Global Leaders in Wheat Science Gather at the 2024 International Wheat Congress in Perth, Australia

Perth, Australia, 01/10/2024 –The International Wheat Congress (IWC) 2024 co-organised the Wheat Initiative took place from September 22–27, 2024, in Perth, Western Australia, Australia. The aim was to bring global experts in wheat research, industry, and policy together to address the future of sustainable wheat production, and food security. The 2024 IWC saw over 900 delegates, including scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and students from more than 50 countries.

This prominent event, held every two years, was organised by the International Wheat Initiative (WI) in partnership with Murdoch University and the Grains Research & Development Corporation (GRDC).

"This International Wheat Congress in Perth is a great success, as it met the aim of the Wheat Initiative, to unite, exchange knowledge, and cultivate collaborations to ensure the resilience and productive future for wheat which is critical for global food security," said Frank Ordon, Chair of the WI Research Committee and President of the Julius Kuehn Institute, the Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants in Germany.

The presentations and discussions at the congress highlighted the latest research and innovations in wheat science, from crop improvement and disease resistance management to advanced breeding techniques and climate adaptation.

Key Themes at IWC 2024:
- Wheat in the light of Sustainability and Climate Change: Addressing the development of climate-smart wheat in the context of abiotic stresses and the critical challenges of global warming.

- Wheat Genomics and Breeding: Exploring wheat’s diversity, evolution and genetic reservoirs
- Wheat to ensure Food Security and Nutrition: Ensuring sustainable wheat production through innovations in agronomy, crop management and digital agriculture.

- Capacity Building and a new generation of Scientists: highlighting the support and advancements for young researchers to be part of vibrant wheat research community to help improve wheat for a food secure future.

IWC 2024 delegates participated in networking events and field tours, highlighting advanced wheat research and sustainable agriculture innovations. The event provided a platform for young scientists to present their work and connect with experts in the field and the Wheat Initiative was pleased to be able to support the attendance of over 50 early career researchers.

For more information on the International Wheat Congress, please visit https://www.wheatinitiative.org/international-wheat-congress

For media inquiries, please contact: WHEAT INITIATIVE (wheat.initiative(a)julius-kuehn.de)

Programme Manager: Teresa Saavedra

Web: www.wheatinitiative.org