Two-day international platform will connect seed companies, buyers, investors and policymakers to advance trade, innovation and South–South cooperation.
BENGALURU (India CSR): The International Trade & Delegation Federation of Chambers (ITDFC) will host the Asia–Africa Seed Trade and Innovation Summit 2027 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, on January 12–13, 2027. The international business platform is designed to strengthen commercial partnerships, seed trade, investment and agricultural innovation between Asia and Africa.
The Hon’ble Agriculture Minister of Karnataka, P. M. Narendraswamy, has appreciated ITDFC’s initiative to bring an international seed trade and innovation platform to Karnataka. During a recent interaction, the ITDFC delegation briefed the Minister on the summit’s objectives, expected international participation and opportunities to promote Karnataka’s seed industry through international trade, investment, innovation and technology partnerships.
Organised by ITDFC in collaboration with the African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) as Strategic Partner, the summit will bring together domestic and multinational seed companies, international buyers, investors, policymakers, diplomats, agricultural research institutions, seed associations and industry experts.
The initiative will focus particularly on hybrid vegetable seeds, international seed trade, export opportunities, technology transfer, research collaboration and cross-border business partnerships. It is also positioned as a platform for advancing South–South Cooperation and supporting stronger agricultural ties among developing economies.
Expanding Global Markets
The summit aims to create direct business opportunities for Indian seed companies and international stakeholders across Asia and Africa. Participating organisations will be able to explore export markets, connect with importers, buyers and distributors, examine contract seed-production opportunities and develop joint ventures, investment partnerships and strategic alliances.
Structured B2B and B2G meetings, international trading tables and an exhibition of seed varieties, products, technologies and innovations will form key components of the programme. Discussions are expected to cover seed regulations, quality standards, biotechnology, climate-resilient varieties, research partnerships and global seed supply chains.
International delegations are expected from Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Togo, Indonesia, China, Thailand, South Africa and other Asian and African countries. Leading Indian seed companies, agricultural universities, research institutions, investors and government representatives are also expected to participate.
Karnataka’s Seed Strength
Karnataka has an established position in India’s hybrid vegetable seed industry, supported by seed-production clusters, experienced farmers, leading companies and agricultural research institutions. Ranebennur in Haveri district is recognised as an important hybrid vegetable seed-production hub, while institutions such as the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, contribute to the state’s agricultural research ecosystem.
The summit will seek to showcase Karnataka’s seed-production strengths before international markets and create new opportunities for export expansion, investment, research and technology partnerships. The initiative is also expected to draw participation from other seed-producing states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Maharashtra.
Leadership Perspective
Dr. K. S. Narayanaswamy, Chairman, ITDFC International Seed Trade & Agriculture Council and Chief Convenor of the Summit, said the platform would connect India’s seed-sector strengths with emerging opportunities in Asian and African markets.
“Karnataka has a strong foundation in the hybrid vegetable seed industry. This summit will encourage international trade, research, technology transfer and meaningful commercial partnerships,” he said.
Syed Areesh Hussain, Chief Executive Officer, ITDFC, said the objective is to create a practical international business platform where Indian seed companies can engage directly with buyers, distributors, investors and policymakers.
The summit aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by encouraging agricultural innovation, international trade, investment and stronger global-market integration for Indian enterprises.
Event Details: Asia–Africa Seed Trade and Innovation Summit 2027 | January 12–13, 2027 | Bengaluru, Karnataka | Organiser: ITDFC | Strategic Partner: AARDO.
