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By Nukanah Kollie
The International Seed Federation (ISF) and the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) have announced a powerful new collaboration aimed at strengthening innovation, sustainability, and resilience across the global agri-food system. The announcement comes during the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show and in the lead-up to the UN Climate Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil.
Together, the two organizations are amplifying the message that innovation, from seed to shelf, plays a central role in addressing the climate crisis. Their joint engagement underscores the critical importance of science, technology, and sustainable business practices in driving both environmental and social transformation throughout the food value chain.
Seeds: The Foundation of Climate-Smart Agriculture
“Quality seeds are an essential driver and starting point for sustainable food systems,” said Michael Keller, Secretary General of ISF. “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 and international cooperation to increase seed choice.”
Founded in 1924, ISF represents national and regional seed associations and more than 7,500 seed companies from around the world. Its work centers on advancing international seed trade, harmonizing regulations, and promoting innovation through plant breeding. The Federation advocates for farmers’ access to high-quality seeds, transparent trade practices, and intellectual property protection that encourages continuous improvement in seed technology.
As the foundation of agricultural productivity, seeds are key to achieving regenerative and climate-smart farming. By investing in plant breeding and seed innovation, ISF helps farmers worldwide increase yields, conserve natural resources, and build resilience to climate variability.
On the other end of the value chain, IFPA, formed through the 2021 merger of the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) and the United Fresh Produce Association serves as the largest and most diverse international organization representing the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain. Its membership includes growers, exporters, retailers, distributors, and foodservice leaders in more than 30 countries.
Through its Global Produce & Floral Sustainability Framework, IFPA drives practical action on regenerative agriculture, food loss reduction, sustainable packaging, and social responsibility. The association also advocates globally for science-based policies, transparent reporting, and fair market access that ensure sustainability remains a core business value rather than a marketing afterthought.
“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 Unified Vision for COP30 and Beyond
As the global community prepares for COP30, ISF and IFPA’s joint efforts serve as a timely reminder of the agri-food sector’s vital role in achieving climate and sustainability goals. By connecting innovations in plant science with responsible food production and distribution, both organizations are helping shape a resilient and inclusive food future—one that nourishes both people and the planet.
About ISF:
The International Seed Federation (ISF) represents the global seed industry, promoting innovation, seed choice, and sustainable agricultural systems that ensure food security and biodiversity. Through international advocacy, ISF supports harmonized seed laws and fosters knowledge-sharing among governments, scientists, and industry players to build more resilient food systems.
About IFPA:
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is the world’s largest and most diverse organization serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain. IFPA provides industry leadership through policy engagement, sustainability frameworks, market access initiatives, and capacity building, working to create a healthier world through innovation, advocacy, and collaboration
