The MARA-CABI Joint Laboratory for Biosafety, based at the Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IPPCAAS), was honoured to welcome a delegation from New Zealand led by Hon. Dr Shane Reti, Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology.
This visit is based on the long-term collaborative research between CABI and New Zealand on invasive pests such as the brown marmorated stink bug and marked a significant step forward in advancing bilateral cooperation in agricultural science, particularly in the areas of plant protection and biosecurity.
During the visit, Dr Jinping Zhang, Senior Project Scientist at CABI, presented a comprehensive report detailing the latest research progress on integrated control technologies for the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys). Dr Jinping Zhang also invited New Zealand Minister Reti to rejoin CABI as a Member Country, underscoring the importance of sustained international collaboration to address global pest management challenges.
Effectiveness of the collaborative research
Following the presentation, Minister Reti toured the Joint Laboratory’s research facilities, where he observed cutting-edge artificial rearing techniques for natural enemies of the brown marmorated stink bug. These demonstrations highlighted the effectiveness of the collaborative research conducted between the Joint Laboratory and New Zealand (New Zealand’s Bioeconomy Science Institute and Zespri) showcasing the tangible outcomes of cross-border scientific partnerships.
The delegation was warmly received by Ms Zhai Lin, Deputy Director-General of the International Cooperation Department of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Dr Zhang Jie, Vice Director of the Institute of Plant Protection (IPPCAAS), and Dr Tian Fang, Deputy Director of the Exchange and Cooperation Division.
Commended the long-standing scientific relationship
Hon. Dr Shane Reti Minister Dr Shane Reti sees the brown marmorated stink and nature enemy rearing system. From left to right, Dr Zhang Jie, Hon. Dr Shane Reti, Dr Jonathan Austin, and Dr Jinping Zhang.
Minister Reti commended the long-standing scientific relationship between China and New Zealand, particularly in the field of plant biosecurity.
Minister Reti said, “Agriculture is at the heart of New Zealand’s economy, and strong biosecurity keeps it safe. It was awesome to see first-hand some of the work being done with New Zealand’s Bioeconomy Science Institute and Lincoln University to better understand and protect us from biosecurity threats like stink bugs.
“Although stink bugs are not present in New Zealand, the brown marmorated stink bug has been regularly intercepted at our border. Since 2018, New Zealand and Chinese researchers have been working together to study them and develop biocontrol strategies. New Zealand greatly values this partnership, and I can see how important it is for fostering trust and achieving groundbreaking scientific results over time.”
The visit reinforces a shared commitment to advancing biological control, biosecurity innovation, and building a stronger global research network in agricultural science and technology.
Additional information
Main image: The delegation from New Zealand during the visit to the MARA-CABI Joint Laboratory for Biosafety.
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