Vijay Iyengar at Qingdao Pulses Congress/
“The sector is stronger when it grows together”

GPC President highlighted the importance of relationships across a global pulse business, where market dynamics, logistics, food security, supply chains and consumer expectations extend far beyond national borders. He underscored GPC’s role in bringing the industry together, with more than 500 members and 20 national associations working to strengthen connections between producing and importing countries and give the sector a stronger global voice.

Mr. Vijay also highlighted China’s growing influence across the global pulses value chain, not only as a major market and importer but increasingly as a downstream player in plant protein and starch, driven by advances in extrusion and precision fermentation and strong sustainability commitments. Looking ahead, he called on consumers, businesses and policymakers to help accelerate the growth of pulses worldwide — from making pulses a regular part of diets and developing innovative pulse-based products to supporting farmers and giving pulses a stronger place in national dietary guidelines. He urged delegates to use the congress to build the relationships and mutual understanding to unlock the industry's potential.

View the complete opening speech