The main research theme of Asian Liver Fluke Network confines, but not limit to, the objectives and strategic plans. These include epidemiology of liver fluke and liver cancer using GIS/Remote sensing as well as basic studies on biology of liver flukes and their intermediate hosts in relation to diagnosis, pathogenesis, chemotherapy, prevention and control of the infection. Network members decide their own research areas on their expertise and facilities. Collaborating research will be more common among the members. Major grant proposal for regional implementation research will be created. All are to meet our grand challenges:

CHALLENGES
The major challenges of the establishment of the Network and its member research activities are:

·  cooperation and collaboration in liver fluke research among Asian scientists;
·  re-quantification of the current burden of liver fluke infection in Asian populations;
·  identify risk populations for the infection and hepatobiliary diseases including liver cancer;
·  development of new diagnostic tools and drug targets for the liver fluke infection and related diseases;
·  promotion of integrated control and prevention of liver fluke infection;
·  a sharing research database system for members and government sectors;