ISF World Seed Congress 2026
Join the World Seed Congress and take an active role in shaping the future of our industry. Whether you are attending as a delegate, showcasing your innovations, or building strategic partnerships, there are many ways to be part of this unique global event.
Explore the options below to find how you can contribute, connect, and make the most of your participation.
Explore the key challenges and opportunities driving the global seed sector
Agri-food systems are under pressure as never before. Geopolitical tensions, climate shocks, conflict, and disrupted trade routes are reshaping how seed moves and how risk is shared. At the same time, rapid advances in plant breeding innovation, AI and digital tools are transforming what’s possible in fields and value chains around the world.
In this context, the seed sector sits at a critical junction of opportunity and responsibility. High-quality seed is the starting point of every harvest and a cornerstone of global food security. How the world collaborates—or fails to collaborate—around seed movement, innovation, and environmental and social responsibility will directly influence the resilience of farmers, markets and communities.
The ISF World Seed Congress 2026 in Lisbon will bring together the people who can act on this reality: decision-makers from across the global seed industry, value chain partners, policymakers, technical experts, innovators, and the next generation of ag leaders.
Our theme, “Joint Actions, Resilient Futures”, reflects a simple truth: no company, country, or organization can tackle these challenges alone.
What to expect
The 2026 program in Lisbon will build on proven formats from recent congresses while responding to a fast-changing environment
You can expect:
1. High-level plenaries and themed panels tackling key issues, including:
- Geopolitics, trade and the future of multilateral cooperation for seed
- The business case for environmental and social responsibility in an uncertain world
- Breaking the policy deadlock on plant breeding innovation
- Market and investment trends, risks, and the economics of resilient seed systems
2. Trading floor, exhibition and B2B meetings
At the heart of the Congress remains what makes it indispensable to the industry:
- Dedicated trading areas and private meeting spaces
- An exhibition floor showcasing varieties, technologies, services and solutions from across the value chain
- Structured and informal networking opportunities with peers from all regions and segments of the sector
3. Channel World Seed – live onsite and online
Channel World Seed will again bring studio-style conversations and interviews, plus NEW product showcases to participants onsite and online—extending the reach of Lisbon discussions to a global audience.
4. Side events and special formats
From special events that tackle family business dynamics and value chain leadership to youth-led dialogues, innovation showcases and mentorship-focused gatherings, the program will highlight emerging voices and new forms of collaboration in the global seed sector.