Report of the

Fourth Global Conference of the

World Banana Forum
FAO headquarters, Rome, Italy | 12-13 March 2024

© FAO/World Banana Forum

 Report of the
Fourth Global Conference of the
World Banana Forum

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Rome, 2024
i
Required citation:
FAO. 2024. Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum – FAO headquarters, Rome,
Italy, 12-13 March 2024. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd2067en

The designations employed and the presentation of material in this information product do not imply the expression of any
opinion whatsoever on the part of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) concerning the legal
or development status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers
or boundaries. The mention of specific companies or products of manufacturers, whether or not these have been patented,
does not imply that these have been endorsed or recommended by FAO in preference to others of a similar nature that are
not mentioned.

ISBN: 978-92-5-139045-0

© FAO, 2024

Some rights reserved. This work is made available under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0
IGO licence (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO; https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/igo/legalcode).

Under the terms of this licence, this work may be copied, redistributed and adapted for non-commercial purposes, provided
that the work is appropriately cited. In any use of this work, there should be no suggestion that FAO endorses any specific
organization, products or services. The use of the FAO logo is not permitted. If the work is adapted, then it must be licensed
under the same or equivalent Creative Commons licence. If a translation of this work is created, it must include the following
disclaimer along with the required citation: “This translation was not created by the Food and Agriculture Organization of
the United Nations (FAO). FAO is not responsible for the content or accuracy of this translation. The original [Language]
edition shall be the authoritative edition.”

Disputes arising under the licence that cannot be settled amicably will be resolved by mediation and arbitration as described in
Article 8 of the licence except as otherwise provided herein. The applicable mediation rules will be the mediation rules of the
World Intellectual Property Organization http://www.wipo.int/amc/en/mediation/rules and any arbitration will be conducted
in accordance with the Arbitration Rules of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).

Third-party materials. Users wishing to reuse material from this work that is attributed to a third party, such as tables, figures
or images, are responsible for determining whether permission is needed for that reuse and for obtaining permission from
the copyright holder. The risk of claims resulting from infringement of any third-party-owned component in the work rests
solely with the user.

Sales, rights and licensing. FAO information products are available on the FAO website (www.fao.org/publications) and can
be purchased through publications-sales@fao.org. Requests for commercial use should be submitted via: www.fao.org/
contact-us/licence-request. Queries regarding rights and licensing should be submitted to: copyright@fao.org.

Cover and back cover: © FAO.

Contents

Abbreviations vii
Opening session 1
Inaugural speech 1
Welcome speeches 1

SESSION 1. Panel discussion

Setting the scene and looking ahead towards the future of the banana industry 3
Speakers and panellists 3
Summary of panel discussion 3
Banana pricing and wage policies 4
Producer costs and competition 4
Consumer practices and awareness 5
Competition and implications for smallholders 5
Panel proposals and recommendations 6
Proposals made from the floor 6

SESSION 2. Panel discussion

The pressing challenges and opportunities related to climate change and
environmental sustainability in the banana industry 7
Speakers and panellists 7
Summary of panel discussion 8
Impact of climate change on banana production 8
The role of the European Union in supporting environmental sustainability 8
Addressing climate change across the value chain 9
The carbon and water footprint (CWF) tool 9
Panel proposals and recommendation 11

SESSION 3. Panel discussion

Towards a more sustainable banana industry. Achieving a fairer distribution of value 12
Speakers and panellists 12
Summary of panel discussion 13
Cost of production for producers and shared responsibility to ensure fairer prices 13
Smallholders and fairer distribution of value 13
Advancing living wages through collective bargaining agreements and due diligence laws 14
Panel proposals and recommendations 14
Proposals made from the floor 15


iii
SESSION 4. Panel discussion
Paving a path towards decent work and the adherence to international labour
standards in the global banana industry 16
Conclusions from the International Meeting on Gender Equity 16
Speakers and panellists 17
Summary of panel discussions 18
The challenges of decent work in agricultural supply chains and in the banana sector 18

The role of the public sector in addressing decent work 19

Social dialogue and the importance of trade unions 20
Certification schemes and consumer awareness 20
Panel proposals and recommendations 21

SESSION 5. Panel discussion

Priorities and key opportunities on the topics of regional, national and
smallholder commissions 22
Speakers and panellists 22
Summary of panel discussion 23
Regional challenges, priorities and opportunities 23
National challenges, priorities and opportunities 23
Smallholder challenges, priorities and opportunities 23
Panel proposals and recommendations 24
Proposals made from the floor 25

SESSION 6. Panel discussion

Fusarium Wilt TR4. Strategies for the present and solutions for the future 26
Speakers and panellists 26
Summary of panel discussion 27
Prevention against the spread of TR4 27
Novel strategies to build resilient agroecosystems 27
Collaborative endeavours: ensuring inclusive participation for all 28
Panel proposals and recommendations 29

SESSION 7. Panel discussion

Debate on certification and audit costs – WBF Commission on Certification.
Is an international multi-stakeholder agreement possible to reduce certification
and audit costs? 30
Speakers and panellists 30
Summary of panel discussion 30
Main concerns for producers concerning certification and auditing costs and solutions identified 31
Opinions of major distributors on certification proliferation: implications for international agreements
and commercial competitiveness 31
Panel proposals and recommendations 32
Proposals made from the floor 33


iv
SESSION 8. Panel discussion
Governance of the World Banana Forum 34
Summary of panel discussion 34
WBF priorities, organization and future 34
Election of the new Steering Committee 35
Panel proposals and recommendations 36
Fusarium Wilt TR4 and the future of the banana industry 37
Third international meeting on gender equity in the banana industry 37
Global conference on living wages and living income in the banana industry 38

Annex 1. Agenda 39
Annex 2. Media coverage of the WBF conference 45
Conference articles 45

v
vi
Abbreviations

AB Advisory Board

ADOBANANO Dominican Republic Banana Producers Association

AEBE Ecuadorian Banana Exporters Association

AFRUIBANA Pan-African Association of African Fruit Producers and Exporters

ALER4TA Innovations for the Prevention and Management of Banana Fungal Disease Foc R4T

ASBAMA Association of Banana Producers and Marketers in Magdalena, Cesar and La Guajira

ASOGUABO Association of Small Banana Producers El Guabo

AUGURA Association of Banana Growers of Colombia

BOHESI Banana Occupational Health and Safety Initiative

CIAT International Center for Tropical Agriculture

CLAC Latin American & Caribbean Network of Fair Trade Small Producers and Workers

COLSIBA Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and Agro-industrial Unions

COOPAG Agrarian Cooperative Alto Grande Sana Sofía of Peru

CORBANA National Banana Corporation of Costa Rica

CSDDD Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive

CSR Corporate Social Responsibility

CWF Carbon and Water Footprint

EC European Commission

FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

FARMCOOP Foundation for Agrarian Reform Cooperatives in Mindanao

GE-TF Gender Equity Task Force

GHG Greenhouse Gases

GIZ German Agency for International Cooperation

IFAD International Fund for Agricultural Development

ILO International Labour Organization

vii
IMGE International Meeting on Gender Equity

IUF International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco

and Allied Workers’ Associations

LEAF Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework

NPPO National Plant Protection Organization

OIRSA International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health

PPP Plant Protection Products

SC Steering Commitee

SMETA Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit

SWOT Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats

TR4 Fusarium Wilt Tropical Race 4

UK United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

WBF World Banana Forum

WBF3C Third Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

WFP World Food Programme

WG01 Working Group 1

WG02 Working Group 2

WG03 Working Group 3

viii
Opening session

Inaugural speech

The conference began with an address by Dr. Qu Dongyu, Director-General of FAO, underscoring
the enduring significance of bananas in our interconnected world. Dr. Qu outlined the myriad uses
and inherent richness of both the banana plant and fruit.

Dr. Qu highlighted the importance of bananas in several aspects, stating that bananas are among
the most produced, traded and consumed fruits globally, with more than 1 000 varieties produced
worldwide, and provide vital nutrients to many populations. He noted that the banana sector is
particularly significant in some of the least developed and low-income food-deficit countries, where
it contributes not only to household food security as a staple, but also to job creation and income
generation as a cash crop. Dr. Qu underscored the key role of smallholder farmers in banana production
and the need to support them as a priority.

While acknowledging the persistent challenges confronting banana production, he also highlighted
the opportunities embedded within these challenges. These opportunities encompass facilitating
trade, fostering agricultural innovation, enhancing consumer access to nutritious foods and advancing
food security. Dr. Qu emphasized the imperative of variety diversification as a key strategy to ensure
the future of banana trade as well as of collaborative efforts towards adopting more sustainable
practices and developing inclusive tools to drive innovation and reshape mindsets. He underscored
the evolution of bananas over the past three decades, noting that while the fruit itself remains
unchanged, consumer preferences have evolved significantly, necessitating a corresponding evolution
in the banana value chain. In this vein, Dr. Qu highlighted the importance of innovation and adapting
to emerging consumer trends, particularly in light of the digital transformation shaping modern
consumer behaviours.

Welcome speeches

Following Dr. Qu’s address, the conference continued with welcoming remarks from the chairpersons
of the World Banana Forum’s Steering Committee. Christelle Owona, representing Compagnie
Fruitière, outlined the serious challenges facing the banana industry. She highlighted the significant
effects of social expectations, changing weather patterns and the efforts to ensure fair wages.
Christelle Owona detailed the shared difficulties faced by all actors involved in the banana industry,
characterized by falling prices and increasing production costs. Her strong call to action focused on
improving working and environmental conditions and enhancing industry resilience. She emphasized
the crucial role of the conference in raising awareness on the need to adjust prices and wages in

1
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

the banana sector. Additionally, she stressed the importance of protecting the environment and
encouraged a joint effort to address climate change. Christelle Owona expressed her organization’s
readiness to work together with other stakeholders on these issues, hoping for effective collaboration
and positive outcomes from the conference discussions.

Peter Stedman, representing Chiquita and speaking on behalf of Andrew Biles, offered a warm
welcome, emphasizing the pivotal role of producers and the significance of certification in meeting
consumer expectations. He also addressed the pressing concern of plant protection in the wake of
TR4, stressing the industry’s need for more robust strategies and resources to combat the threat. Peter
Stedman advocated for a paradigm shift towards a more efficient and environmentally sustainable
approach to production, bridging market gaps and creating value. His remarks underscored Chiquita’s
commitment to driving positive change within the industry.

© FAO/Pier Paolo Cito

2
SESSION 1. Panel discussion

Setting the scene and looking ahead towards the

future of the banana industry

Speakers and panellists

Moderator: Pascal Liu, Team leader, Responsible Global Value Chains, FAO.

Panellists

• H.E. Danilo Palacios, Minister of Agriculture, Ecuador

• Médi Moungui, Deputy Permanent Representative to FAO, WFP, and IFAD, Permanent
Representation of Cameroon

• Lieven De La Marche, Permanent Representative to the Rome-based UN Agencies

(FAO, WFP and IFAD), Permanent Representation of Belgium

• Leonard Mizzi, Head of Unit, European Commission, Directorate-General (DG) for International
Partnerships – Sustainable Agri-food systems and Fisheries

• Patrick Belser, Economist, International Labour Organization (ILO)

• Marike de Peña, Chair, the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Fairtrade Small Producers
and Workers (CLAC)

• Xavier Roussel, Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer, Dole Food Company

• Adela Torres, Coordinator, Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and

Agro-Industrial Unions (COLSIBA)

Summary of panel discussion

The panel discussion commenced with opening remarks by Pascal Liu, Leader of the Responsible
Global Value Chains Team at FAO, setting the stage by delving into the persistent challenges
confronting the banana industry. Throughout the discussion, representatives from various sectors
of the banana industry underscored the vital role of banana production and trade in the livelihoods
of countless families worldwide. They shared insights into recent shifts within the global banana

3
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

market dynamics, noting a steady rise in supply over recent decades and the European Union’s
market dominance in global banana imports. However, they also acknowledged setbacks stemming
from the tumultuous events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic, adverse weather conditions
and regulatory constraints on residue levels and pest management. Despite these challenges, trade
growth has been resurgent since 2023. Panellists explained the significant challenges they confront,
including in adapting to labour laws, workers’ rights provisions and pricing dynamics. They collectively
affirmed that pricing intricacies are intertwined with various other industry-related issues, impacting
both smallholder farmers and large-scale producers.

Banana pricing and wage policies

Panellists spoke about the importance of wage policies and living wages, emphasizing the need for
multifaceted solutions to ensure job security for women, particularly in smallholder settings, and the
inclusion of women producers in organizations. Collaboration opportunities were discussed, with
the ILO expressing commitment to continue supporting tripartite efforts concerning wage policies,
aiming to extend coverage and effectiveness of minimum wage systems while promoting principles
of social dialogue and collective bargaining for inclusive living wages. Concerns were raised about
the lack of minimum wage revisions in some countries since the 1980s and the impact of migration
due to insufficient opportunities for a decent life in producing countries. The role of buyers in
ensuring compliance with labour rights was emphasized, albeit with the acknowledgment that these
costs are often borne by producers. Furthermore, the link between low salaries and low prices was
underscored, with a call for cooperation between transnational companies and national producers
to mitigate adverse effects on production. Additionally, there was a call for the adoption of the ILO
Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190) to ensure workplaces free from violence and
harassment, including sexual harassment, and for fostering dialogue among all stakeholders in the
banana industry to address violations and promote workers’ rights.

Producer costs and competition

The panellists highlighted various challenges affecting banana producers, including socioeconomic
challenges such as land disputes, pesticide contamination, and low wages, particularly for individual
farmers lacking access to good agricultural practices. Infrastructure deficiencies, including poor
roads in remote plantation areas, exacerbate production challenges, alongside high costs and
limited economies of scale in several producing countries. International competition intensifies due
to decreased global demand for bananas and the emergence of new exporting countries vying
for market share, leading to significant setbacks in banana exports. However, there is recognition
of potential pathways forward, with governments initiating incentives to revitalize the sector and
address economic hardships. Price volatility emerges as a central concern affecting producers’ ability
to cover production costs and invest in sustainability measures, with fierce competition driving prices
down and inhibiting profitability and investment in socioeconomic issues. Moreover, the need for a
revised commercial model that isolates costs and provides supply chain visibility to ensure economic
sustainability was emphasized, alongside the importance of testing and piloting initiatives to gather
data and inform future strategies.

4
 Session 1

Consumer practices and awareness

The panellists emphasized the importance of increasing consumer awareness and shifting consumer
practices, particularly in consuming countries, to address challenges such as population growth,
extreme weather events, and diminishing production lands. They underscored the need to produce
food sustainably while involving retailers and industry stakeholders. Initiatives from the European
Commission (EC) were mentioned, alongside discussions on power imbalances and land rights. The
conversation also delved into consumer preferences and their willingness to pay extra for sustainable
products, emphasizing the importance of engaging both producers and consumers. Furthermore,
there were discussions on prioritizing bananas in government agendas, improving access to finance,
and investing in participatory processes, capacity building and innovation to enhance the resilience
of the banana industry.

The discussion touched upon the issues arising from multiple certifications, which increases costs for
producers, and the need for recognition of industry efforts amid significant challenges like online
trade and globalization. Panellists emphasized the importance of cooperation among stakeholders
to raise consumer awareness. Governments were urged to promote sustainability across economic,
social and environmental pillars, highlighting the necessity for price stability and better profit margins
along the value chain, as well as initiatives addressing labour rights and conditions. Regulatory
processes were debated, with suggestions for a more comprehensive approach beyond voluntary
regulations, including climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. The importance of social and
global dialogue on these issues was stressed, with calls for greater participation from producer
organizations and trade unions. Furthermore, the panellists highlighted the complexity of evolving
standards and regulations, advocating for better consultation with producers to ensure alignment with
local contexts. They underscored the need to address gaps in skills, tools and processes to effectively
implement sustainability agendas and promote transparency in the supply chain, emphasizing the
significance of dialogue and trust-building for success.

Competition and implications for smallholders

The panellists addressed the competition within the banana industry and its implications for
smallholders, emphasizing the need for inclusive projects to support small farmers, who constitute
a significant portion of banana producers globally. They highlighted the challenges faced by
smallholders, including growing competition leading to loss of market share, limited access to land,
financing, and technology, hindering their ability to adapt to climate change impacts. Changes in
provisions for organic farming and group certification schemes were noted as potential threats to
smallholders, with concerns raised about their exclusion from these schemes. Additionally, the issue
of generational succession in banana production and the migration of smallholders away from the
sector were discussed, underscoring the importance of addressing these challenges to ensure the
environmental and social sustainability of the banana industry.

5
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Panel proposals and recommendations

• The panel emphasized the significant job opportunities provided by the banana industry and
stressed the importance of collective action to recognize and raise awareness about this aspect.
The need to address the impacts of climate change and ensure the inclusion of all stakeholders
in industry initiatives was underscored.

• Panellists highlighted the necessity for increased interaction with retailers and consumers,
emphasizing the importance of guiding and supporting farm communities in adopting greener
practices to align with evolving consumer preferences.

• There was consensus on the imperative to explore and comprehend the significance of living
wages and incomes within the industry. The panel proposed a thorough examination of the
gaps in living wages across various banana-producing countries at the country level, aiming to
identify and address pertinent issues.

• The panellists stressed the collective responsibility to safeguard the environment, including
meeting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) requirements. They reiterated the critical
importance of addressing climate change to ensure the long-term sustainability of the banana
industry.

Proposals made from the floor

• The proposal to delve deeper into agro-ecological systems for banana production was put
forth, with a participant highlighting the benefits of implementing circular regenerative banana
production systems. Such systems promise a sustainable economy, increased biodiversity levels
and diminished reliance on external inputs. This holistic approach, when coupled with efficient
farm management, not only addresses social sustainability concerns but also holds the potential
to minimize costs.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

6
SESSION 2. Panel discussion
The pressing challenges and opportunities related to
climate change and environmental sustainability in
the banana industry

Speakers and panellists

Introduction: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat, FAO; and Matheus Lima, Environment and
Sustainability Specialist, WBF Secretariat, FAO.

Moderator: Lev Neretin, Senior Natural Resources Officer, Workstream Lead for the Environment, FAO.

Panellists

• Felix Lutz, International Relations Officer, Desk Office for The Americas, Directorate General for
Agriculture and Rural Development, European Commission

• Dan Bebber, Associate Professor, University of Exeter

• Paulina Elena Manthey, Sustainability (CSR) Manager, Kaufland

• Emerson Aguirre, President, Association of Colombian Banana Growers (AUGURA)

• Lianne Zoeteweij, General manager, Association of Small Producers El Guabo (ASOGUABO)

© FAO/World Banana Forum

7
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Summary of panel discussion

The panel provided insights into the main environmental challenges facing the banana industry,
focusing on the effects of climate change from the perspective of different constituent groups.
Discussions encompassed the impacts of climate change in banana production, the regulatory
framework implemented by the European Union to accelerate the transition towards sustainable
agricultural value chains, the use of digital innovations to support climate action, the impacts of
climate change on smallholders and the importance of collective, multi-stakeholder efforts to address
environmental challenges.

Impact of climate change on banana production

The representative from the University of Exeter (UK) shared insights on the expected impact of
climate change on banana production in Latin America and the Caribbean countries according to
remote sensing and climate scenario analysis. The research model, which considers socio-economic
and environmental factors such as availability of labour force, proximity to ports, soil pH, irrigation
availability, precipitation and temperatures under the future climate scenario SSP2 – 4.5 forecast
a decline in available surface area and yields in most regions, apart from Brazil and Ecuador on
which the study suggests that the warming climate and El Niño events could potentially extend the
extension of areas suitable for production and the banana growing season resulting in an increase on
productivity. Concerns were raised about the vulnerability of smallholder farmers, especially women
to climate-related natural disasters like floods, intense precipitation, and strong winds which are
expected to become more severe due to climate change. These conditions are also likely to foster the
spread of pests and diseases, including Fusarium wilt tropical race 4 (TR4) and Black Sigatoka, further
threatening banana production.

The role of the European Union in supporting environmental sustainability

Felix Lutz, representing the European Commission, highlighted that the European Union is advancing
a sustainability agenda for agricultural supply chains which includes the banana sector. The European
Union’s commitment to support a sustainable transition of the banana industry is embodied in the
Farm to Fork Strategy as part of the European Green Deal. This strategy involves reducing pesticide
use, promoting organic farming, reducing GHG emissions, improving food labelling and consumer
information along with target setting and regulatory measures such as the European Deforestation
Regulation (European UnionDR) —which does not yet affect bananas, but a scope revision is planned
for 2025 —; Due Diligence Directives; and Trade Agreements. The Trade and Sustainable Development
chapters present in European Union’s trade agreements are also an important regulatory framework
which includes a broad set of mutually agreed commitments to achieve greater social, economic, and
environmental sustainability. They serve as a mechanism to tackle sustainability issues and promote
social dialogue via the establishment of domestic advisory groups, where trade unions and civil
society actors engage. Furthermore, as highlighted by Felix Lutz, the European Union is committed
to promoting more sustainable consumption patterns through the frequent revision of pesticide
policies, the reduction of food waste in agricultural supply chains and the promotion of organic

8
 Session 2

products in Europe.
Addressing the banana industry, Felix Lutz shared that the European Union has proposed various
recommendations to better align the sector with its regulatory framework. These recommendations
include increasing the supply of organic bananas, accelerating the approval process for new plant
protection products (PPPs), reducing food waste, adopting climate-smart agricultural practices and
establishing sustainability roadmaps with clear indicators. Furthermore, an upcoming study will
examine the effects of the new organic regulation reforms on smallholders and explore how the
European Union can facilitate their adaptation to these changes.

Addressing climate change across the value chain

Representatives from producer associations voiced concerns regarding the challenges posed by
European Union’s regulatory frameworks, particularly on the new organic farming regulations, the
limited availability of new plant protection products (PPPs) and stringent fruit aesthetics standards
which limits the adoption of more sustainable practices. Additionally, concerns were raised about the
lengthy European Union approval process for PPPs, including those derived from biological sources.
The discussion highlighted the need for European Union institutions to gain a deeper understanding
of the perspectives of producers, emphasizing the importance of distributing the costs of transitioning
to climate smart practices among all stakeholders. Panellists called for those in the industry who
set prices to support fair pricing mechanisms to facilitate this transition. The representative from a
German retailer announced that the company is currently collaborating with the WBF Secretariat
on a new project which focuses on sector-specific agroecological practices including sustainable
management of soils and plastic reduction, through the establishment of a farmer-to-farmer training
network. Some key challenges from the retail perspective were also highlighted, including the need
to address scope 3 emissions, the importance of scaling up successful pilot projects and the necessity
to enhance collaboration with banana suppliers.

The representative from El Guabo highlighted the significant potential for smallholders to adopt
agroecological practices, particularly focusing on improving soil health through better drainage,
increased utilization of bio-based products and reducing dependence on chemical inputs. A climate
plan was developed by the association to delineate priority areas aimed at strengthening the
resilience of smallholder farmers. The representative from AUGURA mentioned that 6 000 hectares
of banana farms in Colombia are certified as carbon neutral. He highlighted the climate risks facing
banana production in the region and emphasized the necessity for financial and technical support
from international and European institutions to tackle these challenges. Generally, a consensus was
reached on the importance of multistakeholder initiatives, such as the World Banana Forum, to
facilitate knowledge sharing and promote effective project implementation.

The carbon and water footprint (CWF) tool

Through close collaboration with key players in the global banana value chain, the WBF has developed
and validated a standardized methodology and an automated tool designed specifically for the
measurement and monitoring of carbon and water footprints in banana producing organizations. This

9
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

digital innovation supports producers and traders to understand the environmental impact of their
operations not only on GHG emissions but also related to impacts on water scarcity, eutrophication,
human toxicity and ecotoxicity. The CWF Tool is a key platform for banana companies aiming for carbon
neutrality or alignment with European regulations such as the European Corporate Sustainability
Reporting Directive and the European Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence, by providing
transparency and accuracy in the reporting of GHG emissions and water footprint, critical aspects for
establishing and complying with new environmental guidelines affecting agricultural value chains.

The WBF Secretariat has organized numerous training courses in banana producing countries of
Latin America and the Caribbean to build the capacity of producers and traders on measuring and
reducing the environmental impact of their operations by using the CWF tool. Furthermore, the
WBF has developed a blockchain pilot focused on tracing greenhouse gas emissions throughout
the entire banana value chain. This initiative seeks to enhance transparency from production to
retail, encouraging a commitment to climate action and compliance with new reporting standards.
Producing organizations praised the initiative for its significant contribution to supporting sustainability
practices and decision-making processes. The tool effectively identifies key sources of emissions
and areas where operations could be optimized. However, the difficulty of gathering and tracking
data is a substantial challenge for smallholder farmers. This highlights the necessity for increased
capacity-building activities, led by the WBF Secretariat, specifically aimed at supporting this group.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

10
 Session 2

Panel proposals and recommendation

The key proposals presented by the panellist and the audience during the panel discussion include:

• Increase efforts to monitor and reduce carbon and water footprints with tools such as the
carbon and water footprint (CWF) tool developed by the WBF and FAO.

• Strengthen the resilience of banana-producing systems in the face of climate change through
the promotion of agroecological practices, including sustainable soil management, increase
genetic diversity and the use of biological products to control pests and diseases.

• Support smallholders in adapting to climate change and evolving regulations by facilitating their
participation in relevant discussions. Ensure their access to financial and technical resources to
bolster their efforts in climate mitigation and adaptation.

© FAO/Pier Paolo Cito

11
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 3. Panel discussion

Towards a more sustainable banana industry.

Achieving a fairer distribution of value

Speakers and panellists

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat (FAO).

Panellists

• Jorge Sauma, General Manager, National Banana Corporation (CORBANA)

• Leonard Mizzi, Head of Unit, European Commission, Directorate-General (DG) for International
Partnerships – Sustainable Agri-food systems and Fisheries

• Jose Antonio Hidalgo, Executive Director, Association of Ecuador Banana Exporters (AEBE)

• Felix Strauss, International Sustainability, ALDI SOUTH Group

• Silvia Campos, Senior Advisor Banana, Fairtrade International

• Cesar Guerra, Sub-coordinator, Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and

Agro-Industrial Unions (COLSIBA)
• Edwin Melo, President, Association of Small Producers El Guabo (ASOGUABO)

• Hilario Pellegrini, President, Producer Association from Dominican Republic (ADOBANANO)

© FAO/World Banana Forum

12
 Session 3

Summary of panel discussion

The panel conversation offered a thorough insight into the objectives of the upcoming Global
Conference on Living Wages and Incomes in the Banana Industry, placing it within the context of
impending due diligence laws and regulations. Discussions revolved around examining the wide-
reaching effects of these legal measures on stakeholders across the supply chain, stressing the
necessity for proactive approaches to tackle potential obstacles. Moreover, the panel underscored
the crucial need to acknowledge the interconnectedness of value distribution throughout the supply
chain and pinpointed avenues for enhancing sustainability within the banana industry.

Cost of production for producers and shared responsibility to ensure fairer prices

The panellists stressed the significance of addressing the costs of sustainable production for banana
producers and advocated for a shared responsibility along the supply chain to ensure fairer prices
that enable producers to cover these costs. Highlighting the importance of true sustainability,
they emphasized the social and environmental aspects, underscoring the necessity of fair prices in
achieving sustainability goals. Efforts to combat environmental challenges were mentioned, including
recycling plastic, protecting land and implementing biosecurity measures against threats like TR4.
The importance of information sharing and awareness-raising among producers on various fronts,
from phytosanitary measures to European Union certification, was emphasized. Additionally, there
was discussion on the need to strengthen the organization of producers, particularly smallholders,
to improve productivity and address challenges such as high production costs. The role of women
in the industry and the risk of small producers disappearing without active intervention were also
highlighted, indicating a collective commitment to supporting livelihoods and sustainability within
the banana sector.

Panellists emphasized the crucial role of retailers in ensuring shared responsibility and fairer prices
within the banana supply chain, highlighting how retailers can have a positive impact by altering their
purchasing practices. Efforts by ALDI SOUTH Group were underscored, including initiatives to foster
partnership and transparency throughout the supply chain, such as implementing a new sourcing
approach in collaboration with growers to ensure shared responsibility and stable relationships. Its
use of public data, confirmed by Fairtrade International, to update prices regularly was noted as a
model for ensuring that prices reflect sustainable production costs. The discussion emphasized the
benefits of shared responsibility for all stakeholders, including longer-term partnerships and increased
investment in farms, workers, and the environment. From a sustainability standpoint, mutual trust
and the implementation of living wages and environmental projects were highlighted, underscoring
the importance of dialogue and collaborative efforts. The panellist urged other retailers to adopt
similar sustainable sourcing models and shared responsibility approaches.

Smallholders and fairer distribution of value

The discussion touched upon the challenges faced by smallholders and the importance of ensuring
a fairer distribution of value within the banana industry. Issues such as high production costs for

13
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

implementing new technologies and comprehensive security measures were highlighted, along
with concerns about fair wages and the need for better regulatory frameworks. Efforts in Ecuador
to improve smallholder productivity through sectoral plans and tax benefits were noted, alongside
initiatives to certify bananas for export to various markets. The Fairtrade model was presented as
a solution rooted in fair distribution, with pillars focusing on governance models that empower
producers, innovative trade approaches, economic sustainability through transparent pricing, and
investment in producer activities. Additionally, concerns were raised about the impact of changes
in standards and logistical challenges on small producers, emphasizing the importance of shared
responsibility and fair pricing to ensure equitable distribution across all stakeholders in the industry.

Advancing living wages through collective bargaining agreements and due diligence laws

The panellists also mentioned the importance of protecting living wages through collective bargaining
agreements and due diligence laws within the banana industry. Concerns were raised about the
rollback in decent work, living wages and job stability due to low fruit prices, prompting calls for
legislative measures to address fragmentation of responsibility along the value chain, particularly in
Latin America and the Caribbean where subcontracting practices are common. While due diligence
laws were seen as potentially expanding responsibility, there were also concerns about further
industry fragmentation. Emphasis was placed on shared responsibility and accountability throughout
the value chain to uphold fundamental rights and human rights for workers, including the freedom
to unionize. Private certification schemes were identified as a means to ensure workers’ rights, with
unions playing a vital role in monitoring conditions on the ground. The importance of setting up
protocols to ensure fair living wages and compliance with European due diligence laws and ILO
standards was stressed, alongside the need for mechanisms to follow up on potential breaches of
workers’ rights. Furthermore, the significance of collective bargaining and dialogue in achieving
living wages and equitable distribution of value was highlighted, with the ILO recognized as having
effective mechanisms to allocate value among employers, governments, and workers.

Panel proposals and recommendations

• The panel emphasized the importance of initiatives and recommendations to advance workers’
rights, in particular fundamental principles and rights at work, and decent work more generally
within the banana industry. It was proposed to establish a protocol aligned with ILO standards,
ensuring living wages alongside compliance with European Due Diligence laws.

• Furthermore, there was a call for collaboration between producers, supermarkets and industry
unions to raise awareness among retailers on trade union efforts regarding workers’ rights.
This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between actual and living wages through collective
bargaining, thereby safeguarding worker’s rights across the entire value chain. The overarching
goal is to close these gaps and ensure fair treatment and remuneration for all workers involved
in banana production and distribution.

14
 Session 3

Proposals made from the floor

During the session, participants offered insightful proposals aimed at addressing key challenges and
enhancing sustainability within the banana industry:

• There was a strong emphasis on the importance of advocating for living wages, particularly
highlighting the struggles faced by both men and women workers.

• Participants underscored the impact of inflationary pressure on production costs and stressed
the need to respect national labour regulations. The significance of addressing environmental
and social issues and ensuring prevention and security within the sector, including guaranteeing
the right to work and life amidst violence, was highlighted.

• The systematic practice of anti-unionism was highlighted as a concern, with participants noting
that certification does not necessarily ensure the respect for labour rights. The importance of
workers’ rights to choose was emphasized.

• Attendees emphasized the importance of prioritizing health and soil fertility to produce bananas
that are beneficial for both human consumption and the environment.

• Suggestions were made for respective governments to consider establishing regulations to

support organic practices. Participants emphasized the need to enhance the role of the weakest
parts of the value chain and emphasized scalability as a crucial factor.

• There was a call for increased investment in addressing climate change issues, including the
associated costs and occupational health and safety concerns related to pesticides. Participants
stressed the joint responsibility of stakeholders in strengthening the weakest parts of the value
chain.
• Concerns were raised about certification and the importance of social dialogue and collective
bargaining in achieving living wages.

15
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 4. Panel discussion

Paving a path towards decent work and the

adherence to international labour standards in the
global banana industry

Conclusions from the International Meeting on Gender Equity

The firm commitment of the World Banana Forum (WBF), particularly through its Gender Equity Task
Force (GE-TF), to promoting gender equity and decent work standards in the banana industry was
emphasized. The group praised past projects like BOHESI in Ecuador and acknowledged the efforts of
countries such as Cameroon, Ghana and Colombia in undertaking similar initiatives. Key findings were
shared from the recent International Meeting on Gender Equity, which reviewed progress since 2017
and outlined future strategies. The panels discussed ways to enhance collaboration among multiple
stakeholders to ensure compliance with human rights standards, with a particular focus on following
International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. Women union representatives provided insights
into challenges such as the gender pay gap and gender-based violence, and they offered specific
suggestions for empowering women. The meeting highlighted the importance of understanding
regional differences and involving men in addressing gender disparities, while also advocating for
more opportunities for women to take on leadership roles. Emphasizing the principles of freedom of
association and collective bargaining, the ratification of ILO conventions, and support for women’s
skill development were identified as crucial steps. Additionally, the importance of collecting data
specific to gender and securing funding for future projects to enhance women’s participation in the
sector was stressed.

16
 Session 4

Speakers and panellists

Moderator: El’vis Beytullayev, Rural Economy Specialist, International Labour Organization.

Panellists

• H.E. Ivonne Núñez, Minister of Labour, Ecuador (pre-recorded video)

• H.E. Danilo Palacios, Minister of Agriculture, Ecuador

• Svetlana Boincean, International Officer - Agriculture and Plantations, International Union of

Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF)

• Christelle Owona, Group Sustainability Manager, Compagnie Fruitière

• Wilbert Flinterman, Senior Advisor on Workers’ Rights and Trade Union Relations,
Fairtrade International

• Jennie Coleman, President, Equifruit

• Meike Dalchow, Corporate Responsibility Specialist, Kaufland

© FAO/World Banana Forum

17
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Summary of panel discussions

The panel outlined major decent work issues confronting the banana sector and provided an overview
of some of the strategies undertaken by various actors in addressing them. A wide consensus was
reached on the importance of engaging workers through trade unions in the discussion, and the need
to ratify and effectively implement international labour standards to ensure compliance with relevant
laws and regulations, including emerging due diligence laws, and provide long-lasting positive impact
on the working conditions in the sector. Emphasis was placed on shared responsibility and the key
role played by every actor along the supply chain in promoting decent work.

The challenges of decent work in agricultural supply chains and in the banana sector

With the emergence of mandatory due diligence legislation across a number of countries and in
particular the impending approval of the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence
Directive (CSDDD), there has been increased focus on the issue of compliance with labour rights in
the agricultural sector. Despite increased attention, many agricultural jobs are still characterized by
decent work deficits due to factors such as the physically demanding nature of agricultural jobs,
long working hours, extensive exposure to sun and weak labour market oversight. The prevalence of
informality exacerbates the challenges, with many workers having limited labour and social protection.
Rural areas, where four out of five people face extreme poverty live, are particularly affected, with
two-thirds of those in extreme poverty working in agriculture. Limited freedom of association, power
imbalances, poor health and safety practices, and the absence of adequate wages and incomes are
among major challenges in in the banana sector.

Child labour is a significant problem in several banana-producing countries, worsened by informal work
environments and a lack of social protection. Payment systems based on output (piece-rate wages) and
exclusion from labour legislation contribute to poor working conditions. Workers often face barriers
such as anti-union discrimination and restrictions on union activities. Although agriculture employs
the largest global workforce, only 9 % of these workers are union members. Additionally, agricultural
workers encounter serious health and safety risks, with a higher likelihood of injuries or illnesses
due to strenuous conditions and the extensive use of agricultural machinery and agrochemicals.
These issues demand urgent and effective intervention to ensure better compliance and improve
working conditions. Therefore, there is a clear need for better enforcement of international labour
standards, in particular fundamental principles and rights at work, promoting freedom of association
and collective bargaining, equality and non-discrimination, and a safe and healthy work environment
and advancing the elimination of child labour and forced labour in the sector.

18
 Session 4

© FAO/World Banana Forum

The role of the public sector in addressing decent work

Several panel members emphasized the critical role of the public sector, particularly governments, in
advancing decent work. They reiterated the social obligation of governments to establish, ratify and
enforce international labour standards, starting with the fundamental principles and rights at work.
All ILO Member States, even if they have not ratified the fundamental Conventions in question, have
an obligation arising from the very fact of membership in the Organization, to promote, respect and
realize the principles concerning the fundamental rights which are the subject of those Conventions.

The Minister of Agriculture of Ecuador highlighted government’s responsibility in labour rights matters,
citing ongoing multistakeholder initiatives in Ecuador aimed at promoting women’s empowerment
and employment and combating child labour. Additionally, tripartite agreements and consultation
processes involving governments, private companies and trade unions, were considered essential
in delineating laws and regulations to enhance compliance with labour standards, especially on the
topic of living wages. In this regard, a representative of the IUF informed the meeting about the
ILO Policy guideline on the promotion of decent work in the agri-food sector, which were adopted
by the ILO tripartite constituents at a global meeting of experts held in Geneva in May 2023. This
Guidelines operationalize the ILO framework of international labour standards and outline practical
recommendations on ways to advance decent work in the agri-food sector. Emphasis was placed on
the importance of governments not only ratifying ILO conventions and establishing legal frameworks
for decent work but also conducting effective and regular labour inspections to ensure that relevant
laws and regulations are adequately enforced. It was noted that in cases where the state’s involvement
is limited, particularly in countries where processes such as the definition and calculation of a living
wage are not set by the state, it becomes imperative for private companies to engage in social
dialogue and collective bargaining.

19
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Social dialogue and the importance of trade unions

A broad consensus was reached among panellists about the importance of social dialogue and ensuring
the involvement of trade unions in all discussions aimed at improving the working conditions of
workers in the banana industry. It was acknowledged that social dialogue and freedom of association
are the enabling rights that empower workers to access other fundamental rights and get a seat at
the bargaining table. Emphasis was placed on the importance of capacity building and information
sharing involving trade union and workers representatives to better understand mechanisms to access
worker rights, improve health and safety practices in plantations, and establish gender-sensitive
codes of conduct. A representative from a German retail company illustrated decent work activities
undertaken by the German Retailer Working Group on Living Income and Living Wages in Ecuador,
including capacity-building sessions conducted with trade union representatives and human right
risk assessments aligned with ILO decent work indicators involving farm workers. Furthermore, it was
noted that increased trade unions participation and social dialogue have led to significant changes
in Ecuador in the past 11 years, such as curbing labour outsourcing and subcontracting, amending
the labour code to eliminate discrimination against collective bargaining and reducing child labour.

Certification schemes and consumer awareness

The panel discussed the role of certification schemes and standards intended to promote trade
justice on decent work. A representative from Fairtrade International underscored the long-lasting
and active engagement of the standard-setting organization in ensuring producers receive adequate
compensation for their certified product, and hence have the financial resources to invest in improved
labour conditions. In this regard, it was emphasized that standards must be practical, feasible and
progressive. Moreover, since they often entail additional investments and costs for the employers,
they must go in tandem with improved standards on procurement practices. In the case of Fairtrade,
regular reviews of Fairtrade minimum prices help certified employers meet wage requirements,
considering additional production costs. It was recognized that over the years, many labours right
issues were addressed through corrective measures taken following audits, although the lack
of publicly available results from auditors and the limited participation of auditing companies in
multistakeholder platforms like the WBF made it difficult for the industry to track overall progress.

The importance of improving auditing processes, commonly perceived as ineffective and unreliable,
was highlighted. Given the lack of a system to regulate interaction between trade union representatives
and auditors in the global banana industry, Fairtrade made some recent changes to strengthen the
involvement of trade unions in discussions surrounding audit results at company level, particularly at
the closing meeting of the audit. Lastly, a trader representative underscored the importance of raising
consumer awareness about the decent work challenges affecting the industry and highlighted how
certification schemes remain critical tools to ensure compliance with international labour standards
in the sector. It is essential to help consumers understand and accept the real costs of banana
production, and creativity in marketing can be used to achieve this goal. While trading companies
may be perceived solely as distributors of an agricultural commodity, they have a significant role

20
 Session 4

to play, particularly in communicating the economic challenges and social opportunities associated
with improved decent work in the sector to the buyers and facilitating the shift towards sustainable
purchasing practices.

Panel proposals and recommendations

The moderator summarized the main discussion points and outlined the key proposals and
recommendations made during the panel:

• Promote freedom of association, social dialogue and collective bargaining through the active
involvement of trade unions and worker representatives in all decision-making processes aimed
at the improvement of working conditions in the banana industry.

• Strengthen the role of governments in promoting and enforcing international labour standards,
including through ratification of relevant conventions and effective labour inspections for better
enforcement.

• Discuss strategies for improving auditing processes, increasing transparency and ensuring
meaningful participation of trade unions in certification processes.

• Reinforce ongoing multistakeholder initiatives and support collective efforts aimed at addressing
specific challenges faced by workers in the banana sector, such as child labour, inadequate
wages, lack of freedom of association and collective bargaining, and safety risks, through
evidence-based interventions in banana-producing countries.

• Enhance awareness-raising activities, particularly at the retail and consumer stages, emphasizing
the connection between fair pricing for bananas and improved working conditions for banana
farmers and workers.

• Promote initiatives aimed at information sharing and capacity building of workers and trade
union representatives, focused on understanding mechanisms to access worker rights,
improving health and safety policies in plantations, and establishing gender-sensitive codes of
conduct.
• Ensure that gender becomes an integral component of every project aimed at improving the
working conditions of banana industry workers.

21
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 5. Panel discussion

Priorities and key opportunities on the topics of

regional, national and smallholder commissions

Speakers and panellists

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat (FAO).

Panellists

• Felix Lutz, International Relations Officer, Desk Office for The Americas, Directorate General for
Agriculture and Rural Development, European Commission

• Jose Francisco Zuñiga, Executive President, Producer Association from Magdalena and Guajira
(ASBAMA)

• Hilario Pellegrini, President, Producer Association from Dominican Republic (ADOBANANO)

• Jean-Francois Billot, Secretary-General, Pan-African Association of Fruit Producers and Exporters

(AFRUIBANA)

• Cesar Guerra, Sub-coordinator, Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and

Agro-Industrial Unions (COLISBA)
• Kahlil Apuzen-ito, Sustainability and Resilience Lead, Foundation for Agrarian Reform
Cooperatives in Mindanao (FARMCOOP)

• Dianelly Reyes, Manager, Cooperativa Agraria Alto Grande Sana Sofía de Perú (COOPAG)

© FAO/World Banana Forum

22
 Session 5

Summary of panel discussion

The panel focused on the challenges faced by the banana industry at the regional, national and
smallholder levels, agreeing that bananas contribute to economic and social wellbeing.

Regional challenges, priorities and opportunities

Regional challenges, priorities and opportunities were discussed during the panel, with a focus on the
European Union’s new strategy to enhance sustainability in the agri-food chain. Panellists highlighted
the potential impacts on producers, emphasizing the need for reduced inputs and greenhouse
gas emissions, as well as decreased food waste throughout the value chain. They emphasized the
importance of inclusive implementation involving all stakeholders and called for regulatory measures
to complement existing guidelines. The discussion addressed how these strategies might affect banana
producers, considering factors such as risk assessments for plant protection products and regulatory
measures like the European Union packaging waste directive and anti-greenwashing directive.
Challenges unique to African producers were also noted, including limited maritime exchange and
reliance on imported inputs. The panel highlighted opportunities for regional cooperation to foster
collective bargaining and sectoral agreements and improve working conditions. The panel emphasized
the importance of methods rooted in ILO conventions for facilitating collective bargaining between
employers and workers, seen as essential for achieving decent living wages and collective agreements
across producing countries.

National challenges, priorities and opportunities

Panellists also mentioned that while small producers play a crucial role in exporting their products
through connections with traders, corporate producers also contribute significantly. Fairtrade programs
were underscored as essential for small producers, providing access to resources for social investment.
However, challenges such as price fluctuations, transportation and fuel costs, labour expenses,
and overlapping certification requirements were noted, along with the growing threat of climate
disasters and security concerns for workers, especially small producers vulnerable to gang attacks.
In the Dominican Republic, similar issues were echoed, exacerbated by climate change’s impact on
banana-producing zones, including droughts, hurricanes and pest infestations. The threat of Fusarium
wilt TR4 further jeopardizes sustainability, particularly for small-scale producers. Challenges such as
fair remuneration, intergenerational continuity in farming, and the additional costs associated with
new organic farming standards and over-certification were highlighted. The need for social dialogue
and collaboration to address these multifaceted challenges and ensure the sustainability of the
banana industry was emphasized.

Smallholder challenges, priorities and opportunities

Panellists also recognized the crucial role and vulnerability of smallholders within the sector. Smallholders
were noted for their potential to implement new production measures such as intercropping and
climate-smart agriculture. However, they also face significant obstacles, particularly regarding

23
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

certification, which they rely on for benefits. The discussion highlighted the role of indigenous and
local smallholders as essential stakeholders possessing generational knowledge vital for resilience
in local contexts. Issues such as the threat of fusarium, lack of institutional support, succession
challenges and climate change exacerbate their situation. Efforts were discussed, including the World
Banana Forum’s Smallholder Commission’s advocacy to challenge detrimental land reforms and
safeguard agrarian reform and collective land stewardship. Additionally, concerns were raised about
high production costs, limited smallholder participation, succession issues and the impact of climate
change on production, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and solutions to ensure the
sustainability and viability of smallholder banana farming.

Panel proposals and recommendations

In light of ongoing challenges facing the banana industry, participants have identified several areas
for improvement to ensure fairness and sustainability:

• Participants underscored the necessity for new ideas to navigate evolving rules and
requirements. However, they emphasized that such regulations must be counterbalanced by fair
pricing, which is deemed essential for guaranteeing a fair income. This fair pricing mechanism
is seen as critical for enabling small producers to maintain standards and address the ongoing
issue of
rural-to-urban migration among young people.

• Strengthening social dialogue emerged as a priority, with a specific focus on ensuring gender
equity in all initiatives. Participants stressed the importance of empowering unions to play a
more significant role in decision-making processes.
• The panel identified the need for a more proactive and participatory approach where farmers
have increased involvement in shaping genuine processes of participation and fostering
ownership and sustainability within the industry.

• The WBF was highlighted as having a pivotal role in supporting small producers and building
their resilience against climate change by facilitating knowledge exchange, promoting best
practices and encouraging the implementation of sustainable measures.
• Other participants emphasized the importance of establishing protocols to ensure fair labour
practices in the banana industry. This includes agreements between producers, unions and
supermarkets to uphold rights such as collective bargaining, living wages and freedom to
unionize. Protocols should include mechanisms for raising awareness about breaches of these
rights, monitoring and addressing gaps in the transfer of value from retailers to workers.
COLSIBA expressed a desire for active inclusion in continental activities to ensure worker
considerations are prioritized.

24
 Session 5

Proposals made from the floor

During the session, the audience contributed proposals aimed at enhancing sustainability within the
banana industry:

• There was a call to investigate the feasibility of leveraging the Green Claims Directive to enforce
greater responsibility concerning social claims. It was emphasized that insights gleaned from the
implementation phase should inform this endeavour, ensuring its effectiveness.

• Attendees emphasized the importance of continued support for projects aimed at reducing the
usage of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. It was noted that this effort is crucial not only for
producing healthier products for human consumption but also for preserving environmental
integrity.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

25
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 6. Panel discussion

Fusarium Wilt TR4. Strategies for the present and

solutions for the future

Speakers and panellists

Moderator: Raixa Llauger, Agricultural Officer, Subregional Office for Mesoamerica, FAO.

Panellists

• Nancy Villegas, Regional Director of Plant Health, International Regional Organization for Plant
and Animal Health (OIRSA)

• Desalegn Etalo, Leader of the Banana Research Group, Wageningen University and Research

• Ralf Buss, Regional Coordinator of AleR4Ta, German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ)

• Miguel Dita, Senior Scientist in Plant Health, Alliance Bioversity International – CIAT

© FAO/World Banana Forum

26
 Session 6

Summary of panel discussion

The panel offered valuable insights into ongoing strategies and innovative solutions for combating
Fusarium Wilt TR4. It explored the possibility of strengthening inter-regional and international
collaborative efforts in curbing the spread of this quarantine pathogen. The panel stressed the
importance of focusing on preventive efforts and promoting biosecurity measures, given that disease
containment following an outbreak is extremely challenging and expensive. Emphasis was placed on
the need to reinforce the capacity of industry actors in accurate diagnosis, early warning systems,
risk assessments, plant breeding and socioeconomic impact analysis. Several panellists advocated
for the adoption of a holistic approach that recognizes the complex interaction between bananas
and their surrounding macro- and micro-environments, rather than viewing bananas as an isolated
component.

Prevention against the spread of TR4

Panellists underscored the critical role of preventive measures in containing the spread of Fusarium Wilt
TR4, especially given the absence of a viable cure for the disease. The need to strengthen regulatory
environments to enable swift responses, enhance diagnosis and surveillance capacities, and improve
communication and risk management among national, interregional and international bodies, was
highlighted. From the perspective of Latin America where TR4 incursions have already been reported
in Peru, the Bolivarian Republic of Venuela and Colombia, a representative from OIRSA highlighted
the importance of conducting Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analyses
and risk assessments to gauge the level of preparedness of each country. Recommendations included
conducting extensive characterization of Musa agroecosystem for rapid outbreak response and
implementing stringent biosecurity measures at every potential entry point to prevent further pathogen
dissemination. Additionally, it was advised to establish legally binding frameworks for phytosanitary
contingencies and conduct outbreak simulations routinely. Representatives from the German Agency
for International Cooperation (GIZ) and The Alliance of Bioversity-CIAT offered an overview of the
project ALER4TA (Innovations for the Prevention and Management of the Banana Fungal Disease Foc
TR4), funded by the German Government and implemented through the GIZ, together with strategic
local allies, in Ecuador, Colombia and Peru. The project aims to enhance prevention and surveillance
measures and establish data-driven early warning systems via technological innovation. Notably, the
project integrates the use of drones and artificial intelligence alongside epidemiological models to
facilitate early detection and prompt response actions.

Novel strategies to build resilient agroecosystems

A representative from Wageningen University informed on the continuous interactions and coevolution
of bananas with their surrounding environment, noting that these processes occur at a much quicker
pace than technological innovation. Advocating for a holistic approach, he suggested considering
bananas as part of a larger ecosystem and guiding research efforts in this direction. Rather than
seeking one-size-fits-all solutions, he proposed integrating knowledge and embracing complexity.

27
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Concerns were raised about the vulnerability of current banana production, which heavily relies on a
single clone deployed over vast surfaces. In this context, TR4 outbreaks could be viewed as indicators
of ecological imbalance that need addressing. To tackle this, he recommended further studying the
soil as the foundation for plant growth and a potential source of pathogens. Understanding the
coevolution between bananas and their surrounding ecological communities, especially microbes,
is crucial for developing a more resilient production system. Panellists actively promoted the use of
alternative resistant varieties and highlighted the need for support to smallholders, who actively
preserve banana genetic diversity by cultivating non-Cavendish cultivars that are highly susceptible
to TR4. This entails ramping up increasing investments in plant breeding, both from public and
private sectors, while forging stronger collaborative partnerships to ensure that smallholders are
not excluded from accessing these new varieties. In response to a query from the audience, the
Wageningen University representative clarified that their banana research team focuses on a wide
array of varieties, not just commercial cultivars. However, they noted that efforts to develop a resistant
Cavendish variety are expected to conclude within 4 – 5 years.

Furthermore, emphasis was placed on the necessity to increase data collection and analytical efforts to
gain insights into the socioeconomic impact of TR4 in affected countries. For instance, data collected
via the ALER4TA project indicated that TR4 forced many farmers to abandon banana production in
favour of less profitable crops. A better understanding of the socioeconomic repercussions of such
a devastating disease can catalyze more informed policy making and strategic planning, both at the
national and interregional level.

Collaborative endeavours: ensuring inclusive participation for all

Multistakeholder collaboration has been and continues to be a cornerstone in the battle against
Fusarium Wilt TR4. Several successful initiatives, such as the TR4 Global Network spearheaded by
the WBF Secretariat and the project ALER4TA, have facilitated the exchange of knowledge, fostered
synergies, resources, and prevented duplication of efforts. As highlighted by several panellists,
Fusarium poses a global emergency, threatening the food security and livelihoods of millions of
people worldwide. Thus, every actor along the value chain bears a collective responsibility to engage
in this struggle and take necessary steps to prevent and contain TR4. National Plant Protection
Organizations (NPPOs) were described as key strategic entities for both national and regional projects,
organizing capacity-building workshops and outbreak simulations. Multiple panellists underscored
the importance for countries to devise contingency plans to enable swift response upon detecting a
suspected TR4 case. This is especially important in today’s era of globalization and free trade, where
the risks of unintentional entry of quarantine pathogens are greater than ever before. Lastly, the need
to harmonize public policies and to avoid creating legal or administrative impediments that could
hinder the prompt deployment of effective actions against the pathogen was emphasized.

28
 Session 6

Panel proposals and recommendations

The key proposals and recommendations made during the panel included:

• Strengthen preventive measures at the national, interregional and international level. This
includes enhancing early detection, diagnosis and surveillance capacities, and promoting
adherence to biosecurity measures, especially along national borders.

• Assist countries in conducting thorough risk assessments, establishing phytosanitary

contingency plans and frameworks to be activated in response to an outbreak and enhancing
communication with local and regional actors.

• Deepen the understanding of Musa agroecosystems through comprehensive site-specific

agronomic characterization studies.

• Prioritize data collection efforts to better understand the socioeconomic implications of

agricultural diseases and leverage data-driven insights to guide policy-making and resource
allocation strategies.

• Emphasize overall ecosystem health and acknowledge the interdependence of bananas with
their surrounding environments, particularly focusing on the soil as the interface between the
plant and the pathogen.

• Promote the diversification of crop varieties through research and development, ensuring
equitable access of new resistant varieties for smallholder farmers.

• Foster partnerships and multistakeholder initiatives focused on knowledge sharing, capacity

building and technology transfer, while encouraging inclusive participation and coordination to
effectively address shared challenges.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

29
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 7. Panel discussion

Debate on certification and audit costs – WBF

Commission on Certification. Is an international
multi-stakeholder agreement possible to reduce
certification and audit costs?

Speakers and panellists

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat (FAO).

Panellists

• Jose Antonio Hidalgo, Executive Director, Association of Ecuador Banana Exporters (AEBE)

• Emerson Aguirre, President, Producer Association of Colombia (AUGURA)

• Peter Stedman, Sustainability Director, Chiquita

• Silvia Campos, Senior Advisor Bananas, Fairtrade International

• Edgar Monge, Responsible Sourcing Manager, Tesco (Americas)

• Christiane Hornikel, Bananas & Fresh Fruits, Rainforest Alliance

• Johannes Weh, Key Account Manager / Stakeholder Relations, GlobalG.A.P.

Summary of panel discussion

The panel provided a brief overview of certification bodies, which conduct assessments to ensure
compliance with established standards for environmental sustainability, fair labour practices and social
responsibility. The panel touched upon the respective requirements of these certification schemes,
emphasizing the unique documentation, tools and matrices demanded by each scheme. It was
highlighted that certain schemes may duplicate information within the same domain. Notably, auditors
possess discretion in accepting or disregarding evidence of compliance across different certification
schemes, resulting in lengthy audit periods. The discussion centred on the necessity of simplifying
audits to achieve a balanced, practical and effective system, ultimately fostering sustainability within
the industry.

30
 Session 7

Main concerns for producers concerning certification and auditing costs and solutions
identified

The panel discussion delved into the main concerns voiced by producers regarding certification
and auditing costs, while also identifying potential solutions. Panellists highlighted the need for
optimization of certifications and strategies to address over-certification within the industry to
enhance their effectiveness. One proposed solution involved standardizing requirements across
certifying bodies and schemes, integrated within risk assessments. Collaboration among certification
schemes, particularly through joint audits, was emphasized for streamlining processes and reducing
the frequency of audits. Capacity building initiatives and technical trainings were suggested,
along with the utilization of tools featuring harmonization and equivalences. Failure to address
over-certification was said to jeopardize the sustainability of banana production.

The possibility of an international multi-stakeholder agreement to mitigate certification and audit costs
was explored. Additionally, the discussion touched upon the importance of certifying bodies evolving
to deliver value to stakeholders, including growers, and the necessity of optimizing certification usage
to alleviate burdens on producers. Fairtrade initiatives targeting cost reduction and evaluating producer
needs were mentioned, along with principles guiding economic and financial aspects in certification
processes. Rainforest Alliance proposed measures such as transparency in cost calculation and
risk-based auditing to reduce expenses, alongside collaborative efforts for harmonization and mutual
recognition of audit findings among certification standards. The importance of multistakeholder
collaboration, including retailers, producers, and certification schemes, in achieving success in
combined certification and auditing endeavours was underscored, with suggestions for harmonizing
market standards and exploring innovative approaches for efficiency and quality assurance.

Opinions of major distributors on certification proliferation: implications for international

agreements and commercial competitiveness

Panellists also emphasized the urgency to alleviate the audit burden, considering its significant impact
on producers in terms of both cost and time. The discussion underscored the necessity of audits to
ensure decent working conditions and environmental protection and acknowledged the challenges in
harmonizing standards across diverse locations. For retailers and producers alike, quality of audits held
greater importance than sheer quantity, with Fairtrade or SMETA recognized for their comprehensive
labour standards and Rainforest Alliance for its environmental focus in the past. However, concerns
were raised regarding disparities in auditor performance and criteria assessment, highlighting the
need for comprehensive integrated management systems to facilitate more holistic evaluations.
Participants stressed the importance of internal responsibility within companies for continual
self-assessment and urged buyers to share accountability in this endeavour.

31
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Panel proposals and recommendations

The panel presented comprehensive recommendations aimed at enhancing efficiency and effectiveness
in certification processes:

• The panel proposed the establishment of a permanent Commission to promote the

harmonization of standards and reduce auditing costs and administrative burdens for producers
and exporters. The emphasis was on tangible, measurable results, urging the engagement of
supermarkets, importers and exporters to provide data for streamlining audits.

• The panel advocated for collaboration with standard-setting and certification bodies at a
technical level to ensure the functionality of tools developed for on-the-ground use. It stressed
the importance of active participation by producers and retailers in these processes, as well as
consultation with workers’ organizations to enhance audit rigor. Additionally, the presence and
support of governments through national legislation and producer assistance were deemed
crucial.

• Strategies to promote the effectiveness of certification schemes included standardizing

requirements across schemes, particularly during risk assessments. The importance of
certification schemes collaborating on joint audits and implementing integrated management
systems covering multiple certification requirements simultaneously was highlighted.
Capacity building, technical trainings and the use of harmonized tools and equivalences were
recommended to simplify audits and reduce redundancy.

• The panel underscored the importance of multistakeholder collaboration, inviting certification

programs such as SMETA and LEAF to the table. Efforts towards harmonizing market standards
and creating a GlobalG.A.P. checklist to replace individual audit programs were proposed,
with a focus on incorporating environmental sustainability, worker wellbeing and food safety.
GlobalG.A.P. expressed openness to exploring ways to improve through mutual recognition
with other schemes and industries, emphasizing the involvement of retailers, producers and
certification schemes for the success of combined certification and auditing endeavours.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

32
 Session 7

Proposals made from the floor

Several proposals were raised by participants, shedding light on critical issues and potential solutions:

• Participants highlighted the difficulty in auditing the right to freedom of association, noting the
ineffectiveness of private auditors in assessing this factor. They emphasized the role of trade
unions as valuable informants to address this aspect effectively.

• Concerns were raised regarding the distinction between the Fairtrade minimum price and closed
registers that exclude small producer organizations. Suggestions were made to review violations
of basic standards and introduce mechanisms for decertification where necessary.

• Participants proposed planning the transfer of accumulated certification knowledge to

the public sector, enabling government agencies to carry out certification checks currently
performed by private certifiers.

• It was acknowledged that the role of government is to protect, while businesses must respect
regulations. There was agreement that the public sector could indeed conduct certification
checks.

• Participants stressed the importance of resolving informalities internally and ensuring that
actors maintain motivation to fulfil their roles. They highlighted the need for harmonization and
efficiency in the face of an over-certified market. The possibility of assessing other industries for
harmonization was also discussed.

• Participants emphasized the need to revise standards to make them more effective in generating
impact beyond monetary value. Concerns were raised about the increasing time spent on
administrative tasks due to certification requirements, prompting a call for an assessment of the
effectiveness and feasibility of implementation of these standards.

• The importance of analysing the added value provided by certification schemes, particularly
from the perspective of unions, was highlighted. Concerns were expressed about the longevity
of this added value from the standpoint of workers. The necessity of a verification system
for audits and an assessment of their results was also emphasized, with a focus on centering
processes and legislations within countries.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

33
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 8. Panel discussion

Governance of the World Banana Forum

Moderator: Pascal Liu, Team Leader, Responsible Global Value Chains, FAO.

Summary of panel discussion

The panel discussed governance-related aspects of the WBF. It highlighted the importance of
renewing the Steering Committee (SC) and Advisory Board (AB) in accordance with the internal
rules of the WBF to enhance dynamism and bring in new perspectives. Emphasis was placed on
the need for balanced representation across stakeholder groups, geographical areas and gender
within the Steering Committee. Discussions also focused on the importance of active participation,
meeting efficiency and the adherence of the WBF charter to FAO’s rules and guidelines. Themes such
as certification processes, new varieties acceptance, worker rights, agroecology, gender equity and
the necessity for regional expansion were discussed. Stakeholders from various constituency groups
expressed interest in participating in the SC to address issues such as living wages, agroecology,
workers’ rights, gender equity and environmental sustainability collaboratively.

WBF priorities, organization and future

Pascal Liu began the session by acknowledging the delays in organizing the Fourth Global
Conference caused by the broad challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences.
He highlighted the progress made since the Third World Banana Forum Conference (WBF3C) and
mentioned the importance of periodically refreshing the membership of the SC and the AB to bring
new perspectives to the Forum.

The conversation then broadened to cover an extensive range of topics, signalling the Forum’s
dedication to addressing a diverse set of challenges and opportunities within the banana industry.
Representatives from various regions and constituency groups contributed insights and aspirations
for the WBF, advocating for issues such as the reduction of certifications’ overlaps, diversification
of varieties, coordinated actions against TR4, wide implementation of agroecological practices,
consensus on living wages methodologies, support on workers’ rights and gender equity amongst
other topics. The dialogue underscored the collective will to continue to support the WBF’s inclusivity,
effectiveness and responsiveness to the industry’s needs. Participants stressed the importance of
member engagement and the collective responsibility of the WBF members to work towards common
goals. Suggestions to improve the WBF included expanding the participation to more stakeholders
from North America and Asia and providing French interpretation in WBF meetings. Additionally, the

34
 Session 8

introduction of breakout discussion groups at the next global conference was proposed to facilitate
more targeted and in-depth discussions among participants.

The session touched upon the legal and governance structure of the WBF, with IUF requesting
information on the AB election process and suggesting the establishment of a working group to
review the WBF’s charter. The WBF Secretariat provided a historical overview of the WBF’s charter, and
the previous efforts carried out to align the WBF’s charter with the FAO’s legal framework, activity
that should be revisited. Pascal Liu further explained that the AB is elected among the SC members.
Its role is to advise and support the WBF Secretariat in implementing the decisions taken by the SC
and to oversee the WBF’s ongoing activities. This structure ensures that the WBF’s work remains
closely aligned with its overarching goals and the diverse needs of its global stakeholders supporting
an inclusive and balanced governance to address the challenges facing the banana industry.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

Election of the new Steering Committee

The WBF Secretariat underscored the critical need for a multi-stakeholder composition of the
SC, ensuring it reflects a balanced representation across three dimensions: stakeholder groups,
geographical representation and gender. Participants were encouraged to consider their potential
roles within the SC, whether as new members or continuing their current participation.

Numerous stakeholders and governments expressed interest in joining the SC, demonstrating
the committee’s appeal to a diverse range of participants. The WBF Secretariat took note of the
applications and informed that organizations will also be able to express their interest in being part
of the SC by email. A list of organizations will then be prepared by the WBF Secretariat and reviewed
by the AB, ensuring that the election of members reflects a balanced representation and is aligned
with FAO’s rules and procedures.

35
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Panel proposals and recommendations

• Ensure a multi-stakeholder composition of the SC, reflecting balance in stakeholder groups,

geographical distribution and gender.

• Organizations can express their interest in joining the SC by email. The WBF Secretariat will
compile a list to be reviewed by the AB, ensuring balanced representation and alignment with
FAO guidelines.

• Engage more stakeholders from North America and Asia to enrich discussions with a broader
spectrum of perspectives.

• Evaluate the possibility of providing French interpretation at WBF meetings.

• Explore the possibility of implementing breakout groups in future conferences to allow targeted,
in-depth discussions.

• Create a task force to review the WBF charter prepared in 2009 to ensure alignment with the
common objectives of WBF members and compliance with FAO’s rules and procedures.

Closing remarks

Máximo Torero, Chief Economist of FAO, provided the closing remarks of the Fourth Global
Conference of the WBF. Máximo Torero reminded participants of the multifaceted impacts of climate
change, including extreme weather events, water scarcity and the spread of diseases, highlighting the
urgent need for comprehensive action. He also stressed the threat of Fusarium Wilt TR4, calling for
the global adoption of proactive measures to mitigate its spread. He emphasized the importance of
inclusive multipartite dialogue and highlighted the critical role of the WBF in fostering collaboration
since its inception in 2009. Central to the Forum’s mandate is the pursuit of sustainable and resilient
banana production and trade under the banner of “Good Food for All, Today and Tomorrow”,
focusing on ensuring food security for present and future generations.

Máximo Torero highlighted that the Conference yielded a broad set of actionable recommendations
aimed at addressing several challenges within the banana industry, including regulatory compliance,
fair pricing, smallholder empowerment, disease prevention and gender equity. These recommendations
encompassed various aspects such as analyzing regulatory frameworks, enhancing genetic diversity
and promoting decent work practices, reflecting a comprehensive approach to sustainability and
social responsibility. He stressed the importance of collaboration across regions and sectors to tackle
complex global issues. In conclusion, Máximo Torero commended participants for their contributions,
and assured them of FAO’s continued support to the work of the World Banana Forum. Special thanks
were extended to the organizers, panelists, contributors, participants and conference support staff
for facilitating the Conference and fostering an open and productive dialogue on critical industry
issues.

36
SIDE EVENTS

Three side events accompanied the Global Conference, addressing the following topics: Decent
Wages and Incomes, Fusarium Wilt Tropical Race 4 and Gender Equity in the Banana Industry. The
full reports of these events can be found at the following web address: https://www.fao.org/world-
banana-forum/about-the-forum/fourth-conference/en/

Fusarium Wilt TR4 and the future of the banana industry

The Event on Fusarium Wilt TR4 and the Future of the Banana Industry, was held on Monday, 11
March 2024, at FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy. The event included several in-depth sessions focused
on various aspects of TR4 management, including prevention, preparedness, response strategies and
the role of FAO in supporting countries and stakeholders. Discussions highlighted the importance
of knowledge sharing, capacity building and comprehensive measures for prevention and response,
and the need to strengthen international collaboration and multistakeholder initiatives. Panel
discussions covered critical topics such as the status of recent TR4 outbreaks, where stakeholders
from affected countries shared their experiences and strategies in managing these incursions. Another
session delved into the latest technological advancements regarding TR4 diagnosis, monitoring and
surveillance, showcasing innovative methods for early detection and warning systems. Additionally,
breeding efforts to develop TR4-resistant banana varieties were explored, underlining the critical role
of biotechnology and the significant challenges and opportunities in this area.

Third international meeting on gender equity in the banana industry

The Third International Meeting on Gender Equity in the Banana Industry was held on Monday,
11 March 2024, at FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy. This full-day event was structured around four
sessions featuring a wide range of panelists from various stakeholder group and organizations. It
provided a unique opportunity for industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge about the issues
affecting women in the banana industry and reaffirm their commitment to promoting gender equity,
enhancing women’s employment and access to leadership roles, and eliminating gender-based
violence and harassment in the workplace. Proposals and recommendations from panelists and the
audience helped prepare a draft action plan for the GE-TF to be achieved by 2030. Recommendations
included: ensuring active participation by women in dialogues and restructuring relevant WBF
commissions to bolster their involvement; advocating for political awareness and advocacy efforts at
governmental levels to prioritize women’s issues and promote gender equity; fostering collaboration
among stakeholders to increase women’s employment and establishing support facilities such as
healthcare and childcare; implementing education and training programs on gender-specific issues;
advocating for the ratification of ILO Convention 190; and investing in the younger generation
through education to instill values of gender equity from an early age.

37
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Global conference on living wages and living income in the banana industry

The Global Conference on Living Wages and Living Income in the Banana Industry was held on
Thursday, 14 March 2024, at FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy. The event successfully brought together
numerous stakeholders from the banana industry’s constituency groups and touched upon several
key topics related to living wages. The discussions revolved around current challenges on living wages
and income in the banana industry, the importance of fair compensation for workers, and shared
responsibility for achieving a living wage. Some principal recommendations included continuing
to ensure that workers receive fair compensation, highlighting the shared responsibility among
stakeholders to secure a living wage for workers, and also the need for a scalable approach to living
wages that considers the challenges of varying living incomes and legal constraints across different
countries.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

38
Annex 1. Agenda

Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

12-13 March 2024 | Green Room – FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy

AGENDA

Tuesday, 12 March
Global Conference of the World Banana Forum (WBF) – Day 1
Green Room, FAO Headquarters

08.15–09.00 Registration of participants and welcome coffee.

09.00–09.10 Inaugural speech by the Director-General of FAO.

09.10–09.20 Welcome speech by the chairpersons of the WBF Steering Committee.

• Christelle Owona, Group Sustainability Manager, Compagnie Fruitière

• Peter Stedman, Sustainability Director, Chiquita

SESSION 1

09.20–10.20 Panel discussion: setting the scene and looking ahead towards the future
of the banana industry

Objectives: Setting the scene through the testimonies of the various constituencies of the banana industry,
whose perspectives will drive the discussion on collaborative activities towards a more sustainable banana
industry in the years to come.

Moderator: Pascal Liu, Team Leader, Responsible Global Value Chains, FAO.

Panellists

• H.E. Danilo Palacios, Minister of Agriculture, Ecuador

• Médi Moungui, Deputy Permanent Representative to FAO, WFP, and IFAD, Permanent
Representation of Cameroon
• Lieven De La Marche, Permanent Representative to the Rome-based UN Agencies
(FAO, WFP and IFAD), Permanent Representation of Belgium
• Patrick Belser, Economist, International Labour Organization (ILO)

39
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

• Leonard Mizzi, Head of Unit, European Commission, Directorate-General (DG) for International
Partnerships – Sustainable Agri-food systems and Fisheries
• Marike de Peña, Chair, the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Fairtrade Small Producers and
Workers (CLAC)
• Xavier Roussel, Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer, Dole Food Company
• Adela Torres, Coordinator, Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and Agro-Industrial Unions
(COLSIBA)

10.20–12.00 Open discussion with all participants.

12.00–14.00 Lunch break.

SESSION 2

14.00–14.45 Panel discussion: the pressing challenges and opportunities related to climate
change and environmental sustainability in the banana industry

Objectives: Explore the challenges and opportunities within the banana industry’s environmental
sustainability landscape, considering the implications of recent international regulations and the
commitments made by key stakeholders in the value chain.

Introduction: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat, FAO and Matheus Lima, Environment and
Sustainability Specialist.

Moderator: Lev Neretin, Senior Natural Resources Officer, Workstream Lead for the Environment, Food
and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Panellists

• Felix Lutz, International Relations Officer, Desk Office for The Americas, Directorate General for
Agriculture and Rural Development, European Commission
• Dan Bebber, Associate Professor, University of Exeter
• Paulina Elena Manthey, Sustainability (CSR) Manager, Kaufland
• Emerson Aguirre, President, Association of Colombian Banana Growers (AUGURA)
• Lianne Zoeteweij, General manager, Association of Small Producers El Guabo (ASOGUABO)

14.45–15.30 Open discussion with all participants. Priorities and key opportunities for a
sustainable banana industry.

40
 Annexes

SESSION 3

15.30–16.15 Panel discussion: towards a more sustainable banana industry. Achieving a

fairer distribution of value distribution of value

Objectives: Setting the scene for the Global Conference on Living Wages and Incomes, considering the
relevant forthcoming due diligence legislations and requirements and their impacts on stakeholders along
the supply chain and understanding the transversality and importance of distribution of value along the
supply chain, what challenges the industry face and what potential solutions can contribute to a more
sustainable banana industry.

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat (FAO).

Panellists

• Jorge Sauma, General Manager, National Banana Corporation (CORBANA)

• Leonard Mizzi, Head of Unit, European Commission, Directorate-General (DG) for International
Partnerships – Sustainable Agri-food systems and Fisheries
• Jose Antonio Hidalgo, Executive Director, Association of Ecuador Banana Exporters (AEBE)
• Felix Strauss, International Sustainability, ALDI SOUTH Group
• Edwin Melo, President, Association of Small Producers El Guabo (ASOGUABO)
• Cesar Guerra, Sub-coordinator, Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and
Agro-Industrial Unions (COLISBA)
• Silvia Campos, Senior Advisor Bananas, Fairtrade International
• Hilario Pellegrini, President, Producer Association from Dominican Republic (ADOBANANO)

16.15–17.00 Open discussion with all participants – Priorities and key opportunities on the topics
of Living Wages, Living Income and Cost of Production.

17.00 Close.

17.00–20.00 Reception and cocktail – FAO Headquarters.

41
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

Wednesday 13 March
Conference of the World Banana Forum (WBF) – Day 2
Green Room, FAO Headquarters

08.15–09.00 Welcome coffee & patisserie.

09.00–09.10 Presentation of the conclusions and recommendations of the International Meeting on

Gender Equity in the Banana Industry.

SESSION 4

09.10–09.50 Panel discussion: paving a path towards decent work and the adherence to
international labour standards in the global banana industry

Objective of the session: Discussing the challenges and opportunities in enabling decent work in the
banana industry and how supply chain collaboration can support improved conditions for workers, towards
the adherence to international labour standards in the global banana industry.

Opening remarks and moderator: El’vis Beytullayev, Rural Economy Specialist, International Labour
Organization (ILO).

Panellists

• H.E. Ivonne Núñez, Minister of Labour, Ecuador (pre-recorded video)

• H.E. Danilo Palacios, Minister of Agriculture, Ecuador
• Svetlana Boincean, International Officer - Agriculture and Plantations, International Union of Food,
Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF)
• Christelle Owona, Group Sustainability Manager, Compagnie Fruitière
• Wilbert Flinterman, Senior Advisor on Workers’ Rights and Trade Union Relations,
Fairtrade International
• Jennie Coleman, President, Equifruit
• Meike Dalchow, Corporate Responsibility Specialist, Kaufland

09.50–10.45 Open discussion with all participants - Priorities and key opportunities.

42
42
 Annexes

SESSION 5

10.45–11.20 Priorities and key opportunities on the topics of the WBF’s regional, national and
smallholder commissions

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat, FAO.

Panellists

• Felix Lutz, International Relations Officer, AGRI desk officer for Chile, Central America (Guatemala,
Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Panama) and the Andean Community countries
(Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia)
• Hilario Pellegrini, President, Producer Association from Dominican Republic (ADOBANANO)
• Jose Francisco Zuñiga, Executive President, Producer Association from Magdalena y la Guajira
(ASBAMA)
• Cesar Guerra, Sub-coordinator, Coordinating Body of Latin American Banana and Agro-Industrial
Unions (COLISBA)
• Kahlil Apuzen-ito, Sustainability and Resilience Lead, Foundation for Agrarian Reform Cooperatives
in Mindanao (FARMCOOP)
• Dianelly Reyes, Manager, Cooperativa Agraria Alto Grande Sana Sofía de Perú (COOPAG)
• Jean-François Billot, Secretary-General, AFRUIBANA

11.20–12.00 Open discussion with all participants. Priorities and key opportunities.

12.00–14.00 Banana Diversity Tasting Event – FAO atrium.

12.00–14.00 Lunch Break.

SESSION 6

14.00–14.30 Fusarium Wilt TR4: strategies for the present and solutions for the future

Objective: Explore the challenges and opportunities associated with Fusarium Wilt TR4, presenting
current strategies in play and prospective solutions for the future.

Moderator: Raixa Llauger, Agricultural Officer, Subregional Office for Mesoamerica, FAO.

Panellists

• Nancy Villegas, Regional director of Plant Health, International Regional Organization for Plant and
Animal Health (OIRSA)
• Desalegn Etalo, Leader of the Banana Research Group, Wageningen University and Research
• Ralf Buss, Regional Coordinator of AleR4Ta, German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ)
• Miguel Dita, Senior Scientist, Alliance Bioversity International – CIAT

14.30–15.00 Open discussion with all participants - Priorities and key opportunities.

43
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

SESSION 7

15.00–15.30 Debate on certification and audit costs – WBF Commission on Certification. Is an

international multi-stakeholder agreement possible to reduce certification and audit
costs?

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat, FAO.

Panellists

• Jose Antonio Hidalgo, Executive Director, Association of Ecuador Banana Exporters (AEBE)
• Emerson Aguirre, President, Producer Association of Colombia (AUGURA)
• Silvia Campos, Senior Advisor Bananas, Fairtrade International
• Christiane Hornikel, Bananas & Fresh Fruits, Rainforest Alliance
• Johannes Weh, Key Account Manager / Stakeholder Relations, GlobalG.A.P.
• Edgar Monge, Responsible Sourcing Manager, Tesco (Americas)
• Peter Stedman, Sustainability Director, Chiquita

15.30–16.00 Open discussion with all participants - Priorities and key opportunities.

SESSION 8

16.00–16.55 Governance of the WBF

Moderator: Victor Prada, Secretary, WBF Secretariat, FAO.

• WBF priorities, organization, future

• Election of a new Steering Committee

16.55–17.00 Closing remarks by Máximo Torero, Chief Economist, FAO.

©FAO/World Banana Forum

44
 Annexes

Annex 2. Media coverage of

the WBF conference

Conference articles

La Repubblica : https://www.repubblica.it/green-and-blue/2024/03/12/news/world_banana_forum
_fao-422296698/

Green Report: https://archivio.greenreport.it/news/agricoltura/a-roma-il-world-banana-forum-

unindustria-con-molti-problemi-che-punta-alla-sostenibilita/

Fruit book Magazine: https://www.fruitbookmagazine.it/a-roma-il-world-banana-forum-focus-sul

le-sfide-ambientali-economiche-e-sociali/

BBC UK: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-68534309

Fruitnet: https://www.fruitnet.com/fruitnet/climate-change-poses-enormous-threat-to-banana-busi
ness/259113.article

The times of India: https://weather.com/en-IN/india/news/news/2024-03-12-banana-prices-to-go

-up-as-climate-change-hurt-yields

Freshplaza: https://www.freshplaza.it/article/9604200/quarta-conferenza-globale-del-world-bana
na-forum/ and https://www.freshplaza.com/north-america/article/9614271/industry-calls-for-higher
-banana-prices-at-the-world-banana-forum-in-rome/

América Economía : https://www.americaeconomia.com/en/business-industries/ecuadorian-bana

na-producers-will-demand-world-forum-european-supermarkets-align

Produce Business: https://www.producebusinessuk.com/world-banana-forum-kicks-off-in-italy-wi

th-a-focus-on-sustainability-equity/

The Packer: https://www.thepacker.com/news/sustainability/forum-explore-sustainability-global-ba

nana-supply-chain

Baltic News Network: https://bnn-news.com/expert-banana-prices-will-rise-as-temperatures-rise

-255166

CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bananas-cost-price-climate-change-experts-say-too-ch

eap-now/

45
 Report of the Fourth Global Conference of the World Banana Forum

The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/mar/22/1000-varieties-banana-

lack-of-diversity-extinction

Aska News: https://askanews.it/2024/03/06/il-12-13-marzo-a-roma-il-world-banana-forum-della-

fao/

https://askanews.it/2024/03/12/fao-serve-piu-cooperazione-nel-settore-delle-banane/

Fruitbook Magazine: https://www.fruitbookmagazine.it/a-roma-il-world-banana-forum-focus-

sulle-sfide-ambientali-economiche-e-sociali/

Agenfood: https://www.agenfood.it/eventi/fao-roma-world-banana-forum-a-marzo-2024/

YahooNews (Canada): https://ca.news.yahoo.com/banana-farmers-face-existential-

risk-143720363.html

Other news outlets [e.g., Firstpost, The Star (Kenya), Wion, Sot News, Belize News and Opinions etc.]
also published articles about the event.

© FAO/World Banana Forum

46
Contacts

Markets and Trade Division – Economic and Social Development

Markets-Trade@fao.org
ISBN 978-92-5-139045-0

World Banana Forum Secretariat

WBF@fao.org
9 789251 390450
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations CD2067EN/1/09.24

Rome, Italy