Regional conference On Sustainable livestock transformation for food systems in Asia and the Pacific

Background

Asia—home to nearly 60% of the global population—is experiencing rapid transformation in its agri-food systems. Livestock plays a significant role in regional economies, contributing between 18–30% of agricultural GDP. On the one hand, livestock demand is rising with private sector playing a central role. On the other, livestock systems face challenges related to climate, environmental consideration, shifting consumer demand and land and water pressures. Countries across South and Southeast Asia are seeking evidence-based pathways to make their livestock sectors more efficient, climate-smart, and equitable. Policy fragmentation, limited regional coordination, and gaps between science, practice and investment continue to constrain progress. Meanwhile, the Pacific is also addressing similar challenges, striving to harmonize regional strategies for sustainable livestock development.

This conference is being organized to develop a common agenda for how sustainable livestock systems can support development outcomes and food systems transformation in Asia and the Pacific. The conference aims to bring together government ministries, regional bodies, research institutions, development partners, private-sector actors, producer organizations, and civil society working across the livestock and food systems space.

Conference objectives

The two-day regional conference aims to:

• Identify priority challenges and opportunities where coordinated action across countries can accelerate transformation of livestock
• Share sustainable livestock solutions that address key challenges 
• Facilitate a dialogue between policymakers, private sector and technical partners to identify entry points for harmonized policies, shared investments, and stronger regional platforms.
• Co-develop recommendations for sustainable livestock transformation in the region

Key themes

The workshop focuses on key thematic areas that are central to livestock transformation in Asia and the Pacific, including food security and nutrition, livelihoods and inclusive economic development, animal health and One Health, and climate action and biodiversity. Discussions will explore how livestock systems can contribute to improved availability, access and affordability of nutritious foods; strengthen rural livelihoods and resilience, particularly for smallholders and vulnerable groups; address transboundary animal diseases and emerging zoonotic risks through integrated One Health approaches; and support climate mitigation, adaptation and biodiversity conservation. Together, these themes highlight the need for coordinated research, policy and investment responses that balance productivity, sustainability and resilience across diverse livestock systems in the region.

Expected outcomes

• Updated overview of regional livestock challenges and priorities, focusing on sustainable livestock transformation.
• Documented country-specific priorities, bottlenecks, and promising practices advancing One Health for agrifood systems transformation.
• Recommendations for a regional plan of action for sustainable livestock transformation including research, policy, field delivery, and resource mobilization.
• Strengthened stakeholder linkages and partnerships to foster sustainable livestock development.

Co-Hosts, Partners, and Participants

The conference expects 150 participants from across Asia and the Pacific but also from Africa and Europe. Delegates will include representatives from government ministries and livestock authorities; national research and extension systems; regional and international organizations; universities and research institutes; development partners; and the private sector.

The conference will be co-hosted by ILRI, FAO, CIRAD, and Vietnam Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE).