Advances in biotechnology, genomics, and breeding strategies for enhancing drought resilience in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.)

Drought remains one of the most consequential constraints on sugar beet ( Beta vulgaris L.) production, diminishing both root yield and sugar concentration and threatening a crop that supplies up to 20% of global sugar. As climate variability intensifies and water resources become increasingly unpredictable, strengthening drought tolerance in sugar beet has become a strategic priority for both breeders and the broader agricultural sector. Although conventional breeding has been instrumental, its slow progress and high labour demands highlight the need for more efficient pathways to genetic improvement. Recent advances in genomics and precision biotechnology now offer powerful and integrative routes for accelerating genetic improvement. Genome-wide association studies have revealed multiple loci linked to drought response, offering a robust foundation for marker-assisted and genomic selection. In parallel, transgenic approaches and CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing enable precise enhancement of stress-responsive pathways while preserving agronomic performance. The expanding integration of high-throughput phenotyping with multi-omics datasets is further refining our understanding of genotype–environment interactions and guiding more informed selection decisions. Despite these advances, a persistent challenge remains in translating controlled-environment discoveries into reliable field performance, particularly under the increasingly severe and prolonged drought episodes projected for future climates. This review underscores the need for a comprehensive “genes-to-field” framework that unites physiological insight, molecular understanding, and biotechnological precision to inform next-generation breeding strategies. Such an integrated approach is essential to ensure stable and sustainable sugar beet production in the face of accelerating climate uncertainty.