Following on from Switzerland’s chairmanship, the International Grains Council has appointed Mr. Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister for Economic Development, Trade and Agriculture, Trade Representative of Ukraine as its Chairperson for 2021/22.

During its chairmanship, Ukraine is particularly interested in working with the Secretariat and IGC’s members to increase market information and transparency and trade cooperation in the global grains, oilseeds and rice markets which is essential in times of market uncertainty.

In line with its agreed medium-term priorities, the IGC Secretariat is aiming to finalize its model-based global supply and demand balances for grains-based ethanol, to increase its analysis and reporting on world biofuel sectors and feedstock utilisation. Ukraine is also interested in promoting dialogue between governments on grains trade policies and increasing the IGC’s membership as well as a greater cooperation between the public and private sectors, to enhance the resilience of the global trade and food systems.

The Secretariat will support the chair’s efforts by continuing to organise regular webinars between the public and private sectors on the main issues affecting the grains value chain during his chairmanship. On his appointment Mr.Kachka said “Our common goal is to develop further engagement with all the major producers and consumers of grains. The commodities within the scope of the IGC are fundamental for global food security and food systems. We will try to ensure open and regular information sharing and exchange of views among the members of IGC. I will also support the involvement of other international organisations and relevant consumers and producers of grains in the work of the Council.”