Core Viewpoint - The national winter melon industry is experiencing significant growth, with a comprehensive output value nearing 70 billion yuan, driven by advancements in technology and industry integration [15][19]. Industry Overview - The fifth National Winter Melon Conference was held in Guangzhou, Guangdong, focusing on the entire winter melon industry chain and gathering experts, scholars, and industry representatives to explore new paths for industry integration [5][6]. - The national winter melon planting area increased from 5.5 million mu in 2020 to 6.5 million mu, with the comprehensive output value rising from 55 billion yuan to nearly 70 billion yuan [18][19]. Technological Advancements - The conference emphasized breaking down barriers in breeding, production, processing, circulation, and consumption, supporting innovation to develop high-value-added products [22][24]. - The Guangdong Agricultural Technology Promotion Center aims to create a platform for promoting agricultural technology achievements, showcasing over 100,000 new varieties and advanced technologies [30][31]. Product Diversification - The event featured a variety of winter melon products, including winter melon tea, sliced winter melon, dehydrated winter melon, and dietary fiber meal replacement powder, highlighting the diverse value and development potential of the winter melon industry [40]. - The conference also introduced the first national winter melon industry map, identifying major production areas with over 180,000 mu of annual planting [42]. Collaboration and Partnerships - Collaborations were established between various agricultural research institutions and companies to enhance winter melon breeding technology and product development [46][49]. - The conference included discussions on new vegetable industry models and management challenges in winter melon cultivation, providing scientific guidance for growers [44][45]. Awards and Recognition - A competition showcased 205 winter melon varieties, with awards given to outstanding specimens, reflecting the increasing demand for diverse and high-quality winter melon products [58][60]. - The event recognized the need for improved quality standards and safety in winter melon production, contributing to the industry's standardization and safety development [43].