Dhaka, June 26, 2025 — Abdul Awal Mintoo, a leading entrepreneur from Bangladesh and Chairman of Lal Teer Seeds Limited, has been honored as a Top Agri Food Pioneer by the prestigious World Food Prize Foundation of the United States. He is among 39 distinguished individuals from 27 countries recognized in 2025 for their exceptional contributions to global agriculture and food systems.
The World Food Prize, often called the Nobel Prize of agriculture and food, celebrates innovators who have transformed food security and sustainability worldwide. Mintoo’s award acknowledges his more than 40 years of pioneering work in developing Bangladesh’s agricultural sector, particularly in seed production, vegetables, and livestock.
Previously, the only Bangladeshi to receive the World Food Prize was the late Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, founder of BRAC. Following in this legacy, Mintu’s efforts have been vital in elevating Bangladesh’s agricultural landscape.
Starting his journey in 1981, Mintoo established a research laboratory and seed development farm in 1994 on just 25 acres. Today, Lal Teer Seeds is ranked seventh among South and Southeast Asian seed organizations and operates Bangladesh’s only ISTA-certified international seed testing laboratory.
Apart from his entrepreneurial ventures, Mintoo holds advanced degrees in agricultural economics and related fields. He also serves as Chairman of the National Bank and is a vice-chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The World Food Prize Foundation will formally honor the awardees during its 39th anniversary celebration at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, from October 21 to 23.
Expressing gratitude, Abdul Awal Mintoo said, “They have awarded me, for which I am grateful to Allah. This award will encourage me to do new things.”
Mintoo’s recognition not only highlights his personal achievements but also underscores Bangladesh’s growing influence in advancing sustainable global food systems.
