Regional strategy and action plan for the prevention, preparedness, response and recovery of Latin America and the Caribbean to Fusarium wilt of Musaceae tropical race 4

Book excerpt: The countries of Latin America and the Caribbean are immersed in the difficult task of recovering our agrifood systems hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this complex situation, tropical race 4 of the Musaceae fusarium wilt is undoubtedly the greatest challenge facing the banana and plantain agribusiness in our region. However, this context also constitutes an opportunity to encourage the development and introduction of innovations that strengthen biosecurity at different levels, the best crop and soil management practices and alternatives for the recovery of the affected countries. It is also necessary to comprehensively address the strengthening of the institutional framework related to pest management, the co-responsibility of the private sector, public-private collaboration and the involvement of society as a whole. With this document, FAO strengthens its commitment to continue supporting governments and contributing to agricultural sustainability, while increasing the resilience of the sector and livelihoods in the region.