Session 1: Breeding and Biotech Applications

– Genetics and Breeding: Discussing the latest advancements in acacia breeding to develop improved varieties with desirable traits.

– Biotechnology Applications: Exploring the potential of biotechnology for enhancing acacia growth, productivity, and disease resistance.

– Alternative species: Discuss potential and difficulties of other species to replace acacia industrial plantation forestry in Southeast Asia

Session 2: Silviculture and Sustainable Management

– Forest Management Practices: Discussing sustainable planting and management practices, harvesting methods, and biodiversity conservation.

– Biosecurity: Discussing recent advances in the management of major pests and diseases in acacia plantations, emerging pests and diseases, AI/App support in pest and disease management.

– Impact of Climate Change: Assessing the effects of climate change on acacia growth, productivity, and disease resistance.

– Ecosystem Sustainability: Addressing Invasive Issues, Biodiversity, and Soil Health

Session 3: Forest Products, Value Chains and Market Opportunities

– Wood utilization and processing: Highlight practices and technologies to improve efficiency and product quality in harvesting and processing acacia wood.

– Value-added products and value chains: Explore opportunities for high-value products and stronger linkages across domestic and international markets.

– Forest certification and carbon credits: Discuss certification systems and the role of acacia plantations in carbon sequestration and carbon trading.

– Sustainability and policy implications: Address key sustainability issues and policy directions for acacia development under climate change.

Forest Industry Forum on bridging the gap between research and industry, and facilitating global knowledge sharing

– Community Development: Discussing the social and economic benefits of acacia plantations for local communities.

– Knowledge Gaps: Identifying critical research needs to advance the acacia industry, increasing accessibility to technological advances of small holder.

– Value Chain Development: Promoting value-added processing and diversification of acacia products to increase economic benefits.