Seeds of Innovation Take Root! ISF World Seed Congress 2024 Opens in the Netherlands

Amidst the blooming landscape of seed innovation and international cooperation, the International Seed Federation (ISF) proudly began the illustrious World Seed Congress, a timeless gathering steeped in tradition and innovation. Notably, MC Dominic, the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Krishi Jagran is attending this prestigious event.

This year, as the vibrant city of Rotterdam, The Netherlands plays host, the program commemorates a century of ISF's tireless efforts in standardizing commercial seed exchanges and fostering global collaboration. From May 27 to 29, 2024, the resplendent Rotterdam Ahoy sets the stage for this momentous occasion, promising business, innovation, and camaraderie.

Under the guiding theme "Navigating into the Next Century," #WorldSeed2024 embraces the potential of seeds in shaping a food-secure future. Anchored in the spirit of exploration and progress, the Congress offers discussions and exchanges, both physical and virtual.

Through a synergy of trade exchanges, exhibitions, roundtables, and the digital realm of Channel World Seed on YouTube, participants are set for a journey to explore key topics vital to the seed sector's evolution: the future of seed trade, innovation in plant breeding, seeds' role in resilient food systems, plant health, seed resilience, and strategic seed marketing.

The day commenced with the registration of participants followed by an opening ceremony. Michael Keller, Secretary General of the International Seed Federation highlighted, “The whole world is my home,” as he celebrated the 100th ISF Congress. Reflecting on the congress's origins, he noted, “In 1924, around 30 seed traders from six countries came together in Cambridge to establish mutual understanding and coherent business practices and seed quality standards.”

Furthermore, Keller underscored the significance of seeds in global food security, stating, “Eighty percent of our food is plant-based, and most of it comes from seeds. Over the past 20 years, the seed trade has grown substantially. Seed movement must be paired with research and development. Companies are continually unlocking the genetic potential of seeds, resulting in harvests up to 50 times greater than in 1924. This progress demands forward-thinking and investment of up to 30 percent of annual turnover, along with cross-border collaboration. Developing and marketing new varieties takes many years and involves traversing continents to ensure they are adapted to diverse agro-climatic conditions and farmers’ needs.”

Keller also acknowledged the challenges posed by de-globalization and protectionism, highlighting the need for global cooperation. “Looking ahead to the next century, the question remains for all of us: how can we reach more farmers and provide them with the power of seed choice and resilience?” He illustrated this point with an example from Ethiopia, where increased seed choice led to a sixfold yield increase despite poor soil health. Keller called for collaboration with farmers' organizations, public-private partnerships, and building bridges on the ground. Concluding his speech, he poignantly remarked, “Seed is Life—Life is Seed.”

Next, Jaap Mazereeuw, Chair of the National Organizing Committee (NOC)- Plantum, warmly welcomed everyone, stating, “This centennial ISF Congress is a significant milestone in the history of global agriculture and the seed sector. It’s not just a commemoration of our past but a showcase of the seed industry’s pivotal role in food security and sustainability.”

Besides, Beth Bechdol, FAO Deputy Director General, emphasized the pressing challenges ahead, including the climate crisis, economic downturns, conflicts, and the growing global population. With projections indicating a need to produce 50 percent more food by 2050, with 80 percent of it expected to come from plants, there is a critical need for seed security. Addressing issues such as floods, cyclones, droughts, and landslides is crucial to maintaining agricultural productivity and biodiversity. Bechdol stressed that seed security is fundamental to food security, with quality seeds being central to FAO's response strategies, enabling farmers to achieve food self-sufficiency beyond immediate aid distribution.

Interestingly, Willem-Alexander, King of the Netherlands also shared his thoughts at the event. He said, "Ladies and gentlemen, it's a pleasure to see you all here in Rotterdam! I hope you've had the opportunity to discuss the significant challenges that lie ahead. While much progress has been made, there's still much to be done. Climate change poses a major threat to farmers worldwide, with issues such as water scarcity, heatwaves, and salinization necessitating significant changes. In the coming years, we must strive to increase yields per hectare while using less water and pesticides, and showing greater respect for nature. Achieving this goal is possible through continued innovation and collaboration." 

Following this, Marco van Leeuwen, President of the International Seed Federation, highlighted ISF's century-long commitment to shaping the global seed industry by advocating for harmonized regulations, promoting innovation, and ensuring farmers worldwide have access to quality seeds. He noted the organization's role in enhancing food production, protecting the environment, and supporting farmers' well-being.

Looking forward, he emphasized the importance of technological advancements, including artificial intelligence, in plant breeding to improve accuracy, efficiency, and data utilization. He concluded by stressing the collective effort needed to ensure seeds remain a beacon of hope and a symbol of a brighter future for all.