The International Conference on Multi-purpose Usage of Natural Fiber Crops was held on July 31, 2021 by combining online and offline participation. Luo Xiwen, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and Sun Tan, Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) addressed the Conference via video link. 

Jointly organized by the Institute of Bast Fiber Crops (IBFC, CAAS) and the International Natural Fiber Organization (INFO), the Conference analyzed the status quo on global market for and trade on natural fibers, called for enlarging the range of applications in different industrial sectors and coordinating domestic and international supply, and high-quality development in fiber industry.    

Covering R&D and marketing trends of the global fiber crops, and bottlenecks and prospect concerning the application of the fibers, the Conference focused on Materials of the Future, discussed in an extensive manner the potential of natural fibers as key materials to design smart and sustainable solutions for the future generations. Key S&T breakthroughs in fiber industry were released at the Conference. The Chinses side announced the preparation for the innovation alliance for fiber industry, which is set to serve as a platform for exchanges among enterprises, colleges and research institutions in fiber industry.     

It is indicated at the Conference that the sale income of the fiber products are direct source of income for millions of families around the world. In developing countries, fiber crops are key cash crops, fiber products are key traded ones. China successfully integrated the development of the fiber industry with poverty alleviation and rural revitalization, thus offering the world a China Model for fiber development and poverty eradication. China, a major fiber processor and consumer, is a major market where raw materials flew into and are sold. Chin called for pragmatic international cooperation in fiber industry, to better lead the development of global fiber industry.  

A total of 357 participants attended the Conference, including officials from the MARA, experts from the CAAS and relevant departments and institutions, executives from fiber-related enterprises, representatives from international organizations such as FAO and INFO, and experts from Greece, Ukraine and Canada.