18 December 2019 – Today the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) and the International Grains Council (IGC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding, committing to working jointly to promote and facilitate the international trade in pulses. Pulses are the dry edible seeds of the legume family and include dry beans, dry peas, chickpeas, lentils, broad beans, pigeon peas and lupins.
“Pulses are recognized not only for their health and nutritional benefits, but also for the valuable contributions they can make to the sustainable food systems of tomorrow,” said GPC President Cindy Brown.
Pulses are an excellent source of quality protein and fiber, and are jampacked with essential vitamins and minerals. Researchers have found correlations between diets rich in pulses and reduced risk of several chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, as the world looks for ways to combat climate change while simultaneously feeding the world, pulse crops are receiving renewed interest for their low carbon footprint, contributions to soil health and water-use efficiency.
“The production of pulse crops has increased by 50% over the course of a decade,” said IGC Executive Director Arnaud Petit. “Given the recent surge in world interest in these food crops, there is need for greater transparency to ensure the free and fair trade of these commodities.”
Under the MOU, the GPC and the IGC agree to share information and explore other opportunities for collaboration, including possibly co-organizing a workshop at the annual Grains Conference to be hosted by the IGC in London, 9-10 June 2020.
ABOUT THE GLOBAL PULSE CONFEDERATION
Formerly known as CICILS IPTIC, the GPC is a non-profit association and the peak body for the global pulses industry value chain. It is composed of 24 national federations and over 600 private industry members. GPC’s broad international membership base includes growers, processors, exporters, distributors, brokers, retailers, food manufacturers, national federations and affiliated industry members (transport, equipment suppliers, media, researchers). The GPC exists to create greater awareness and consumption of pulses, and to enhance food security and environmental sustainability by pursuing international market access for pulses.
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL GRAINS COUNCIL
The IGC is an intergovernmental organization that seeks to: further international cooperation in the grains trade; promote expansion, openness and fairness in the grains sector; and contribute to grain market stability and to enhance world food security. These objectives are sought by improving market transparency through information-sharing, analysis and consultation on market and policy developments. The annual IGC Grains Conference is a public forum for discussion, and an opportunity to bring international buyers and sellers, industry representatives and policymakers together.
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
