News
The World Processing Tomato Council (WPTC) dropped a major milestone announcement at the closing ceremony of its successful congress in Monterey: the global tomato community is heading home. In June 2028, the 17th World Processing Tomato Congress and 19th ISHS Symposium on Processing Tomato will return to its birthplace—the legendary Popes Palace in Avignon, France.
This isn’t just another venue choice; it’s a return to the industry’s roots. In November 1989, Avignon hosted the very first World Congress. It was a historic meeting that sparked the creation of both the WPTC and Tomato News. Nearly 40 years later, the global tomato elite will gather in that same outstanding historical setting to chart the future of the industry.
“Returning to Avignon isn’t just a nod to our history; it’s a strategic launchpad for our future,” says Robert Giovinazzo, Director of SONITO. “We are thrilled to welcome the world back to this incredible setting from June 4 to 7, 2028, to drive the next era of global industry growth.“
Save the Date:
What: 17th World Processing Tomato Congress & 19th ISHS Symposium on Processing Tomato
When: June 4–7, 2028
Where: Popes Palace, Avignon, France
Who: The 2028 Congress is spearheaded by SONITO, the inter-professional organization uniting French tomato growers and processors, alongside AMITOM, WPTC, and ISHS.
Source: WPTC
