Asian Mycological Congress 2025 in Guangzhou

The Asian Mycological Congress 2025 (AMC 2025) has successfully concluded in Guangzhou, China, after four days of intensive scientific exchange and regional cooperation from 23–26 November 2025. The event was jointly hosted by the Asian Mycological Association (AMA), the Mycology Society of China, and Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering.

AMC 2025 gathered over 400 participants from 32 countries, highlighting Asia's leading role in fungal diversity and mycology. The program included 4 plenary lectures, 23 symposia, 170 oral presentations, and 81 posters from around 350 abstracts. Topics covered ranged from biodiversity and systematics to industrial uses and new biotechnologies. The event underscored Asia's growing influence in global mycological research, with China as a major hub for discovery and application.

AMC 2025 also highlighted the support for future leaders by granting “Excellent Student Presentation Awards” to seven students from various countries and ten “Excellent Poster Awards” for outstanding works. The "Young Asian Mycologist" prize, sponsored by Pensoft, went to Prof Nalin Wijayawardene, who earned a free publication in MycoKeys or IMA Fungus. An “Excellent Organizer Award” acknowledged key contributors, and a special ceremony recognized volunteers who ensured the event’s success.

During the AMC, AMA trustee board meeting held on the sidelines of the congress (A minute of AMC 2025). All members discussed strengthening opportunities for young mycologists, improving the Association’s website and communication, and expanding online scientific activities and live-broadcast lectures. The AMA will soon circulate terms for bids to host the next Asian Mycological Congress, planned for 2027 or 2028, continuing the momentum generated in Guangzhou.

With its combination of high-level science, regional networking and strong support for early-career researchers, AMC 2025 has reinforced Asia’s leading role in advancing mycology for agriculture, health, biomaterials and environmental sustainability.