From the heart of Sri Lanka’s heritage city, Kandy, the 14th Meeting of the IPC Committee on Research and Development became more than just a gathering; it was a collaborative movement to redefine the future of pepper through science, technology, and solidarity.
Led by Madam M.K.S.R.D. Samarasinghe, Director General of the Department of Export Agriculture of Sri Lanka, and honored by the presence of H.E. Mrs. Dewi Gustina Tobing, Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, the meeting brought together passionate experts and policymakers from IPC Member Countries to exchange breakthroughs in pepper cultivation, techniques, and sustainable applications.
Held on 15–16 July 2025, this forum wasn’t just about research; it was about building bridges. From policy dialogue to practical innovations, the event served as a platform to uplift smallholders, encourage data-driven farming, and explore future-ready solutions in a volatile world.
To enrich this dialogue, delegates were invited to visit local pepper plantations and processing sites, a journey that turned theory into lived experience. The tour highlighted not only the uniqueness of Sri Lanka’s pepper industry but also reminded us of the power of learning from one another.
