From March 3 to 4, 2026, the 3rd International Workshop on Sustainable Management of Sugarcane White Leaf Disease was held at Khon Kaen University in Khon Kaen, Thailand.

This workshop was organized based on the contents of the “Healthy Seedcane Propagation and Distribution Manual Against Sugarcane White Leaf Disease,” which was jointly developed by JIRCAS, Khon Kaen University, and the Department of Agriculture of Thailand, and published in 2021 by the Office of the Cane and Sugar Board under Thailand’s Ministry of Industry. The workshop aimed to share subsequent technological advancements and the status of efforts in various countries. Participants included researchers and government officials from Thailand, India, Laos, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Australia, and Japan, with a total of 48 attendees (46 in person and 2 online)

On the first day, presentations covered the ecology of white leaf disease and its insect vectors, pathogen detection methods, and control measures using healthy planting materials. Reports were also given on the current status of disease occurrence and control efforts in each country.In addition, progress in research since the publication of the manual was introduced, including more efficient detection methods, field surveys using drones, and the selection of resistant varieties. During the general discussion, active exchanges took place regarding the types of data needed for predicting disease outbreaks and challenges in improving accuracy, helping to clarify future research directions.

On the second day, participants visited farmers’ fields and healthy seedling production facilities to observe production processes and the use of healthy planting materials on-site. These activities provided a valuable opportunity to share the importance of technologies for sustainable management of sugarcane white leaf disease, as well as directions for future research and collaboration.

*This technology is listed in the “Technology Catalog Contributing to Production Potential and Sustainability in the Asia-Monsoon Region, Ver. 4.0” under the title “Propagation and distribution system of healthy seedcane as control measures against sugarcane white leaf disease,” and is expected to be widely utilized in sugarcane cultivation across the Asian Monsoon region.