The 2024 WAFI conference held in Pinggu, Beijing, from Oct. 11-12. [photo provided to China.org.cn]

The 2024 World AgriFood Innovation (WAFI) Conference kicked off in Pinggu district, northeast Beijing, on October 11.

With the theme "Climate Change & Agrifood Systems Transformation," the 2-day global agricultural event gathered over 800 scientists, university presidents, educators, entrepreneurs and youth representatives from 76 countries and regions.

At the opening ceremony of the 2024 WAFI conference held in Pinggu, Beijing, from Oct. 11-12. [photo provided to China.org.cn]

As the world is facing challenges due to climate change, the transformation of agrifood systems has become a top priority. The conference aimed to explore new strategies and solutions for a more resilient, sustainable agrifood systems adaptive to the impacts of climate change, by promoting innovations in the transformation of global agrifood systems, fostering deep interaction and enhancing international exchange and cooperation.

A foreign attendee (R) of the 2024 WAFI conference visits an agricultural drone at the World AgriFood Technology Expo, in Pingu, Beijing, October 11. [photo by Guo Xiaohong]

On the sideline of the conference, the 2024 World AgriFood Technology Expo was also held in Pinggu, which showcased the latest achievements, key projects, cutting-edge technologies and innovative products in global agrifood sector. The expo provided a premium platform for global agricultural science and technology exhibition, sharing, investment promotion, and cooperation negotiations.

The conference was hosted by the Beijing WAFI Center and organized by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China Agricultural University, Pinggu district government and the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

People visit a food stand of chestnuts, sweet potatoes and tea at the World AgriFood Technology Expo, in Pingu, Beijing, October 11. [photo by Guo Xiaohong]