Official website: http://ebnic2012.mardi.gov.my/
INTRODUCTION:
Expanding the production of swiftlet nests was identified as one of the 16 entry point project (EPP) initiatives in the “Economic Transformation Program (ETP)” of Malaysia. The industry is targeted to contribute RM5 billion to our agricultural exports by 2020, a planned fivefold increase from about RM1 billion in 2010. Although the export performance in 2010 was quite impressive, the development of the industry is now somewhat impeded by the recent safety issues regarding edible bird nest in China. It is imperative that for the industry to further expand and sustain, efforts to enhance its competitiveness be intensified. This includes adopting appropriate marketing strategies that are based on the whole value chain of the swiftlet industry.
One of the initiatives undertaken to enhance the development of the industry is the establishment of the “Swiftlet Centre of Excellence (CoE)”. Its primary role is to ensure the competitiveness of the nation’s swiftlet industry through R&D initiatives based on the product value chain, from production to the final consumers. Currently, a number of R&D activities by various research agencies and universities are conducted and coordinated by the Centre.
This conference will provide a much needed platform for policy makers, researchers and industry players to share progress in R&D, discuss current issues and challenges as well as sharing experiences related to the swiftlet industry. It is expected that this conference will attract participation and papers from researchers and academicians, government policy makers, enforcement agencies and swiftlet entrepreneurs. The conference will focus on the aspects of policy framework, production, processing, trade and marketing of edible bird nest and its value added products with emphasis on enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of the industry.
Website is located here.
