The Symposia was created to foster, stimulate, and support any activity leading to the general improvement of the world tropical root and tuber crops production and utilization.

The historical process leading to the establishment of the International Society for Tropical Root Crops (ISTRC) began in 1964 in Trinidad and Tobago. A group within the University of the West Indies conceived the holding of a series of crop-orientated symposia and, in view of local relevance, "Tropical Root Crops" was selected as the first topic.ists, policymakers, donors, emerging farmers, private entrepreneurs, and funding agencies of research for development, working on tropical root and tuber crops meet. At this symposium, they share current research outputs, decide future patterns, and make wide-ranging decisions on the position of tropical root and tuber crops on the African continent and global agenda.

In addition to international triennial symposia held by ISTRC, a number of associated and regional events have occurred over the past years. Of particular note have been the activities of the African Branch (AB) of the Society which was formally launched in June, 1978, and since then regular regional symposia have been held. It is also appropriate to mention that, although an entirely separate legal entity, the Indian Society for Tropical Root Crops is affiliated to ISTRC.

ISTRC Symposia are held once every three years following the adoption of the ISTRC Constitution.

The membership is open to all root and tuber crop people whether they are researchers , business people, government officials, heads of state, etc. In all, the principal aim is to stimulate and enhance the value of chain research, production to full utilization of root and tuber crops (RTC).

The Executive Council comprises of eminent root and tuber researchers from national, regional and international bodies.

ISTRC focuses on stimulating research, production and utilization of root and tuber crops along various value chains. The activities include encouragement of training and extension, organization of workshops and symposia, exchange of genetic materials, and facilitation of contact among stakeholders working with root and tuber crops.

The aim is to stimulate and enhance the value of chain research, production to full utilization of root and tuber crops (RTC).

The last ISTRC Symposium was held in 2018 in Cali, Columbia.