World Seed Congress 2026 brought together more than 1,800 delegates from 80 countries in Lisbon: a powerful reminder that global collaboration remains at the heart of the seed sector.
In an exclusive interview filmed at Congress, International Seed Federation (ISF) Secretary General Michael Keller shared why he believes the future of agriculture depends on stronger international alignment, long-term innovation, and resilient seed systems.
From food security and intellectual property to seed movement and access to genetic resources, Keller spoke candidly about the pressures facing the global seed industry and why the sector is uniquely positioned to adapt.
“We have to think long term,” Keller explained. “You make investments today for products that may only reach the market in 10 years.”
The conversation also explored the growing importance of ISF as a global convener at a time when multilateral cooperation is increasingly under pressure. With representatives from the WTO, World Bank, governments, and private industry all participating in this year’s Congress, the message throughout the week was clear: agriculture’s future will require deeper partnership between public and private sectors.
Despite mounting geopolitical and economic uncertainty, Keller remains optimistic.
“When you feel the spirit here,” he said, “I trust the future.”
Watch the full interview with ISF President Michael Keller from World Seed Congress 2026 in Lisbon.
