From 18 to 31 May 2023, the Seminar on Technological Innovation and Standardization of Bamboo and Rattan for Developing Countries organized by the International Centre for Bamboo and Rattan (ICBR) and co-organized by the International Organization for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) was held in Beijing. 

A total of 54 bamboo and rattan officials, experts, and technicians from seven countries, including Fiji, Laos, the Philippines, Mozambique, Kenya, Ethiopia and Malawi, have participated in the seminar, which took place over 14 days in an online format.

The seminar focused on the technological innovation and policy planning in the bamboo and rattan industry. Through thematic lectures, seminars, case studies and cloud visits, the seminar shared the technology, achievements and experiences and practices of China’s bamboo and rattan technological innovation and standard system construction, bamboo and rattan industry and cultural development, further promoted friendship and exchanges, strengthened the international circle of friends in the bamboo and rattan field, and helped the high-quality and sustainable development of the world’s bamboo and rattan industry. The seminar covered bamboo resources in China, bamboo timber and processing, bamboo products research and development, bamboo as a substitute for plastic, international trade and standards of bamboo products, China’s bamboo industry policy, bamboo culture and life, bamboo architecture, bamboo and rattan decoration, China’s rural targeted poverty alleviation policies and practices, etc.

During the training, participants took part in 18 thematic courses and exchanges. In the summary evaluation, five participants’ representatives shared the current development status of their countries’ bamboo and rattan industries, the practices, and experiences of their countries in the green development of the bamboo and rattan industry and expressed their common vision of promoting closer cooperation among developing countries through the medium of the development of the bamboo and rattan green industry. The event will further enhance friendship, promote exchanges, strengthen the international circle of friends in the field of bamboo and rattan, and contribute to the high-quality and sustainable development of the world’s bamboo and rattan industry.