Where the World of
Seeds Comes Together
The biggest global platform for the seed sector
The ISF World Seed Congress is the annual meeting point for the global seed industry, bringing together business leaders, policy makers, scientists, and partners from across the value chain. Established in 1924, the Congress serves as a unique platform for dialogue, trade, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
Each year, it provides unparalleled opportunities to connect, share expertise, and shape the discussions that drive innovation and sustainability in the seed sector. Through plenary sessions, panel discussions, and thousands of business meetings, the Congress fosters partnerships and collective action toward a more resilient and food-secure future.
The Voice of the Global Seed Sector
Seed is life
Since 1924, the International Seed Federation (ISF) has represented the global seed industry as a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture and food security. Widely recognized as the voice of the international seed sector, ISF brings together members from across the world to promote collaboration, innovation, and responsible growth.
ISF’s vision is a world where the best quality seed is accessible to all, supporting sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security for future generations. Its mission is to create the best environment for the global movement of seed and to promote plant breeding and innovation in seed. Guided by values of collaboration, integrity, innovation, and sustainability, ISF works to foster cooperation and trust within the seed community and beyond.
In close partnership with its members, ISF drives forward its Strategic Objectives 2021–2025, focusing on key priorities that strengthen the seed sector’s contribution to society. The Federation advocates for science-based and fair regulations that facilitate the free movement of seed, promotes the protection of intellectual property rights for plant varieties and technologies, and establishes internationally recognized rules for seed trade and licensing.
Through its work, ISF enhances recognition of the seed industry’s vital role in global food systems. It provides platforms for dialogue, dispute resolution, and strategic collaboration, and partners with international organizations shaping agricultural policy. By connecting people, ideas, and innovation, ISF continues to build a sustainable and resilient future for the world of seeds.
Discover Lisbon, A City of Energy, Culture, and Connection
The 2026 Host City
The Centro de Congressos de Lisboa is a premier venue nestled in the vibrant heart of Lisbon, offering modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for our upcoming ISF World Seed Congress 2026.
Its contemporary architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding waterfront district, providing stunning views of the Tagus River and easy access from Lisbon’s international airport. Inside, the center features flexible plenary halls, customizable breakout spaces, and state-of-the-art audio-visual technology. The venue is designed with accessibility and attendee comfort in mind, with ample networking spaces, and catering that highlights regional flavors.
Its strategic location in Parque das Nações connects guests to a wealth of nearby hotels, dining, and cultural attractions, making it an ideal hub for business, innovation, and international collaboration. The Centro de Congressos de Lisboa is committed to sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient design and responsible practices to ensure a comfortable and eco-conscious event experience.
Address
Centro de Congressos de Lisboa
Praça das Industrias, 1
1300-307 Lisbon, Portugal
www.ccl.lisbonvenues.pt
From train station Rossio: Bus 732 (30 mins)
From city centre: Tram 15E (30 mins)
How to get to the congress venue
Airport
The Humberto Delgado Airport is located 12 km (approximately 15 minutes) from the Lisbon Congress Centre (CCL), providing flights to more than 125 national and international destinations.
Taxi & Ridesharing
Taxis are available at the airport; a trip
to the Centro de Congressos de Lisboa takes 15–20 minutes and costs EUR 10.00 – EUR 15.00. Uber, Bolt, and Free Now are convenient alternatives.
Public Transport
Around the CCL we can find various means of transport such as the Tram, the Train, and the Carris Buses. Take the Red Metro Line to Saldanha, then bus 742 (to Estação Sto. Amaro) or 727 (to R. Junqueira).
Check Google Maps for other options based on your departure time.
Car Rental
Driving from the airport takes about 10–15 minutes (6 km). Parking is available near the Congress Centre. The CCL is accessible via Portugal’s main national road accesses, the A5, A2 and the Ponte 25 de Abril (The April 25th Bridge). CCL has an underground parking garage and an uncovered car park with 1,100 spaces with autonomous management (paid), and we can’t guarantee availability.
Public transportation
The Lisbon Metro operates daily from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM, including weekends and holidays.
Ticket options
Single Journey: €1.85, valid for 60 minutes across Carris and Metro networks.
24-Hour Ticket
Carris/Metro: EUR 7.00
Carris/Metro/Transtejo (Cacilhas): EUR 10.00
Carris/Metro/CP (Sintra, Cascais, Azambuja, and Sado lines): EUR 11.00
For detailed maps, journey planning, and the latest updates, please visit the official website
Useful facts
Health and Medical Services
- Portugal has a public health system (SNS) and private clinics/hospitals. EU citizens can use reciprocal health care agreements with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency care.
- In emergencies, call 112 (emergency number).
- Pharmacies: Widely available; look for “Farmácia” with 24-hour signs in some areas.
Time Zone
- Western European Time (WET) / Western European Summer Time (WEST).
- Standard time: UTC+0.
- Daylight saving: UTC+1 in summer (typically late March to late October).
Language
- Official: Portuguese.
- English widely spoken in hotels, tourist areas, and by service staff; basic phrases in Portuguese are helpful.
Climate
- Mediterranean with Atlantic influence.
- Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov): mild, 15–25°C (59–77°F).
Electricity
- 230 V / 50 Hz.
- Plugs: typically Type F (two round pins) and Type C adapters may fit some outlets. Bring a universal adapter if needed.
- In emergencies, call 112 (emergency number).
- Pharmacies: Widely available; look for “Farmácia” with 24-hour signs in some areas.
Visa
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay. Many short-term stays for tourism or business may be visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period if you are a citizen of a Schengen or visa-exempt country. Non-visa-exempt travellers or longer stays may need a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) or a national visa/residence permit, depending on nationality and purpose (conference attendance, attendance-only, or accompanying persons). Always verify current entry requirements before you travel, as policies can change.
Enjoy warm hospitality and a pleasant stay
Lisbon offers a vast selection of over 100,000 rooms, catering to all preferences and budgets, along with a thriving Airbnb community featuring thousands of active hosts. Numerous hotels and hostels in the city have garnered awards, and well-known international chains provide a familiar experience for frequent travelers. No matter your preferences or budget, Lisbon has accommodations to suit every need.
Hotel reservations will be handled by our Core PCO, K.I.T. Group GmbH, through a dedicated online portal accessible only to registered participants.
Bookings for individual guests can be made by clicking on the orange button below.
Should you wish to place a booking for larger groups of more than 9 delegates, please contact K.IT. Group directly.
Email: isfwsc-hotel@kit-group.org
Contact person: Mrs. Anita Ernst
