Wisdom from our main man on the mainland

Welcome to part two of two of our “Seed For Thought,” featuring Dr. Zhang Mengyu, esteemed Past President and Honorary Lifetime Member of APSA. If you haven’t already, be sure to read part one in Quarter 2 issue of Asian Seed & Planting Material. In this follow-up and conclusion we are privileged to delve in to Dr. Zhang’s wisdom, advice, and analysis of future challenges and opportunities facing the seed industry. Tapping into his vast experience and deep understanding of the global seed industry, Dr. Zhang shares his insights on topics such as biotechnology, information technology, intellectual property protection, and the harmonization of plant quarantine and phytosanitary certificates. Additionally, Dr. Zhang shares his thoughts on the importance of continuous self-improvement, sincere collaboration, and maintaining an optimistic attitude.

Throughout my career in the seed industry, I have gained valuable skills and experiences that have enhanced my communication abilities and coordination capabilities with various stakeholders. These developments have significantly improved my efficiency in business and enabled me to excel in different positions at CNSGC, DuPont Pioneer China, and Syngenta China.

Working as Vice President and Secretary General of CNSTA from 2007 to 2010, I utilized the accumulated resources to strengthen communications and expand relations with international seed-related organizations such as APSA, ISF, UPOV, ISTA, and ASTA. This broadened the stage for CNSTA and the Chinese seed industry to engage in international collaborations. Additionally, as a board member of the Ornamental and Vegetable section and a committee member of the Plant Quarantine Committee in ISF, I actively contributed to these groups, providing valuable insights and comments.

Building on the experience of hosting ASC2005, I successfully applied for Beijing to host the World Seed Congress in 2014 (WSC2014) on behalf of CNSTA. I was appointed as the general consultant for WSC2014, further expanding my responsibilities and contributions to the seed industry. During my 13-year tenure as the China Seed Committee Chair and member of CropLife Asia (CLA), I played an active role in government-industry communication, policy advice and comments, and talent training for universities and institutes. These efforts contributed to establishing a favorable reputation for CLA in the industry.

Moreover, I have been invited to take on significant responsibilities in multiple seed and agricultural industry organizations, including serving as a board member of China Seed Association (CNSA), the China Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (CAPIAC), Vice President of Beijing Seeds Association (BSA), Vice President of China Vegetables Allied, and Honorary President of Beijing

Fengtai Seed Association.

From a global perspective, we are witnessing the rapid development of biotechnology and information technology in seed research. Developed countries like the United States, France, Germany, and others have effectively integrated these advancements (Biotech+Data) to propel crop breeding technology to the 4.0 generation. This has accelerated variety renewal in crops such as corn, soybeans, and vegetables, leading to increased market value and international seed trade globally. The contribution of seeds to agricultural production in these developed countries has surpassed 60%.

In the Asia-Pacific region, countries like China, India, Thailand, South Korea, and Japan are rapidly catching up with developed nations. APAC has emerged as a new engine driving the growth of market value and international seed trade. Some APAC countries have become seed production centers, playing a vital role in the global seed supply chain. APSA’s crucial role in the global seed industry as well as its commitment to sustainable development and food security underscores its significance.

In China, the seed industry has undergone a transition from a planned economy to a market economy. Currently, it is experiencing accelerated development in the fast lane, leading to a revitalization of the seed sector. Advancements in seed technology, the introduction of diverse and improved varieties, enhanced seed quality, and increased international seed trade all reflect the dynamism of China’s seed industry.

However, amidst this rapid growth, we must acknowledge the significant challenges that persist, including innovative resource sharing, breeding technology innovation, intellectual property protection, and efficient customs clearance for international seed trade. Development in the seed industry remains uneven across regions and countries, and achieving harmonization or coordination of plant quarantine and phytosanitary certificates remains a difficult task. Many APAC countries still lag behind in breeding technology, particularly in biotechnology, PVP technology, and enforcement, which limits original innovation and efficient market circulation of new varieties.

This has brought us new topics for APSA. Through full communication and coordination among APSA, national seed associations, and governments in APAC countries, we could leverage the functions of APSA’s professional technical committees or groups to fully communicate and negotiate laws, regulations, and policies on resource benefit sharing, PVP, and inspection and quarantine in cross-border seed trade, among others. By doing so, we can promote the healthy development of APAC’s seed import and export, benefiting both APAC and global agriculture, farmers, and consumers.

Following the consistent approach of my career, I am willing to share the following points:

Take every task seriously and do it well: Regardless of the job or personal preferences, it is essential to dedicate oneself and approach every task with diligence. Adopting the right attitude and focusing on details can determine the outcome and pave the way for success.

Continuously improve yourself: In a rapidly changing era, it is crucial to embrace continuous learning and self-improvement while excelling in one’s current role. Learning is a lifelong journey, and acquiring new knowledge and skills remains important. As an example, I pursued my EMBA 15 years after completing my undergraduate studies and obtained my Ph.D. when I was nearly 50 years old.

Treat people sincerely: Extend sincere help and support to others, especially young individuals, within the scope of your work. By doing so, you will build a network of support and create a cohesive team that strives towards common goals.

Always maintain an optimistic attitude: Regardless of the challenges or difficulties encountered, maintaining a positive and optimistic mindset can lead to finding solutions. A smile and a positive outlook can make a significant difference.

In my retirement, I eagerly anticipate having more free time to engage in activities I enjoy. Nevertheless, I will remain attentive to the development of the global seed industry, particularly in China and APAC, as well as the progress of APSA. I am grateful to APSA for granting me the distinction of Honorary Life Member. As China promotes the revitalization of the seed industry and establishes a new pattern of domestic and international “dual circulation,” I believe it will create fresh opportunities and momentum for the global seed industry. I am delighted that APSA will host another successful ASC in Sanya, China, after 19 years since ASC 2005. I warmly welcome APSA and friends from the international seed industry to actively participate in this event, where valuable experiences and insights will undoubtedly be gained. I wish APSA continuous progress and development.