Pulkit Jain: A Second-Generation Leader Transforming Africa’s Agro-Commodity, Pioneering & Integration & Diversification Across Industries

The agro-commodity industry, particularly in developing regions like Africa, is a complex and high-risk sector. Characterized by its dependence on volatile market conditions, political instability, and infrastructural bottlenecks, it demands resilience and innovation to thrive. Challenges such as navigating cultural differences, adapting to local laws, and establishing reliable supply chains often act as significant hurdles for businesses entering foreign markets. 
In countries like Nigeria the potential rewards are equally matched by various challenges and the overall fabric of society presents an exciting opportunity. 
In this landscape, Pulkit Jain has carved his niche, leveraging his inherited values and entrepreneurial spirit to turn obstacles into stepping stones. 
From his early days shadowing his father to becoming the driving force behind Pajson Global (PJS Global’s) diversification, Pulkit’s journey exemplifies the grit and adaptability required to succeed in such an environment. With a deep understanding of both the global market and the nuances of operating in Africa, Pulkit has redefined what it means to be a second-generation leader, leaving an indelible mark on agro-commodity and allied industries.
When he formally joined the business, Pulkit took time to immerse himself in its operations. 
Reflecting on this period, he recalls, "For the initial months, I would simply observe my father, absorbing everything. It was a time of learning, understanding, and envisioning what more could be done."

Expansion Amidst Challenges

Pulkit’s initial foray into the business saw him traveling extensively across Nigeria and neighboring countries like Ghana, Benin, and Ivory Coast. This exploration not only helped him understand the market but also identify key opportunities. Recognizing a gap in the Nigerian market for locally branded rice, he launched a distribution network under Pajson Global (PJS Global’s) label. Starting in a single city and expanding to fifteen by 2015, the company quickly rose to become one of the top three rice brands in Nigeria. 
However, the road was far from smooth. Pulkit faced significant challenges, including managing supply chains, hiring for remote locations, logistical challenges and changes in government policies. To overcome these, he focused on assembling a capable team and empowering them. 
"I was clear from the start—growth isn’t a solo endeavor. You need to uplift your team and ensure they feel a sense of ownership," Pulkit emphasizes.

Pioneering Diversification

Pulkit’s vision for diversification became a cornerstone of PJS Global’s success. Alongside rice, he ventured into trading agro-commodities like cashew nuts. His first shipment in 2013 marked the beginning of a highly scalable business. Pulkit adopted a community-driven model, directly engaging with farmers in Africa. By building trust and offering technical support, he ensured a sustainable supply chain while improving local livelihoods.
Pulkit established PJS Global’s headquarters in Dubai in 2012 to centralize operations. This strategic move enabled better governance and scalability, laying the groundwork for further diversification. By 2024, the company had successfully expanded into petroleum trading, integrated shipping, and real estate development.

Turning Setbacks into Opportunities

A pivotal moment in Pulkit’s career came in 2015 when the Nigerian government banned rice imports to promote self-reliance and establish domestic production processes. This unexpected policy shift rendered his core business model obsolete. However, rather than stepping back, Pulkit transformed the challenge into an opportunity by adopting a fully integrated "farm-to-fork" approach. He collaborated with the Nigerian government to rehabilitate irrigation infrastructure, established mechanized farms, and built a thriving network of out-grower farmers, setting a new benchmark for the rice industry in the region.
By 2021, PJS Global proudly launched Nigeria’s largest rice processing facility – under the name of Kiara Rice Mills, named after Pulkit Jain’s daughter. 
This track record of excellence and market leadership serves as the foundation for the company’s expansion into the cashew business. With years of experience and understanding of the cashew industry, PJS Global is now focused on scaling and fully integrating its cashew operations to achieve a similar leadership position, mirroring the success it achieved in the rice sector across Africa.
Pajson Global has also launched its premium and protein-rich cashews in India under the brand, Royal Mewa. These cashews are slowly becoming a favourite in Indian kitchens and are sourced directly from the farm and packed in a HACCP-certified facility to maintain the highest quality standards.
In addition to its ambitions in the cashew industry, Pajson Global (PJS Global) has begun setting its footprints in the shipping and petroleum sectors. While these ventures are in the early stages, the company is strategically preparing to scale these businesses shortly, further diversifying its portfolio and strengthening its global presence.

Leadership Philosophy and Vision

Pulkit’s leadership is rooted in collaboration, empathy, and adaptability. He emphasizes transparency and innovation, ensuring that stakeholders, from employees to farmers, feel valued and aligned with the company’s mission. His belief in diversification as a hedge against uncertainty has shaped PJS Global’s dynamic portfolio, which today spans agriculture, petroleum, and real estate.