The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Deutsche Post DHL Group (DPDHL Group), the global logistics company, held an exploratory workshop to scout potential avenues of collaboration on agribusiness and climate-related initiatives. The workshop brought together experts from both organizations to exchange ideas and deep dive into the areas of mutual interest.

During the workshop, participants discussed the challenges and opportunities in agribusiness development, including the need for sustainable supply chains and the potential for technology to improve efficiency and reduce waste. They also explored ways to address the impacts of climate change on agriculture. Over one and a half days, participants engaged in brainstorming activities and discussions to explore and design innovative supply chain solutions to tackle challenges in the agricultural sector.

The workshop focused on developing a framework for delivering these solutions and conceptualizing joint pilot initiatives. By working together, UNIDO and DPDHL Group aim to leverage their strengths and resources to create sustainable solutions that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment. Collaborative activities enable participants to identify shared goals and objectives to underpin the development of joint initiatives. The workshop highlights how such collaborations can help to address global challenges such as food security, climate change and poverty.

"We believe that by working together, we can create innovative solutions that benefit both people and the planet," highlighted Gunther Beger, Managing Director of UNIDO’s Directorate for SDG Innovation and Economic Transformation. “UNIDO is committed to supporting economic transformation, and promoting innovation that has the potential to bring lasting positive change. It is key to engage with the private sector to ensure sustainability and we work in close cooperation with governments and other stakeholders to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as national goals. The partnership with DPDHL Group in agribusiness has great potential to address global challenges such as food security.”

Overall, the workshop showed the growing importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors in addressing global challenges. “We actively foster productive partnerships, acknowledging that progress in trade facilitation cannot be achieved by either businesses or governments alone. By combining our strengths, DPDHL Group and UNIDO aim to revolutionize the way food is handled, transported, and distributed, leading to significant improvements in reducing food waste worldwide. We are proud to align our partnership with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to zero hunger, sustainable economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and climate action. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the global fight against food waste,” concluded Steven Pope, Head of Trade Facilitation, Deutsche Post DHL Group.