practice on biopesticides specific to Bangladesh was welcomed.

5. Awareness and Training

• Farmers and exporters emphasized the need for training on pesticide-free vegetable production, harvesting techniques, and export readiness.

Conclusion and Way Forward

The two-day workshops underscored the shared vision of promoting SPS IMS web portal, improving trade capacities, and addressing regulatory gaps. Key action points included:

• Strengthening the SPS IMS portal for better accessibility with focus on using it as a learning platform.
• Enhancing biopesticide adoption through collaborative research, streamlined registration, and capacity-building initiatives.
• APAARI’s leadership in fostering collaboration by facilitating these discussions for establishment of a Community of Practice (CoP) for biopesticides in Bangladesh.

 Key Speakers:

Dr. K S Varaprasad, APAARI, Thailand
Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director, APAARI
Dr. Nirmal Kumar Dutta, CSO & Head, Entomology Division, BARI
Dr. Mohammad Ataur Rahman, Director (T & C), BARI
Dr. Munshi Rashid Ahmad, Director (Research), BARI, Chief guist for day 1
Mr. S.M.Suhrab Uddin, Director DAE, Chief Guest for day 2
Dr. Md. Dalower Hossain Prodhan, Entamalogy Division, BARI
Dr. Md. Kafiluddin, Entamalogy Division, BARI
Dr. Malvika Chaudhary , CABI
Dr. Manju Thakur, CABI
Micheal J Parr, Land-o-lakes, USA
Dr. Ahsan Ullah, APAARI, Bangladesh
Dr. Md Asadullah, APAARI, Bangladesh

About Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)

APAARI, established by FAO in 1990, is a membership-based organization promoting agricultural research and innovation in the Asia-Pacific region. It unites National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), international research centres, universities, NGOs, and the private sector, with 80 member organizations, including 22 core member countries. APAARI’s mission is to strengthen agri-food research systems through partnerships, capacity building, and advocacy for sustainable agriculture. Its work focuses on four themes: Natural Resource Management, Risk Mitigation, Inclusive Development, and Policy Advocacy. The current conference aligns with these themes, emphasizing plant health research and management.

About Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI)

BARI (Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute) is the largest multi- crop research institute conducting research on a wide variety of crops, such as cereals, tubers, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, spices, flowers, etc. Besides variety development, this institute carries out research on such areas as soil and crop management, disease and insect management, water management and irrigation, development of farm machinery, improvement of cropping and farming system management, post-harvest handling and processing, and socio-economic studies related to production, processing, marketing and consumption. Since inception, BARI has been successfully contributing agricultural production by evolving technologies that are suitable for the country’s climate and appropriate for the farmer’s condition.  BARI has so far developed a total of 1345 technologies of which 673 are improved crop varieties (commodity) and 672 technologies on different non-commodity areas