Plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) are the essence of sustainable agrifood systems. They encompass the genetic diversity in both improved and farmers’ varieties, as well as in crop wild relatives, wild food plants and breeding materials.The third report on the State of the World’s Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture presents a comprehensive assessment of the conservation and sustainable use of PGRFA, as well as the human and institutional capacities to support these efforts. Based on information from 128 countries and four regional and 13 international research centres and the contribution from over 1 600 experts, it presents an overview of progress since 2012, as well as current needs and challenges in the future management of PGRFA. The report provides a sound basis for recalibrating relevant polices and strategies, including the rolling Global Plan of Action for Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.