Havana - Participants in the 15th International Congress on Sugar and Derivatives (Diversification 2019), which started Monday at the National Hotel of this capital, will learn today about the Cuban development program in this sector until 2030.

This Wednesday's program includes a cooperation forum and the launching of a bioelectric development plan, whose project leads the Sugar Azcuba Group.

A round table will also be held, in which topics related to 11 years of contribution to soil science and fertilization of sugarcane on this island will be discussed.

Some 15 papers on these aspects will be analyzed, including the geospecial behavior of some soil properties in the cultivation of sugar cane, and response of this plant to the application of nitrogen fertilizers.

In addition, the meeting attended by some 400 specialists, will discuss the industry's production of electricity, its use as a fuel for biomass boilers and price advantage as an alternative to oil and coal.

They will also discuss energy efficiency in the sugar industry, based on bioelectric plants, and the characterization of the experimental sugarcane biomass stored in bulk for the production of electricity.

Other topics being analyzed include: Determination of bagasse ashes for its use in construction, Obtaining and using biomass with high added value and Study of the structural and functional properties of the amylase enzyme in the process of separating starch for industrial use.

The program in this session includes a business conference about the main achievements of the Havana Club International Joint Venture, and its new strategy to evaluate the authenticity of Cuban rums.

Diversification 2019 is organized by Azcuba, the Association of Sugar Technicians of Cuba and the Cuban Institute of Investigations of Sugar Cane Derivatives (Icidca).

As is traditionally held every two years, the event is aimed at spreading the most recent knowledge on the exploitation of the potentials of sugarcane, with special emphasis on showing technologies, products and international services.