On September 9 and 10, a workshop took place, bringing together prominent experts from the University of Florida, the Agricultural Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA ARS), the Citrus Research and Development Foundation, Plant Biotechnology Consulting & Research - Venganza 2.0, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and FONTAGRO. This event focused on the challenge of HLB (Huanglongbing or Citrus Greening), an escalating problem affecting citrus production in the region.

The main objectives of the workshop were:

- To identify applied research needs that address HLB and its implications for agricultural production.

- To evaluate technical and policy options that enable an effective response to this threat.

- To define collaborative efforts to strengthen citrus health systems in Latin American and Caribbean countries, promoting a comprehensive and coordinated approach.

The first day of the workshop was dedicated to early detection and vector management, where innovative strategies and best practices for identifying and controlling HLB and its vector were discussed.

The second day focused on genetic resistance, regional collaboration, and resource mobilization. Advances in tolerant and resistant varieties were addressed, as well as the importance of collaboration among different stakeholders to mobilize resources and ensure the strengthening of the region's citrus systems. Panelists shared experiences and discussed the role of public and private networks in innovation and sustainability.

This event has opened a channel for dialogue that will enable the consolidation of initiatives and progress in applied research in the region, vital for tackling HLB. You can view the recordings of this event at:

Day 1 - Day 2