Published: 18 July 2025
Dr. Niki Koutrou, Associate Professor and Research and Innovation Lead at the University of Sunderland in London, served as a keynote speaker and honorary chair at the inaugural Agri-Food and Sustainable Development Conference, held in late June in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The conference, hosted by partner institution Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade (HUIT), welcomed delegates from universities across the world – including Italy and China – to engage with topics including the agri-food supply chain and the sustainability of food quality schemes.
The critical role of original scientific research in tackling local and global challenges was a key focus, providing a vital forum for researchers, experts, and industry leaders to exchange knowledge and experiences - translating concepts into actionable strategies.
Dr. Koutrou's keynote address focused on "Sustainable Food Provision & Environmental Sustainability Strategies in Sport Events and Organisations," with Dr. Koutrou's also chairing a panel session dedicated to the Green and Circular Economy.
The conference featured presentations from distinguished professors representing the Universities of Parma and Foggia in Italy, Shanxi Agricultural University – China, and HUIT, covering topics such as the carbon footprint of the agri-food supply chain, microextraction techniques, and the sustainability of the EU food quality scheme.
“It was a great honour to contribute and further strengthen the links between our University and HUIT.” – said Dr. Koutrou.
“It was exciting to hear the research that is taking place in South-East Asia and learn about the sustainable tourism challenges and opportunities facing the local communities.”
HUIT also facilitated a networking tour along the Mekong River, fostering knowledge exchange among Vietnamese and international researchers.
The conference and associated activities proved valuable in stimulating discussions regarding potential future collaborations between institutions, including opportunities within Horizon Europe and other funding schemes, and guest editorships for special journal issues.
“I am truly grateful to HUIT for their hospitality and to the University for fostering this important international collaboration” - Dr. Niki Koutrou.