Dhaka, June 27 (V7N) — In recognition of his decades-long contribution to agriculture and food security in Bangladesh, prominent agro-entrepreneur and political figure Abdul Awal Mintoo has been selected as one of the Top Agri-Food Pioneers of 2025 by the U.S.-based World Food Prize Foundation.
 
In an official announcement on Tuesday night, the Foundation named 39 individuals from 27 countries as global leaders shaping the future of agriculture and food systems. Abdul Awal Mintoo, Chairman and Managing Director of Lal Teer Seeds Ltd, was among those honored.
 
Mintoo’s journey in agriculture spans over four decades. In 1994, he founded Lal Teer Seeds on just 25 acres of land. Today, the company stands as one of the leading private agricultural enterprises in South and Southeast Asia, currently ranked 7th regionally by UN-affiliated observers. Under his leadership, Lal Teer has pioneered the use and accessibility of high-quality hybrid and improved seeds in Bangladesh, leading to significant advances in vegetable production.
 
He is also credited with establishing Bangladesh’s first internationally accredited seed testing laboratory, recognized by ISTA (International Seed Testing Association), which remains the country’s only such facility.
 
Beyond entrepreneurship, Mintoo has contributed extensively to the development of agricultural economics, technology, and livestock management through research and higher education. His efforts led to the first decoding of the genetic makeup of water buffalo in Bangladesh and helped popularize semen technology for high-yield cattle fattening.
 
Speaking about the award, Mintoo said:
 
“I have always worked to uplift farmers' lives. Through innovation and research, I want to contribute further to food, agriculture, and nutritional security. This recognition inspires me to expand my efforts on an even broader scale.”
 
The World Food Prize Foundation announced that the award will be officially presented during the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, to be held in Des Moines, Iowa, USA, from October 21–23, 2025, marking the 39th anniversary of the prestigious event.
 
Foundation President Mashal Husain said:
 
“The world is facing crises rooted in food, nutrition, and climate. These 39 honorees are courageous changemakers leading fundamental shifts in global food systems.”
 
This year’s cohort includes scientists, policymakers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and humanitarians—each recognized for their vital roles in promoting sustainable food system transformations worldwide.
 
END/SMA/AJ/