Mandala Capital to Drive Sustainable Food Systems in Asia
Mandala Capital's Landmark GCF Approval
Singapore is buzzing with the exciting news that Mandala Capital, a private equity fund specializing in agriculture and food sectors throughout South and Southeast Asia, has received significant approval from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This approval comes during a pivotal moment as it aims to leverage investments toward climate adaptation for the region's agrifood systems.
The GCF has officially committed USD 36 million as an anchor investor in the innovative USD 250 million blended finance fund. This fund's goal is to accelerate climate adaptation methodology across the agricultural landscape of this vitally important region.
The Urgent Need for Investment in Agriculture
A notable aspect to understand is that agriculture and food systems hold a crucial position in South and Southeast Asia, yet they are tied up in a financing gap. Incredibly, agriculture accounts for approximately 13% of the regional GDP and employs over one-third of the population. However, investment in climate-resilient approaches to agriculture lags far behind the urgent need.
Compounding this issue, climate change threatens to reduce vital crop yields by an alarming 10–20% over the next few decades. This looming crisis jeopardizes the livelihoods of countless smallholder farmers who depend on consistent crop production for their survival.
As highlighted by Demetrio Innocenti, Climate and Gender Specialist at Mandala Capital, the collaborative effort between Mandala Capital and the GCF is showing that mobilizing private finance for climate adaptation is indeed feasible. The SSEA Food Fund represents a significant breakthrough, enabling concessional capital from GCF to attract millions in private investments. These investments will enhance the resilience of rural households across multiple Southeast Asian countries.
Strengthening Food Security and Resilience
By harnessing the commitment from GCF, Mandala Capital intends to bring in additional private investments that can scale solutions for climate adaptation and buttress value chains supporting an impressive 12 million individuals across South and Southeast Asia.
According to Mr. Joven Balbosa, Undersecretary of the International Finance Group in the Philippines, this partnership highlights the potential of blended finance in catalyzing private sector involvement in climate action. By aligning investment strategies with local initiatives, the fund aims to support innovative small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that drive real, scalable impact.
At the core of the Mandala Capital SSEA Food Programme is a focus on investing in companies that prioritize affordability, accessibility, and the development of climate-resilient food systems. The primary rationale behind this climate-focused strategy is to tackle prevailing issues such as food wastage, rising prices, malnutrition, limited agriculture productivity, and the escalating demand for protein.
Uday Garg, Founder and Managing Partner at Mandala Capital, emphasizes that the GCF investment underlines the elevated climate ambitions and the blended finance structure necessary for attracting further private capital. This approach aims to scale transformative adaptation solutions within the agriculture and food sector.
Partnering for Long-Term Impact
The dedication to fostering an integrated investment strategy is key in the Mandala Capital SSEA Food Programme. The alignment with GCF's strategy aims to not only boost food and income security but also catalyze private investments into climate adaptation-focused projects through a sustainable financing model.
Mandala Capital's experience speaks volumes, having a track record of successfully exiting 80% of its previous investments from its first two funds. This underscores their commitment to delivering value for investors while championing climate resilience.
The enthusiasm around Mandala's GCF anchor commitment enables the firm to actively raise its USD 250 million blended finance fund. The aim is simple yet powerful: scale innovative climate adaptation solutions that create robust and resilient food systems throughout the region.
About Mandala Capital
Mandala Capital continues its mission as a private equity company focused on the food and agriculture value chain across Southeast Asia and India. Since its inception in 2008, the firm has strategically invested over USD 250 million in the sector, collaborating closely with management teams to develop industry leaders who are pivotal in transforming existing food systems.
About the Green Climate Fund
The Green Climate Fund is recognized as the world's foremost climate finance institute, backing developing nations during their transition to lower emissions and climate-resilient growth patterns. With a portfolio surpassing USD 18 billion, it delivers groundbreaking climate action in over 130 countries, ensuring sustained progress in the fight against climate change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of Mandala Capital's investment strategy?
Mandala Capital primarily invests in agriculture and food sectors, aiming to promote sustainable and climate-resilient practices across South and Southeast Asia.
How much has the Green Climate Fund committed to Mandala Capital?
The GCF has committed USD 36 million as an anchor investment in the USD 250 million blended finance fund established by Mandala Capital.
Why is investment in climate-resilient agriculture crucial?
Investment in climate-resilient agriculture is vital as climate change poses risks of reducing crop yields significantly, threatening the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers.
What are the expected outcomes of the Mandala Capital SSEA Food Fund?
The fund aims to accelerate climate adaptation solutions, enhance food security, and strengthen the overall resilience of agricultural practices in the region.
How does Mandala Capital support local initiatives?
Mandala Capital aims to invest in local SMEs that deliver scalable impact, fostering innovative solutions directly relevant to the needs of the regions served.
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