SMART HORTICULTURE ASIA, the new fresh-produce technology conference, launched on Thursday 8 September was a success in starting the discussion on the crossing off horticulture and technology in Asia. The conference explored the impact of disruptive information technology on traditional fresh produce trade practices, crop cultivation and business models. Speakers included key figures from the fresh produce business, such as Edward Zhu, CEO of Chic Group, and Loren Zhao of e-tailer Fruitday, as well as leading horticulture technology experts, including Professor Salah Sukkarieh of the Australian Centre for Field Robotics and Ken Moyihan of Compac among others. Asia’s development is speeding up with the use of horticultural technology, but rightsizing of technology’ is as important as disruptive technologies in Asia. That was one of the key takeaway messages from the inaugural conference, which underlined the crucial role of global information standards.