In order to further strengthen the agricultural technology exchange and cooperation between HAAFS, Australia and New Zealand in the field of fruit breeding, by the invitation of Western Australia University of Australia and the Plant and Food Research Institute of New Zealand, Vice Director WEI Hongxia led a delegation of five people to conduct a 6-day visit to Australia and New Zealand from November 23 to 28, 2025, laying a good foundation for further in-depth cooperation.

In Australia, the delegation visited the School of Molecular Sciences at the Western Australia University and the Murdoch University, conducting on-site inspections of molecular biology laboratories, intelligent orchards and other research platforms. Academic exchange meetings were held with experts such as Associate Professor Michael Considine, Dr. Sultan Mia, and Professor Rajeev Varshney, focusing on high-efficiency and labor-saving fruit tree shaping technology, as well as the exploration of target phenotype trait genes such as fruit tree disease resistance, dwarfism, and short branches, and the application of molecular breeding technology in fruit breeding. HAAFS has reached a cooperation intention and signed a memorandum of understanding on scientific and technological cooperation with the School of Molecular Sciences at Western Australia University in the research of fruit breeding, learning and introduction of advanced breeding technologies, expert exchanges, and resource sharing.

In the New Zealand, the delegation visited the headquarter of Plant and Food Research Institute and the Fruit Tree Breeding Research Center. They had discussions with Scientist Satish Kumar and Researcher YAO Jialong, focusing on cutting-edge breeding technologies and directions for apple, pear, and other fruit varieties. Both sides explored potential collaborations in the cultivation of environmentally friendly varieties, the development of a complete fruit industry chain model, intelligent orchard management, and technical personnel training.

This visit has opened up new cooperation between HAAFS, Australia and New Zealand in the field of fruit tree molecular breeding, and has played a positive role in promoting the improvement of fruit tree molecular breeding level and the development of intelligent and efficient orchard management technology.

（Source from www.hebnky.com）