Ingredion Incorporated
07/03/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 07/03/2024 09:15
Ingredion CEO Meets with Thai Prime Minister to Discuss Tapioca Advancement
Ingredion's President and CEO, Jim Zallie, met with Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Thailand, to discuss advancing agriculture within Thailand and the Company's plans to enhance production capabilities in the country.
Zallie was joined by Mike O'Riordan, senior vice president of texture and healthful solutions, EMEA and Asia-Pacific; Jacques Gugliemli, vice president of texture and healthful solutions, Asia-Pacific; Ray Deidrick, Vice President and General Manager of Texture and Healthful Solutions, ASEAN; and Phairote Chowtivicha, Procurement and Sourcing Director of ASEAN.
"It was an honor for Ingredion to engage with the Prime Minister to share our growth plans in Thailand," said Deidrick. "This partnership is a testament to the 40-plus years of achievement in Thailand driven by the passion, commitment and creativity of Ingredion Thailand employees."
The meeting underscored the robust partnership between Ingredion and the Thai government, highlighting a shared commitment to fostering growth in Thailand's agricultural sector.
Investment in Production Expansion: Ingredion has announced its intention to upgrade and expand its production facilities in Thailand within the current year. This investment aims to introduce new and innovative technology exclusive to Ingredion, focusing on the production of high-quality starches.
Collaboration with the Thai Tapioca Development Institute TTDI: Ingredion is working closely with the Thai Tapioca Development Institute (TTDI), focusing on initiatives to promote the cultivation of waxy tapioca. These initiatives include efforts to prevent the spread of Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), a significant threat to Thai tapioca cultivation.
Introduction of Waxy Tapioca: The collaboration has led to the development of a novel hybrid variety of tapioca known as waxy tapioca. This new variety is characterized by its starch's superior qualities, offering enhanced functionalities and innovative opportunities, particularly for the food industry.
Benefits to Thai Farmers: The cultivation of this innovative variety is expected to enable Thai farmers to produce higher-quality cassava. This, in turn, will allow them to command premium prices in the market, enhancing their income and livelihood.
According to Jacques Gugliemli, Ingredion's strategic investment and innovative efforts in the tapioca agribusiness are poised to deliver multifaceted benefits, including support for local farmers, advancements for consumers, and overall economic growth.
"Ingredion is deeply committed to sustainability and agricultural development in the Asia Pacific region," Gugliemli said. "Our focus on research and development, local sourcing, and community engagement is aimed at contributing to the social and environmental well-being of the region and beyond and to creating enduring value for Ingredion, our customers, stakeholders, and the global community."