The Global Citrus Congress aims at highlighting all the benefits of citrus fruits and the strong commitment of the stakeholder in the citrus industry to social and environmental sustainability. The team behind organizing the congress includes World Citrus Organization, Fruitnet Media International, and CIRAD. The first edition was held online and had over 1300 registered participants. Below are other interesting facts about the Global Citrus Congress.
The Congress Covered Effects of Covid 19 on the Citrus Industry
Among the main topics covered in the congress was how the COVID-19 pandemic affects the consumption of citrus fruits. Contrary to what the pandemic has done to many other industries, it has led to a boom in the citrus industry due to increased demand. That is mostly because of the numerous health benefits citrus fruits have. For example, citrus fruits contain high content of vitamin C nutrients, which is essential in boosting the immune system to keep the virus at bay. The discussions also featured the challenges brought about by the pandemic, such as the difficulties in distribution.
The Main Highlights of the Congress Were on Key Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges
The Global Citrus Congress 2020 had three main sessions. The first section was mainly to discuss the main trends in citrus production and trade. In the second session, discussions revolved primarily around the role of innovation to achieve sustainability goals in the citrus industry. The final session was on promotion and health, aimed at increasing the consumption of citrus fruits globally.
The Second Edition Will Be Streamed Live
The second edition of the Global Citrus Congress is scheduled for the 16th and 17th of November 2021, hosted by the World Citrus Organization. It will take place in three locations simultaneously, Melbourne, Los Angeles, and London. The congress will stream live, allowing viewers from all over the world to watch. Among the top reasons to introduce the online aspect is to minimize social contact to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 virus. It also allows delegates to interact and attend sessions tailored to American, European, and Asian specific market interests and time zones.
The efforts and advances realized from key findings at the Global Citrus Congress along with other exhibitions will undoubtedly reshape the future of the citrus industry. Thus, anyone with an interest in the industry should be keen to follow the happenings of this Congress.