AI-enhanced crop breeding could boost yields, say experts

This opinion was shared by experts, scientists and business representatives at an international scientific conference on crop breeding technologies in Hanoi on May 9. The event was co-organised by the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences (VAAS) and PAN Group, with participation from leading domestic and international entities in crop breeding research.

According to the Vietnam Seed Association (VSA), Vietnam’s crop production sector has achieved remarkable results in recent years, notably in 2024, with agricultural export turnover reaching $62.5 billion, including a record 9 million tonnes of rice. Over 1,000 crop varieties were recognised as being grown in Vietnam last year, including 455 rice varieties, 206 corn varieties, and numerous fruit, industrial crop, and vegetable-flower varieties.

"However, crop breeding faces several challenges, including an imbalance in research between food and fruit crops, limitations in improving forestry varieties, and a fragmented seed production system that has not yet reached industrial scale. Furthermore, the proportion of certified seeds used in production remains low, particularly in the Mekong Delta," said Tran Dinh Long, chairman of the VSA.

"By leveraging AI, gene convergence, and gene editing in seed selection can drive innovation in Vietnam’s agricultural sector. By fostering collaboration between research facilities and corporations such as PAN Group and Vinaseed, these technologies can optimise breeding, production, and processing, enabling high-value, sustainable products and strengthening Vietnam’s domestic and global agricultural brands." Long added.

The conference delved into discussions on future directions and strategies for the development of Vietnam’s seed industry. Attendees heard about the current state of research and development of the different varieties of rice, corn, vegetable, and flower in Vietnam, with insights shared by leading organisations in the field, including the VAAS, Vinaseed Group, the International Rice Research Institute, and the Mekong Delta Rice Research Institute.

Additionally, the conference served as a platform for sharing experiences in managing and utilising genetic resources and exploring new technological trends such as gene editing, mutation technology, fast breeding, and the application of AI in crop breeding, along with their potential applications and collaboration opportunities with domestic and international organisations and enterprises.

"Vision alone cannot drive sustainable growth. Without technological innovation, genetic resources, and strong research-application linkages, progress remains limited. That’s why PAN Group is actively investing in cutting-edge solutions like rapid breeding, gene editing, AI, and biotechnology, translating strategy into concrete action to secure long-term competitiveness," said Nguyen Thi Tra My, CEO of PAN Group.

"The aim of this conference is to foster collaboration between researchers and businesses in genetic resource management, advanced breeding technologies, and innovation, key steps towards overcoming Vietnam’s crop breeding challenges," she added.

The conference also facilitated the exchange of genetic resources and new technologies between research organisations and the private sector.

Also at the event, PAN Group and the VAAS signed an MoU to extend their collaboration initiated in 2023, covering training and human resource development; enhancing cooperation in scientific research and technology transfer; fostering international relations and partner connections; and providing scholarships for students.

Additionally, Vinaseed Group, a member of PAN Group, signed an MoU with the Mekong Delta Rice Research Institute for cooperation in research, development, demonstration, and testing of varieties, as well as the development of products and transfer of technical advancements.

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