https://agrospectrumasia.com/rssfeed/country/canada canada https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/4601/canada-clears-syngentas-spiropidion-giving-its-next-generation-pest-control-portfolio-regulatory-lift.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/4601/canada-clears-syngentas-spiropidion-giving-its-next-generation-pest-control-portfolio-regulatory-lift.html Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:31:15 +0530 Syngenta has secured a key regulatory win in Canada for Spiropidion, a next-generation insecticide aimed at some of agriculture’s most persistent piercing-sucking pests, opening another door for the company’s strategy to build a broader portfolio around differentiated modes of action. The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) of Health Canada has issued Registration Decision RD2026-16, formally approving the registration for sale and use of Syngenta’s Spiropidion Technical Insecticide and A20262 Insecticide. The products are registered for the control of aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs and two-spotted spider mites across food crops, feed crops and greenhouse crops. The decision follows PMRA’s Proposed Registration Decision PRD2026-09, issued in June, and moves Spiropidion from the regulatory pipeline into the registered-product landscape in one of North America’s major agricultural markets. For Syngenta, the significance goes beyond another national registration. Spiropidion adds another regulatory foothold for the company’s newer piercing-sucking pest-control technology while giving IRAC Mode of Action Group 23 another important market win. Group 23 remains a relatively specialised part of the insecticide market, but its importance is increasing as growers and manufacturers look for alternatives to heavily used insecticide modes of action and seek tools that can fit into resistance-management programmes. A new molecule built on a proven chemical concept Spiropidion belongs to the spirocyclic tetronic acid class of insecticides and is classified by the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) under Group 23, which comprises acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitors. Its mode of action is fundamentally different from conventional contact insecticides. The compound disrupts insect lipid biosynthesis by inhibiting ACCase, ultimately interfering with essential biological processes required for insect growth and survival. Spiropidion is the fourth spirocyclic tetronic acid insecticide launched globally. The broader chemical family already includes Bayer’s spirotetramat, while spirodiclofen and spiromesifen have been positioned more strongly around acaricidal applications. That lineage matters because the chemistry is not starting from an untested conceptual base. Instead, Spiropidion extends an established spirocyclic tetronic acid platform into a new molecular configuration and pest-control profile. At the structural level, Spiropidion shares the core scaffold of spirotetramat: a 3-aryl-substituted pyrrolidine-2,4-dione, or tetronic acid, framework with the 4-position enol esterified as an ethyl carbonate. Syngenta’s differentiation comes largely from changes to the spirocyclic portion of the molecule. The company replaced the 4-methoxycyclohexane component found in spirotetramat with an N-methoxypiperidine, creating a 1,8-diazaspiro[4.5]decene system. It also introduced a methyl group on the amide nitrogen and altered the benzene-ring substitution pattern from 2,5-dimethyl to 4-chloro-2,6-dimethyl. Those structural changes underpin a different performance profile and help explain why Spiropidion is being positioned as more than another member of an established chemistry family. Systemic activity is the commercial differentiator One of Spiropidion’s most important characteristics is its ability to penetrate plant tissues and move systemically after foliar application. Following application to foliage, the active ingredient can move upward toward newly developing tissues and downward toward root systems. That creates a particular advantage against piercing-sucking insects that are difficult to reach directly because they occupy tender plant parts or the undersides of leaves. For growers, that means the value proposition is not simply whether the active ingredient can kill a pest on contact. It is whether the chemistry can reach pests through the plant after application. That distinction is particularly relevant for aphids, whiteflies and mealybugs, which frequently feed in locations that are difficult for conventional contact sprays to cover consistently. But Spiropidion also has a clear limitation. The compound is predominantly stomach-acting and has extremely low contact activity. It is therefore not designed as a rapid knockdown insecticide, and speed of visible pest mortality is not its principal strength. That profile makes the molecule better suited to systemic pest management than to applications where immediate contact mortality is the primary requirement. The distinction could become increasingly important as growers move toward more integrated resistance-management strategies, where persistence, systemic movement and mode-of-action diversity can be as important as rapid knockdown. Two-spotted spider mites broaden the pitch Spiropidion’s target spectrum also gives it a potentially differentiated position within Group 23. A20262 is registered against aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs and two-spotted spider mites. The inclusion of two-spotted spider mites gives the product a broader positioning than might otherwise be expected from an insecticide focused on piercing-sucking pests. Spirotetramat, another prominent Group 23 product, is also associated with mite control on certain market labels. Bayer’s U.S. Movento label, for example, includes pests such as two-spotted spider mites and apple rust mites. But the positioning is not identical. Spirotetramat’s activity against mites has generally been characterised more in terms of suppression, while Spiropidion’s stated target spectrum gives it a clearer acaricidal positioning alongside its insect targets. That distinction could prove commercially relevant in crops where aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs and mites overlap or where growers are looking for a single chemistry capable of addressing multiple piercing-sucking pest pressures. Canada approval points to high-value crop opportunities The Canadian regulatory assessment also provides clues about where Spiropidion could find its strongest commercial applications. PMRA’s residue trials covered a broad range of crops, including potatoes, leafy vegetables, brassicas, greenhouse tomatoes, greenhouse peppers, greenhouse cucumbers, citrus, pome fruits, grapes and cotton. The crop portfolio points toward a product designed for more than a narrow commodity application. Vegetables and fruit crops, particularly greenhouse production and high-value perennial crops, can face intense pressure from aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs and mites while also requiring careful residue management and targeted application strategies. The inclusion of greenhouse tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers is particularly significant because controlled-environment agriculture can create conditions favourable to recurring pest pressure. At the same time, growers in these systems typically have limited room for error when managing resistance and residue constraints. For Syngenta, a registration spanning food crops, feed crops and greenhouse crops therefore expands the potential commercial addressable market rather than restricting Spiropidion to a single production system. Another step in the Group 23 expansion The Canadian registration also reinforces the broader strategic importance of Group 23. Spirocyclic tetronic acid chemistry occupies a relatively narrow space within the global insecticide market compared with some older, larger insecticide classes. Yet that narrowness is precisely what makes new molecules in the category strategically valuable. Modern pest management is increasingly constrained by resistance. Repeated use of the same modes of action can accelerate resistance development, reducing the useful life of individual products and forcing growers to rotate chemistries. New compounds with differentiated biological and application characteristics can therefore command strategic value even when they do not immediately compete with the largest-volume insecticides. Spiropidion brings several characteristics into that equation: a Group 23 mode of action, systemic movement, activity against key piercing-sucking pests and a target spectrum extending to two-spotted spider mites. Its low contact activity and slower knockdown profile mean it will not replace every conventional insecticide application. Instead, its commercial role is likely to depend on how effectively growers can integrate it into broader pest-management programmes. Registration is not the same as market supply The Canadian approval should also be viewed through the correct regulatory lens. PMRA’s RD2026-16 represents the formal registration decision following the proposed decision issued in June. It establishes the regulatory basis for sale and use in Canada, but registration itself does not mean that full commercial supply has immediately reached growers. The next stage is market execution: product availability, launch timing, grower adoption, distribution, crop-specific positioning and integration into resistance-management programmes. That distinction matters because the value of a new active ingredient ultimately depends not only on regulatory approval but on how effectively it can be translated into field-level performance and commercial demand. For Syngenta, however, the direction is clear. Spiropidion gives the company another differentiated tool for managing economically important piercing-sucking pests and extends the reach of spirocyclic tetronic acid chemistry into another major agricultural market. For the broader crop-protection industry, the Canadian decision is another indication that innovation is increasingly moving toward molecules designed around specific biological targets, systemic behaviour and resistance-management needs rather than simply chasing faster knockdown. The market for insecticides may be crowded, but the competitive battleground is becoming more specialised. Molecules that can combine a distinct mode of action with useful systemic movement, broader target coverage and fit within integrated resistance strategies are likely to carry disproportionate strategic value. Spiropidion now has another regulatory market in which to prove that proposition. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/4408/air-canada-and-airbus-invest-in-canadas-biofuel-future-through-new-saf-platform.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/4408/air-canada-and-airbus-invest-in-canadas-biofuel-future-through-new-saf-platform.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:48:27 +0530 Air Canada and Airbus have unveiled a joint sustainability investment platform to accelerate the development of a commercial-scale Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry in Canada, reinforcing their long-term commitment to decarbonizing the aviation sector. Under the initiative, the two companies plan to invest up to €9.2 million through a newly established Sustainability Co-Investment Platform, designed to support innovation and expand domestic SAF production. The partners said the platform is intended to catalyze broader investment in Canada's emerging sustainable aviation fuel sector, leveraging the country's abundant biomass and renewable feedstock resources while strengthening energy security and creating new economic opportunities. A primary objective of the platform is to help advance a selected Canadian SAF project toward a Final Investment Decision (FID), a critical milestone for commercial-scale production. Air Canada and Airbus also plan to work closely with federal and provincial governments to establish policy frameworks that encourage large-scale SAF deployment. Both companies stressed that supportive regulations and long-term investment incentives will be essential to building a competitive domestic SAF industry. The initiative aligns with ongoing collaboration between the companies and the Canadian Council for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (C-SAF), which is working to accelerate the commercialization of renewable aviation fuels through coordinated industry and policy efforts. By combining private investment with supportive public policies, the partners aim to increase both the availability and affordability of sustainable aviation fuels for Canada's aerospace sector while reducing aviation-related carbon emissions. Valerie Durand, Vice-President of Airport Affairs, Corporate Real Estate and Sustainability at Air Canada, said the investment platform represents an important milestone in the airline's broader decarbonization strategy. She noted that expanding domestic SAF production will not only support Air Canada's climate goals but also help corporate customers reduce emissions associated with business travel while contributing to the aviation industry's transition toward lower-carbon operations. Julie Kitcher, Chief Sustainability Officer and Communications at Airbus, said achieving aviation decarbonization will require sustained collaboration across the industry and long-term investment in renewable energy technologies. She added that the co-investment platform, together with Airbus' long-term commitment to Air Canada's Leave Less Travel Programme, is expected to stimulate both the production and market demand for sustainable aviation fuel in Canada. The announcement reflects growing momentum behind SAF as governments, airlines and aircraft manufacturers intensify efforts to reduce aviation emissions. As global demand for low-carbon fuels rises, partnerships that combine industrial investment with supportive policy frameworks are increasingly viewed as essential to scaling next-generation biofuels and achieving net-zero aviation targets. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/4319/canada-backs-biodiversity-and-womens-livelihoods-with-new-conservation-project-in-vietnam.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/4319/canada-backs-biodiversity-and-womens-livelihoods-with-new-conservation-project-in-vietnam.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 17:05:12 +0530 Canada is deepening its support for climate resilience and biodiversity conservation in Vietnam with the launch of a new development initiative that places ethnic minority women at the centre of ecosystem restoration and sustainable livelihoods. The Biodiversity and Livelihood Opportunities for Ethnic Minority Women (BLOOM) project, officially launched on July 15, aims to protect ecologically significant landscapes while improving economic opportunities for vulnerable rural communities. The project is funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada and will be implemented by Canadian development organizations Socodevi and Développement international Desjardins (DID). Running from June 2026 through April 2030, the initiative has secured more than VND 21.1 billion (approximately CAD 1.1 million) in non-refundable Official Development Assistance (ODA), with funding managed directly by the Canadian donor. The programme will be implemented in Dak Lak and Tuyen Quang provinces, with activities in Dak Lak centred on Chu Yang Sin National Park and the surrounding buffer-zone communes of Yang Mao, Cu Pui and Hoa Son. The project combines biodiversity conservation with community development by restoring high-value ecosystems while promoting nature-based livelihood models that can help local communities better adapt to climate change. Around 1,500 people are expected to benefit directly from the initiative, while an estimated 6,000 people will gain indirect benefits through improved environmental management, stronger local institutions and expanded livelihood opportunities. The BLOOM project will deliver training programmes, technical support and field demonstration models designed to strengthen community capacity for sustainable natural resource management. Alongside ecosystem restoration, the initiative seeks to create new income opportunities linked to forest protection, biodiversity conservation and climate-smart rural development. A defining feature of the programme is its emphasis on gender-inclusive conservation. The project aims to increase the participation of ethnic minority women in forest management, biodiversity protection and community decision-making, while strengthening their role in developing sustainable livelihood models. By integrating gender equality into environmental governance, the initiative seeks to ensure that women play a greater role in shaping the future of natural resource management in their communities. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Nguyen Thien Van, Vice Chairman of the Dak Lak Provincial People's Committee, described the project as an important contribution to the province's broader strategy of combining biodiversity conservation with green economic growth and improved living standards for ethnic minority communities. He called on provincial departments, local authorities and project partners to work closely with the Canadian donor throughout implementation to ensure the programme delivers measurable environmental and socio-economic outcomes. He also stressed the importance of increasing public awareness of nature-based solutions, encouraging greater community participation in forest protection and further strengthening women's leadership in biodiversity conservation. The initiative reflects Canada's growing engagement in supporting climate adaptation and sustainable development across Southeast Asia while reinforcing Vietnam's efforts to conserve biodiversity, protect forest ecosystems and promote inclusive rural development. As governments increasingly recognise the links between environmental conservation, climate resilience and social equity, projects such as BLOOM are expected to play an increasingly important role in delivering long-term ecological and economic benefits for local communities. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3733/agri-spray-drones-takes-flight-in-canada-precision-agriculture-meets-policy-evolution.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3733/agri-spray-drones-takes-flight-in-canada-precision-agriculture-meets-policy-evolution.html Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:49:19 +0530 Strategic expansion aligns with regulatory shift, accelerating the rise of drone-based crop protection In a calculated move that mirrors the changing contours of global agriculture, Agri Spray Drones has announced its expansion into Canada, positioning drone-based spraying as a scalable, next-generation solution for crop protection. The entry comes at a pivotal moment, as Canada’s agricultural landscape evolves under new regulatory philosophies and operational demands. Regulation as an Enabler, Not a Constraint Canada’s shift towards outcome-based pesticide regulation—prioritising performance, safety, and environmental impact over rigid application methods—is creating fertile ground for innovation. This progressive framework is enabling technologies such as drone spraying to move beyond experimental use into mainstream agronomic practice, unlocking new efficiencies for growers. Precision Technology for Complex Farming Systems At the core of Agri Spray Drones’ offering lies a compelling value proposition: precision application that reduces input waste, enhances coverage, and reaches areas inaccessible to conventional machinery. These advantages are particularly relevant in Canadian farming systems, where expansive field sizes, labour shortages, and challenging terrain demand agile and efficient solutions. The ability to operate within narrow application windows further strengthens the case for aerial precision technologies. Shaping the Future Through Collaboration Beyond deployment, the company is positioning itself as an active participant in the evolution of regulatory and operational frameworks. By engaging with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and farming communities, Agri Spray Drones aims to contribute to the development of best practices and help shape the future standards of drone-based crop protection. From Niche Innovation to Industry Standard The expansion underscores a broader structural shift within agriculture, where advanced technologies are increasingly aligned with regulatory intent. Drone spraying, once considered a niche innovation, is rapidly emerging as a mainstream solution—driven not only by technological capability but also by supportive policy environments. A New Flight Path for Agriculture As outcome-based agriculture gains momentum, companies that seamlessly integrate innovation with regulatory engagement are poised to lead. With its entry into Canada, Agri Spray Drones is not merely expanding geographically—it is helping chart a new trajectory for precision crop protection in a rapidly evolving global market. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3689/edc-announces-cad360-million-financing-package-for-sk-ecoplant-focusing-on-canada-and-south-korea.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3689/edc-announces-cad360-million-financing-package-for-sk-ecoplant-focusing-on-canada-and-south-korea.html Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:45:50 +0530 EDC announces CAD$360 M financing package for SK ecoplant focusing on Canada and South Korea Export Development Canada (EDC) has anounced KRW 390 billion (approximately CAD$360 million) in financing to SK ecoplant, SK Group's AI infrastructure solution provider. This marks EDC's first financial guarantee transaction with SK ecoplant and builds on EDC's broader strategic relationship with SK Group. It is the first transaction following the Market Leader Partnership (MLP) memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed with SK Inc. in 2024. As part of the SK Inc.–EDC MOU, EDC and SK ecoplant recently concluded a MLP MOU to formalize their collaboration and advance export trade between Canada and South Korea in key sectors of focus, including advanced manufacturing, digital technology, infrastructure, energy and critical minerals. SK ecoplant's parent company, SK Group, is South Korea's second‑largest conglomerate, after Samsung, with operations across semiconductors, energy, telecommunications and digital infrastructure, including AI‑related data centres. Maninder Sidhu, Canada's Minister of International Trade said, "Today's news represents a key milestone in strengthening Canada–South Korea commercial ties. This collaboration is creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses while supporting sustainable growth and resilient supply chains." As bilateral trade continues to grow, new opportunities are emerging for Canadian companies in agri‑food, seafood, advanced manufacturing, energy and clean technology. EDC is committed to deepen relationships with market leaders like SK Group in priority Asia-Pacific markets such as South Korea. South Korea is Canada's seventh-largest merchandise trading partner and third-largest in Asia. For 2025, bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Korea remained robust at CAD$24.36 billion. Canada exported CAD$7.1 billion in merchandise to Korea in 2025. This transaction with SK ecoplant includes a KRW 292.5 billion (approximately CAD$270 million) EDC guaranteed facility with its banking partner, Standard Chartered as an ECA coordinator and a covered lender, who will also provide an additional KRW 97.5 billion (approximately CAD$90 million) commercial facility to SK ecoplant. The financing is set to support SK ecoplant's general corporate purposes including investments and projects focused on semiconductor manufacturing and data centre development. "Our partnership with SK group is founded on joint recognition of the tremendous potential for trade growth between our countries, and this first transaction with SK ecoplant is a concrete example of how we can help realize that potential," said Alison Nankivell, President and CEO of Export Development Canada. "Canada has significant capabilities in the advanced manufacturing and digital infrastructure space, and this financing will create supply chain opportunities with a leading company in one of the Asia-Pacific's most promising markets." The Canada–Korea Free Trade Agreement, Canada's first free trade agreement with an Asia‑Pacific nation signed in 2015, and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2022 have strengthened bilateral ties and supported greater market access for Canadian exporters in South Korea. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3584/apf-canada-hosts-canada-in-asia-conference-2026-in-singapore.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3584/apf-canada-hosts-canada-in-asia-conference-2026-in-singapore.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:04:46 +0530 Promoting Canada–Asia Collaboration on Food Security, Energy Security, and Infrastructure The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) successfully concluded the Canada-in-Asia Conference 2026 (CIAC 2026) in Singapore, bringing together more than 700 senior policymakers, business leaders, investors, and experts from Canada and across the Asia Pacific.  Held against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and economic transition, CIAC 2026 centred on three key pillars: food security, energy security, and infrastructure, exploring how Canada and Asia can develop resilient, future-ready partnerships through policy alignment, investment, and cross-border collaboration.  The conference was attended by senior government representatives, including Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade (Canada) and Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry (Singapore), reflecting the strategic importance of Canada-Asia engagement at both the regional and bilateral levels.  From Dialogue to Delivery in a Changing Indo-Pacific Opening the conference, Jeff Nankivell, President and CEO of APF Canada, emphasised the importance of long-term, trust-based partnerships between Canada and Asia.  “Across the Indo-Pacific, governments and businesses are addressing shared challenges, from food and energy security to supply-chain resilience and infrastructure financing,” said Nankivell. “CIAC 2026 provided a platform to move beyond superficial dialogue and concentrate on practical collaboration that provides mutual benefit for Canada and our Asian partners.”  Throughout keynote addresses, ministerial discussions, and sector-specific panels, speakers explored how Canada’s expertise in sustainable resource management, clean energy, agrifood innovation, and infrastructure planning can complement Asia’s scale, market dynamism, and technological leadership.  Key Sessions Addressing Regional Priorities The Hon. Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry (Singapore) Several headline sessions at CIAC 2026 explored cross-cutting regional challenges shaping Canada–Asia relations.  A high-level session on geopolitics and economic fragmentation examined how middle powers can navigate rising strategic competition, trade realignments, and supply chain disruptions. Speakers discussed the implications for investment flows, industrial policy, and regional co-operation, emphasising the importance of diversified partnerships and dependable regulatory environments.  Another session focused on investment and infrastructure financing, bringing together policymakers, investors, and project developers to discuss how to mobilise private capital for large-scale infrastructure across Asia. Panellists examined blended finance models, risk-sharing mechanisms, and the role of development finance institutions in unlocking bankable, sustainable projects.  The Hon. Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade (Canada)  Discussions on energy security and the energy transition examined ways to increase the deployment of clean energy while maintaining affordability and reliability. Speakers highlighted opportunities for collaboration in renewables, energy storage, grid modernisation, and critical minerals, positioning Canada as a complementary partner in Asia’s shift to low-carbon energy systems.  A dedicated discussion on food systems and supply-chain resilience examined how climate pressures, demographic changes, and geopolitical shocks are reshaping food security across the region. Participants emphasised innovation in agri-technologies, sustainable production, and regulatory co-operation as key drivers of long-term resilience.  Spotlight on Key Country Relationships CIAC2026 also included country-specific sessions, with particular emphasis on India, China, and Indonesia, reflecting their increasing importance in Canada’s Indo-Pacific engagement.  Canada–India and Canada-China: Expanding Engagement in a Changing Economic EnvironmentDiscussions on Canada’s relations with China and India explored how the three nations can strengthen co-operation amid shifting geopolitical and economic circumstances. Speakers emphasised India and China’s increasing demand for food security, energy diversification, and large-scale infrastructure investment, and examined how Canadian companies, institutions, and investors can contribute to these key sectors.  Canada–Indonesia: Turning Alignment into ActionSessions on Canada–Indonesia relations explored opportunities to deepen collaboration across agrifood systems, clean energy, critical minerals, and infrastructure development. Speakers highlighted Indonesia’s emergence as a regional manufacturing and resource centre, and the role Canadian expertise can play in supporting sustainable production, regulatory development, and supply-chain resilience.  Panellists stressed the importance of turning policy alignment into commercial partnerships, especially in downstream processing, agri-tech, and investment support, positioning Canada as a long-term partner in Indonesia’s economic transition.  Vina Nadjibulla, Vice-President Research & Strategy at APF Canada, who led the Canada–India session, emphasised the importance of going beyond transactional engagement.  “Canada–India relations are entering a phase where strategic alignment must be matched by sustained, sector-led collaboration,” said Nadjibulla. “What we heard at CIAC2026 was a clear interest in building partnerships that combine investment, technology transfer, skills development, and mutual security, areas that will be critical to delivering long-term value for both economies.”  The Hon. Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry (Singapore) and Barrett Bingley, Asia Regional Director for the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Across the country-focused discussions, participants emphasised that successful partnerships must extend beyond trade flows to include knowledge exchange, workforce capability building, and people-to-people relations, aligning closely with CIAC2026’s core pillars of food security, energy security, and infrastructure.  Sustaining Momentum Beyond CIAC 2026 In closing remarks, Barrett Bingley, APF Canada’s Asia Regional Director, noted that CIAC2026 marked a transition from conversation to sustained collaboration.  “CIAC is not a standalone event,” said Bingley. “It is part of a longer-term effort to connect governments, businesses, and institutions that are shaping the future of Canada-Asia relations. The relationships and ideas advanced here in Singapore will continue through follow-up engagements and concrete partnerships across the region.”  The outcomes emerging alongside the conference underscore this momentum in action. One such example is the newly announced exclusive North American distribution agreement between TradeWorks Environmental Inc. and Singapore-based GoCircular. TradeWorks’ President and CEO, Meni Mancini, is both a past and current delegate of APF Canada’s Women’s Executive Series (WES), having participated in missions designed to foster strategic connections across Asia. Through sustained engagement and market access support facilitated by APF Canada, these introductions contributed to the partnership now formalised between TradeWorks and GoCircular. The agreement demonstrates how CIAC and APF Canada’s broader Canada-in-Asia initiatives help catalyse commercial outcomes, strengthen cross-border collaboration, and advance Canadian innovation in key sectors such as cleantech.   In a parallel development reinforcing Canada’s commitment to sustainable economic partnerships in Asia, Canada’s bilateral development finance institution, FinDev Canada, announced the signing of a USD 30 million loan to PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF), marking FinDev Canada’s first investment in Indonesia. This financing will expand access to capital for renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects that bolster climate mitigation, strengthen infrastructure capacity and resilience, and unlock economic opportunities. Leveraging IIF’s deep country expertise and advisory role in Indonesia’s infrastructure sector, the commitment builds on the memorandum of understanding signed in 2025 and advances the bilateral agenda by supporting key projects that enhance trade, drive low-carbon growth, and foster long-term sustainable development outcomes.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3571/syngenta-canada-introduces-equento-cereals-the-first-seed-treatment-to-offer-both-contact-and-systemic-activity-on-wireworms.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3571/syngenta-canada-introduces-equento-cereals-the-first-seed-treatment-to-offer-both-contact-and-systemic-activity-on-wireworms.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 11:37:08 +0530 Includes two insecticides: PLINAZOLIN® technology – a breakthrough active ingredient with novel Group 30 mode of action, paired with Group 4 thiamethoxam.  Syngenta Canada Inc. unveils Equento® Cereals seed treatment, a first-of-its-kind mortality solution with both contact and systemic activity on wireworms in addition to four fungicides to control a broad range of seed- and soil-borne diseases in western Canadian cereal crops.  At the heart of Equento Cereals is PLINAZOLIN® technology, a novel active ingredient developed by Syngenta with a unique Group 30 mode of action to control wireworms.   “Equento Cereals seed treatment gives growers in Western Canada facing significant wireworm pressure a reliable tool to control populations this season and reduce wireworm populations in the following season,” says Justin Bouvier, product lead for Seedcare with Syngenta Canada. “Equento Cereals protects seeds and young plants from wireworm feeding, known to lower plant health and crop yield.”  The contact activity in Equento Cereals stops wireworm feeding quickly, and the systemic activity helps break the wireworms’ lifecycle, reducing overall population.   According to Shad Milligan, western technical lead for Seedcare with Syngenta Canada, Equento® Cereals delivers the same comprehensive level of disease protection cereal growers have come to expect from Cruiser® Vibrance® Quattro seed treatment paired with a novel mode of action to control wireworms.”  “With Equento Cereals, farmers can expect even crop emergence and uniform stand establishment, helping mitigate future weed-management challenges caused by wireworm damage,” adds Milligan.    Equento Cereals has six proven active ingredients: Group 30 insecticide PLINAZOLIN® technology, Group 4 insecticide thiamethoxam, Group 3 fungicide difenoconazole, Group 7 fungicide sedaxane, Group 4 fungicide metalaxyl-M (& S-isomer), and Group 12 fungicide fludioxonil, which together have the benefits of Vigor Trigger™ and Rooting Power® to help get crops off to a vigorous, strong-standing start.   Equento Cereals will be available in Western Canada for the 2026 growing season and sold in a case containing 10 L Cruiser® Vibrance® Quattro and 2.3 L Equento with PLINAZOLIN® technology, or in bulk containing 115 L tote of Cruiser Vibrance Quattro and 26 L tote of Equento with PLINAZOLIN® technology.  Investing in new technology in Canada   The registration of Equento® Cereals – the first product containing PLINAZOLIN® technology approved for use in Canada – marks an exciting milestone for both Syngenta and Canadian farmers, adds Bouvier.   "This is a proud moment for Syngenta Canada," says Scott Ewert, Head of Seedcare for Syngenta Canada. "Bringing PLINAZOLIN® technology to Canada reflects our commitment to investing in breakthrough innovations that keep farmers competitive, productive, and profitable. Our customers entrust us to advance tools and technology that will keep them competitive in a global market.”  The launch of Equento Cereals underscores our commitment to delivering solutions that address real-world challenges, he adds.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3565/geopolitics-over-geology-limits-of-venezuelan-oil-in-volatile-market.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3565/geopolitics-over-geology-limits-of-venezuelan-oil-in-volatile-market.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:52:29 +0530 Venezuela’s vast reserves offer theoretical relief to global supply concerns, but sanctions, infrastructure decay, and uncertainty mean markets continue to price risk—not barrels Global oil markets are increasingly defined by a contradiction. Forecasts from major agencies and analysts suggest that the world is not running out of oil; on the contrary, supply capacity appears sufficient to meet demand well into the future. Yet prices remain volatile, reacting sharply to geopolitical tensions, sanctions announcements, and political signals. This disconnect reflects a deeper transformation in how oil markets operate: geology matters less than governance, and confidence matters more than capacity. Venezuela epitomizes this paradox. The country holds the largest proven oil reserves in the world, yet its production remains severely constrained. While Venezuelan oil is often invoked as a potential solution to tight markets or rising prices, its real influence on global supply and pricing stability is far more limited—and far more conditional—than such narratives imply. This article examines the global oil supply outlook amid geopolitical risk, focusing on Venezuela’s uncertain production trajectory, the role of sanctions and investment constraints, implications for the United States and India, spillover effects on the agricultural sector, and the longer-term structural forces reshaping energy markets. Plenty of Oil, Persistent Volatility On paper, the global oil system appears well supplied. U.S. shale production remains near record levels, OPEC+ retains spare capacity, and demand growth in advanced economies has slowed as efficiency gains and electrification take hold. Medium-term outlooks generally point to a structural surplus rather than scarcity. Yet oil prices remain highly sensitive to geopolitical developments. The reason is that markets increasingly price reliability, not just volume. Sanctions, political instability, underinvestment, and infrastructure decay have become central variables shaping expectations about which barrels can actually reach the market—and under what conditions. Venezuela sits squarely at this intersection of abundance and uncertainty. Why Prices Stay Reactive Despite Oversupply Even when supply forecasts point to a structural surplus, oil prices remain sensitive and often volatile. This paradox reflects the interaction of three powerful market forces—each shaping expectations and risk pricing in ways that go beyond simple barrel counts. First: Spare capacity is uneven and politically sensitive - Although headline supply figures may show a surplus, the location and accessibility of that spare capacity matter. Much of the available buffer resides in regions with political risk, unstable governance, or constrained export channels. For example, major producers in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Latin America face ongoing geopolitical tensions that can suddenly affect output or logistics. Even when inventories are adequate overall, perceived vulnerabilities along key pipelines and shipping routes (such as the Strait of Hormuz) can prompt traders to price in risk premiums that support price levels higher than what fundamentals alone would dictate. Second: Upstream investment is constrained and risk-averse- Years of price volatility and uncertainty about the long-term demand trajectory have caused energy companies to tighten capital budgets and focus on short-cycle assets. Many major oil firms have shifted capital toward dividends, share buybacks, or low-cost production hubs rather than large, long-lead projects. This means that while current output may be robust, the pipeline of new capacity that can respond quickly to supply shocks is thin. Financial markets now integrate this investment risk into price expectations; the margin for error is smaller, making prices more sensitive to news about supply disruptions or policy shifts. Third: Sanctions and regulatory risk are structural, not temporary - Sanctions and regulatory constraints—once viewed as episodic disruptions—are now core parts of the oil market’s structure. Countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela face long-term export limitations or legal uncertainties that shape how traders, refiners, and investors assess future supply. Sanctions can dislocate supply flows even when physical barrels exist, creating ambiguity about which volumes are reliably accessible. This structural uncertainty embeds risk premiums into pricing that can keep prices elevated or volatile despite a broad supply surplus. When these three forces interact—geopolitical sensitivity, constrained investment responsiveness, and structural policy risk—they produce a market where prices reflect not just how much oil exists, but how confidently markets believe it will be delivered in the future. Even modest geopolitical developments can therefore trigger outsized reactions in prices because they alter expectations about one or more of these underlying determinants. Venezuela: Technical Potential, Fragile Reality Venezuela’s production collapse is not a geological story—it is an institutional one. Years of mismanagement, sanctions, workforce attrition, and infrastructure neglect have reduced output to a fraction of historical levels. Refineries, pipelines, and upgraders require extensive rehabilitation, while extra-heavy crude production depends on diluents and specialized processing capacity. Even when sanctions are partially eased or licenses granted, uncertainty over policy durability continues to deter long-term investment. As Gilbert Michaud, PhD, Assistant Professor of Environmental Policy at Loyola University Chicago, explains: “Global oil markets are highly sensitive to geopolitical issues such as conflicts and sanctions. Venezuela has the technical potential to increase oil output, but large-scale increases that bring down prices or increase investor confidence are unlikely. Uncertainty around access to capital, policy, safety, and related issues will reinforce price instability, especially if global disruptions arise elsewhere. On paper, the Venezuela case offers hope of oil supply, but it likely will not translate into price stability with investment hesitation and policy uncertainty.” This gap between technical potential and operational reality defines Venezuela’s role in today’s oil market. The United States: Structural Fit, Not Volume Impact Since December 2018, U.S. imports of Venezuelan oil have remained below roughly 500,000 barrels per day, compared with total U.S. crude imports of approximately 8.5 million barrels per day. The constraint has not been resource availability, but political risk and regulatory uncertainty. As Javier Palomarez, Founder and CEO of the United States Hispanic Business Council, notes: “Despite Venezuela having the largest proven oil reserves in the world, the United States has imported less than 500,000 barrels of oil per day from the country since December 2018. To put that in perspective, we import a total of 8.5 million barrels a day from around the world. Increasing Venezuelan production and imports, particularly given their large amount of resources, could be a way to significantly increase American oil supply. However, this is contingent on a variety of variables, some of which are simply out of our control. American oil companies need stability, predictability, regional peace and cooperation from the people of Venezuela in order to effectively operate in the nation. While subsidies and guarantees have been floated by Trump, only time will tell if the proper infrastructure for meaningful production can be developed in the country. Years of neglect, sanctions, unrest and more have left Venezuelan oil production stunted.” In practice, Venezuelan oil matters to the U.S. less as a volume driver than as a structural input—particularly for refiners that require heavy crude to balance light shale output. Two Market Scenarios for Venezuelan Supply According to Igor Isaev, Head of the Analytics Center at Mind Money, access to Venezuelan oil affects market expectations more than global balances: “Access to Venezuelan oil by the United States is unlikely to fundamentally change the global oil balance, but it does meaningfully affect the structure of supply and market expectations. At this stage, two scenarios appear realistic. In the first scenario, the Venezuelan factor supports prices by amplifying geopolitical risk. It draws attention to vulnerabilities in other sensitive regions, most notably Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, through which much of the world’s oil transits. Heightened risk perception tends to widen risk premiums and support prices. In the second scenario, Venezuelan supply contributes to relative price stability rather than upside pressure. As markets adapt and additional barrels are absorbed, prices could remain range-bound around $50–60 per barrel, assuming no major shocks and continued confidence in medium-term supply. A critical element here is oil quality. Venezuela produces heavy crude, essential for deep refining and diesel production — segments where the U.S. faces a structural deficit. American output is dominated by light shale grades, while U.S. refineries require heavy crude blending for optimal utilization. In practice, only two large-scale sources exist: Canada and Venezuela. Canada’s Alberta fields are mature, with declining production rates limiting supply growth.” This framing underscores why Venezuelan oil can influence price stability or risk premiums without fundamentally altering supply-demand balances. Agriculture: An Overlooked Casualty of Energy Volatility Oil market instability has direct and often underappreciated consequences for the global agricultural sector. Fuel is a core input for modern farming, powering tractors, irrigation systems, harvesters, and transportation networks. Even modest increases in oil prices can significantly raise operating costs, particularly for energy-intensive crops. Beyond fuel, oil prices strongly influence fertilizer markets, especially nitrogen-based fertilizers derived from hydrocarbons. Energy price volatility often translates into fertilizer price spikes, squeezing farm margins and, in some regions, reducing application rates—ultimately affecting yields. Transportation is another critical channel. Global food supply chains rely on trucking, rail, and shipping. Higher fuel costs raise food prices downstream, amplifying inflationary pressure in import-dependent regions across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. From this perspective, Venezuelan uncertainty matters less as a supply story and more as a volatility amplifier. Even limited geopolitical shocks that push oil prices higher can ripple through agricultural systems, intensifying food insecurity and political sensitivity around food prices. India: Energy Security Through Optionality India is the world’s third-largest oil consumer, importing over 85 per cent of its crude requirements to meet the needs of a rapidly growing economy. Its energy security is therefore highly sensitive to global price swings, supply disruptions, and the geopolitical dynamics of key exporters. In this context, the country’s crude import strategy emphasizes diversification, optionality, and strategic resilience rather than reliance on any single source. Indian refineries are among the most complex in the world, capable of processing a wide range of crude qualities, including Venezuelan heavy and extra-heavy grades. These refineries can handle high-sulfur crude and produce refined products such as diesel, naphtha, and jet fuel, making heavy crude an important component for optimizing throughput and output quality. Despite this capability, India has historically treated Venezuelan oil as optional diversification, not core supply. Several factors reinforce this approach: Sanctions and political risk: U.S.-led sanctions on Venezuela, coupled with broader regulatory uncertainty, limit India’s ability to rely on Venezuelan barrels for long-term planning. Any sudden tightening of sanctions or administrative hurdles can disrupt cargo delivery or financial settlements. Logistical challenges: Transporting Venezuelan crude to India is complex and costly. Routes involve long-haul shipping across the Atlantic and Indian Ocean, adding transit time, insurance costs, and exposure to maritime geopolitical risks. Production reliability: Venezuela’s oil sector has been plagued by infrastructure neglect, underinvestment, and workforce attrition, creating a supply profile that is inherently unpredictable. Even if shipments are contracted, actual delivery volumes can be uncertain. Yet, the mere potential for Venezuelan barrels to enter global markets has strategic value for India. This optionality allows the country to negotiate more favorable terms with other suppliers, particularly in the Middle East, by leveraging the perception of alternative sources. Venezuelan crude acts as a floating variable in India’s energy calculus: it can be tapped when favorable, but India is not forced to depend on it when risk is high. Furthermore, the optionality strategy aligns with India’s broader energy diversification goals, which include increasing imports from Africa, the Americas, and Central Asia, while also investing in refining partnerships and storage infrastructure domestically. By avoiding overreliance on politically sensitive sources like Venezuela, India minimizes vulnerability to shocks that could ripple through domestic fuel markets, inflation, and industrial costs. In short, Venezuelan crude offers technical advantages and strategic leverage, but India’s approach demonstrates that energy security is about flexibility and risk management—not simply accessing more barrels. In an era of global supply volatility, optionality can be as valuable as volume, particularly for a major emerging-market importer like India. A Structural Reframing of the Debate Some analysts argue that the focus on Venezuela itself overstates its importance in a world where demand dynamics are shifting. As Maria Pechurina, Director of International Trade at Peacock Tariff Consulting, argues: “Venezuela isn’t a supply story—it’s a distraction. The world already produces more oil than it needs, demand is structurally declining, and no amount of geopolitical theater can change that. Long-term oil prices won’t be set by Maduro, Trump, or sanctions, but by how fast Chinese and European drivers switch to electric vehicles. In energy markets, electrons—not egos—will decide the future.” This perspective situates Venezuela as a short-term geopolitical variable within a much larger structural transition. Conclusion: Abundance Without Assurance The global oil market today is defined by abundance without assurance. Venezuela’s reserves are vast, but their relevance is constrained by political risk, infrastructure decay, investment hesitation, and shifting long-term demand. While Venezuelan oil can influence refining economics, market psychology, and price volatility—with real consequences for sectors like agriculture—it is unlikely to fundamentally rebalance global supply. As oil markets evolve, prices will be shaped less by reserves and more by confidence, credibility, and demand transformation. In that environment, stability will depend not on who controls the barrels, but on how quickly the world’s energy system moves beyond them. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3535/canada-china-trade-agreement-eases-canola-tariffs.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3535/canada-china-trade-agreement-eases-canola-tariffs.html Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:02:21 +0530 Improved trade Relations are increases competition for Australian exports Australia is set to face heightened competition in the canola market following a significant improvement in trade relations between China and Canada. The Canola Council of Canada (CCC) and Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA) have welcomed a bilateral agreement announced in Beijing, which will see China reduce its tariffs on Canadian canola seed from 84% to 15% starting March 1, 2026. Additionally, the 100% tariff on canola meal is expected to be removed until at least the end of 2026. In exchange, Canada will lower tariffs on up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles from 100% to 6.1%, a move signaling broader trade cooperation. The agreement comes after a visit by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to China and represents a major step in restoring market access for Canadian canola farmers. CCC president and CEO Chris Davison described the deal as "an important milestone" in Canada's trading relationship with China. He emphasized that the tariffs, initially a political issue, required a political solution. While the agreement restores some predictability for Canadian canola farmers, Davison noted that the industry would continue working toward permanent and complete tariff relief, including for canola oil. The trade disruption had significantly impacted Canadian canola exports to China. With most of the 2025 canola crop stored on farms and planting for the 2026 crop only months away, Canadian farmers have been seeking market stability. CCGA president and CEO Rick White highlighted the importance of this progress, stating that farmers are looking forward to the resumption of canola movement. China was traditionally Canada's largest market for canola seed and its second-largest for canola meal before the imposition of tariffs. The trade measures had halved the value of Canadian canola exports to China in 2025 compared to 2024. The CCC and CCGA jointly acknowledged the efforts of Prime Minister Carney and the Canadian government, including Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald, in re-establishing bilateral trade with their second-largest export market. The agreement also aligns with the establishment of a Canada-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Roadmap and the revitalization of the Canada-China Joint Agriculture Committee. These frameworks are expected to address remaining canola tariff issues and support industry innovation. For Australia, the restored access for Canadian canola into China introduces new competitive pressures. Lachstock Consulting noted in its Supply and Demand Report that Canada's large canola crop, combined with record yields and ample supply, has shifted export dynamics. While Australian canola faces a standard import tariff of around 9% in China—equivalent to roughly $30/t—Canadian seed remains about 6% less competitive even after the tariff reduction. However, Canadian canola meal tariffs will revert to 5%, increasing competition for Australian meal exports. Australia recently resumed canola exports to China in November 2024, the first such shipment since 2020, seemingly in response to the earlier trade tensions between China and Canada. However, Lachstock observed that Canadian export flows remain subdued, with crop-year-to-date shipments of 2.8Mt trailing last year's 4.7Mt, underscoring the oversupply challenge unless trade improves materially. Europe, a key market for Australia's non-GM canola, has also seen subdued demand due to a large domestic crop. While Australian canola has seen improved December flows into Europe, Ukraine remains the largest supplier, with Australia in second place. Lachstock noted that rapeseed oil prices have softened despite firmer futures, as higher meal values support crush margins and pressure oil prices. The restored Canada-China trade flows are expected to reshape canola market dynamics, with Australia closely monitoring the evolving competition and opportunities in key export destinations. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3427/canada-based-mustgrow-biologics-corp-records-sales-revenue-of-0-8-mn-in-q3-2025.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3427/canada-based-mustgrow-biologics-corp-records-sales-revenue-of-0-8-mn-in-q3-2025.html Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:09:02 +0530 Company registered Gross profit of $180,555 equating to a 22.9 per cent gross profit margin in Q3-2025 (up from 20.9 per cent in Q2-2025). Canada based MustGrow Biologics Corp., a leading provider of biological and regenerative agriculture solutions, announced its operating and financial results for the three months ended September 30, 2025.  Key Financial Highlights: Sales revenue of $0.8 million was recorded in Q3-2025 vs. no revenue in Q3-2024 Gross profit of $180,555 equating to a 22.9 per cent gross profit margin in Q3-2025 (up from 20.9 per cent in Q2-2025). Cash and equivalents on hand as at September 30, 2025 was $3.3 million with inventory of $1.9 million. "The third calendar quarter is typically the lowest product revenue ‘shoulder season’ for Canadian agriculture as farmers are harvesting their crops rather than purchasing input products.  MustGrow’s gross profit margin improvement over the second quarter resulted from higher margin product sales through our Canadian sales and distribution division, NexusBioAg.” stated Corey Giasson, President and CEO of MustGrow. "As mentioned in previous earnings calls, Q1 and Q4 are traditionally stronger sales periods, as Canadian farmers purchase crop inputs.  We are looking forward to a strong finish to the year in Q4 and also Q1-2026 as farmers purchase products in preparation for the 2026 growing season", he added. The Company continues to focus on capital allocation that generates revenue growth of both its NexusBioAg Canadian sales and distribution business and TerraSanteTM biofertility product sales in the U.S. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3307/basf-canada-fields-of-purpose-program-helps-growers-give-back-to-their-communities.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3307/basf-canada-fields-of-purpose-program-helps-growers-give-back-to-their-communities.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:59:24 +0530 This year, the BASF Fields of Purpose program donated seed and crop protection products to 36 initiatives across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. The new BASF Fields of Purpose program from BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada Inc. (BASF) boosts rural impact through initiatives that matter most to Canadian growers and retailers. The program is centred around community-led giving and harvest fundraiser projects where 100 per cent of crops grown and harvested by local growers are donated to benefit rural communities and organizations. In 2025, BASF contributed $100,000 in seed and crop protection products to help maximise yields and crop quality on these charitable fields, ensuring every acre planted makes the greatest impact. These efforts are all made possible through the support of growers, retailers, agronomists and agricultural companies across Canada. “BASF is a proud partner of Canadian growers, their communities and the causes that matter most to them,” said Leta LaRush, Vice President, BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada. “We’re dedicated to providing our customers with the products, support and resources they need to get the most out of every acre, and we’re delighted to extend that same support to their community fields through BASF Fields of Purpose. Rural communities are the heartbeat and backbone of Canada, and BASF is proud to help amplify their efforts and the lasting impact they have across the country.” This year, the BASF Fields of Purpose program donated seed and crop protection products to 36 initiatives across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Among them was the Leduc & District Growing Project, which held its annual community harvest fundraiser on Sept. 25. “This project has been going on for 20 years. All of the inputs and the time for seeding and harvest is all donated,” said a member of the Leduc & District Growing Project in Leduc, AB. “BASF donated [Sphaerex®] fungicide, which has allowed us to get more for the crop, and that goes a long way. Every single dollar from every single bushel of grain that is grown here is sold, and that money is then given to the Canadian Food Grains Bank.” With deep roots in rural farming communities across Canada, BASF recognizes the vital contributions and unwavering generosity of the people who work together to make small communities thrive. BASF is proud to support their efforts to give back through the BASF Fields of Purpose program. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3158/nurasa-and-protein-industries-canada-launch-strategic-program-to-support-canadian-food-innovation-in-asia-pacific.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3158/nurasa-and-protein-industries-canada-launch-strategic-program-to-support-canadian-food-innovation-in-asia-pacific.html Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:49:00 +0530 New partnership to accelerate entry of Canadian plant-based companies into APAC, leveraging Nurasa’s market expertise and innovation ecosystem Singapore-based, Temasek-owned food technology company, Nurasa, and Protein Industries Canada announced a new international partnership to help Canadian companies expand into the fast-growing Asia-Pacific (APAC) market - one of the world’s most dynamic regions for plant-based food innovation. Launched at an event attended by Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Heath MacDonald, and Pradeep Pant, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Nurasa, the partnership is anchored by the Asia Pacific Market Entry Program, which will support Canadian plant-based ingredient and food companies prepare their products for commercial launch in Singapore and across the broader region. "Canadian innovation is driving the global shift toward sustainable food solutions,” said the Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. “By supporting our plant-based companies as they expand into new markets like Asia-Pacific, we are helping them scale up, create good jobs at home, and showcase Canadian expertise on the world stage. This partnership is another example of how the Global Innovation Clusters are helping Canadian businesses succeed both at home and abroad." The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food commented, “In partnering with Nurasa, the Asia Pacific Market Entry Program will fast-track opportunities for Canadian plant-based ingredient and food companies to bring their products directly to this important market. It will help the sector realise its multi-billion-dollar potential and advance our goal of strengthening collaboration with reliable trading partners around the world.” Addressing Asia’s Food ChallengeAsia is experiencing a growing demand for sustainable, nutritious, and locally relevant food solutions, driven by rapid urbanisation and a fast-ageing population. However, fragmented markets and complex supply chains continue to pose challenges to scaling innovation across the region. With its world-class food innovation infrastructure and strategic location, Singapore serves as a launchpad for companies to test, adapt, and scale their offerings across the APAC. Nurasa plays a key role in enabling this growth, providing deep market insights, technical expertise, and access to a broad commercial network. Through the Asia Pacific Market Entry Program, it will help Canadian companies localise their products, navigate regulatory frameworks, and build meaningful regional partnerships. Xiuling Guo, Chief Executive Officer of Nurasa, said, “Nurasa’s mission is to accelerate the adoption of accessible and affordable food innovation across Asia and beyond, in collaboration with our partners. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to driving large-scale innovation and commercialisation. By combining Canada’s leadership in sustainable agriculture and plant-based ingredient expertise with Singapore’s strategic role as a gateway to Asia, we are proud to co-develop solutions that overcome market-entry barriers and delight consumers throughout the region. This is more than a partnership—it’s a catalyst for scale, transformation toward a sustainable future, and shared food security.” For regional food manufacturers, this means access to high-quality, sustainable Canadian ingredients – enabling the creation of innovative, on-trend products that meet local consumer needs. From healthier formulations to new plant-forward offerings, the program helps brands differentiate in a competitive market while delivering better choices to consumers across Asia. Enabling Canada’s Plant-Based Sector to Scale GloballyAs a strategic partner, Nurasa will support participating companies localise their offerings, navigate regulatory requirements, and facilitate access to regional commercial pathways. Robert Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Protein Industries Canada, said, “The Asia-Pacific region represents a significant opportunity for Canadian plant-based ingredient and food companies. Through this partnership, we’re removing key barriers to market entry, helping Canadian businesses diversify their export markets and scale internationally, bringing us one step closer to achieving the full potential of our $25 billion plant-based sector.” This program directly supports Protein Industries Canada’s Road to $25 Billion vision to grow Canada’s plant-based food, feed and ingredient sector into a CAD$25 billion industry by 2035. This partnership also reinforces Singapore’s ambition to become a leading agri-food innovation hub for the region, and underscores the importance of cross-border collaboration in delivering nutritious, sustainable solutions to feed a growing population. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3088/loveland-products-unveils-new-crop-solutions-for-canadian-farmers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/3088/loveland-products-unveils-new-crop-solutions-for-canadian-farmers.html Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:08:42 +0530 Enhances nutrient availability, improves plant vigor, and supports crop development throughout the season for stronger yield potential Loveland Products, Inc., the proprietary products company for Nutrien Ag Solutions and a leading providerof crop input solutions, is deepening its support for Canadian agriculture with the launch of three new performance-driven solutions. Each product is designed to address specific agronomic challenges - enhancing nutrient availability, improving plant vigor, and supporting season-long crop development for stronger yield potential. The new lineup includes:  BLACKMAX® WSG, a dry granular carbon-based solution to improve nutrient uptake and soil health. Radiate® Plus, a foliar-applied growth stimulant and nutrition package that supports early-season root vigor and stress resilience. Prevade™, a soil-applied utility modifier that improves herbicide performance in variable Canadian conditions.  “These latest additions to our portfolio drive stronger crop performance, and support greater return on investment for our grower customers. Innovation is about delivering solutions that help Canadian farmers succeed through science, technology, and practical application” says Jesse Hamonic, Vice President and Country Head of Nutrien Ag Solutions Canada.  BLACKMAX WSG: New Tool to Boost Nutrient Efficiency, Soil Health BLACKMAX WSG delivers Loveland’s leading carbon technology in a water-soluble, dry formulation ideal for Canadian farms. Using proprietary C2 Technology, a unique carbon extraction and reaction process, BLACKMAX WSG enhances nutrient availability, stimulates microbial activity, and improves overall soil function. By improving nutrient chelation and supporting root uptake, BLACKMAX WSG is especially valuable in compacted or nutrient-depleted soils, helping farmers build more resilient acres. “This product unlocks nutrients that are often tied up in the soil,” explains Casey McDaniel, Vice President of Loveland Products. “And because it integrates easily into dry fertilizer programs, it’s as practical as it is powerful.” Radiate Plus: Foliar Solution for Maximizing Root Zone ROI Radiate Plus arrives in Canada with a bold promise: stronger roots and stronger yields. Designed as a foliar-applied plant growth stimulant, Radiate Plus combines IBA and Kinetin with a robust blend of plant-available macro- and micronutrients to accelerate early-season root and shoot development. Compatible across a range of tank-mix partners, Radiate Plus fits seamlessly into early-season crop plans for canola, cereals, soybeans, lentils, peas, corn, and potatoes. “Western Canadian farmers often contend with unpredictable swings in moisture - from waterlogging to drought,” says McDaniel. “Radiate Plus helps plants establish deeper, more resilient root systems that access water and nutrients more effectively - even in challenging environments.”  Prevade: Enhancing Herbicide Efficiency from the Ground Up Designed specifically for pre-plant and pre-emergent herbicide applications, Prevade is a vegetable oil-based soil modifier utility modifier engineered to maximize herbicide performance under a wide range of field conditions. By improving herbicide deposition and retention in the soil’s target zone, Prevade reduces leaching and lateral movement due to rainfall or irrigation. This extends residual control, enhances herbicide activation, and protects against early weed competition, critical in crops like canola, cereals, soybeans, peas, and lentils. “Prevade gives farmers a simple yet powerful way to protect their herbicide investment. By helping keep herbicides in the weed control zone, Prevade delivers more reliable early-season control and greater peace of mind, especially in variable Prairie soil conditions” says McDaniel. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2452/renaissance-bioscience-named-by-agtech-breakthrough-global-awards-2024-as-crop-protection-solution-of-the-year.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2452/renaissance-bioscience-named-by-agtech-breakthrough-global-awards-2024-as-crop-protection-solution-of-the-year.html Tue, 17 Sep 2024 20:03:26 +0530 Annual Awards Program Recognizes Innovation in Agricultural and Food Technologies around the Globe Renaissance BioScience, a leader in yeast bioengineering, announced that it has been selected as the winner of the “Crop Protection Solution of the Year” award in the fifth annual Global Awards program conducted by AgTech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence organization that recognizes the top companies, technologies, innovations and products in today’s global agriculture and food technology markets. In the area of global agricultural crop protection, Renaissance has developed and is commercializing through collaborative partnerships the world’s first yeast-based RNA interference (RNAi) precision biopesticide platform technology that can be individually customized to target many different pests. This technology offers a sustainable, environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides by targeting specific essential genes in the pest of interest with precision and efficacy. RNAi biopesticide platform technology can precisely target many different pests Renaissance’s platform technology can be used to express specific RNAi bioeffector molecules in yeast strains. Target sequences for different pests of interest can be developed and inserted, resulting in the ability to create customized and unique strains. These strains are inactivated prior to product formulation and can be manufactured at scale for low cost. The biopesticide can be seamlessly integrated into traditional crop protection application processes, helping to streamline adoption by farmers and agricultural industries worldwide. The biopesticide product is applied to the crop plants using traditional application methods. Once the inert yeast are consumed by the target pest, the RNAi bioeffectors are released inside the insect, effectively silencing the target genes and killing the pest. Any residual yeast degrades in the environment without harming humans, plants or other insects. One initial pest successfully targeted using this platform is the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), a notorious threat to the global potato industry due to its accumulated resistance to many pesticides. The company’s customized yeast strains are a practical, sustainable solution for large-scale agricultural use, and Renaissance is actively working with industry leaders to develop innovative crop protection solutions for other devastating pests.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2206/biowish-crop-liquid-earns-regulatory-approval-in-canada.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2206/biowish-crop-liquid-earns-regulatory-approval-in-canada.html Fri, 21 Jun 2024 15:19:31 +0530 BiOWiSH Technologies, Inc. announces that BiOWiSH® Crop Liquid has received regulatory approval by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for sale and use in agriculture production. In conjunction with this CFIA certification, ADM is now offering BiOWiSH® Enhanced Fertilizer at five new terminal locations across the U.S. and Canada, and four more locations will be added later in the year. "Earning CFIA approval is a testament to our innovative, natural and non-GMO technology, which helps farmers improve crop production in a sustainable way,″ said BiOWiSH Chief Innovation Officer Bill Diederich. ″Partnering with an industry leader like ADM allows us to work together to advance productivity and climate-smart practices in a way that is practical for farmers to implement.″ The BiOWiSH® Fertilizer Enhancement is a blend of proprietary microbial cultures coated onto dry fertilizer or mixed with liquid fertilizer to create an enhanced efficiency fertilizer. It is applied directly by the fertilizer supplier, and it arrives on-farm, ready to use. Available through ADM, the BiOWiSH® Fertilizer Enhancement can be added to Urea, Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP), Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), UAN, NPK blends, and more. It works by creating a high-performance partnership between the plant and soil microbes, which results in optimized yield potential by improved nutrient uptake. It is proven to achieve consistent desired results across a broad range of operating conditions, climates, and environments – all at a low cost to farmers. Meta-analysis of profit change results for replicated cereal grain studies of the BiOWiSH® Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer, compared to Control treatments, modeled profit changes of $50 per acre for wheat and $58 per acre for corn using USA 5-year (2018-2023) commodity value ranges ($/bu). Paired with the ADM re:generations program, which rewards farmers for climate-smart practices, wheat and corn growers have the potential to earn an additional $2 per acre. ″BiOWiSH is an industry leader with a strong track record of helping farmers achieve success globally,″ said ADM Director of Biologicals and New Technology Graig Whitehead. ″With our extensive years of agricultural product expertise and expansion to more ADM locations, BiOWiSH and ADM are poised to help farmers across Canada and the U.S. optimize yield potential and profits.″ ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2173/farmers-edge-and-national-sorghum-producers-collaborate-to-empower-growers-for-climate-smart-commodities-grant.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2173/farmers-edge-and-national-sorghum-producers-collaborate-to-empower-growers-for-climate-smart-commodities-grant.html Fri, 31 May 2024 07:58:00 +0530 Project will equip sorghum growers with best-in-class technology to track and verify Carbon Intensity (CI) scores supporting climate-smart agriculture and the production of low-carbon liquid motor fuels Farmers Edge™, a pure-play digital ag company, and the National Sorghum Producers (NSP) have entered a new strategic partnership aimed at enhancing sustainable farming practices for sorghum growers. The strategic partnership will support growers participating in NSP’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities (PCSC) grant program funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Together, Farmers Edge and NSP will help growers seamlessly integrate advanced technology solutions for capturing essential on-farm data, including Carbon Intensity (CI) scoring, thus contributing to broader environmental goals. Using FarmCommand®, Farmers Edge’s end-to-end platform, growers can make more informed management decisions, monitor and improve their CI scores, and easily work with NSP to extract and export data verifying their environmental impact. With this data, growers have an opportunity to monetize their sustainability initiatives, solidifying sorghum as a climate-smart commodity and supporting their farms’ long-term financial viability. Vibhore Arora, CEO of Farmers Edge said “Through our customized technology solutions, we’re committed to supporting NSP in simplifying sustainability reporting and assisting their growers in accessing new revenue streams for climate-smart farming practices.” NSP PCSC program Managing Director Matt Durler said. “This partnership underscores NSP’s commitment to driving sustainable agriculture forward and ensuring our growers have the resources they need to thrive in a rapidly changing environment. We are excited to bring innovative solutions to sorghum farmers,” ” Through this partnership, NSP is focused on increasing value for their members. Selecting Farmers Edge as a technology partner supports a pivotal data collection process for the climate-smart commodities-funded project, creating a pathway for all practices to be quantified, tracked, and monetized and enables broader farmer participation in climate-smart inset programs moving forward. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2075/americas-cultivation-corridor-launches-new-cohort-of-cultivo-virtual-academy-for-australia-and-canada-firms.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2075/americas-cultivation-corridor-launches-new-cohort-of-cultivo-virtual-academy-for-australia-and-canada-firms.html Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:01:32 +0530 Entrepreneurs from Australia, Canada are participating in program designed to build connections, accelerate U.S. market entry  A new cohort of Cultivo® Virtual Academy hosted by America’s Cultivation Corridor® launched on April 15. Over the next six weeks, seven companies from Australia and Canada will participate in the virtual program that provides entrepreneurs with mentorship, interaction with Iowa’s agricultural leaders and an online curriculum focused on U.S. market entry, regulatory and financing systems, and customer perspectives.    The program’s virtual sessions will be facilitated by Iowa business and university leaders. America’s Cultivation Corridor will host and coordinate the Cultivo Virtual Academy in partnership with its investors and supporting organizations. The Iowa Economic Development Authority is the presenting sponsor of the program.     “The companies in this cohort of Cultivo Virtual Academy bring exciting new technologies and innovations to improve animal health, crop health, sustainability and financial management for farmers,” said Kevin Rasmussen, Chair of America’s Cultivation Corridor Board of Directors, Owner of Owl Lake Production Company, and board member of Iowa Pork Producers Association. The seven participating companies include:  BioScout (Australia) develops patented technology to detect fungal diseases in crops before they appear by sampling disease spores in production fields.   Data Farming (Australia) develops digital products to help manage crop variability, weed management, variable rate fertilizer and yield data, including a product to detect weeds using satellite imagery.   Farm Health Guardian (Canada) offers biosecurity management technology to help farms and food companies improve animal heath using facial recognition technology and real-time alerts.  FeedFlo (Canada) develops sensors and AI-backed software tools to enable pork producers to automate feed orders, optimize animal health and welfare and raise higher quality pigs.   GrainFox (Canada) creates a data-driven farm wealth solutions platform designed to help producers build a clearer path from bin to bank, including personalized sales recommendations and other tools.  Pairtree Intelligence (Australia) is an ag tech, farm app and imagery integrator, enabling agribusinesses to connect to the data from behind the farm gate for compliance, reporting and productivity insights.   Zetifi (Australia) develops novel connectivity solutions that unlock the power of digital technology by extending and optimizing coverage from existing networks to make it accessible wherever it is needed by farmers and their machinery.   “The next generation of ag innovations are being developed in Iowa right now, and we look forward to the networks and new opportunities that will be built when global entrepreneurs connect with our strong network of university researchers, industry leaders, startup companies and forward-thinking farmers and livestock producers,” said Debi Durham, director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authority. “The Cultivo program will provide unequalled access to the best and brightest minds in every sector of Iowa’s agricultural community, and help entrepreneurs build the network they need to reach their business goals.”  The Cultivo Global Ag Innovation® program was launched in 2021 and features the six-week Virtual Academy as well as consultations, connections and curriculum for international scale-ups to learn from Iowa’s agricultural leaders and prepare for a U.S. market entry.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2010/canada-strengthen-agri-trade-alliance-with-vietnam-to-expand-market-for-canadian-firms.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/2010/canada-strengthen-agri-trade-alliance-with-vietnam-to-expand-market-for-canadian-firms.html Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:41:46 +0530 Exporters and Investors will have access to financial products, market knowledge and connections to boost major sectors like clean technology and renewables, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure and more Export Development Canada (EDC), Canada's export credit agency, states that Vietnam is welcoming Canadian exporters and investors take advantage of the vast potential within this market. ECD will soon open a new representation this fall in Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City to ensure it can provide Canadian exporters and investors what they need to enter this fast-growing market. With significant capital available to deploy in the region, on-the-ground market intelligence, connections to the right people and availability of insurance products, EDC can help grow and protect Canadian businesses interested in expanding into this dynamic market.    Mairead Lavery, President and CEO, EDC said "Vietnam offers Canadian exporters a geographical advantage to enter other Indo-Pacific markets with ease while also providing companies a cost-competitive advantage in doing business. Combine that with a growing middle class and one of the fastest growing economies in the world, exporters and investors should be looking to this market as a significant opportunity for growth in the region. "   Vietnamese government has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This creates opportunity for investors and companies in a variety of sectors of Canadian strength including clean technology and renewables, agriculture, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure, to name a few. With EDC's new representation, the team will work with in-market federal, provincial and non-governmental trade experts including members from the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, the Canada Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam and the Canada-ASEAN Business Council, to help Canadian companies take advantage of these opportunities through all stages of export. Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development said "Vietnam's rapid economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region positions the country as a promising hub for Canadian businesses. As Canada's largest trading partner in ASEAN and a key member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Vietnam offers favorable prospects for our exporters and investors. The new EDC representative office in Ho Chi Minh City will be a valuable resource for Canadian companies seeking to grow into the Indo-Pacific region." EDC is committed to helping Canadian companies diversify into this market. EDC can provide companies with access to working capital, a full suite of credit insurance products, expertise and knowledge, and connections to companies in need of Canadian products and services. EDC customer CNC Industries identified Vietnam as a market with opportunity 10 years ago and has not looked back. With the growing need to support a low-carbon future, Vietnam announced a target to achieve net zero by 2050 during the COP26 World Leaders' Summit in 2021 and they reiterated this commitment in its National Climate Change Strategy. This is an important objective for the country and one that will require local and global support. This announcement marks the third representation opening in the Indo-Pacific in the last six months reaffirming EDC's commitment to Canadian companies seeking to diversify into longer-term, higher growth markets. It further complements EDC's existing representations in Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Jakarta, Seoul and Singapore.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/1878/canada-in-asia-conference-unveils-in-singapore-on-feb-26-29.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/1878/canada-in-asia-conference-unveils-in-singapore-on-feb-26-29.html Sat, 24 Feb 2024 11:17:00 +0530 Canada-in-Asia Conference (CIAC2024) two thematic areas: Agri-food (Feb. 26-27) and Climate Solutions (Feb. 27-29) The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) and Universities Canada are launching second annual Canada-in-Asia Conference in Singapore from February 26-29, 2024. The Canada-in-Asia Conferences event (CIAC2024) will focus on two thematic areas: Agri-food (Feb. 26-27) and Climate Solutions (Feb. 27-29). CIAC2024 will convene experts, investors, policy-makers, researchers, business leaders, and innovators from across Asia and Canada to exchange perspectives, knowledge, and ideas and to create collaborative partnerships in these two critical sectors. The 4 day conference program will provide networking and inter-disciplinary discussion on some of the most pressing issues in Canada-Asia co-operation, trade, and investment in the agriculture and climate spaces. CIAC2024: Agri-food will expose key leaders in Asia to Canadian thinking and capabilities in agriculture and agri-food and explore critical issues around food security, sustainability, and technological collaboration, with leaders in the field from Canada and Asia sharing experiences and perspectives.  CIAC2024: Climate Solutions will convene Asia-based and Canada-based private sector, government, university, and other leaders to connect and learn from each other’s priorities and experiences in climate policy, climate technologies, climate research, and climate finance. Venture into Sustainability (ViS) is a complementary component of CIAC2024 presented by APF Canada in collaboration with Anchor Asia (Anchor Taiwan) and supported by the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy of the Government of Canada. This invitation-only session will feature a curated delegation of Asian and Canadian investors, select Canadian technology startups, government officials from Canada and Asia, and accelerators/incubators in the region’s innovation ecosystem. CIAC2024 also features the annual Canada-in-Asia Conferences Gala Dinner on the evening of February 27, alongside activities organized by participating universities and organizations with their respective communities. The keynote speaker at the Dinner will be Ms. Grace Fu, Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations. Jeff Nankivell, President and CEO, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada said “CIAC2024 is one-of-a-kind event for Canadian businesses and institutions and their peers from across dynamic Asia. With our focus this year on climate solutions and agri-food, identified as priority sectors by our CIAC participants following last year’s event, I look forward to a robust exchange of perspectives, knowledge, and ideas as we forge collaborative and lasting partnerships and seize upon opportunities for deepened engagement in these two critical sectors, and beyond.” The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada is dedicated to strengthening ties between Canada and Asia with a focus on expanding economic relations through trade, investment and innovation; promoting Canada’s expertise in offering solutions to Asia’s climate change, energy, food security and natural resource management challenges; building Asia skills and competencies among Canadians, including young Canadians; and, improving Canadians’ general understanding of Asia and its growing global influence. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/1067/mustgrow-completes-initial-commercial-production-run-of-its-mustard-plant-based-biocontrol-liquid.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/1067/mustgrow-completes-initial-commercial-production-run-of-its-mustard-plant-based-biocontrol-liquid.html Fri, 16 Jun 2023 10:23:10 +0530 Production run-rate of the extract reached greater than the equivalent of 5,000 litres per day of MustGrow’s mustard plant-based biocontrol liquid technology. Canada based MustGrow Biologics Corp. has announced the successful initial commercial run-rate production of its mustard plant-based biocontrol liquid via a contract manufacturer. MustGrow believes this production milestone further validates the Company’s commercialization strategy to initially utilise a third-party contract manufacturer rather than construct its own capital-intensive pilot and/or commercial production facilities. The continuous production run-rate of the extract reached greater than the equivalent of 5,000 litres per day of MustGrow’s mustard plant-based biocontrol liquid technology, which is estimated to equal approximately US$25 million in annual grower level revenue. The production process created zero residual waste by generating a high protein byproduct ingredient for animal feed. MustGrow’s CEO, Corey Giasson noted: “This is a key transition for MustGrow, now able to complete our first commercial-level production without needing to build our own capital-intensive facility.  We are now confident that we will be capable of producing commercially scalable quantities of TerraSanteTM and TerraMGTM in preparation for initial registration approvals.  The continuous-flow design process ran without any reported upsets, and we are close to maximum theoretical recovery of our targeted mustard extracts in the concentrate. This milestone successfully demonstrates a low-risk continuous-flow process, while further mitigating commercialization risk.” Utilising a third-party contract manufacturer markedly derisks commercial capabilities in MustGrow’s soil amendment and biofertility technologies, as well as biocontrol and postharvest food preservation, which are currently under development with four global partners: Janssen PMP, Bayer, Sumitomo Corporation, and NexusBioAg. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/1040/mustgrow-bio-ag-product-strategies-collaborates-to-develop-soil-amendment-biofertility-technologies.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/196/1040/mustgrow-bio-ag-product-strategies-collaborates-to-develop-soil-amendment-biofertility-technologies.html Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:16:45 +0530 Initially, the development work is anticipated to progress in Washington, Oregon, California and Arizona, before expanding nationwide across the United States. Canada based MustGrow Biologics Corp. has announced the signing of a Contract Services Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Oregon-based Bio Ag Product Strategies to develop and commercialize MustGrow’s soil amendment and biofertility technologies, including TerraSanteTM. The Agreement is a non-exclusive contract, leaving MustGrow the ability to seek commercial collaborations and funding partnerships. MustGrow recently outlined its soil amendment (“Soil Amendment) and biofertility (“Biofertility”) development programs, and working with Bio Ag Product Strategies to develop and commercialize these technologies demonstrates the Company’s positive progression in those areas.  Bio Ag Product Strategies has tremendous knowledge and a great track record of working with organizations to help develop, market, and target key retailers and farmers.  MustGrow’s Soil Amendment and Biofertility development programs will focus on soil and soil microbiome health, nutrient and water use efficiencies, and plant yields.  Initially, the development work is anticipated to progress in Washington, Oregon, California and Arizona, before expanding nationwide across the United States. Tim Lichatowich, Bio Ag Product Strategies owner, “Our industry needs new innovations that can support food production in both conventional and organic agriculture and I believe that MustGrow’s technologies can add a lot of value.  The main fruit and vegetable regions of the U.S. are under constant pressure to ban and/or reduce the use of synthetic products, and being able to work with a natural product is promising for commercial-scale adoption.” Throughout 2022, MustGrow engaged in market research, formulation activities, and prospective partnership discussions, and has added Soil Amendment and Biofertility programs to its growing global intellectual property portfolio which now covers: preplant biocontrol, postharvest food preservation and now Soil Amendment and Biofertility applications. MustGrow believes this Soil Amendment and Biofertility initiative will concurrently be developed alongside its other programs in biocontrol, which include preplant soil fumigation, postharvest food preservation, and bioherbicide, which are currently under development with four global partners: Janssen PMP, Bayer, Sumitomo Corporation, and NexusBioAg. ]]>