ISC 2026: What Happened and Why It Matters

Session I – Shaping Tomorrow – Climate Action and Global Resilience

The session examined how sustainability can be integrated into business strategies to create long-term value while strengthening stakeholder engagement across the value chain. Discussions highlighted practical approaches, challenges and lessons learned in advancing sustainability initiatives. Panelists also explored the concept of resilience and the role of climate action in helping businesses, supply chains and farming communities adapt to evolving environmental and market challenges. The discussion emphasized the importance of collaboration among industry, governments, NGOs and producers to accelerate climate action and scale sustainable practices.

Session II – Smart Spices – Leveraging AI and Data to Transform Processing, Quality & Efficiency

The session examined how AI can create tangible value across the spice value chain by improving quality, efficiency, traceability and decision-making. Discussions focused on leveraging data to manage raw material variability, strengthen planning and enhance visibility from farm to market. Panelists highlighted the importance of building a strong data foundation, addressing implementation challenges and adopting AI through practical, business-focused use cases. The session concluded with key insights on scaling AI solutions, strengthening stakeholder confidence and using quality and traceability as drivers of business value and competitiveness.

Session III – From Safe to Superior – Raising the Bar on Quality & Compliance

The session examined the evolving quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance landscape of the global spice sector, highlighting the industry's transition from basic compliance to superior quality performance through science-based practices, effective monitoring systems, and stronger collaboration among industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities.

Session IV – The World of Spices in 2030 – The Evolving Spice Regulatory Landscape

The session focused on the evolving regulatory, trade, and market landscape for the global spice industry, covering topics such as regulatory expectations, tariff and non-tariff barriers, consumer awareness, regional agriculture, and sustainability requirements. Participants emphasized adopting a strategic and policy-oriented approach, highlighting the need for stronger collaboration between industry associations, regulators, and government authorities to address challenges related to MRLs, ethylene oxide detections, sanitary controls, and market access. Discussions also underscored the importance of realistic growth strategies, production-side readiness, and harmonized regulatory engagement to support export expansion in key markets such as Europe and the United States. The group reviewed the implications of emerging sustainability regulations, noting their evolving impact on global supply chains and reporting obligations. It was agreed that the presentation would focus on current market conditions, practical growth opportunities, and data-driven scenarios supported by production, export, and market trend information from major producing countries.

Session V – Spice Market Intelligence 2026 – Crop Reports and Global Demand–Supply Shifts

• Presentation on – Turmeric & Ginger and AV Crop Report – Cumin, Chillies

Session VI – Spice Market Intelligence 2026 – Crop Reports and Global Demand–Supply Shifts

• Presentation on – Mediterranean Herbs, Major Spices from China & Tropical Spices.

Amitabh Kant IAS – Former G20 Sherpa, Government of India; Former CEO, NITI Aayog

Topic: Transforming Agro-Industry: Innovation, Inclusion & Global Leadership

The address emphasized the importance of innovation, inclusivity, and global leadership in driving the transformation of the agri-food sector and strengthening its contribution to economic growth and international competitiveness.

Martin Sonntag – Chief Executive Officer, Oterra

Topic: Shaping the Next Decade of Food & Nutrition: Collaboration, Trust and Responsibility

The keynote highlighted the critical role of collaboration, trust, and responsible business practices in building resilient food systems and meeting evolving consumer and sustainability expectations.

Shashi Tharoor

Topic: Spicing Up India’s Global Story: Culture, Commerce & Competitiveness in a Changing World

The keynote explored how India can leverage its cultural heritage, trade strengths, and innovation capabilities to enhance its global influence and competitiveness in an evolving international landscape.

Kamesh Ellajosyula – Chief Innovation & Quality Officer, Olam Food Ingredients

Topic: Bold Moves: Building a Future-Ready Business in a Disrupted World

The address focused on fostering innovation, agility, and resilience to help businesses navigate disruption and capitalize on emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing global environment.