Taiwan launches tech mission to protect Central America’s banana industry

Taiwan, through its International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF), has launched a technical mission to help Guatemala and Belize combat Fusarium wilt (Panama disease), a major threat to banana exports. Both countries export around US$1 billion in bananas annually.

The mission introduced drones with Nvidia AI chips for real-time detection of crop issues and biochips that identify pests and pesticide residues in under 10 minutes. These tools replace slow, lab-based testing.

At a seminar in Guatemala City, officials showed strong interest in a rapid screening kit developed by National Taiwan University and a trained dog program from National Pingtung University of Science and Technology.

The tools aim to prevent further spread of the disease and protect banana exports in the region.

source: taipeitimes.com

photo: gazzettagt.com