Research and innovation drive new approaches to address Fusarium TR4 spread

19 March 2025, Rome.Innovation and technology were at the forefront of the knowledge-sharing session on Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4) held at the sidelines of the Nineteenth Session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM-19).

The session, titled “Innovative research and tools to prevent and contain Fusarium TR4 spread”, showcased new preparedness tools such as the virtual 3D simulation room in Fusarium TR4 response which is being hosted by the Organismo Internacional Regional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (OIRSA). Innovative research was also shared including point-of-care molecular detection in the field, new control measures and resistant breeding.

“Science and innovation are necessary to combat plant pests such as Fusarium TR4”, said FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol during the session opening. “We need up-to-date data and science-based evidence, the latest technological tools, and innovative approaches that national plant protection organizations (NPPOs) can adopt”, she added.

“Science and innovation can be a powerful engine to transform agrifood systems to nourish people, nurture the planet, advance equitable livelihoods, build resilient ecosystems and promote safe trade,” she noted.

Coordination, collaboration and sharing knowledge and resources on TR4 preparedness and response are vital in transforming agrifood systems and in developing the capacity of FAO member states. As One FAO, all Fusarium TR4 activities that have been completed or are planned were presented. The presentation identified challenges with resource mobilization and need for greater collaboration.

“Innovation is needed not only in terms of technology and tools but can also be in the way we work collaboratively”, said Vincent Martin, Director of FAO Office of Innovation.

“For example, use of public-private partnerships to improve how we share knowledge and resources between government institutions and private sector – such as today’s side session on TR4 – can effectively and efficiently respond to and manage pest outbreaks in a timely manner”, he added.

FAO Mesoamerica shared innovative approaches on TR4 activities in Latin America and the Caribbean region, while the Kenya NPPO shared its experience in conducting simulation exercise and how Phytosanitary Capacity Evaluation has strengthened its response capacity.

The side session on Fusarium TR4, organized by IPPC Secretariat, follows the knowledge-sharing session at the CPM Eighteenth Session in 2024 where various countries shared their preparedness and/or response activities. Given the strong interest and attendance then, the CPM Bureau requested a follow-up session at CPM-19 to focus on innovation in research, prevention and containment tools for Fusarium TR4. These activities are in response to CPM-17’s request that the IPPC Secretariat coordinate global action on the increasing threat of Fusarium TR4 to global banana production.

Concluding the session, Martin noted that knowledge-sharing activities such as today’s session is a good start to increased collaboration and synergy among FAO divisions in their efforts towards Fusarium TR4 prevention and preparedness.

A webcast recording of the session can be viewed here.

Related information:

• CPM-19 side session: Innovative research and tools to prevent and contain Fusarium TR4 spread
• IPPC Global coordination response on Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4)
• Guide: Prevention, preparedness and response guidelines for Fusarium Tropical Race 4 (TR4) of banana (English and French)