The results showcased in this report highlight the dynamic potential of the research teams. The research ranges from fundamental sugarcane genome analysis and pathogen diversity studies to more applied studies including the development of tools and services to support the sugarcane sector and producers, and modelling of sugarcane growth and production. Environment-friendly aspects (sustainable production) are also becoming a major priority in the research projects, along with sugarcane processing and development-especially the transformation of biomass into biofuel. New prospects are opening in this field that will influence the research organization. Regarding the scientific strategy, collaborations are increasing between CIRAD research units and joint research units (especially with INRA, the French Institut national de la recherche agronomique). These research partnerships are essential to broaden the scientific scope of sugarcane research activities and to gain worldwide recognition for our research. Our more development-oriented research would especially need to be better promoted. Regarding the geographical strategy, many of the teams are based in the French overseas departments (Guadeloupe and Réunion) and partnerships have been set up in Barbados, Cuba, the Indian Ocean region and southern Africa, Madagascar and South Africa (particularly with SASRI, the South African Sugar Research Institute). This regional cooperation is crucial and we will continue to focus seriously on enhancing the regional thrust of our activities. Available incentive funding should be mobilised through local communities. International partnerships have also been set up in Brazil, especially with ESALQ, the Escola Superior de Agricultura "Luiz de Queiroz", CTC, the Centro Technico de Canavieira, and the Universidade Estadual de Londrina concerning sugarcane modelling and ecophysiology.