WSRC 2021 Novi Sad

World Soybean Research Conference 

2021 Novi Sad, Serbia 

Bid document to host 

World Soybean Research 

Conference 2021 

Novi Sad, Serbia



CONTENT 

PAGE 

Letter of Invitation 3 

1. Host Organizations 5 

2. Location of the Conference 9 

3. Tentative dates 14 

4. Conference logistics – tours, 

accommodation, conference facilities 16 

5. Travel logistics – access via air, train, 

bus and ground 30 

6. Tentative program and proceedings 37 

7. Previous experience in hosting 

International Conferences 39 

8. Advisory Board 42 

9. Letters of Support 44 

10. Why Serbia? 49

4

Letter of Invitation 

5

Letter of Invitation to host World Soybean Research Conference 2021 in Novi Sad, 

Serbia 

Honorable WSRC Continuing Committee, 

On behalf of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops of Serbia, together with support from 

relevant institutions in Serbia, from governmental, academic and soybean and agriculture 

industry, and Novi Sad and Serbia congress industry, we hereby have the pleasure to 

officially confirm our interest and readiness to host the World Soybean Research 

Conference 2021 in Novi Sad, Serbia. 

Having in mind its strategic position at the European crossroads, its scientific and business 

potential, and the fact that it has not yet been the host of this prestigious event, we strongly 

believe that Serbia would make a perfect destination for WSRC 2021. Its location 

guarantees an easy access for delegates around the world, while visa-free regime for all 

European countries, including Russia, Turkey, Israel and China enables smooth and 

carefree logistics. At the same time, soybean professionals from regional developing 

countries will have a great opportunity to join this important event which, for them, has not 

always been easy to reach, both financially and geographically. 

Soybean Industry of the Republic of Serbia has outstanding potential and infrastructure, and 

can be a valuable partner in international soybean trade, making it attractive for soybean 

business representatives. Successfully organized various international conferences by 

Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops of Serbia, just verifies our commitment to make our 

entire region internationally recognized. 

It is especially important to mention that the city of Novi Sad has achieved remarkable 

results when it comes to international events. Great accessibility with 70 direct flight through 

Europe, Middle East, USA and soon to be established to China, mentioned no visa regime, 

convenient conference package, excellent value for money, a variety of hotels and, of 

course, the most interesting opportunities for networking, Serbia and city of Novi Sad 

represent one of the central socioeconomic hubs and capitals of culture, education and 

science in the region of Southeast Europe.

We would highly appreciate the opportunity to welcome our colleagues from all over the world, and 

there is no doubt that governmental organisations, professional bodies and other groups or 

individuals concerned with soybean industry all have a strong interest in supporting this event. At the 

same time, representing developing markets of Southeast Europe, we believe that Novi Sad 

Conference would be attractive for other sponsors that want to gain advantage on this lowly 

saturated market. 

Thanking you for taking into consideration the possibility to host this important meeting, I would once 

again like to accentuate the willingness of all Serbian stakeholders in making this event a great 

success. 

Sincerely Yours, 

ime i prezime 

Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops of Serbia

8

1. Host Organization 

9



Host organizations 

O institutu, i ostalim institucijama koje ce ucestvovati u organizaciji



Host organizations 

O institutu, i ostalim institucijama koje ce ucestvovati u organizaciji



Introducing agriculture together with seed industry of 

Republic of Serbia 

Republic of Serbia has favorable environmental conditions for the development of agricultural 

production. Favorable climatic and pedological conditions allow the development of a variety 

of plant and animal production. Quality land, water resources and unpolluted environment in 

most of the country provide the opportunity for development of organic farming and 

agritourism. Additionally, Republic of Serbia has experienced producers, top experts and 

scientists, as well as the selection of various plant species that are recognized worldwide. 

Republic of Serbia has 6,246,000 hectares of agricultural land, of which 3,321,000 hectares is 

arable. 66% of arable land is cultivated with cereals, 14% with industrial crops, vegetables 

use 12%, horticulture on 0.05% and there is 4% of unused arable land. The most important 

grain is corn and winter wheat. Other important crops are alfalfa, sunflower, soybean, potato, 

barley, sugar beet, etc. Seed sector has an important role in the development of agriculture. 

Elements of the national seed production are: plant breeding, seed production and 

distribution. Breeding and seed production have a long lasting tradition in our country. 

Support to the agricultural sector provides a significant number of scientific - research 

institutions engaged in fundamental science, breeding and seed production of various plant 

species. More than 3,000 varieties of different plant species have been recognized and 

accessible to agricultural producers. 

The financial value of seed production in the Republic of Serbia is: 

- Corn: 1,200,000 hectares = € 86.4 million 

- Sunflower: 200,000 hectares = € 16 million 

- Soybeans: 160.000 hectares = € 12.8 million 

- Wheat: 600,000 hectares = € 63 million 

The total value - € 178.2 million



In Republic of Serbia all agricultural policy measures are aimed at increasing the yield and 

production in agriculture, as well as the increase in exports and growth in Gross Domestic 

Product (GDP). In Republic of Serbia there are 800,000 families engaged in agriculture, and 

for half of them agricultural production is their primary activity. Therefore, it is a clear goal of 

the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Government of the Republic of Serbia, as well as 

Seed Association of Serbia to improve the development of this industry, which is one of the 

pillars of the economy. 

Serbia is the only country that is a candidate for membership in the EU and records export 

surplus in agriculture. Of the total exports of Serbia, 50% are agricultural products. 

In order to achieve uniform application of standards in food production in the Republic of 

Serbia at the end of 2009 the Law of food was introduced, which clearly defines the aspects 

of food safety, hygiene and food quality and accountability in the course of the production 

chain. This law enables comparable control in the food production chain in the line with the 

legislation provided by the WTO and the EU. The application of quality standards in food 

production will eliminate the obstacles for the export of food that is produced in Serbia, which 

enables its competitiveness on international markets. 

All other areas within seed industry sector are governed by a clear and precise legal 

regulations, which is in the process of harmonization with EU regulation. In this process, an 

important role is played by the Seed Association of Serbia with all its members.

14

2. Location of the Conference 

15



WSRC 2021 in Novi Sad 

World Soybean Research Conference has been hosted throughout the world, respecting the 

location patterns and market trends and characteristics. Each country and destination gave a 

special flavor to WSRC 2021, each creating a special feature providing authentic 

experiences. 

Looking at a host destination in Europe and having in mind that major principles of WSRC to 

provide all members and parts of the world with the same treatment, equal level of education 

opportunities and academic experiences, alike chance to demonstrate their practice and 

showcase their possibilities and case studies, Eastern Europe is well prepared to help WSRC 

in achieving these goals and principles. 

Therefore, being a hub of major economic, scientific and education activities in the South 

East Europe, region Serbia will be the perfect and logic choice. WSRC needs to support 

activities of the members and stakeholders in this part of Europe, and there is no better way 

than to award the region with the prestige World Soybean Research Conference 2021. 

As emphasized in the Letter of Invitation, South East Europe is a region where scientific 

knowledge from developed countries can be applied in cooperation with SEE universities. 

World Soybean Research Conference will create a base to exchange equally economic and 

industrial experience and scientific knowledge around Europe and world. 

Having in mind that the main vision of the WSRC is to promote research and exchange of 

knowledge in soybean industry around the globe, we want to express our full intention 

towards hosting the 2021 World Soybean Research Conference in Novi Sad.



City of Novi Sad 

Due to its rich cultural heritage, Novi Sad will proudly wear the title of EUROPEAN CAPITAL 

OF CULTURE in 2021, providing the visitors the opportunity to discover the city and its 

cultural assets, but also to appreciate the diversity of cultures in Europe as well as our shared 

values. 

In addition, Novi Sad has also been proclaimed as a EUROPEAN YOUTH CAPITAL in 2019 

with the aim to further empower young people to become proactive initiators of positive 

change, introducing innovative ideas not only in Novi Sad, but also at the national and 

international level.




EASY & SMOOTH and simple. These are 

the words that best express the city. People 

will make you enjoy their easy going lifestyle 

and will encourage you to relax after a 

working day at the sessions. 

Novi Sad is AGILE & CAPABLE. Line up of 

new hotels complete the capacities of novel 

congress center. Adding SOPHISTICATED 

LIFESTYLE as a ingredient of running an 

event, guarantees accomplishment. 

additionally tolerant and hospitable, the 

PEOPLE of Novi Sad adore to entertain and 

to MEET new people. Being a pedestrian 

friendly it will be easy to find your way 

around. 

18




City has always been a place where various 

cultures and people from different nations 

meet, creating the unique blend of traditions, 

customs and lifestyles. Being 

MULTICULTURAL Novi Sad is opened to 

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS. 

The cosmopolitan city tells the story to 

loosen up after the conference. The Danube 

river keeps secret about the Fortress that 

guards it for centuries. The FUSION of 

CONTEPORARY AND ETHNO cuisine will 

surprise you. 

Being an educational and knowledgeable 

hub for decades, to CHOOSE Novi Sad will 

be WISE & SMART. City is a leader in the 

fields of agriculture and medicine. 

19



Experience traditional Serbian hospitality 

Surrounding Novi Sad, many local farmsteads are turned into traditional restaurants, unique 

and typical for this part of Serbia. 

Homemade dishes and live orchestra tambourine music our farmsteads will make long 

standing memories of the WSRC 2021 delegates. 

Welcomed with the traditional Serbian brandy, WSRC delegates will have an opportunity to 

try out some of our national specialties made by locally grown products, while enjoying 

beautiful nature, tambourine music and traditional Serbian dance performance.



Soulfood of Serbia 

Welcoming all guests with an open heart has been an important part of the Serbian tradition. 

Following the ancient customs of hospitality all WSRC delegates will be offered with 

wonderful specialties that can be found nowhere but at Serbian tables. Traditional food 

captures both the taste and spirit of Serbia. 

Each bite of Serbia ethno food involves months of traditional work and preparation, from 

hand-picked ecologically grown fruit and vegetables to carefully guarded traditional recipes 

passed down from mothers to daughters over many generations. Everything is prepared in 

the traditional manner and each recipe involves a dash of distinctive ethnic and cultural 

heritage.



Comparison of basket of groceries cost, according to Eurostat, which looks at prices for goods 

and services across Europe, place Serbia among the most inexpensive destinations in Europe.



Safety and security international statistics 

Source: Global Peace Index 2017 

Highest marks for safety! 

Serbia GPI indicators 

• Militarization 

• Society & Security 

• Domestic and International Conflict 

23

24

3. Tentative dates 

25



Tentative dates 

For the World Soybean Research Conference we are proposing dates from 6 th – 10 th 

September 2021. Final dates will be set in coordination with WSRC Continuing Committee. 

Main reason for proposing above stated dates is the event called Field Day of the Institute of 

Field and Vegetable Crops, traditionally organised in the first week of September. Event is 

consisted of numerous lectures about the institute assortment and novelties regarding the 

current and the following growing season, including visits to the demonstration trials, as well 

as visits to the stands of Institute departments and laboratories. 

This will be a great opportunity for WSRC delegates to experience from the first hand local 

activities in this important agricultural field, as well as exchange ideas, know-how and 

experience with the local community, scientists and industry. 

Proposed period is also favorable due to: 

• Harvest period for soybean crops - Also, September is a harvest period for soybean crops 

in Serbia, and this will be a perfect opportunity for all WSRC 2021 delegates to see 

soybeans of different groups of ripening. 

• Friendly environmental conditions - Serbia’s climate is moderate continental, with four 

seasons. Summer in Belgrade is very pleasant with longer sunny and warm periods. The 

average daily temperature in September is in range 15°C to 25°C. 

• End of tourist season – meaning that full capacities in hotels and restaurants all around 

the city will be at disposal of WSRC and its delegates



Tentative dates 

slike

4. Conference logistics – tours, 

28

accommodation, conference facilities 

29



Pre-Conference Tour 

Technical tours



Pre-Conference Tour 

Technical tours



Post-Conference Tours 

Religion and History 

National Park Fruska Gora 

Located just 40min from Novi Sad, the oldest 

national park in Serbia, existing for almost 60 

years. The higher sections consist of thick 

forests, whereas the lower valleys of the 

mountain contain orchards and centuries-old 

vineyards. 

16 Orthodox Monasteries 

Fruska Gora hides 16 orthodox monasteries, 

built in the late Middle Ages, famous for their 

specific architecture, treasuries, libraries and 

frescoes and numerous archeological sites 

from prehistoric and historic times as well. 

This region of unique culture and historical 

value has been designated a cultural 

property of exceptional importance to Serbia. 

Their turbulent past, their architectural and 

artistic beauty, and their special role as a 

spiritual focal point of the Serbian people all 

contributed to the great importance of the 

monasteries within the cultural and historical 

heritage of Serbia. The general area of 

Fruška Gora has been rich in religious sites 

since ancient times, and during the 16th and 

17th centuries 35 monasteries were 

recorded here.




Wine experience 

Wine and gastronomy delights 

Step back in time by visiting a small baroque 

town of Sremski Karlovci, located just 30min 

away from Novi Sad. The Chapel of Peace 

and the First Serbian Gymnasium are 

dominating the town. You will enjoy the one 

of a kind Honey museum. 

Famous wine cellars 

This small baroque town is famous for it wine 

yards and wine cellars. If lucky, you will taste 

the wine served at the famous ship of Titanic 

and on the courts of Maria Teresa. 

Traditional farmsteads 

Here you will be able to experience how our 

grandmas used to cook and prepare 

traditional dishes. Try local cuisine, 

everything made in a traditional way, using 

locally grown products, while enjoying live 

tambourine orchestra music.




City of Belgrade 

Welcome to Belgrade, the city that, for 

centuries, has been a MEETING POINT 

among different civilizations. 

Its METROPOLIS OF RIVERS, located just 

1h drive from Novi Sad, with more than 100 

boat restaurants and floating discotheques 

moored along 220 km of river banks, makes 

Belgrade an unique capital in Europe. You 

can enjoy the river lifestyle from Belgrade’s 

industrial heritage site, one of the newest 

hot-spots perfect for relaxing by the water. 

From the street buzz and crowded cafes, to 

the peaceful royal courts and lake just 

minutes away, you will experience 

Belgrade’s COSMOPOLITAN LIFESTYLE. 

Unwind after a long congress-day in one of 

the numerous downtown cafes. 

The FUSION OF CULTURES is best 

expressed in the Serbian traditional cuisine, 

music and folklore. Make sure you visit one 

of the taverns along the 19th century 

cobblestone street for the never before 

experienced performance of live tambourine 

orchestras, traditional drinks and barbeques.



Accommodation 

In Novi Sad, there are over 1,500 hotel rooms, constantly building new accommodation 

capacities and bringing international brand hotels. 

All hotels are centraly located, meaning that all WSRC delegates can reach the venue on foot 

or by using public transpiration or taxi, in 10-15min maximum. 

Proposed hotels 

Master 

Congress 

Center 

35



Accommodation 

Park Hotel, 5* 

No. of rooms: 224 

Location: 20 min walking 

distance from Congress Center 

Hotel Leopold, 5* 


Location: 15 min driving distance 

from Congress Center 

Hotel Prezident, 5* 



distance from Congress Center 

Novi Sad, 4* 



distance from Congress Center



Accommodation 

Hotel Centar, 4* 




Hotel Aleksandar, 4* 




Hotel Master, 4* 


Location: within walking distance 


Ribarsko ostrvo, 4* 



from Congress Center



Accommodation 

Aurora, 3* 




Duga, 3* 




Putnik, 3* 




Sajam, 3* 


Location: 5 min walking distance 

from Congress Center



Conference facilities 

Master Congress Centre 

The "Master" Congress Centre is a brand new congress venue opened several years ago. 

Built according to international standards is capable to fulfill and even to exceed WSRC 

requirements. Varity of meeting rooms, banquet spaces, exhibitions areas, coffee and lunch 

zones will provide efficient capacities for scientific sessions, opening ceremony, technical 

exhibition and breaks. The Congress centre is furnished with the latest audio and video 

equipment, necessary for high quality meetings and presentations. An integral part of the 

Congress centre is a restaurant which can accommodate up to 700 people. 

Airport distance: 45 minutes 

City center distance: 5 minutes 

No of Meeting Halls: 7 

Exhibition space: 4.000 sqm gross 

39




Conference rooms 

Master Centre disposes with 7 conference halls, with state-of-the-art equipment and 6 of 

them can be joined into one hall for up to 1,000 delegates. For purpose of large events, an 

exhibition hall on the ground floor can accommodate for up to 4,000 participants. 

Smaller conference halls for up to 100/200pax 

Conference hall for up to 600pax 

Conference hall for up to 1000pax 

Exhibition hall for up to 4000pax




Exhibition area 

Exhibition hall with 4,000sqm, if not used as plenary room, will be a perfect location for 

WSRC exhibition. Second option is a directly connected Novi Sad Fair, that can offer an 

astounding 48,000 m2 of indoor exhibition space. 

Exhibition area




Opening reception at Entrance hall 

The Congress centre also comprises an Entrance hall, whose modern architecture and 

design will be perfect for the organization of opening reception WSRC 2021, fitting up to 

1,500 delegates. 

42




Floor Plan 

The large congress hall and six smaller ones, with state-of-the-art equipment, can be joined 

into one hall for the purpose of large scale plenary sessions. All meeting halls are located on 

the first floor, with elevators and escalators that aloud smooth delegates flow. In front of the 

meeting halls the cloak room is located. Day lit networking space in front of the meeting 

rooms and in the ground floor in the large Entrance banquet space and in restaurant area, as 

well as in the exhibition creates pleasant atmosphere to exchange ideas and thoughts after 

the regular sessions. 

All meeting rooms are completely flexible in terms or room set up and all are completely 

equipped with the latest audio and visual components and translation systems and cabins. 

Exhibition hall 

4,000sqm 

Entrance 

hall 

Conference rooms

5. Travel logistics –

access via air, train, bus and ground



International Air Access 

Belgrade „Nikola Tesla“ International Airport (BEG) is the main gateway to Serbia, located 

50min driving distance from Novi Sad via highway. 

At the moment Belgrade has direct flight connections to/from 70 major Europe, Middle East 

and USA cities. In the next two years additional 20 direct lines are expected. 

There are 21 airline companies operating at Belgrade Airport, including 5 low-cost carriers 

(EasyJet, Wizz Air, Transavia, Norwegian, flydubai). 

Over 4.6 million passengers per year made Belgrade a fastest growing Airport in the Europe. 

A new direct flight to JFK New York (USA) started in June 2016, making Belgrade a true hub 

of all economics and scientific activities in the region. 

A direct flight to Beijing, China has been announced, after introduction of visa free regime 

from 2017 between Serbia and China, making Serbia the only such country in Europe. 

From/To Airport 

Belgrade Airport is located 50min driving distance from Novi Sad. For the WSRC 2021 shuttle 

service (to/from Airport) will be organized for all participants based on submitted flight 

schedules free of charge, securing good travel arrangement for all delegates.



Air Serbia official Airline for WSRC 2021 

Brand new national airline carrier in Serbia 

Secure best air fair rates for WSRC delegates 

More than 45 destinations serviced directly from Belgrade 

Direct non-stop flight to JFK 

Asia, Australia and America through its codeshare 

and shareholding equity partner Etihad Airways 

Enjoy Etihad Guest loyalty program 

and earn Etihad Guest Miles

Global connecting hub 



AMSTERDAM 

DENVER 

SAN FRANCISCO 

LOS ANGELES 

HUSTON 

CHICAGO 

WASHINGTON 

SAVANNAH 

NEW YORK 

LONDON 

FRANKFURT 

MUNCHEN 

ZURICH 

PARIS 

SERBIA 

MILAN 

ROME 

ATHENS 

TUNISIA 

MALTA 

MIAMI 

MEXICO 

CITY 

HAVANA 

BOGOTA 

CARACAS 

LIMA 

RIO DE JANEIRO 

SAO PAULO 

BUENOS AIRES 

Belgrade „Nikola Tesla“ International Airport (BEG) as the main gateway to Serbia, is also the 

main gateway to the entire region of SE Europe.



ST PETERSBURG 

MOSCOW 

BEJING 

ISTANBUL 

LARANCA 

BEIRUT 

LAHORE 

SEOUL 

CAIRO KUWAIT 

DOHA 

ABU DHABI DUBAI 

BAHREIN 

MUSCAT 

RIYADH 

HURGADA 

JEDDAH 

KARACHI 

HONG KONG 

BANGKOK 

PUHKET 

COLOMBO 

HO CHI MINH 

NAIROBI 

SINGAPORE 

SEYCHELLES 

JOHANNESBURG 

PERTH 

BRISBANE 

SYDNEY 

MELBOURNE 

In addition to over 70 direct flights all over Europe, Middle East, NY and soon China, map 

shows the main hubs with multiple daily direct flights to Belgrade (white), connecting Serbia to 

all parts of the world, with just one-stop flight (yellow). 

Direct flight to Beijing, China (green), following the visa free regime from 2017 for citizens of 

China, is announced to start from next year.



Entry Requirements / Visas 

Serbia has one of the most liberal visa polices in Europe, thus enabling delegates from both 

EU and non-EU countries to attend the WSRC 2021 without any visa procedure issues and 

additional costs. 

Citizens of the following countries do not need to obtain visas: 

• Citizens of the following may enter the Republic of Serbia using their identity cards and 

stay up to 90 days: European Union countries, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, 

Macedonia, Montenegro, Norway and Switzerland 

• Nationals of (provided they hold a valid passport): Albania, Andorra, Belarus, Israel, 

Russian Federation, Turkey and Ukraine. Rest of world: Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, 

Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Cuba, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Mexico, 

Mongolia, New Zealand, Oman, Republic of Korea, Qatar, Seychelles, Singapore, Tunisia, 

Ukraine, UAE, United States of America, Uruguay, Vatican - Holy See 

• Nationals provided they are holding diplomatic and official passports, or ordinary passports 

indicating they are travelling on business: Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, China, DPR Korea, 

Ecuador, Egypt, Georgia, Guinea, India, Iran, Laos, Lebanon, Moldova, Morocco, Pakistan, 

Peru, Venezuela, Vietnam 

Delegates holding a valid Schengen, UK and other EU Member States' visa, or a visa of the 

United States of America, are able to enter Serbia without any additional visa procedures. 

The visa regime has recently been even more liberalized for 10 additional countries, a trend 

that Serbia will follow in the coming years.



Nationals of other Countries will need to obtain a visa by meeting the following 

requirements: 

• Valid Passport 

• One of the following: a letter of invitation (verified by the appropriate Serbian authority), an 

invitation from a company for a business visit, a receipt or authorised tourist company 

certifying that the travel arrangement has been paid (letter of credit or other payment 

receipt) 

• Return ticket 

• Proof of sufficient funds in hard currency 

• Health Insurance 

• Completed visa application, photo, vise fee 

For more details, please visit http://bit.ly/EntryRequirements



International Bus and Train Transport 

Serbia is located in South-Eastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula, at the crossroads of 

Eastern and Western Europe. Due to its position it was rightfully named “Gates of the 

Balkans” and the “Doors of Middle Europe”. Therefore, the second largest city of Serbia, Novi 

Sad, can be easily reached either by road, plane, bus or train. 

Novi Sad, has regular and direct bus and rail connections with capital cities in Central and 

Eastern Europe. For connections only operating with the Serbian capital Belgrade, transfers 

from Belgrade to Novi Sad will be organised. 

Regular bus lines connect Novi Sad with all parts of Serbia and the world. International bus 

lines operate to all neighboring and most European countries. International lines: BAS tourist. 

For connections only operating with the Serbian capital Belgrade, transfers from Belgrade to 

Novi Sad will be organised. 

“Serbian Railways” provide for the following commercial discounts: Inter Rail, Euro Domino, 

Railplus, Balkan Flexipass, Easy Travel Card, Euro



Public Transport System in Novi Sad 

Once in Novi Sad, conference participants will be able to use the city’s extensive public 

transport system operated by the GSP Novi Sad on around 25 routes throughout the city, 

covering the entire city area. 

Tickets can be purchased in a great number of kiosks throughout Novi Sad or from the driver 

in the vehicles. Ticket types available are single, daily and weekly. Price for single ticket is 0.5 

€ and it can be used only once during the ride. Price for daily ticket is 2 € and is valid for the 

day on which they are issued, from 0 to 24h. Price for weekly ticket is 6eur and can be used 

for an unlimited number of rides for 7 consecutive days. 

Public transportation every day throughout the year from 4:40 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. 

For delegates staying in the some of the proposed hotels, the best option is to walk. 

Proposed conference venue, welcome reception and all attractions can be reached easily on 

foot in 10-15 minutes maximum. Average taxi ride to/from Congress center to the major 

hotels is around 3 € .

54

6. Tentative program and proceedings 

55



DAY 0 

Monday 6 September 

12:00-17:00 Registration & Poster setup 

17:00-18:00 Opening ceremony 

18:00-19:30 Welcome Reception 

DAY 1 

Tuesday 7 September 

08:30-09:00 Plenary 1 - Perspectives of 

genomic assisted selection in soybean 

Henry Nguyen 

09:00-09:30 Regional Reports: Europe/Africa 

Serbia: 

Africa: 

09:30-10:00 COFFEE BREAK 

10:00-12:00 MORNING SESSIONS 

Breeding 

Food, Feed and Nutrition 

(Johann Vollmann) 

Agronomy & Physiology 

Weeds, Diseases, & Pests 

Special Topics 

12:00-13:30 LUNCH 

13:30-15:30 AFTERNOON SESSIONS 

Breeding 


(Johann Vollmann) 



15:30-16:30 SNACK BREAK & CASH BAR 

POSTER VIEWING 

16:30-17:00 Poster discussion 

17:00 Close of day 1 

DAY 2 

Wednesday 8 September 

08:30-09:00 Plenary 2 – 

09:00-09:30 Regional Reports: North America 

Canada: Istvan Rajcan, 

University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada 

USA: 



Breeding 




Special Topics 

12:00-13:30 LUNCH 


Breeding 



Denube soya workshop: 

Specific needs of European soybean 

industry 




17:00 Close of day 2



DAY 3 

Thursday 9 September 

08:30-09:00 Plenary 3 – 

DAY 4 

Friday 10 September 

08:30-09:00 Plenary 4 – 

09:00-09:30 Regional Reports: South America 

Brazil: 

Argentina: 



Field day of IFVC! 

12:00-13:30 LUNCH 


Breeding 




Special Topics: Soybean in 

organic farming 




17:00 Close of day 3 

09:00-09:30 Regional Reports: Asia/Australia 

Asia: 

Australia: 



Breeding 


Engineering and IT in soybean 

production 


Business and legal 

12:00-13:30 LUNCH 


Breeding 



Special Topics: Economic aspects 

– Competition of soybean production on the 

farm 




17:00 Closing ceremony with Poster 

Awards 

19:00 Conference dinner

7. Previous experience

in hosting International Conferences



Experience in hosting international conferences 

The prestigious Master Congress Centre and city of Novi Sad have professionally hosted or 

have already booked congresses, conferences, symposia, seminars, promotions, 

presentations, corporate events, fashion shows, and similar events. 

Conference of the International Sunflower Association -ISA- 2020 

800 participants 

15 Assembly of the Conference of European Churches -CEC- 2018 


International Safe Communities Conference 2017 


International Society for Health and Human Rights -ISHHR- 2017 


Annual Congress of the International Solid Waste Association 2016 

1,300 participants 

ESTIEM Council Meeting 2016 


18 International Conference on Photoacoustic and Photothermal Phenomena 2015 


20 SETAC Europe LCA Case Studies Symposium 2014 


Congress of the Gesellschaft fuer Angewandte Mathematik und und Mechanik 2013 

1,000 participants 

14 International Joint World Cultural Tourism Conference 2013 


15 Power Electronics and Motion Control Conference -EPE-PEMC- 2012 


International Congress of the International Federation of Wine Brotherhoods 2012 


20 Europhysics Conference on Atomic and Molecular Physics of Ionized Gases 2010 


EDSA Spring Meeting 2006 


60



Experience in hosting international conferences 

Additionally, Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops has also been a host and have 

successfully organised many international conferences, symposiums and meetings in the 

past years, with the support of all relevant institutions in Serbia and city of Novi Sad. 

International Workshop on Herbicide 

Tolerant Varieties 2017 

Regional Seed Days 2013 and 2017 

First International Legume Society (LS) 

Conference 2013 

The Forth Joint UNS - PSU International 

Conference on BioScience: Biotechnology 

and Biodiversity 2012 

EWAC-Eucarpia Cereals Section Conference 

2011 

BREEDING 08 – Conventional and Molecular 

Breeding of Field and Vegetable Crops 

International Conference 2008 

ESSNET Conference 2007 

2nd Balkan Symposium on Field Crops 1998 

12 th Conference of the International Sunflower 

Association -ISA- 1988 

61

62

8. Advisory Board 

63


2021 Novi Sad, Serbia


2021 Novi Sad, Serbia

9. Letters of Support

69

Belgrade 

Serbia 

Support Letter to host the WSRC 2021 in Novi Sad, Serbia 


Distinguished Madams/Sirs, 

With great excitement and hope, we in the National Tourism Organisation of Serbia have 

realized that the selection time of the country, place and venue of the WSRC 2021 has 

come. 

We would like to take this opportunity to extend Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops 

proposal to host this prominent event. Bringing together world’s soybean researchers 

from all around the world to exchange knowledge, thoughts and experiences in Novi 

Sad, the meeting point among civilizations during the centuries, will give special feature 

to the vision of the 2021 World Soybean Research Conference . 

I am very thankful for considering Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops submission for 

this prestigious event, we are assuring you that we will do our best to make this 

Conference a success. 

Your sincerely, 

Marija Labovic 

CEO/Managing Director

Support Letter to host the WSRC 2021 in Novi Sad, Serbia 


Dear colleagues, 

On behalf of the Serbia Convention Bureau and with the support of Serbia and Novi Sad 

meeting industry we take great pleasure in submitting this invitation and support to stage 

the WSRC 2021 in Novi Sad, Serbia. 

As a national entity in-charge of marketing Serbia as an international congress destination, 

we are strongly supporting efforts of Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops and of prof. dr 

Svetlana Balesevic-Tubic in establishing Serbia and entire region as hub of research and 

promotional activities focusing on soybean industry. 

Novi Sad is a purpose built events destination having a long history of staging some of the 

world’s largest and most prestigious events. With an enviable alliance between the local 

government and industry, Novi Sad is more than competent in hosting strategically 

important events like WSRC 2021. 

Novi Sad, with is calmness and the proficiency with brand new facilities of in combination 

with great hotel choice creates perfect starting point. In addition, experience and expertise 

of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops and the eagerness of the market for up-to-date 

information and knowledge guarantees the superior event in Novi Sad and satisfied WSRC 

delegates, members and sponsors. 

Drawing on the wealth of experience and expertise, Novi Sad is well poised to set a new 

benchmark for the WSRC event. 

Looking forward to hosting you I am sending my best regards, 

Igor Kovacevic 

CEO

Serbia Convention Bureau, as a government non-profit agency, will support WSRC 2021 

in the following activities: 

• Support Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in preparing and presenting the Bid for WSRC 

2021 

• Provide support in organization and coordinate of site visit to Novi Sad 

• Pre-conference promotional activates for Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops at related 

conferences 

• Promotional material to be distributed to all delegates attending WSRC 2021 

• Provide you with all information concerning the Venue and all hotels that are listed as official 

hotels for the WSRC 2021 

• Gather support of local institutions - thanks to the previous record of successful events 

organised in Serbia, there are strong professional connections among meeting professionals 

and many institutions in order to facilitate all the necessary procedures and communications 

between conference organisers and local organisations. 

• Provide local media coverage of the WSRC 2021 

• Prepare info desks at Belgrade Airport and the Conference venue with all conference 

materials 

All activities in supporting Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops and prof. dr Svetlana Balesevic- 

Tubic, as well as World Soybean Research Conference, are in-kind support from Government of 

Serbia will be provided free of charge, demonstrating our enthusiasm and readiness to bring WSRC 

2021 to Novi Sad. 

For more details contact: 

Serbia Convention Bureau 

Igor Kovacevic 

CEO 

+381116557101 

ikovacevic@serbia.travel 

scb@serbia.travel

74

10. Why Serbia? 

75



Why Serbia? 

• Serbia is the center of soybean in Europe - the best soybean genotypes are created in 

the heart of Europe in Novi Sad, which is the center of the Institute for Field and Vegetable 

Crops. The Institute is the most important scientific research institution not only in Serbia 

but in the whole region, and advanced center in soybean research in Europe. It has a 79- 

year-long tradition and an immense experience that is continuously being transferred to 

younger generations that promote agriculture with their new ideas and visions. This youth 

is partly responsible for European Capital of Culture title, which was awarded to the city of 

Novi Sad in 2021. Now, this youth wants to bring all eminent soybean professionals and 

thus connect different cultures in Novi Sad in 2021 to exchange thoughts and expertise 

and that will give special feature to the vision of the World Soybean Research Conference 

2021. 

• Never hosted World Soybean Research Conference – Serbia never before had the 

opportunity to host this prominent and most important event in soybean industry. In order 

to support further development of soybean field in new and emerging destinations, and 

having World Soybean Research Conference in Serbia will for sure be a turning point for 

further popularization and improvement of soybean industry in Serbia but in the entire 

region too, creating an opportunity to present seed industry capacities, techniques, 

manufactures of equipment and local producers. 

• Easy access – Serbia has the best accessibility in the region of South East Europe, 

currently with over 80 direct flight connections throughout Europe, USA, China, UAE, 

Africa. By 2021 it is expected this to grow up to over 100 connection. Visa free regime for 

all citizens of Europe, including Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Israel, as well as China, UAE and 

many others will help all WSRC delegates to decide to come. Not to forget, all registered 

delegates will receive a special discount from Air Serbia. In addition, great geo strategic 

position in heart of Europe, means that delegates can come easily using busses and trains 

as well. 

• Technical site visits – We will organise technical tours for WSRC delegates to join and 

discover more about our soybean industry and local producers. We have prepared some 

surprises and soybean solutions and products people will be interested to see. 

• Experienced and well-known LOC – by organising our annual national meetings as well 

as many international conferences and symposium over the years, together with our 

collaborating partners, each year we are trying to further develop and modernize seed and 

soybean industry in Serbia. This has helped us to establish great relations in national and 

international seed industry and gain experience in large scale events like this one.



Why Serbia? 

• Save delegates money – Serbia is one of the least expensive conference destinations in 

Europe, offering great conference packages at very affordable prices. 

• New and interesting destination for WSRC delegates – Serbia and the region of South 

East Europe is so far unowned for WSRC delegates. For all of them, Serbia as one of the 

counties with dynamic history and diverse cultural heritage in Europe, will be a new and 

intersecting destination to explore before or after our Conference. 

• New market with great business potential - In the last years we have made Serbia a 

hub for all soybean industry in the region. This shows that Serbia has a huge potential and 

rather large market that, with WSRC 2021 in Novi Sad, will immediately get international 

outreach, establishing greater presence of WSRC in this region. 

• Scientific potential - Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops along with our industry 

partners, brilliance in education, science and experience in soybean industry. We have 

great ides for scientific programme in order to emphasize the current trends and 

challenges that are specific for new and emerging markets like Serbia but also other 

regional countries are. 

• Regional collaboration – being a hub of all regional activities, this event will further 

enhance our collaboration with colleagues from the region. As they are all already used to 

coming to Serbia, WSRC 2021 here will get a great number of delegates from this area, as 

well as it will serve as a great opportunity for them to get introduced with their international 

colleagues. 

• Local support – Both Government and industry partners from this area see WSRC 2021 

as a great opportunity, which is why they are all providing a great support in bringing and 

organising WSRC 2021 in Novi Sad. 

• Location and costs - great location, only 15 minutes from airport and 5-10 minutes from 

all hotels and city center makes it ideal. It is easily accessible from all points of the city and 

offer large parking. In addition, venue rental prices will support success of Belgrade 

congress 

• Flexibility and experience - variety of exhibition and conference halls will answer all 

WSRC requirements, since it is very flexible on one side, and on the other side bring 

experience of organizing large scale events from other fields.



Bid document to host 

World Soybean Research 

Conference 2021 

Novi Sad, Serbia

WSRC 2021 Novi Sad

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