The 31st Meeting of the International Pepper Community (IPC) Committee on Quality was successfully held on 1st October 2025, hosted by Malaysia in collaboration with the IPC Secretariat. The meeting, chaired by Mrs. Marina Novira A., served as a platform for member countries to strengthen cooperation in enhancing pepper quality standards.
Participants included two representatives from Indonesia and one from Vietnam, while Malaysia was represented by Mr. Cheah Chee Fong, Undersecretary of Cocoa and Pepper Industries Development Division at Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK), together with the Director General of the Malaysian Pepper Board, Mr. Vincent Sawat.
Discussions focused on the results of the IPC Proficiency Testing Program, harmonization of analytical methods and quality standards, enhancement of laboratory competence, and initiatives to strengthen pepper quality assurance and traceability among member countries. These discussions also addressed improvements in quality assurance, post-harvest handling, and product traceability in response to market challenges such as climate change, price fluctuations, and increasing demand for sustainable, high-quality pepper. The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing quality excellence and ensuring the continued growth and competitiveness of the global pepper industry.
