APSA and SIPI Convene National Seed Associations to Tackle Illegal Seed Practices in APAC

The APSA–SIPI Seed Associations Meeting was convened on 24 April 2026 in Bali, Indonesia, bringing together national seed associations, industry leaders, and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region for a focused dialogue on strengthening collaboration and addressing the growing threat of illegal seed practices (ISPs) across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

The meeting highlighted that ISPs, including counterfeiting, unauthorised multiplication, fraudulent labelling, and theft of proprietary genetic material, have evolved into organised, cross-border activities. These practices undermine intellectual property (IP) protection, erode farmer trust, distort markets, and discourage investment in research and innovation. The increasing use of digital platforms and e-commerce has further accelerated the problem's scale and complexity.

A key theme throughout the discussions was the critical role of national seed associations as frontline actors. They serve as essential intermediaries between industry and government, supporting enforcement, policy advocacy, awareness creation, and information sharing. Their engagement is central to identifying on-ground challenges and implementing practical solutions.

APSA’s role in regulatory advocacy was emphasised as vital in promoting harmonised, science-based, and predictable regulatory frameworks across the region. Strengthening phytosanitary measures, enabling plant breeding innovation, and reinforcing IP and plant variety protection systems were identified as core priorities. Weak or fragmented regulatory systems were recognised as key enablers of illegal seed activities.

The keynote address by SIPI underscored the increasing sophistication of illegal seed networks and identified major drivers of ISPs, including price sensitivity, limited awareness, regulatory inconsistencies, and weak enforcement capacity. A phased, multi-pronged response was proposed, combining legal reforms, awareness initiatives, digital traceability tools, and stronger regional cooperation.

Country experiences from India, China, Thailand, and Indonesia demonstrated varied but complementary approaches:

• India is advancing legislative reforms and digital traceability systems.

• China has established strong legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms supported by technical tools.

• Thailand emphasises preventive strategies and farmer awareness.

• Indonesia focuses on addressing digital trade challenges and strengthening traceability.

Despite differences, all countries are moving toward integrated strategies combining regulation, enforcement, technology, and education.

Interactive discussions reinforced several shared priorities:

• Strengthening evidence-based enforcement and market intelligence

• Improving coordination across agencies and jurisdictions

• Expanding farmer awareness to reduce demand for illegal seeds

• Enhancing traceability through digital tools

• Promoting public–private partnerships

Participants identified key gaps, including limited farmer awareness, inadequate traceability systems, fragmented regulations, and insufficient regional information-sharing mechanisms.

The meeting concluded that illegal seed practices cannot be effectively addressed through isolated national efforts. A coordinated regional approach supported by APSA’s policy leadership and SIPI’s technical expertise is essential. Strengthened enforcement, harmonised regulations, technology adoption, and sustained awareness efforts will be critical to protecting innovation and ensuring a resilient seed sector.

Looking ahead, stakeholders emphasised the need for a collaborative, data-driven, and adaptive strategy that integrates policy, enforcement, technology, and education. With continued commitment and regional cooperation, APSA, SIPI, and national seed associations are well-positioned to drive meaningful progress toward a transparent, innovative, and sustainable seed system in the Asia-Pacific region.

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