Anaheim, California – The International Seed Federation (ISF) and the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) today announced a joint engagement at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show and ahead of the UN Climate Conference COP30, reinforcing their shared commitment to building resilient, regenerative, climate-resilient, and inclusive agri-food systems.
As the world prepares for critical climate negotiations in Belém, Brazil, ISF and IFPA are standing together to highlight how innovation—from seed to shelf—can drive meaningful climate action. Their collaboration showcases the power of linking science, technology, and sustainable business practices to deliver both environmental and social impact.
Seeds: The Foundation of Climate-Smart Agriculture
Seeds are the foundation of resilient, climate-smart agriculture, enabling farmers to produce more with fewer resources, while fresh produce and floral distributors and retailers drive sustainability through regenerative practices, reduced food loss and waste, responsible packaging, and stronger connections with consumers.
“Quality seeds are an essential driver and starting point for sustainable food systems. The seed sector is continuously engaged to enable farmers with improved varieties to produce more with fewer resources, adapt to changing climates, and enhance biodiversity. The private sector focuses on ensuring innovations in plant breeding reach farmers of all sizes. ISF is engaged to support enabling policies, international cooperation to increase seed choice,” said Michael Keller, Secretary General of ISF.
IFPA’s Leadership in Sustainable Produce and Floral Practices
At the same time, IFPA’s Global Produce & Floral Sustainability Framework emphasizes regenerative agriculture, reduced food loss and waste, sustainable packaging, and social responsibility across the supply chain. Through collaboration with growers, distributors, and retailers, IFPA champions measurable sustainability goals and transparent reporting to accelerate progress.
“By linking innovation at the seed level with sustainable practices from farm to market, ISF and IFPA emphasize the need for enabling policies and public-private partnerships that accelerate access to regenerative, climate-resilient solutions, empower farmers of all sizes, and deliver healthy, affordable food to consumers worldwide,” said Tamara Muruetagoiena, Vice President of Sustainability at IFPA.
A Shared Call to Action Ahead of COP30
This engagement comes ahead of the global gathering in Belém, where ISF and IFPA are joining forces to highlight how innovation in seeds and sustainable practices across food distribution and retail can work hand in hand to build resilient agri-food systems.
We call on governments to strengthen enabling policies and partnerships that empower farmers, reduce food loss and waste, and deliver sustainable, affordable food to consumers—ensuring climate action benefits all, from seed to shelf.#
About ISF and IFPA
About ISF: ISF is the voice of the global seed industry, working towards a world where quality seed is accessible to all, supporting food security and sustainable agriculture. It has represented the interests of its members since 1924, and represents 96% of the international seed trade today. With a global reach extending to members around the world and official observer status in intergovernmental and international organizations, ISF is uniquely positioned to assist in the development of government policy and business strategy. Website: worldseed.orgAbout IFPA: The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) trade association that serves the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain worldwideIts mission is to grow the prosperity of businesses in the industry and create a vibrant future for all, which it accomplishes by leading global advocacy efforts, connecting individuals and organizations through networking and events, and guiding the industry with expertise, research, and policy recommendations on key issues like food safety, sustainability, and labor. Website: freshproduce.com
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MEDIA ADVISORY
WHAT: Part of the FAO's 80th anniversary celebrations, the first ‘From Seeds to Foods’ global exhibition aims to highlight the intersection of ancient knowledge and cutting-edge technologies for the sustainable transformation of global agri-food systems.
The private seed sector, represented by the International Seed Federation (ISF) and Assosementi - Associazione Italiana Sementieri e Vivaisti, will host a booth showcasing how sustainable – and delicious – food starts with innovation in plant breeding.
Explore high-quality seeds and trace the journey of the seed, from its origin, even before it is planted in the soil, through plant breeding, seed production, seed marketing, and its final use to produce food, fuel, and fibre.
WHEN: 10-13 October 2025
WHERE: FAO Global Exhibition “From Seeds to Foods,” Booth 1.8, Pavilion B, Park of Porta Capena, Rome, Italy
WHO: International Seed Federation (ISF) and Assosementi - Associazione Italiana Sementieri e Vivaisti
Spokespersons:
The following spokespeople will be available for interview onsite or virtually:
Michael Keller, Secretary-General, ISF. Michael has been the Secretary General of ISF since June 2014 and is focused on delivering the vision of a world where quality seed is accessible to all farmers to support sustainable agriculture and food security. Michael previously served as Chair of the Private Sector Mechanism (PSM) of the UN Committee on World Food Security (CFS) from 2022 to 2024, and serves as a Board member of the World Agriculture Forum. (Languages spoken: English, French, German)
Giuseppe Carli, President, Assosementi. Giuseppe began his career in the seed industry in 1989 and joined KWS Italy in 1995. The company focuses on research, development, and marketing of various extensive crops. After holding numerous positions within the multinational, Carli is now CEO and Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Italian subsidiary, as well as Country Head for the Business Area. (Languages spoken: Italian, English)
About
The International Seed Federation (ISF) is the voice of the global seed industry, working towards a world where quality seed is accessible to all, supporting food security and sustainable agriculture. It has represented the interests of its members since 1924 and represents 96% of the international seed trade today. With a global reach extending to members in nearly 90 countries and official observer status in intergovernmental and international organizations, ISF is uniquely positioned to assist in the development of government policy and business strategy. www.worldseed.orgASSOSEMENTI is a technical and organizational trade association that represents the seed industry at the national level in Italy: plant breeders, seed production companies, and seed distributors. Founded in 1921, ASSOSEMENTI continues to fulfil its mission to promote the development of seed and nursery production in Italy. For more information, visit www.sementi.it/.
For further details and to arrange interviews:
Seed sector’s role in tackling climate change in the spotlight at COP29 Agriculture Day
Baku, Azerbaijan – On “Agriculture Day” at the UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP) 29, the International Seed Federation (ISF) called on global leaders and food systems actors to embrace the critical role of high-quality seeds and plant breeding innovation in combating the challenges of climate change, including ensuring food and nutrition security.
ISF participated in side events to highlight the role of high-quality seeds and the seed industry in creating more sustainable food systems and share results from the Seed Resilience project.
“The impacts of climate change – from temperature rises to water scarcity, soil degradation and salinization – are punishing agriculture around the world. The global seed sector provides climate-resilient solutions and innovations that safeguard food security and nutrition today and in the future,” said Michael Keller, Secretary General of ISF.
Seeds for a Resilient Future
A newly published ISF report, “Seeds for a Resilient Future,” emphasizes the urgency of investing in plant breeding technologies and adopting policies backed by science and consistent with international standards to accelerate the development and accessibility of climate-resilient crop varieties, especially in vulnerable countries.
The report underscores the 2024 seed sector survey finding that over half of seed sector stakeholders view climate change as their foremost challenge, underscoring the need for immediate action.
“High-quality seeds and modern plant breeding are the building blocks for sustainable agriculture,” said Ben Rivoire, ISF Sustainability and Crop Value Chain Manager. “At COP29, we are urging governments, public institutions, businesses, and civil society to unite in supporting innovations, policies and collaborations that empower farmers and communities through climate-resilient seed to mitigate agriculture’s carbon emissions and adapt to increasingly unpredictable and extreme weather.”
Showcasing Impact: The Seed Resilience Project in Rwanda
The ISF Seed Resilience Project, which is being implemented in Rwanda in partnership with Fair Planet and the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), serves as an example of how access to high-quality, locally adapted seed, along with training on Good Agricultural Practices, can dramatically improve farmers’ yields for vegetable crops, improving their incomes and food and nutrition security in the long run.
As of August 2024, 61 crop varieties of carrot, cabbage, tomato, sweet pepper, and onion were tested, with 22 found suitable for market adoption based on superior yields and quality. Production protocols were developed for all tested crops.
“With notable successes such as a nine-fold increase in carrot yields, the project demonstrates the potential of improved seeds to enhance both food security and nutrition. By addressing key dietary pillars—vegetables for vitamins, pulses for proteins, and cereals for carbohydrates—the project lays the groundwork for sustainable agricultural growth in vulnerable regions,” said Keller.
Validation trials are ongoing and will be shared later in the year. New potato variety trials also is ongoing, with eight varieties on a 2,300 m² plot planted in April 2024. Plans are underway to expand trials to on-farm testing with 100 farmers in collaboration with RAB and the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture (MINAGRI) in upcoming seasons.
Dr Alon Haberfeld, Operations and Technology Manager of Fair Planet, shared: “In a rapidly changing environment, it is crucial to develop crop varieties tailored to the specific needs of smallholder farmers. The Seed Resilience Project in Rwanda identifies and promotes the most suitable varieties for each production region, empowering smallholder farmers to achieve high yields even under shifting climate conditions. This approach strengthens food systems, enhances resilience, and contributes to improved food security."
A Call to Action
To build on these successes, ISF presented a threefold call to action:
Adopt Science-Based Policies: Governments must uphold regulations grounded in scientific evidence, enabling the movement of high-quality seed across borders while fostering innovation in seed.
Foster Public-Private Collaboration: Partnerships must leverage complementary strengths to strengthen seed systems in climate-vulnerable countries and improve farmers’ access to high-quality seeds.
Commit to a Resilient Future: Climate-resilient seed is the starting of resilient food systems. The seed sector, working with other actors in the broader agri-food systems, national governments, and public institutions, can build more sustainable agrifood systems that endure the challenges of climate change and feed generations to come.
“ISF’s participation at COP29 and future climate COPs underscores our century-long commitment to ensuring quality seed is accessible to all, supporting sustainable agriculture and food security,” said Keller, “and this commitment continues in the face of all the challenges presented by climate change.”
ENDS
About ISF
ISF is the voice of the global seed industry. It has represented the interests of its members since 1924, and represents 96% of the international seed trade today. With a global reach extending to members around the world and official observer status in intergovernmental and international organizations, ISF is uniquely positioned to assist in the development of government policy and business strategy.
www.worldseed.org
On their joint centennial forum, ISTA and ISF strengthen cooperation for a food-secure future
The International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and the International Seed Federation (ISF), celebrating 100 years of collaboration, reinforced their commitment to enhancing global food and nutritional security with a landmark event in Cambridge, UK, the birthplace of both organisations.
CAMBRIDGE, UK—Two global organisations celebrating their 100th anniversary this year held today a joint forum highlighting their shared dedication to the advancement of the global seed sector. The forum underscored the critical role of high-quality, environmentally suited seed varieties in building resilient food systems for a rapidly growing global population amid escalating climate challenges.
At the forum, ISF and ISTA reaffirmed their commitment to working together and with other international organisations, including the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Farmers Organization (WFO), among others.
Discussions focused on anticipating future global requirements for high-quality seeds, considering the diversity of crops needed to adapt to changing environmental conditions, and integrating new technologies to overcome production and seed quality assessment challenges.
Call for the importance of quality seed
Looking ahead, ISTA and ISF recognise the imperative for even stronger cooperation and synergy in their operations to continue enhancing quality seed for farmers. Quality seed is the essential starting point for sustainable agricultural production.
“By enhancing our collaborative efforts, we will continue our vital work in ensuring food security for today’s and future generations, honouring a century-old legacy while looking forward to new horizons in agricultural development,” said Keshavulu Kunusoth, ISTA President.
“More than ever, we are determined to continue our contributions to building sustainable food systems that can withstand climate change and nourish an ever-increasing global population,” Keshavulu shared.
“Together, ISTA, ISF, and the global network of seed companies and affiliated organisations are united in their commitment to maintaining and continuously enhancing seed quality which is an essential layer for innovation and sustainability,” said Michael Keller, ISF Secretary General.
“We will continue ensuring the availability of improved varieties and making them more accessible to all farmers and growers worldwide. We invite all stakeholders in the seed sector to join us in this critical endeavor,” Keller added. ###About ISTA
ISTA, established in 1924 by governmental laboratories now has both government and private sector members. ISTA is government led and stands at the forefront of developing and implementing comprehensive internationally agreed methodologies for seed quality assessment. This ensures the distribution and utilisation of seeds that meet the highest quality standards, facilitating optimal crop establishment. Recognising the direct link between seed quality, agricultural productivity and sustainable livelihoods, ISTA's work is pivotal in minimising crop establishment risks, thereby safeguarding farmers' investments, and enhancing the global food supply. ISTA’s work is also essential to preserve and give greater value to plant biodiversity and areas of natural species, which are increasingly endangered.
For media requests, please contact ista.office@ista.ch
International Seed Testing Association, Richtiarkade 18, CH-8304 Wallisellen, +41 44 838 60 00, ista.office@ista.ch
Website: https://www.seedtest.org/en/
Social media:
About ISF
ISF is the voice of the global seed industry. It has represented the interests of its members since 1924 and represents 96% of the international seed trade today. With a global reach extending to members around the world and official observer status in intergovernmental and international organisations, ISF is uniquely positioned to assist in the development of government policy and business strategy.
For media requests, please contact Airah Cadiogan, ISF Communications Manager, a.cadiogan@worldseed.org / +41 79 314 93 12
Website: https://worldseed.org, https://100years.worldseed.org
Social media:
Nyon, Switzerland – On the occasion of the FAO Global Conference on Green Development of Seed Industries, the International Seed Federation (ISF) called for collaboration between the private and public sectors towards sustainable agriculture based on seed resilience and enabling seed choice for farmers.
In this keynote address, ISF Secretary General Michael Keller said: “I am here to make a call for unified effort towards seed resilience to ensure “the adaptability and capacity to contribute to food and nutrition security by making accessible sufficient, diverse, locally adapted, improved, high quality varieties to all farmers taking into account environmental, health and socio-economic aspects”.”
The private seed sector also sought support from the FAO in reshaping the dialogue on seed systems to one that recognizes the diversity of farmer needs and situations.
Keller remarked that the focus should be on interrelation between different seed systems. “Empowering farmers means accepting that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The situation, needs and preferences of farmers are extremely varied in terms of size, profitability, and activities in different countries, regions or even smaller geographic areas. There is no silver bullet that will solve everything in one go.”
ISF continued its call for cooperation and partnerships in the areas of genetic resources conservation, plant breeding innovation, and capacity building. Keller emphasized that the seed sector’s capacity to contribute depends on an enabling environment where the international and national regulations are aligned, clear, science-based, risk- proportionate and predictable.
The private seed sector representatives who spoke during the conference came from a diverse range of companies and associations from Africa, Asia, North and South America to emphasize the importance of effective seed systems for successful agricultural transformation, diversification and intensification and inclusive market oriented and thus farmer-focused seed sector to enhance seed choice and secure availability of quality seed for farmers.
ISF called upon governments to join, implement and put in place the relevant systems and well-defined international standards, agreements and guidelines established by various intergovernmental organizations like OECD, ISTA, IPPC, and others on seed quality, varietal identity, certification and seed health – as these have proven beneficial for the agriculture production of the countries who have joined these platforms, by enabling farmers to have access to high quality seed and new plant varieties. ###
