Dear readers,

The International Potash Institute (IPI) is celebrating its 60^th anniversary (1952-2012). For many decades, our agronomists and soil scientists have carried the message of “Balanced Fertilization”, demonstrating and disseminating the role of potash in yield performance and quality, in stress tolerance, and in bringing greater value to the farmer. In this e-ifc edition, to mark the development and evolution of IPI over the years, we asked IPI members to share their views with our readers on IPI’s vision and objectives.

This special IPI 60 issue highlights content from three regions which are of global importance to food production and brings a review on the molecular biology related to K⁺ transport. The development of potash fertilization in China has no doubt contributed to the country’s ability to significantly improve its agricultural production and food security. The science related to potash fertilization in Chinese soils is now well established. On the other side of the globe, the development of the Brazilian Cerrado has changed global agricultural production and enabled Brazil to become a significant exporter of agricultural products. Brazilian science enabled the transformation of large parts of the Cerrado from wild savanna to productive land using the best available scientific tools. Last and not least, increasing agricultural production across the vast African continent will take up much of the attention of agronomists and policymakers in the coming years. Whilst significant potential to increase yields exists, there are large gaps in scientific knowledge on Africa’s soils and crops, among other constraints. These are all major issues to be considered.

By the end of 2012 we will conclude our 60^th anniversary celebrations. Whilst we look back with pride on our past achievements, we are nonetheless attentive to future challenges and determined to further assist global agricultural production by continuing to conduct practical research and demonstrations for farmers and disseminate and share the knowledge gained.

We trust you find some valuable insights in this special edition.

Hillel Magen
Director