The International Tropical Fruits Network (TFNet) and Viet Nam’s Southern Horticultural Research Institute (SOFRI) discussed opportunities to strengthen cooperation in the tropical fruit sector during a meeting between SOFRI’s Acting Director General, Dr. Nguyen Thanh Hieu, and TFNet Chief Executive Officer Muhamed Salim Mohd Ali.
Mr. Salim briefed SOFRI on recent developments at TFNet, including study visit programmes being designed for its members. SOFRI shared updates on its latest research and progress in the tropical fruit sector, and expressed interest in learning more about Malaysia’s Musang King durian and the Philippines’ MD2 pineapple.
SOFRI also welcomed research institutions and private sector partners interested in advancing innovation with the institute. Collaboration could take the form of research partnerships or the acquisition of SOFRI-developed technologies or vice-versa.
SOFRI expressed interest in working with TFNet to organise a durian workshop in Ho Chi Minh City in May 2027. Both sides agreed to continue supporting one another through strategic programmes and further opportunities for collaboration.
TFNet thanks SOFRI for its warm hospitality and valuable assistance in arranging field visits to dragon fruit, pomelo, mango and durian farms.
