International Drying Symposia originated in 1978 are organized bienially. They provide a forum for people from academia and industry interested in the process of drying i.e. removal of liquid moisture from solids by thermal means and related processes like osmotic dehydration, mechanical dewatering etc. At each IDS ca. 200 papers are presented and a similar number of participants are present.
   The Advisory Panel (AP) formed by ca. 30 prominent international scientists and engineers serves as an international body that provides continuity and guidance for national IDS organizers.
   The AP Secretariat established in 1996 composed of the AP Honorary Chairman and AP Secretary deals with matters of importance in the interim period between the AP meetings organized at each IDS.