From September 11 to 13, 2024, the Tropical Crop Germplasm Resources Academic Conference was held in Haikou. The event brought together experts and researchers from various provinces across China’s tropical regions to discuss advancements in the protection and technological innovation of tropical crop germplasm resources and to exchange academic ideas.

The conference focused on the collection, preservation, identification, evaluation, and innovative utilization of tropical crop germplasm resources. It featured keynote academic presentations by three leading experts in the field. In addition, nine domestic experts participated in discussions on topics related to germplasm collection, preservation, identification, evaluation, and innovative applications, as well as their role in supporting rural revitalization in tropical regions.

Prof. Zhang Peng from the Shanghai Cassava Biotechnology Center was invited to attend the conference and delivered a special presentation titled "Starch Synthesis and Regulatory Mechanisms in Root Crops," where he shared his latest findings in the field of root crop research.