Agricultural experts discuss building resilience in global agri-food systems

BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) -- Agricultural experts convened at China Agricultural University (CAU) on Sunday to discuss strategies for enhancing global food security and promoting sustainable agri-food systems.

More than 100 participants engaged in discussions under the theme "Building Resilience in Global Agri-Food Systems," as part of the lead-up to the 2025 World Agrifood Innovation Conference (WAFI), scheduled to be held in Beijing from Oct. 12 to 15.

Fan Shenggen, dean of the Academy of Global Food Economics and Policy at the university, said that the global food system is facing mounting pressure from climate change, geopolitical conflicts and trade tensions. These challenges, he noted, are reshaping the global food security landscape.

Sun Qixin, president of CAU, underscored the urgency of transitioning to more sustainable agri-food systems amid growing climate uncertainties. He also shared updates on preparations for the upcoming WAFI conference, emphasizing that it will continue to serve as a platform for international collaboration and the exchange of knowledge.

Johan Swinnen, director general of the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), highlighted key milestones from IFPRI's 50 years of work in global food policy research. He said the global food system is undergoing structural changes that require a re-evaluation of the investment framework and policy design.

Swinnen praised WAFI for its role in fostering international dialogue on agriculture and reaffirmed IFPRI's commitment to working with institutions like CAU on areas such as agricultural policy, nutrition and climate resilience.

Despite complex global dynamics, Swinnen noted that shared interests in food security and agricultural development remain strong, particularly in South-South cooperation, technology sharing and regional policy coordination. He called for strengthened multilateral collaboration.

Speaking on China-Africa agricultural cooperation, Sun said that the partnership remains a priority, with a strong focus on agricultural education and technology transfer. He urged encouraging more African students to pursue studies in China, where they can gain both academic knowledge and hands-on experience through work on demonstration farms and exposure to policy frameworks. China, he added, will continue to support technology transfer and capacity-building initiatives to boost agricultural productivity and governance across the continent.

The 2025 WAFI will include an opening ceremony, plenary sessions, thematic forums, side events, innovation demonstrations and an expo. Organizers say the event aims to foster cross-sector collaboration among governments, industries, academia and research institutions to support a more resilient, healthy and sustainable global food future. ■