Biomass, one of our portfolio companies under the Scale Manufacture & Export Fund (SMEF) through USAID Lebanon Investment Initiative (LII), navigates the dynamic landscape of agriculture through continuous research, introduction of new products, and strategic international expansion.
In this Q&A session, we delve into the core of Biomass's mission – from fostering a commitment to sustainable farming to championing quality crops from Lebanon to global markets.
Mario Massoud, Founder & CEO of Biomass, shares the company’s vision, its recent achievements, and future aspirations.
Q: Can you give us an overview of Biomass in one sentence?
A: Biomass is a farming operator committed to sustainable and organic farming and promoting international production standards in Lebanon. The company is actively developing presence of quality crops from the Lebanese terroir, both locally and in international markets.
Q: Please tell us about any recent additions in your product portfolio. What inspired the development of these new products?
A: Biomass is continuously conducting farm trials for new crops and new varieties, with most recent trials including Organic Brussel Sprouts, Organic Leafy Herbs (Chives, Dill), Radicchio (Italian Endives) and Bok Choy / Pak Choi.
While increasing production capacity for organic products with high market potential, Biomass is also looking to introduce new crops for the Lebanese and regional markets and new varieties with better organoleptic properties.
Q: Have you started exporting Biomass products? If yes, to which countries/regions?
A: Biomass has been exporting organic crops from Lebanon since 2012 to the Gulf Countries. And most recently, the company has been exporting crops to the UK & EU markets in addition to Levant countries.
In February, Biomass shipped its first organic batch of avocados (SMETA and Global Gap Certified) to Westfalia UK (Global Leader of Avocados).
Q: Following Biomass establishment in the Netherlands, what are your future plans for the company's expansion?
A: Biomass has established a trading company in the Netherlands with the aim of expanding its presence in Europe and new markets including West Africa.
