Latest news with #Pulses25
Business Times
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Temasek sees plant seeds as a game changer to fixing the broken global food system
[SINGAPORE] Pulses, or edible plant seeds such as chickpeas and lentils, could be the transformative answer to a global food system that is under severe strain. However, while demand for pulses is rising, the yield has stagnated in key production regions, indicating a 'failure of investment and of government policies', said Anuj Maheshwari, managing director and head of agri-food at Temasek, during a keynote at Pulses 25 in Singapore on Wednesday (May 21). The conference at Fairmont Hotel in Singapore is organised by the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC), a Dubai-based industry body whose membership includes 20 national associations and over 500 private sector members. During the speech, Temasek's Maheshwari called for breakthroughs across the pulse value chain, from breeding to market infrastructure, to advance production yield of the edible seeds that are not only more environmentally friendly, but climate-change resilient. 'Pulses produce 90 per cent fewer emissions per gram of protein than beef. They use half the water of soy and corn to produce the same amount of calories. They require 20 times less land than animal proteins,' said Maheshwari, adding that these plants also fix atmospheric nitrogen that is responsible for as much as 6 per cent of the global greenhouse gas emissions. At the farming stage, pulses have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their roots, allowing them to convert atmospheric nitrogen gas into a usable form for plants. This process of nitrogen fixation not only enriches the soil, making it less reliant on synthetic fertilisers, but also reduces nitrogen compounds in the air that contribute to the greenhouse effect. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 12.30 pm ESG Insights An exclusive weekly report on the latest environmental, social and governance issues. Sign Up Sign Up If beef is Hummer, a type of heavy-duty vehicles, pulses being 'efficient, low impact and built for the future' is like the electric car for food, said Maheshwari. Broken food system 'The (current) food system is not just broken. It is also outdated,' he added. While accounting for a third of the global greenhouse emissions, the food system remains among the slowest sector to decarbonise. Drawing 70 per cent of global fresh water, the sector is also producing huge amounts of calories that are low in nutritional value. 'Let's face it, the global food system is built for volume, not resilience. It's built for efficiency, not sustainability. It's built for yields, not health,' noted Maheshwari. While the global food system is now feeding more people than ever before, one in 10 persons is undernourished. This represents about 735 million people, concentrated in Asia and Africa, highlighted Murad Katib, president and chief executive officer of AGT Food and Ingredients. He added that up to 3 billion people per year are in food-insecure environments. There is arable land loss. The agricultural crops make up 82 per cent of the global calories produced, but occupy less than 25 per cent of total agricultural land, noted AGT's Katib. 'The scarcest resources in the world today are land and water,' Katib noted in his keynote speech, adding that transformation opportunities lie in areas such as preserving soil health and improving productive capacity. Innovation to improve yields Temasek's Maheshwari highlighted that pulses' yields have increased by less than 1 per cent annually in the past 20 years, in key producing regions such as India and Canada. This is contrast to the yields of corn and soy, where biotech breeding, advanced agronomy and mechanisation have unlocked 2 to 3 per cent yield growth. While pulses enable 'regenerative food systems', they remain 'underfunded, under-developed and under-celebrated', said Maheshwari, adding that the industry needs to tell better stories about pulses to gain the world's recognition. He highlighted that Temasek has committed over S$10 billion in the last decade in agri-food sector innovation, an area where it sees profit generation and planetary health improvement. Among the 45 companies of the sector that Temasek has invested in, Impossible Foods develops plant-based substitutes for meat products. Less well-known is Growthwell Foods, a Singapore-based food manufacturer that is working with an Israeli firm to bring chickpea proteins into other foods. 'We need a transformation, and pulses, humble yet powerful, is probably part of a bigger answer,' said Maheshwari. Trump effect might be limited in pulses trade Rabobank's executive director of RaboResearch Lief Chiang noted in his keynote that Canada, Australia and Russia dominate export flows while India, China, Pakistan and Bangladesh lead imports in pulses trade. The US, on the other hand, only accounts for 7 per cent of global purchase export and 3 per cent of import in the pulse sector. 'So overall, we believe that the direct impact of the US trade war on global purchase trade appears to be fairly limited,' said Rabobank's Chiang, adding that indirect impacts, such as rising container freight rates as traders rush to flow shipments during the 90-day tariff pause, are visible in free markets. 'Nevertheless, the longer term impacts remain uncertain and will largely depend on the outcome of the ongoing trade negotiations,' he added. Vijay Iyengar, GPC's president, highlighted in his opening address that, in the current context of trade fluctuations, governments should work with pulses trade members to develop predictable and transparent policies that reduce trade risks. 'I would also call on the various national associations to remain committed to the call for free and transparent trade policies in this atmosphere of tariffs and other trade barriers. We all have a role to play in driving growth in our industry,' said GPC's Iyengar.
Business Times
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Pulses MAY offer solutions to broken, outdated global food system: Temasek
[SINGAPORE] Pulses, or edible plant seeds such as chickpeas and lentils, could be the transformative answer to a global food system that is under severe strain. However, while demand for pulses is rising, the yield has stagnated in key production regions, indicating a 'failure of investment and of government policies', said Anuj Maheshwari, managing director and head of agri-food at Temasek, during a keynote at Pulses 25 in Singapore on Wednesday (May 21). The conference at Fairmont Hotel in Singapore is organised by the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC), a Dubai-based industry body whose membership includes 20 national associations and over 500 private sector members. During the speech, Temasek's Maheshwari called for breakthroughs across the pulse value chain, from breeding to market infrastructure, to advance production yield of the edible seeds that are not only more environmentally friendly, but climate-change resilient. 'Pulses produce 90 per cent fewer emissions per gram of protein than beef. They use half the water of soy and corn to produce the same amount of calories. They require 20 times less land than animal proteins,' said Maheshwari, adding that these plants also fix atmospheric nitrogen that is responsible for as much as 6 per cent of the global greenhouse gas emissions. At the farming stage, pulses have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their roots, allowing them to convert atmospheric nitrogen gas into a usable form for plants. This process of nitrogen fixation not only enriches the soil, making it less reliant on synthetic fertilisers, but also reduces nitrogen compounds in the air that contribute to the greenhouse effect. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 12.30 pm ESG Insights An exclusive weekly report on the latest environmental, social and governance issues. Sign Up Sign Up If beef is Hummer, a type of heavy-duty vehicles, pulses being 'efficient, low impact and built for the future' is like the electric car for food, said Maheshwari. Broken food system 'The (current) food system is not just broken. It is also outdated,' he added. While accounting for a third of the global greenhouse emissions, the food system remains among the slowest sector to decarbonise. Drawing 70 per cent of global fresh water, the sector is also producing huge amounts of calories that are low in nutritional value. 'Let's face it, the global food system is built for volume, not resilience. It's built for efficiency, not sustainability. It's built for yields, not health,' noted Maheshwari. While the global food system is now feeding more people than ever before, one in 10 persons is undernourished. This represents about 735 million people, concentrated in Asia and Africa, highlighted Murad Katib, president and chief executive officer of AGT Food and Ingredients. He added that up to 3 billion people per year are in food-insecure environments. There is arable land loss. The agricultural crops make up 82 per cent of the global calories produced, but occupy less than 25 per cent of total agricultural land, noted AGT's Katib. 'The scarcest resources in the world today are land and water,' Katib noted in his keynote speech, adding that transformation opportunities lie in areas such as preserving soil health and improving productive capacity. Innovation to improve yields Temasek's Maheshwari highlighted that pulses' yields have increased by less than 1 per cent annually in the past 20 years, in key producing regions such as India and Canada. This is contrast to the yields of corn and soy, where biotech breeding, advanced agronomy and mechanisation have unlocked 2 to 3 per cent yield growth. While pulses enable 'regenerative food systems', they remain 'underfunded, under-developed and under-celebrated', said Maheshwari, adding that the industry needs to tell better stories about pulses to gain the world's recognition. He highlighted that Temasek has committed over S$10 billion in the last decade in agri-food sector innovation, an area where it sees profit generation and planetary health improvement. Among the 45 companies of the sector that Temasek has invested in, Impossible Foods develops plant-based substitutes for meat products. Less well-known is Growthwell Foods, a Singapore-based food manufacturer that is working with an Israeli firm to bring chickpea proteins into other foods. 'We need a transformation, and pulses, humble yet powerful, is probably part of a bigger answer,' said Maheshwari. Trump effect might be limited in pulses trade Rabobank's executive director of RaboResearch Lief Chiang noted in his keynote that Canada, Australia and Russia dominate export flows while India, China, Pakistan and Bangladesh lead imports in pulses trade. The US, on the other hand, only accounts for 7 per cent of global purchase export and 3 per cent of import in the pulse sector. 'So overall, we believe that the direct impact of the US trade war on global purchase trade appears to be fairly limited,' said Rabobank's Chiang, adding that indirect impacts, such as rising container freight rates as traders rush to flow shipments during the 90-day tariff pause, are visible in free markets. 'Nevertheless, the longer term impacts remain uncertain and will largely depend on the outcome of the ongoing trade negotiations,' he added. Vijay Iyengar, GPC's president, highlighted in his opening address that, in the current context of trade fluctuations, governments should work with pulses trade members to develop predictable and transparent policies that reduce trade risks. 'I would also call on the various national associations to remain committed to the call for free and transparent trade policies in this atmosphere of tariffs and other trade barriers. We all have a role to play in driving growth in our industry,' said GPC's Iyengar.
The Sun
29-04-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Pulses 25: the most pivotal event in the Global Pulse industry to be held in Singapore on 20-22 May 2025
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 29 April 2025 - The Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) is set to host Pulses 25, the premier global gathering for the pulses industry, at the Fairmont Hotel, Singapore from 20 to 22 May 2025. Bringing together over 700 key industry players from across the globe, Pulses 25 will offer an unparalleled platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, discover emerging trends, and unlock strategic business opportunities in the fast-evolving global pulse trade. As the peak body representing the global pulses industry, GPC is at the forefront of driving sustainable production, consumption, and trade of pulses. With a membership spanning over 50 countries, GPC partners with global institutions like the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO), advocating for pulses as a key driver of food security, nutrition, and climate-resilient food systems. At Pulses 25, delegates will gain exclusive access to a global network that spans across major pulse-producing nations such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Pakistan, Turkey, the UAE, and the USA. The event is strategically positioned as a gateway to emerging markets and will enable attendees to connect with industry leaders, forge high-value partnerships, and close business deals with global decision makers. Pulses 25 will feature panels led by global experts covering vital industry topics, including price trends, supply dynamics, and demand forecasts. These sessions are designed to empower participants with the critical market intelligence they need to make data-driven decisions. Additionally, the event will showcase cutting-edge innovations in plant-based foods, with key insights from leading food technology ecosystems. Sustainability remains at the heart of Pulses 25, with panels dedicated to climate-resilient agriculture and the role of pulses in sustainable food systems. Attendees will discover how pulses are increasingly being recognised as a solution to food security and environmental challenges, positioning the industry as a leader in the global transition to sustainable agriculture. Delegates can expect to learn from a stellar lineup of speakers, including Murad Al Katib, President & CEO, AGT Food and Ingredients Inc.; Paul Newnham, CEO, SDG2 Advocacy Hub; Anuj Maheshwari, Managing Director, Temasek; Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO, DMCC; Cindy Khoo, Managing Director, Enterprise Singapore; Diedrah Kelly, Executive Director of Canada's Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office; Cao Derong, President, CFNA (China) and Vijay Iyengar, President, GPC. Besides these keynote and VIP speakers, attendees will gain firsthand insights from global industry leaders and analysts, covering key categories such as red, green, and brown lentils; kabuli and desi chickpeas; dry peas; mung beans; pigeon peas; urad; white beans; faba beans; lupins; and speckled and color beans—as well as discussions on innovation, technology, and contracts. Industry leaders and analysts from countries like India, Turkey, Canada, Kazakhstan, China, Ukraine, the USA, Pakistan, Argentina, Australia, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Venezuela, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Ethiopia, Brazil, and Switzerland will contribute to the discussions. 'Pulses 25 is a convergence of ideas, innovation, and opportunity. The event will bring together a diverse group of thought leaders and stakeholders from more than 40 countries across the pulses ecosystem to discuss issues of acute global concern — nutrition, sustainability, and equity,' said Vijay Iyengar, President, Global Pulses Confederation. 'Some of the issues that will be highlighted at Pulses 25 will be reducing global greenhouse emissions which is of acute concern to the global community. We aim to not only unlock new trade pathways but also champion the vital role of pulses in building a resilient and inclusive global food system.' Pulses 25 is much more than a conference – it is a strategic business opportunity for all stakeholders in the pulses value chain. From producers to service providers, this event promises to deliver exceptional networking, insights, and growth opportunities. Pulses 25 will be held on (Tuesday) 20 May from 09:00 - 21:00, (Wednesday) 21 May from 10:00 - 16:45, and (Thursday) 22 May from 10:00 - 19:40 at The Fairmont Hotel. Relevant links: - Registration - Programme Hashtag: #Globalpulses #Events #Globalevents #Singapore The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Global Pulses Confederation About Pulses 25 Pulses 25 is organised by the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) and will serve as a premier platform for industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to engage in insightful discussions, explore emerging trends, and foster global business opportunities within the pulses sector. The conference is aimed at offering valuable networking opportunities, keynote speeches, and panel discussions, focusing on pulses market insights, innovation, sustainability, and the future of pulses in the global food system About Global Pulse Confederation The Global Pulse Confederation (GPC, formerly known as CICILS IPTIC) represents all segments of the pulse industry value chain from growers, researchers, logistics suppliers, traders, exporters and importers to government bodies, multilateral organisations, processors, canners and consumers. Its membership includes 20 national associations and over 500 private sector members. GPC is based in Dubai and licensed by the Dubai Multi Commodity Centre (DMCC). It has also been incorporated as non-profit (GPC Inc.) in the United States of America.
Malay Mail
29-04-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Pulses 25: the most pivotal event in the Global Pulse industry to be held in Singapore on 20-22 May 2025
Organised by the Global Pulse Confederation, 'Pulses 25' to set the global agenda for a resilient, sustainable food future SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 29 April 2025 - The Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) is set to host Pulses 25 , the premier global gathering for the pulses industry, at the Fairmont Hotel, Singapore from 20 to 22 May 2025. Bringing together over 700 key industry players from across the globe, Pulses 25 will offer an unparalleled platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, discover emerging trends, and unlock strategic business opportunities in the fast-evolving global pulse the peak body representing the global pulses industry, GPC is at the forefront of driving sustainable production, consumption, and trade of pulses. With a membership spanning over 50 countries, GPC partners with global institutions like the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO), advocating for pulses as a key driver of food security, nutrition, and climate-resilient food systems. At Pulses 25, delegates will gain exclusive access to a global network that spans across major pulse-producing nations such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Pakistan, Turkey, the UAE, and the USA. The event is strategically positioned as a gateway to emerging markets and will enable attendees to connect with industry leaders, forge high-value partnerships, and close business deals with global decision 25 will feature panels led by global experts covering vital industry topics, including price trends, supply dynamics, and demand forecasts. These sessions are designed to empower participants with the critical market intelligence they need to make data-driven decisions. Additionally, the event will showcase cutting-edge innovations in plant-based foods, with key insights from leading food technology ecosystems. Sustainability remains at the heart of Pulses 25, with panels dedicated to climate-resilient agriculture and the role of pulses in sustainable food systems. Attendees will discover how pulses are increasingly being recognised as a solution to food security and environmental challenges, positioning the industry as a leader in the global transition to sustainable can expect to learn from a stellar lineup of speakers, includingBesides these keynote and VIP speakers, attendees will gain firsthand insights from global industry leaders and analysts, covering key categories such as red, green, and brown lentils; kabuli and desi chickpeas; dry peas; mung beans; pigeon peas; urad; white beans; faba beans; lupins; and speckled and color beans—as well as discussions on innovation, technology, and contracts. Industry leaders and analysts from countries like India, Turkey, Canada, Kazakhstan, China, Ukraine, the USA, Pakistan, Argentina, Australia, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Venezuela, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Ethiopia, Brazil, and Switzerland will contribute to the discussions."Pulses 25 is a convergence of ideas, innovation, and opportunity. The event will bring together a diverse group of thought leaders and stakeholders from more than 40 countries across the pulses ecosystem to discuss issues of acute global concern — nutrition, sustainability, and equity,' said Vijay Iyengar, President, Global Pulses Confederation. 'Some of the issues that will be highlighted at Pulses 25 will be reducing global greenhouse emissions which is of acute concern to the global community. We aim to not only unlock new trade pathways but also champion the vital role of pulses in building a resilient and inclusive global food system.'Pulses 25 is much more than a conference – it is a strategic business opportunity for all stakeholders in the pulses value chain. From producers to service providers, this event promises to deliver exceptional networking, insights, and growth 25 will be held on (Tuesday) 20 May from 09:00 - 21:00, (Wednesday) 21 May from 10:00 - 16:45, and (Thursday) 22 May from 10:00 - 19:40 at The Fairmont #Globalpulses #Events #Globalevents #Singapore The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Global Pulses Confederation About Pulses 25 Pulses 25 is organised by the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) and will serve as a premier platform for industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to engage in insightful discussions, explore emerging trends, and foster global business opportunities within the pulses sector. The conference is aimed at offering valuable networking opportunities, keynote speeches, and panel discussions, focusing on pulses market insights, innovation, sustainability, and the future of pulses in the global food system About Global Pulse Confederation The Global Pulse Confederation (GPC, formerly known as CICILS IPTIC) represents all segments of the pulse industry value chain from growers, researchers, logistics suppliers, traders, exporters and importers to government bodies, multilateral organisations, processors, canners and consumers. Its membership includes 20 national associations and over 500 private sector members. GPC is based in Dubai and licensed by the Dubai Multi Commodity Centre (DMCC). It has also been incorporated as non-profit (GPC Inc.) in the United States of America.
