Abdul Awal Mintoo Honored as ‘Top Agri-Food Pioneer’ by World Food Prize Foundation
Last Updated on June 27, 2025 2:18 am
Dhaka, June 27, 2025 — Bangladeshi business leader and agricultural visionary Abdul Awal Mintoo is set to receive the prestigious World Food Prize 2025, marking a significant milestone as the first Bangladeshi entrepreneur to be honored with this global accolade.
The World Food Prize Foundation of the United States has named 39 individuals from 27 countries as this year’s Top Agri-Food Pioneers, recognizing exceptional contributions to sustainable agriculture and food systems. Mintoo, Chairman of Lal Teer Seeds Limited and former president of the FBCCI, has been selected for his groundbreaking work in transforming Bangladesh’s agricultural sector over the past four decades.
This recognition follows in the footsteps of the late Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, founder of BRAC, who was the first Bangladeshi to win the prize for his contributions to rural development and poverty alleviation.
Mintoo began his journey in agribusiness in 1981 and founded a seed research facility in 1994 on just 25 acres of land. Today, Lal Teer Seeds is a regional leader, ranked among the top seven seed companies in South and Southeast Asia. The company operates Bangladesh’s only ISTA-certified international seed testing laboratory, a milestone in ensuring global-quality seed standards within the country.
The Foundation praised Mintoo’s work as “a model of innovation, resilience, and private-sector leadership in building food security for future generations.”
A graduate in agricultural economics, Mintoo also chairs the National Bank and serves as a vice-chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), reflecting his multifaceted role in business, development, and national policy.
“I am grateful to God for this recognition,” Mintoo said in response to the award. “This honor will inspire me to take on new challenges and contribute further to our food and agriculture future.”
The award will be officially presented during the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, USA, from October 21 to 23, as part of the World Food Prize Foundation’s 39th anniversary celebration.
Mintoo’s recognition is not just a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for Bangladesh, showcasing the country’s growing impact on the global food and agriculture landscape.