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CIMMYT and IICA Partner to Strengthen Agricultural Innovation and Economic Growth in the Americas

CIMMYT and IICA have joined forces through a new partnership to drive agricultural innovation, climate resilience, and economic growth across the Americas by connecting science to farmers and markets

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Nairobi, 2025The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and CIMMYT have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance agricultural research, innovation, and trade across the Americas. 

This strategic partnership aims to advance productivity, resilience, and economic opportunities for farmers by leveraging science, technology, and strong international collaboration. The MoU focuses on key areas such as innovation and bioeconomy, trade and regional integration, climate-resilient agriculture, family farming, agrifood digitalization, and agricultural health and safety. 

Dr. Bram Govaerts, Director General of CIMMYT, highlighted the importance of innovation and market-driven solutions: “Partnerships like CIMMYT–IICA turn science into scale. Together, we’re accelerating innovation, supporting farmers, and strengthening food systems across the Americas—because global challenges demand connected solutions.” 

Dr. Manuel Otero, Director General of IICA, added: “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to strengthening agricultural resilience, enhancing food security, and promoting economic growth in rural areas. With the increasing global demand for transforming food systems, IICA views this partnership as another testimony to its commitment to ensuring that farmers and agribusinesses across the Americas benefit from science, innovation and responsible resource management . 

Through this agreement, CIMMYT and IICA will implement joint research initiatives, promote knowledge exchange, and support innovation-driven solutions that empower farmers, enhance supply chains, and expand market opportunities. 

For more information, visit iica.int and cimmyt.org