The modernisation of the International Vegetable Genebank aligns with Taiwan’s commitment to global food security and sustainable agriculture
The World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg) held the inauguration ceremony of the modernised International Vegetable Genebank in Tainan, Taiwan, marking a significant milestone for one of the world’s most important vegetable genetic resource repositories.
The event was attended by Taiwan’s Minister of Agriculture, Chen Junne-jih, the Executive Director of the Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust), Stefan Schmitz, representatives from Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, agricultural research institutions, private sector leaders, and distinguished guests from South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Eswatini. Together, they witnessed the official reopening of the upgraded gene bank. The Minister of Agriculture stated, “The modernisation of the International Vegetable Genebank aligns with Taiwan’s commitment to global food security and sustainable agriculture. By preserving and sharing vital vegetable genetic resources, we are empowering future generations with the tools to combat climate change, enhance nutrition, and ensure resilient food systems worldwide.,” Crop Trust Executive Director Stefan Schmitz emphasised, “The International Vegetable Genebank plays a critical role in securing the future of vegetable diversity. With this modernisation, WorldVeg is ensuring that these invaluable genetic resources remain accessible to breeders, scientists, and farmers who rely on them to build climate-resilient and productive food systems.”
