The Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) celebrated its 36th anniversary with a reception at the Embassy of the Philippines in The Hague on 11 September 2025. The event brought together ambassadors, senior officials, and international partners to commemorate more than three decades of advancing sustainable commodity development and supporting smallholders worldwide.

Hosted by Philippine Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya and CFC Managing Director Sheikh Mohammed Belal, the anniversary reflected on the Fund’s journey since its establishment in 1989. Ambassador Malaya highlighted the Philippines’ historical role in founding the CFC and its ongoing mission:
“This is the reason why the CFC’s mission of ‘investing in commodities, unlocking potentials’ and ‘creating opportunity in developing countries’ for smallholder farmers and commodity producers is as important and urgent then as now, and deserving of our full support.”

Managing Director Belal emphasized the CFC’s long-term impact, noting that the Fund has reached over half a million people worldwide through its programs.
“Our journey has been one of unlocking opportunities that no one else can reach. Because when the Global South prospers, the Global North thrives—and together, we build a fairer, more sustainable future,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Government of the Netherlands, Mr. Jerome Larosch, Head of Division of International Financial Institutions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored the Fund’s unique role at the intersection of trade, sustainability, and justice:
” The Netherlands has been proud to host the Common Fund for Commodities for over three decades, because it represents exactly what our world needs: collective action to address challenges no country can face alone. Commodities are not just traded goods—they are lifelines, the backbone of economies, and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. By supporting smallholders, bridging finance and development, and aligning commodity production with climate and social priorities, the CFC has shown how trade can be a tool for justice. Inclusive trade and sustainable agriculture are not options—they are the bridge between prosperity and justice.”

Since 1989, the CFC has financed more than 400 projects in 70 countries, promoting climate-smart agriculture, local value addition, and inclusive business models that connect smallholder farmers to global markets. Looking ahead, the Fund aims to scale up its catalytic role in bridging finance and development, guided by its Strategic Framework 2025–2035 and its vision of humanizing global value chains.

As it celebrates 36 years, the CFC continues to demonstrate that inclusive trade, sustainable agriculture, and innovative financing are not just tools for development—they are the foundations of a fairer, more resilient global economy.

The evening featured a cake-cutting ceremony, cultural performances, and the participation of representatives from many of the CFC’s 101 Member States, reflecting the spirit of solidarity that has sustained the Fund for over three decades.