At the 2025 Australasian Agricultural and Resource Economics Society (AARES) Conference in Brisbane, Concave AGRI President Muhammad Ali Iqbal and Dr. Rajendra Adhikari (The University of Queensland) conducted a pre-conference workshop on improving research partnerships between the public and private sectors to enhance food system transformation. Their discussion focused on fostering collaboration to drive sustainable agricultural innovation.

Muhammad Ali Iqbal highlighted the need for digital value chains to transform Pakistan’s pulse sector, sharing a private sector perspective on building competitive and inclusive pulse value chains in Pakistan. He emphasized public-private partnerships and digital platforms to connect farmers, markets, and consumers—ensuring better market access, real-time feedback, and stronger supply chains for chickpea, lentil, and mung bean growers. By improving quality standards and expanding market reach, digital value chains are key to increasing profitability and fostering sustainable farming practices.

Later in the conference, Prof. Ross Kingwell delivered a keynote on challenges and changes in Australian grain supply chains, highlighting key issues in the sector and the need for innovation.

A huge thanks to Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and The University of Queensland for their efforts in advancing global agricultural research and innovation!