WAFI 2025 kicks off in Beijing

The 2025 World Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Conference (WAFI) kicked off on October 13 in Pinggu, Beijing, with the theme "Resilient Food Supply for AgriFood Systems Transformation."

The opening ceremony of the WAFI 2025. [photo provided to China.org.cn]

The conference gathered nearly 800 guests from 94 countries and regions, including renowned scientists, university presidents, educators, entrepreneurs, and outstanding young representatives in the agricultural sector. They shared the latest achievements in agricultural technology and delved into measures to address challenge the agri-food system faces.

"Across the world, there are still many regions that do not have access to sufficient food supplies," said President Sun Qixin of China Agricultural University at the opening ceremony. He emphasized that climate change, geopolitical conflicts, as well as pest diseases, soil degradation, and water scarcity pose significant challenges to agricultural food systems, which require global collaboration to address.

He stated that WAFI is dedicated to spearheading cutting-edge innovation to accelerate the global transformation of agricultural systems. The organization's strategy for maximizing impact centers on fostering international dialogue, consolidating worldwide expertise, and maintaining long-term industry-academia partnerships.

During his opening address, Kenneth M. Quinn, President Emeritus of the World Food Prize Foundation, identified three foundational pillars for a sustainable agricultural future: innovation, infrastructure, and inspiration. 

Boasting more than 40 parallel sessions, the WAFI 2025 is designed to advance dialogue on international collaboration. The agenda encompasses core areas such as agricultural technology, trade, investment, policy, and sustainable development, alongside forward-looking topics including novel proteins, AI-driven agriculture, climate change, and smart breeding practices.

The WAFI has become a landmark event that addresses the pressing challenges in global agri-food systems, particularly in the context of climate change, since its launch in 2023. It is organized by China Agricultural University, the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the local government of Beijing's Pinggu district and the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research.