2026-09-18
Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS)

On September 18, 2026, at the headquarters of the Royal Forest Department (RFD) in Bangkok, Thailand, the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) was honored at the RFD's 130th Anniversary Ceremony in recognition of its long-standing contributions to forestry research through collaborative activities with the department.

The RFD, established in 1896, is Thailand's principal institution responsible for forest administration and research. It plays key roles in forest monitoring, coordination of research activities, national reforestation efforts, and oversight of the timber industry. To commemorate its 130th anniversary in 2026, the RFD held a ceremony attended by representatives of government agencies, research institutions, and related organizations.

For approximately 30 years since the 1990s, JIRCAS has maintained collaborative research with the RFD. Through this partnership, numerous research achievements have been generated, including the development of breeding and plantation technologies for valuable tree species such as teak, the production of plantation suitability maps, and the development of biomass estimation methods for plantation forests. These achievements have contributed significantly to the advancement of Thailand's forestry sector. The award recognizes both the long-standing partnership between the two institutions and the impact of their research accomplishments.

Looking ahead, the two organizations are expected to further strengthen their research collaboration on enhancing forest resilience under climate change and developing promising teak and other tree lines with greater tolerance to high temperatures and drought. Such efforts are anticipated to contribute to addressing challenges in the fields of forestry, forest management, and the environment.

Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) (Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture)

President:

HASEGAWA Toshihiro

Program Director:

HAYASHI Keiichi (PD for Environment and Resources)

Press Coordinator:

MARUI Junichiro (Head, Public Relations Partnership Unit)
e-mail : info-pr@jircas.go.jp