FAO launches new science and innovation network to transform agrifood systems in Asia-Pacific
In the Asia-Pacific, 22 countries have identified 20 Special Agricultural Products (SAPs). These products are often overlooked compared to staple crops but are important for food security and healthy diets
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says that making agrifood systems more sustainable needs better coordination across different policy levels, especially to ensure food security and livelihoods in the Asia-Pacific region.
This was shared at the second meeting of the One Country One Product (OCOP) group in China, says a press release from the FAO.
In the Asia-Pacific, 22 countries have identified 20 Special Agricultural Products (SAPs). These products are often overlooked compared to staple crops but are important for food security and healthy diets.
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They also have the potential to be part of larger markets and value chains both locally and internationally.
"By focusing on science and innovation, this new network will help countries get the most out of their unique agricultural products," said Jong-Jin Kim, FAO Assistant Director-General for Asia and the Pacific.
This will create opportunities for sustainable agriculture, food security, and inclusive growth through SAPs that are both culturally important and suited to the environment.
The network will work with top institutions, like the Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research in China and the Institute of Nutrition at Mahidol University in Thailand.
These partnerships will use methods like the Geographical Indications, Environment, and Sustainability (GIES) approach to track product origins, monitor environmental impacts, and improve the nutrition of SAP-based foods.
The FAO will continue to focus on small farmers, rural communities, and underrepresented groups. It aims to create more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems through better production, processing, and market access.
In September 2024, the FAO will host a training workshop in Beijing to help countries apply these methods to their own agricultural sectors.
Participants will also showcase their SAP products at an international trade fair in China. This effort supports FAO's goal of achieving better production, nutrition, environment, and life for all.
