New Delhi, June 24: Delegates from over 30 countries and representatives from numerous international organizations have gathered in New Delhi for the ISO Council Meeting, scheduled from June 25-27. The event, hosted by India, aims to deliberate on critical issues in the sugar and biofuel sectors, according to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution.
India, being the world’s largest consumer and second-largest producer of sugar, has been nominated as the Chair of the International Sugar Organization (ISO) for 2024.
The meeting commenced with an industrial tour for the international delegates to a grain-based distillery in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, showcasing India’s advancements in biofuel production and related technologies.
On June 25, a workshop titled “Sugar and Biofuels – Emerging Vistas” will be held at Bharat Mandapam. The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New & Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi. The workshop will feature participation from international delegates, top management of Indian sugar mills, industry associations such as ISMA and NFCSF, and technical experts.
This forum is expected to provide an opportunity for more than 200 delegates from around the world to discuss future perspectives on the global sugar sector, biofuels, sustainability, and the role of farmers. Additionally, the workshop aims to strengthen the Global Biofuel Alliance, an initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, promoting sustainable biofuel development and adoption to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The overlap between ISO member countries and those in the Global Biofuel Alliance presents a unique opportunity to expand the alliance and promote biofuels.
The International Sugar Organization (ISO), a UN-affiliated body headquartered in London, has approximately 85 member countries, covering nearly 90 percent of global sugar production. The ISO aims to foster mutual understanding and a progressive approach among major sugar-producing, consuming, and trading nations regarding issues in the sugar sector.
The ISO has also focused on biofuels, particularly ethanol, as sugarcane is the second-largest feedstock for ethanol production globally.
On June 26 and 27, various committee meetings of the ISO will take place, concentrating on the administrative and functional aspects of the organization.
