The story of pepper is the story of us, of human curiosity that crossed oceans, of resilience that turned challenges into trade, and of the quiet power of a single spice that once shaped the destiny of nations. Today, that same spirit of discovery brings us together once again under the banner of the International Pepper Community, to celebrate not only our heritage but also our readiness for the future.

It is with great excitement that I invite you to the 53rd IPC Annual Session and International Spice Exhibition, to be held from 27 to 30 October 2025 at Le Méridien, Kochi, India. Hosted by the Government of India in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Spices Board of India, and the IPC Secretariat, this year’s event carries a spirit of transformation, where ideas become action, and action shapes the next chapter of the global spice trade.

Guided by the theme “Digitally Empowered, Socially Inclusive, and Economically Resilient,” this gathering will bring together visionary leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs from across continents. Through the Executive Meeting of Heads of Delegations, Business Sessions, Pepper Tech Meeting, and Exim Meeting, we will explore how data, diplomacy, and technology can redefine the way our industry connects and competes. The Panel Discussion on Country Reports will give voice to diverse experiences from member countries, while the Plenary Meeting will translate collaboration into concrete steps forward. The program will culminate with a Field and Industry Visit across the spice heritage of Kochi, a living museum of trade, tradition, and transformation.

But more than a schedule, this Annual Session is a statement: that even in an era of uncertainty, the pepper community stands united: adaptive, innovative, and bold. Together, we are not just keeping pace with change; we are setting the rhythm for a new global conversation, one where technology empowers people, where trade becomes more inclusive, and where every grain of pepper carries the promise of shared prosperity.

On behalf of the International Pepper Community, I look forward to welcoming you to Kochi, a city where history whispers through the spice markets and the future is written in collaboration. Let’s celebrate our legacy, ignite new ideas, and co-create a stronger, smarter, and more connected world for pepper and beyond.

Warm regards,

Marina N. Anggraini
Executive Director
International Pepper Community (IPC)