Costa Rica: research partnership with Chinese institutions

The University of Costa Rica and universities from China are advancing a partnership to promote joint potato research focused on genetic improvement, academic exchange, and technological development.

The Agronomic Research Center (CIA) of the University of Costa Rica recently welcomed an academic delegation from Qinghai University and Yunnan Agricultural University, China. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen international ties in agricultural research, with an emphasis on potato cultivation, considered an essential crop for global food security.
 

Academic exchange and scientific cooperation

During the meeting, both institutions participated in an academic and scientific exchange, sharing advances, capabilities, and potential areas of collaboration.

Luis Mora Rodríguez, head of the Office of International Affairs and External Cooperation (Oaice):

"The importance of these partnerships in driving technological development and generating innovative solutions in the agri-food sector."

He also highlighted the relevance of internationalization and the creation of collaborative networks to expand the impact of research.

Dr. Jian Wang, vice president of the Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences at Qinghai University:

"Technological cooperation accelerates progress in areas such as potato cultivation, making it possible to reduce production costs and develop varieties better adapted to local needs."

Qinghai University has expertise in genetics, seed production, and germplasm evaluation under the particular conditions of the Chinese plateau. These conditions include altitude, solar radiation, and temperature variation, which favor the development of high-quality seed and varieties.

A joint delegation from Qinghai University and Yunnan Agricultural University visited the University of Costa Rica to strengthen international ties in agricultural research, particularly in potato cultivation

Genetic improvement and germplasm bank

Among their contributions is the development of integrated genetic improvement systems that include greenhouses, multiplication in alpine zones, and selection across different ecological regions. These techniques have enabled the development of varieties with greater disease resistance, higher yields, and adaptability to adverse environments.

In addition, they maintain a valuable germplasm bank with more than one thousand potato accessions from various countries, promoting the study of genetic diversity and crop adaptation.

On behalf of the CIA, Dr. Mario Villatoro presented the center’s capabilities in areas such as plant biotechnology, agricultural microbiology, soil fertility, natural resources, and postharvest technology. These fields are focused on generating practical solutions that benefit both growers and the agroindustrial sector through applied research and knowledge transfer. 
 

Joint potato projects

One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the intention to establish joint projects focused on potato genetic improvement.

Arturo Brenes Angulo, coordinator of the Plant Biotechnology Laboratory:

"Some priority topics include the identification of genes resistant to pests, diseases, and the effects of climate change."

In addition, academic and student exchanges are expected to be promoted to facilitate internships, postgraduate studies, and specialized training in both countries.

Potato cultivation represents a strategic opportunity to optimize agricultural productivity and reduce costs through the adoption of innovative technologies. International experience shows that improvements in seed, farming systems, and mechanization can transform the profitability and sustainability of the sector. 
 

Field visits and international collaboration

As part of the Chinese delegation’s itinerary, field visits were made to farms located in the cantons of Alvarado and Oreamuno, Cartago. In these areas, the CIA’s Plant Biotechnology Laboratory is conducting trials with materials developed under its potato-focused genetic improvement program.

In this context, the collaboration between UCR, Qinghai University, and Yunnan Agricultural University seeks not only to advance agricultural research but also to ensure that the results reach the fields directly. In this way, it contributes to the well-being of local growers and rural communities.

These types of initiatives position the University of Costa Rica as a central player in generating innovative knowledge and strengthening international networks to address global challenges such as climate change and food security.

The delegation had the opportunity to meet with representatives from Oaice, the Vice Rector’s Office for Research, and the CIA