Surat, India | 21–22 January 2026 – Join WUWM at the Food Loss and Waste Symposium
It is not too late to attend this international event, and the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) warmly encourages all its members and partners to join the upcoming Regional Symposium on Transforming Food Loss and Waste, co-hosted by WUWM, taking place on 21–22 January 2026 in Surat, India. Click here for the concept note : Final Concept Note
The symposium, titled “Shaping the Future – Transforming Food Loss and Waste: Best Practices from Fruit and Vegetable Wholesale Markets in Asia,” is organized in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and COSAMB, and will bring together key stakeholders from across Asia and beyond
Asia accounts for more than 70% of global fresh fruit and vegetable production, and urban wholesale markets play a central role in ensuring food availability, affordability, and nutrition. At the same time, these markets face a major challenge: food loss and waste (FLW).
Large wholesale markets can generate 80–100 tons of organic waste per day, contributing significantly to landfill pressure, methane emissions, and missed opportunities for food recovery and value creation. Globally, food waste generates economic losses estimated at USD 1 trillion, while organic waste contributes 8–10% of global methane emissions
The Symposium aims to demonstrate that food loss and waste is not only a challenge but also an opportunity. Across Asia, innovative and financially viable solutions are already being implemented, including:
- Bio-CNG and biomethanation systems
- Composting and nutrient recycling models
- Food recovery and redistribution mechanisms
- Circular economy approaches aligned with climate goals
Countries such as Japan, Korea, and Singapore, along with pioneering wholesale markets in the region, are showing how waste-to-resource models can reduce emissions, create revenue, and strengthen urban food systems .
The symposium will serve as a regional platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and investment dialogue.
Through plenary sessions, case studies, and a Marketplace of Innovations, participants will explore scalable business models and enabling policies, while aligning with global commitments such as the Global Methane Pledge and recent COP declarations on organic waste reduction
A key highlight of the symposium will be the field visit to Surat Wholesale Market, featuring a 50-ton-per-day bio-CNG plant operating within the market. This model has already demonstrated:
- A reduction of 7,500 tons of methane emissions annually
- Revenue generation through bio-CNG and biofertilizers
- Improved waste segregation and collection systems
- Practical food recovery and redistribution practices
This on-site experience will allow participants to gain first-hand insights into operations, governance, financial sustainability, and stakeholder coordination
The Symposium represents a unique opportunity for wholesale markets to move from ambition to action—building climate-smart, resilient, and inclusive food systems across Asia.
WUWM encourages all its members and partners to take part in this landmark event and contribute to shaping the future of food loss and waste management in wholesale markets worldwide.
Now is the time to engage. By joining this Regional Symposium in Surat, participants will not only exchange knowledge, but also experience real-world solutions, connect with peers and investors, and help shape the next generation of sustainable wholesale markets. WUWM warmly invites its members and partners to be part of this landmark event and contribute to building a future where waste becomes wealth. Click here for the concept note : Final Concept Note
