The Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) is delighted to welcome Dr. Bosibori Bett, Director of Multilateral and Strategic Partnerships at the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), as an Ex-Officio member of the APAARI Executive Committee.

Dr. Bett succeeds Professor Lindsay Falvey, who graciously represented ACIAR during his tenure as APAARI’s Chair of the Executive Committee. On behalf of APAARI, we extend our sincere appreciation to Professor Falvey for his leadership and invaluable contributions.

Dr. Bett brings extensive experience in agricultural research, partnerships, and capacity development across the Indo-Pacific. At ACIAR, she leads Australia’s investments in multilateral research organizations, enhancing global and regional collaborations through strategic partnerships. She has previously served with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), and the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO). She holds a PhD in Biotechnology (Agriculture) from the Queensland University of Technology, Australia.

In welcoming Dr. Bett, APAARI’s Executive Director, Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, expressed confidence that her expertise and dedication will further strengthen APAARI’s mission of advancing agri-food research and innovation systems in the Asia-Pacific region.

We also gratefully acknowledge the continued commitment of ACIAR, under the leadership of Prof. Wendy Umberger, CEO, in advancing APAARI’s long-standing partnership. APAARI looks forward to working closely with Dr. Bett and ACIAR to drive sustainable agricultural research and innovation across the region.

Understanding APAARI’s Role in Scaling

“Many of our colleagues in national systems are already engaged in scaling activities — but they often don’t recognize it as ‘scaling.’”
— Dr. Sartas, Chief Scaling and Impact Officer, APAARI

APAARI plays a critical role in supporting agricultural transformation at the grassroots level by working closely with national agricultural systems, ministries, and partners who are driving implementation on the ground.

As Dr. Sartas explains, one of the early insights was that national actors are already engaged in various forms of scaling — but often under different labels such as dissemination, engagement, or extension. These are all vital components of scaling. However, without recognizing and framing them as scaling, institutions miss opportunities to attract investment, strengthen systems, and showcase their impact.

Strengthening Scaling Management Capabilities

APAARI focuses on working with existing national institutions rather than creating parallel structures. Many national organizations are already mandated to support scaling; the key is to strengthen their capacity to do so strategically.

Through targeted consultations and surveys, APAARI identified the first key demand from national systems: Strengthening scaling management capabilities.

Many countries are developing multiple innovations, but the real challenge lies in identifying which innovations work best for their specific contexts. Scaling management helps navigate this complexity.

APAARI supports national partners to:

• Analyze their innovation portfolios through a scaling lens
• Recognize existing scaling activities, even if fragmented
• Apply global approaches such as:

The Scaling Readiness framework developed by CGIAR

FAO’s Science, Technology and Innovation Portal

This helps organizations systematically operationalize scaling and align their innovations with national and regional priorities.

Measuring Scaling: Smarter and Faster

Measurement is often perceived as one of the toughest parts of scaling, especially in complex systems. However, with advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital tools, measuring scaling has become faster, smarter, and more cost-effective.

APAARI works with national systems to:

• Introduce suitable indicators and measurement tools
• Enable real-time tracking of scaling progress
• Diagnose underlying reasons for progress or stagnation
• Strengthen data systems for better decision-making

By demystifying measurement, APAARI empowers national institutions to manage scaling with greater confidence and precision.

Beyond Technology: AI as a Tool for Transformation

Across the region, Artificial Intelligence is gaining momentum in agriculture. Yet, it’s often viewed merely as a technology to be developed. APAARI takes a different perspective: the real impact comes not from developing AI, but from effectively using it in the system.

For many low- and middle-income countries, resources are limited. When AI funding becomes available, countries often focus on developing new technologies. While valuable, this may not always yield the highest impact. Instead, integrating AI into existing workflows — in ministries, research systems, and agricultural businesses — offers more immediate and sustainable benefits.

Countries like China, India, and Malaysia are already advancing AI development, which is commendable. But the true potential lies in adoption and practical use across systems.

APAARI collaborates with ministries and its own organizational colleagues to:

• Understand existing workflows (who does what, how knowledge flows, and how funding moves)
• Identify operational gaps and pain points
• Match AI capabilities to specific workflow needs

This approach is what we refer to as “building human-elevating AI capabilities.”

Adaptability: The Real Challenge of AI Integration

While the promise of AI in agriculture is immense, adaptability remains the most challenging part of system transformation.

Integrating AI into national agricultural systems involves more than technical installation. It requires:

• Institutional readiness — Structures and leadership commitment
• Capacity building — training staff to understand and apply AI tools confidently
• Cultural change — shifting organizational mindsets to embrace data-driven decision-making
• Sustainability planning — ensuring tools can be maintained and adapted over time

Many AI solutions fail to generate benefit at scale not because the technology is weak, but because institutions are not strategic enough to deploy the technologies based on the strength and weaknesses of their existing systems and human and financial resources. 

APAARI’s focus is to bridge this gap by working from within organizational and national system workflows, identifying what can realistically be adopted, and building step-by-step pathways for integration. This human-centered, adaptive approach ensures that AI does not remain a high-level concept but becomes a practical tool that improves efficiency, transparency, and impact.

———————————————————————————————————————————-

Written By : Ms. Darshika P. Senadheera, Communication officer, APAARI
Dr. Murat Sartas, Chief Scaling & Impact Officer, APAARI

The Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) and the Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust) have expressed a shared interest in exploring a strategic partnership aimed at advancing their mutual goals and strengthening agri-food systems globally. Collaboration will generate mutual benefits and contribute to the achievement of their respective programmes and long-term objectives.

Both organizations already maintain strong collaborative linkages with regional and international bodies, non-governmental organizations, research institutions and universities worldwide. Building on these foundations, the APAARI and Crop Trust will seek to enhance their knowledge base and foster cooperation, knowledge exchange and innovation.

About 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.

About Crop Trust 

Crop Trust is a non-profit international organization dedicated to conserving crop diversity and making it available for use globally, forever, for the benefit of everyone. Crop Trust works with donors and partners to deliver global projects and resources that protect crop diversity, conserve wild relatives and develop technology to make this diversity accessible worldwide.

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

29 May 2025 | Lakeshore Grand Hotel, Dhaka, Bangladesh

The Consolidation and Closing Workshop of the USDA USAID-supported project on “Integrated Approach to Enhancing SPS Capacity in Bangladesh” was held on 29 May 2025 at the Lakeshore Grand Hotel, Dhaka. Implemented by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI), the initiative aimed to strengthen Bangladesh’s SPS compliance systems and boost safe agricultural trade.

This workshop marked the formal closure of the project, which is being concluded mid-implementation following a broader decision to halt ongoing projects. Despite this premature conclusion, the gathering served as a critical opportunity to reflect on achievements, acknowledge partnerships, and chart the way forward.

Opening Address

In his remarks, Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director of APAARI, expressed appreciation for the opportunity:

“We are very grateful to USDA and USAID  for enabling this initiative. Despite delays caused by political developments in Bangladesh and recent shifts in U.S. policy, several important achievements were realized. This workshop is not just a conclusion, but a point of consolidation to build on what has been achieved.”

He further emphasized the need to sustain momentum through continued engagement and leveraging the project outputs within existing systems.

National Stakeholder Reflections

Mr. Md. Abdur Rahim, Director, PQW, DAE, noted:

“Through this project, our Quarantine Wing undertook critical activities such as training on pest-free area establishment, inspection techniques, and launching the SPS web portal. These initiatives are actively contributing to Bangladesh’s development and export potential.”

Dr. Saleh Ahmed, Country Representative, CABI, commented:

“While the project may be closing, its activities must continue. Bangladesh is transitioning from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture and technological adoption. But challenges remain—climate change, population pressure, and limited infrastructure. We need collective action and fresh investment to strengthen SPS systems.”

Dr. Abdur Rashid, General Manager (Research Coordinator), Lal Teer, added:

“Some SPS and trade gaps have been addressed through this project, but there is a need to expand this work to cover a broader range of high-value horticultural crops.”

Mr. Asadullah, former Director General of DAE, highlighted the ongoing activities related to the SPS IMS web portal, which is maintained by the Plant Quarantine Wing (PQW) and ICT. Mr. Ahsan Ullah outlined the current challenges related to MRLs and trade. Both welcomed the audience.

Project Highlights

Dr. K.S. Varaprasad, Adviser – Biosecurity and Bioresources, APAARI, presented an overview of Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project. He also highlighted key initiatives, including:

• SPS IMS Web Portal for information management and regulatory support.
• Brief explanation on draft Biopesticide Registration Guidelines 
• Capacity-building for designated PQW officials.
• Stakeholder consultations on biopesticide regulations involving private sector and academia.
• Emphasis on production and application of local microbial strains
• Promotion of biopesticide adoption to meet SPS requirements
• Establishment of the Asia-Pacific Biopesticide Community of Practice (ABCOP) to foster regional collaboration and Community of practice for Public private partnership
• Linkage with the global EUPHRESCO III network for coordinated plant health strategies.
  

Panel Session: Insights from Experts

A dynamic panel discussion brought valuable insights from national and international experts:

Dr. Nirmal Kumar Dutta, CSO and Head of Entomology Division, BARI:
“It is important to prioritize the production and isolation of local microbial pesticides, as imported ones are often less effective in our local context.”

Mr. Md. Monjurul Islam, Advisor, BFVPEA:
“We urgently need modern technologies and enhanced R&D. Strengthening market access and agricultural diplomacy is essential to meet global export standards.”

Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Senior Evaluator, APVMA, Australia:
“National-level planning is vital—this includes aligning Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) with Codex standards, stakeholder engagement, data sharing, and regulatory harmonization. Training for farmers, regulators, and private stakeholders must be prioritized to promote sustainable trade.”

Mr. Md. Nure Alam Siddique, Deputy Director, Pesticide Administration, PPW, DAE:
“So far, we’ve registered 109 biopesticides which are helping farmers. We are committed to developing regulations that simplify biopesticide registration and promote safer practices.”

Dr. Amirul Bahrain, Assistant Director, PQW, DAE:
“Strengthening relationships between regulators and private industries is essential for effective governance and long-term economic sustainability.”

Way Forward

The workshop concluded with a productive Q&A session and a forward-looking discussion led by Dr. K.S. Varaprasad and Dr. Ravi Khetarpal.  Read more here

Conclusion 

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the SPS agenda and ensuring that the project’s outcomes continue to benefit Bangladesh’s agricultural trade. 

Acknowledgements

APAARI acknowledges the strong support and collaboration of:

• Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC)
• Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE)
• Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI)
• Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC)
• BSA
• Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University
• Lal Teer seed limited
• Ispahani Agro Ltd
• Russell IPM Bangladesh ltd
• Bangladesh Fruits, Vegetables & Allied Products Exporters’ Association (BFVAPEA)
• Centre for Agriculture & Bioscience International (CABI)
• Swisscontact
• Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)

Workshop Management Team:
Dr. Ravi Khetarpal, Executive Director, APAARI
Dr. K.S. Varaprasad, Adviser – Biosecurity and Bioresources, APAARI
Ms. Homaira Jahan Sonom, Technical Officer, APAARI
Ms. Sunandhini R, Consultant
Dr. Ahsan Ullah, SPS Technical Support – Bangladesh, APAARI
Dr. Md. Asadullah, Advisor (Government Relations – Bangladesh), APAARI
Ms. Darshika P. Senadheera, Communication Officer, APAARI
Ms. Sokharath Samnang, Executive Assistant, APAARI

The Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) and the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) have formally expressed their commitment to collaborate through a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening agricultural research, innovation, and rural development in the Asia-Pacific region.

This partnership builds on the shared vision and complementary strengths of both organizations. APAARI, an inter-governmental, membership-based, apolitical  and multi-stakeholder regional organization, is committed to transforming agri-food systems through innovation, knowledge exchange, and capacity development. 

Scope of Collaboration

Under this partnership, APAARI and CIRDAP agree to:

• Exchange knowledge and expertise on agricultural research, nutrition, development, and innovation for rural development
  
• Jointly identify and scope regional and inter-regional projects, especially those that empower women and youth in agri food systems
  
• Organize  consultations , conferences, workshops, and capacity development  programs of mutual interest.
  
• Explore synergies in key areas such as capacity building, policy advocacy, and knowledge sharing—particularly in nutrition-smart agriculture, biofortification, and sustainable innovation.
  

Shared Vision and Impact

This collaboration aims to pool resources and expertise to address critical challenges in agriculture and rural development, offering a platform for coordinated efforts that benefit member countries and beyond. Both organizations bring extensive experience and networks, including national agricultural research institutes, international research centers, development partners, and civil society organizations.

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, including 22 member countries. APAARI’s mission is to strengthen agri-food research systems through partnerships, capacity building, and advocacy for sustainable agriculture. 

About Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP)

CIRDAP, an inter-governmental and autonomous regional institution established in 1979, works through its network of 15 member countries to promote integrated rural development, with strong backing from governments and international development organizations.

This article explores the urgent challenge of food loss and waste(FLAW) in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting its impacts on food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development. It outlines major strategies, including FAO’s Five-Pillar Frame work and the APEC-endorsed Trujillo Principles, while showcasing successful policies from countries like Japan, China, Australia, and India. The piece also discusses technological innovations, cold chain infrastructure, circular economy models, and community-driven initiatives aimed at reducing FLAW. By promoting regional cooperation, data-driven policies, and sustainable practices, the Asia-Pacific region can build a resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart food system by 2030. Please click here to more