In a bold move to advance climate action and sustainable consumption, DFI Retail Group has announced a five-year partnership with Thailand-based Toumi Foods and Product Co., Ltd. The collaboration will bring 1,000 metric tons of low-carbon rice to consumers in Hong Kong and Macau by 2026, as part of DFI’s broader ambition to reduce emissions and support regenerative agriculture across its supply chain.

The rice will be sourced from DFI’s pioneering low-carbon rice cultivation programme, which recently earned recognition at the 2025 UNSDG Achievement Awards in Hong Kong for its contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.

Scaling Impact from Pilot to Regional Rollout

Building on the momentum of the programme’s 2025 launch, which led to a 25 percent jump in sales, DFI and Toumi will significantly expand production in 2026. The new goal of 1,000 metric tons marks a fivefold increase from the previous year and reflects the surging demand for sustainable food products across Asia. This growth trajectory positions DFI as a frontrunner in driving the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.

Broader Range of Products and Formats for Diverse Households

As part of this expansion, DFI is extending the reach of its low-carbon rice to a wider variety of products and packaging sizes. The popular Own Brand Yu Pin King Thai Jasmine Fragrant Rice (5kg) will soon be joined by 2kg, 8kg, and 9kg options. Additionally, consumers will see the introduction of Yu Pin King Healthy Mixed Rice in 2kg and 5kg formats. These products will be available across DFI’s retail chains including Wellcome and Market Place in Hong Kong, and San Miu Supermarket in Macau, making sustainable food more accessible to families of all sizes.

Achieving Real Emission Reductions Through Regenerative Farming

DFI’s partnership with Toumi is rooted in tangible climate outcomes. Through the pilot phase launched in 2024, the two organisations collaborated with Thai government bodies, local farmers, agricultural experts, and researchers to develop a low-carbon rice cultivation framework. The results were clear: participating rice fields achieved at least a 30 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional farming methods.

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This success stems from a suite of sustainable practices such as alternate wetting and drying irrigation, which conserves water and reduces methane emissions, the prohibition of straw burning to limit air pollution, and the adoption of advanced soil and fertiliser management techniques. These practices not only contribute to Scope 3 emissions reductions but also equip farmers with the tools to enhance their livelihoods while preserving their environments.

Driving Inclusive Climate Action Through Retail Supply Chains

Curtis Liu, CEO of Food at DFI Retail Group, underscored the importance of affordability and accessibility in mainstreaming sustainable options. “We are seeing growing demand for products that align with both sustainability goals and household budgets,” he said. “Through our work with Toumi, we’ve created a model that works on the ground, uplifts farming communities, and delivers value to customers.”

Echoing this sentiment, Erica Chan, Group Chief Legal, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer at DFI, emphasized the importance of a systems-based approach to sustainability.

“Rice is a major focus in our decarbonisation roadmap. From supporting farmers with green techniques to streamlining logistics and product design, we are working across the value chain to create long-term positive impact.”

Empowering Farmers While Transforming Supply Chains

Toumi Foods’ President, Chaikun Tepkasetkul, views the partnership as a game-changer for Thailand’s farming communities. “We are proud to work with DFI to scale green farming methods while helping farmers secure steady income. Our goal is to reduce emissions at the source and inspire wider adoption of these practices across the region.”

The joint initiative reflects a growing global trend in which climate-aligned sourcing is becoming integral to corporate strategy. For both companies, this partnership demonstrates how retail supply chains can drive positive environmental change while delivering business value.

Promoting Sustainable Choices with Customer Incentives

To kick off the campaign, DFI is offering a promotional discount for yuu members on its Yu Pin King Thai Jasmine Fragrant Rice (5kg) at HK$52, down from the standard HK$62. The offer runs at Wellcome and Market Place stores until 25 September, encouraging customers to try the new product while contributing to a greener food system.

A Shared Commitment to Sustainability for Future Generations

This five-year partnership between DFI and Toumi is more than a procurement agreement—it is a blueprint for climate leadership through retail. By investing in regenerative agriculture, expanding sustainable product lines, and supporting farmer education, both companies are building a future where food systems can nourish communities without costing the Earth.

As DFI continues its journey to cut Scope 3 emissions and as Toumi strengthens its global position as a sustainable rice exporter, their collaboration offers a compelling model for companies seeking to align environmental stewardship with market innovation.

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