Session Overview

This session, co-organized by UNIDO and the UN Global Compact, will explore how integrated agro-food parks (IAFPs) and seaweed aquaculture can serve as transformative models to accelerate food systems transformation. By focusing on the “hidden middle” of food value chains—logistics, infrastructure, and processing—the session highlights how targeted investments can unlock efficiencies and improve livelihoods for smallholders and SMEs. Showcasing examples such as Ethiopia’s IAFPs, which have leveraged over $1.1 billion in co-investment, and emerging seaweed value chains with strong climate and development benefits, the dialogue will demonstrate replicable pathways for scaling inclusive, sustainable food systems. The session directly contributes to UNFSS+4 objectives by unlocking finance, strengthening partnerships, and reflecting on progress since the Summit.