The Latin American Bioeconomy Network will hold its International Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica, from May 12 to 15, attracting around 120 global experts. The event aims to analyze emerging trends in bioeconomy sectors and explore opportunities for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive development across the Americas.
Organized at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the conference will feature discussions on bioeconomy challenges, advancements, new technologies, markets, financing, and regulatory frameworks. Participants will include government officials, researchers, private sector representatives, and international organization leaders, such as Ben Durham from South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation and Joachim von Braun of Bonn University, Germany.
The program will open with a panel on the future of the bioeconomy, focusing on its role in transforming agriculture and food systems. Other sessions will examine the status of bioeconomy strategies in pioneering countries, the role of international cooperation, and regional progress. Discussions will highlight how bioeconomy initiatives aim to boost industry competitiveness, promote ecological restoration, and foster economic growth in rural areas.
During the event, thematic workshops will address key issues including policy development, financing, sustainability, innovation, youth engagement, and metrics. The conference will also see the development of the 2025-2026 Action Plan for the Latin American Bioeconomy Network, which was established in early 2023 and includes over 80 institutions such as UN agencies, regional organizations, and national ministries.
Additional activities will feature biobusiness exhibitions showcasing innovations like bioplastics, bioinputs, and biotech solutions. Delegates will visit Costa Rican research centers, biorefineries, and waste-to-energy plants, gaining insights into regional bioeconomy initiatives. The conference will also mark the launch of IICA’s new Agrobiobusiness and Investment Center, designed to support sustainable business ventures in agriculture and bioeconomy sectors.
