INIFAP Marks 40 Years Advancing Food Sovereignty

Mexico’s National Institute of Forestry, Agricultural and Livestock Research (INIFAP) celebrated its 40th anniversary, reaffirming its role in developing knowledge, innovation and technology to strengthen food sovereignty and sustainability in the country.

Julio Berdegué, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), said INIFAP is a key asset to guarantee access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for all Mexicans. “The institute is indispensable for the nation’s food sovereignty,” he said.

Berdegué emphasized that Mexico is undergoing a transformation aimed at improving the population’s well-being. He called on INIFAP staff and collaborators to strengthen partnerships with private industry, civil society and academic institutions to support this process. “We need a different, better INIFAP, one that meets today’s and tomorrow’s demands. In research, what we will need in 10 or 15 years, we must achieve today,” Berdegué said. 

The minister also highlighted the importance of collaboration with other government bodies, including the Ministry of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation (SECIHTI) and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), to align agricultural production with Mexico’s environmental agenda.

Miguel Jorge García, Director General, INIFAP, said the institute is entering a phase of reflection to define new goals and address emerging challenges. “We continue providing solutions to old problems but will focus on anticipating and solving the obstacles of the future. I fully trust in the strength of our staff and the value of our mission,” he stated.

Marina Robles, Deputy Minister of Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration, SEMARNAT, stressed the need to integrate research in agriculture, forestry, environmental protection, public health and social development. “It is not possible to keep research and solutions isolated from the rest of the sectors,” she noted.