For the first time ever, the two-day International Sugar Organization seminar in London that begins today will be chaired by a woman.

Maria Regina Bautista Martin, Philippine Sugar Regulatory Administration chief, will chair the seminar that will tackle “Sugar crops, unleashing growth potential,” an ISO press release said yesterday.

In contrast to the previous three seminars marred by the effects of the deep-rooted financial and economic crisis, the basically upbeat expectation regarding the economic outlook for sugar crop processing industries around the globe will be reflected in this year’s gathering, the ISO said.

This sentiment is supported by the ever-increasing demand for sugar, renewable energy from ethanol and cogeneration as well as bio products offering new options and opportunities together with quite resilient sugar prices, all strong indicators towards a bright promising future, it added.

The seminar program focuses on some crucial issues like the future role of the main movers and shakers, Brazil, Thailand, India, the EU and their strategic and political options, ISO said. The impact of the changing and expanding role of trade houses will be discussed, as well as the question of whether Africa’s sugar industries will become a more interesting and attractive target for foreign investment, it added.

Internationally renowned authoritative speakers will also share their assessment and outlook on decisive policy and economy aspects relevant to the future development in the coming years during the seminar.*

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