https://agrospectrumasia.com/rssfeed/global/europe europe https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4690/eu-eases-sanitary-documentation-for-colombian-foods-containing-dairy-ingredients.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4690/eu-eases-sanitary-documentation-for-colombian-foods-containing-dairy-ingredients.html Fri, 18 Sep 2026 09:05:00 +0530 The European Union has simplified the sanitary documentation requirements for certain processed food products from Colombia containing dairy ingredients, potentially making it easier for exporters to demonstrate compliance with EU market-access rules. The change covers processed foods made with milk powder, butter or whey. Under the revised approach, exporters can use evidence of heat treatment carried out on the dairy ingredients before they were incorporated into the finished food product to substantiate compliance with the relevant sanitary requirements. The move addresses a practical issue in food processing: where dairy ingredients undergo heat treatment before being incorporated into another product, exporters can now rely on documentation of that earlier treatment rather than having to demonstrate the treatment only at the stage of the final Colombian food product. The provision applies specifically to products whose formulations contain one or more of the covered dairy ingredients. It therefore does not represent a blanket change to sanitary requirements for Colombian food exports to the EU. For Colombian food manufacturers and exporters, the change could reduce some of the documentation complexity associated with demonstrating the sanitary status of processed foods containing dairy-derived ingredients. Records relating to heat treatments applied during the earlier handling of milk powder, butter or whey can be presented as part of the sanitary evidence for relevant products. The measure does not remove EU sanitary controls or eliminate documentation requirements. Rather, it changes how exporters can substantiate compliance by recognising treatment undertaken before the dairy ingredients are incorporated into the finished food. The regulatory adjustment could be particularly relevant for food manufacturers sourcing dairy ingredients from established processing chains, where heat-treatment records are generated before ingredients enter the formulation stage. Recognising those records can provide exporters with a clearer evidentiary pathway when preparing documentation for EU market access. The change comes as trade in processed foods increasingly depends not only on tariffs and market demand but also on the ability of exporters to meet detailed food-safety and traceability requirements. For Colombian businesses targeting the European market, greater clarity around the recognition of processing records could help streamline compliance without altering the underlying sanitary standards. No new export-volume target, financial trade value, implementation date or individual companies have been identified in connection with the measure. The change remains focused on the documentation of heat treatment for dairy ingredients used in qualifying processed foods. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4679/england-approves-first-marketing-notice-for-gene-edited-vitamin-d-tomato.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4679/england-approves-first-marketing-notice-for-gene-edited-vitamin-d-tomato.html Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:24:31 +0530 England has approved the first marketing notice for a precision-bred tomato, taking the biofortified ‘Sunshine’ tomato developed at the John Innes Centre a step closer to commercialisation and marking a significant milestone for gene-edited crops in the country. Developed in the laboratory of Professor Cathie Martin FRS, the tomato has been engineered to accumulate high levels of pro-vitamin D3 in its fruit and leaves. The development has also recently been evaluated in a landmark bioavailability study at the Quadram Institute, adding to the evidence base around its potential nutritional application. Martin said the project reflects her interest in using plant science to address public-health challenges, particularly vitamin D deficiency. “With vitamin D deficiency a widespread problem, our biofortified tomato could one day be a low-cost, simple, plant-based solution that can improve diets across the world,” she said. The marketing notice represents an important step towards bringing the tomato to market in England. It is also the first crop at the John Innes Centre to receive PBO marketing approval, making the development a milestone for the research institute’s precision-breeding programme. The science behind the tomato builds on a natural pathway already present in tomatoes. Tomato plants produce pro-vitamin D3 as an intermediate compound before converting it into other substances used in plant defence. Using gene editing, Martin and her team modified the relevant genes so that the plants accumulate substantially higher levels of pro-vitamin D3 in their fruit and leaves. The compound can subsequently be converted into vitamin D3 through exposure to sunlight or UVB light. Vitamin D3 is the more stable form relevant to human nutrition. According to the researchers, the genetic changes do not alter the plant’s appearance, growth characteristics or yield. The nutritional potential is central to the tomato’s commercial proposition. Each tomato could contain a quantity of vitamin D equivalent to that found in two eggs or 28 grams of tuna, based on the researchers’ assessment. The next stage will involve crossing the plants with sweeter-tasting and striped tomato varieties, with the resulting product intended to be marketed under the ‘Sunshine’ name, reflecting its enhanced vitamin D potential. The developers also plan to submit an application for approval to the UK Food Standards Agency. The development comes as precision breeding moves from laboratory research towards regulatory and commercial applications in England. For the John Innes Centre, the Sunshine tomato provides a test case for how targeted genetic changes can be used to develop crops with specific nutritional traits while retaining conventional agronomic characteristics. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4665/gravity-gardens-raises-2-6-million-to-scale-dry-seed-activation-technology-across-european-crops.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4665/gravity-gardens-raises-2-6-million-to-scale-dry-seed-activation-technology-across-european-crops.html Tue, 15 Sep 2026 19:44:53 +0530 Gravity Gardens, a Nijmegen-based AgTech startup developing chemical-free seed activation technology, has raised €2.6 million in a Seed round as it moves towards commercialising a dry process designed to improve seed establishment without adding water, chemicals or coatings to the seed. The financing combines equity investment with European Regional Development Fund (EFRO) regional development funding and was backed by VP Capital, Brightlands Venture Partners, Graduate Ventures and a group of private investors. The latest round follows earlier support from StartLife and a Rabobank innovation loan, taking Gravity Gardens' total funding raised to more than €3 million. Founded in 2024 by Founder and CEO Paulino Valdés and co-founder and CTO Robin Le Vigouroux, Gravity Gardens is targeting a part of the seed industry where technical performance has long been established but economics and processing complexity have limited adoption. Seed activation is not a new concept. Seed companies have used treatments for decades to improve the speed and uniformity of emergence and help seeds perform under difficult establishment conditions. The commercial challenge, however, has been the process required to achieve those benefits. Conventional priming is typically a wet process. Seeds are hydrated under controlled conditions and subsequently dried before they can be handled, stored and planted. That adds processing steps, infrastructure requirements, capacity constraints and costs. As a result, seed activation has largely been economically viable in higher-value vegetable and flower crops, while remaining out of reach for many broad-acre crops where seed volumes are substantially higher and margins per unit of seed are lower. Gravity Gardens is attempting to change that equation by removing water from the process altogether. Its technology is designed as a dry seed activation process that requires no hydration stage, does not add chemicals and leaves no coating on the seed. The company argues that eliminating the need to hydrate and subsequently dry seed could simplify processing and reduce the cost barriers that have restricted seed activation to a relatively narrow segment of the market. The company is also positioning the technology around seed vigour rather than germination alone. While germination measures whether a seed can successfully produce a seedling under defined test conditions, vigour is more closely linked to how rapidly and robustly a seed establishes under variable field conditions. “Every seed company in Europe has a seed lot sitting in storage that germinates at grade A quality on the bench and then disappoints in the field,” Valdés said. “Germination matters, but it is not the number that decides your season. Vigour is, and vigour is the first thing you lose as a lot ages or as the spring turns against you.” He said conventional priming has remained effective but its wet processing requirements have limited where its economics work. “Priming has been the industry’s answer for forty years and it is a good answer, but it is a wet one, and the cost and complications that come with that are why it only ever made sense for a handful of high-value crops,” Valdés said. “What we have is dry, which takes those costs out. Cheap enough for field crops, and aimed at the thing that actually decides the season. That combination is what has not existed before.” The proposition is attracting investors looking for technologies that can improve agricultural productivity while reducing dependence on inputs and natural resources. Erica van Eeghen, Senior Manager Ventures at VP Capital, said the company's focus on seeds addresses what she described as the foundation of the agricultural production system. “The most impactful innovations are often the ones that improve the foundations of a system. Seeds are exactly that foundation,” van Eeghen said. “Gravity Gardens has developed a technology that could make stronger crop establishment accessible to many more farmers while using fewer natural resources. That is what makes this investment so compelling.” Gravity Gardens says its technology has already undergone seven external trials, including validation experiments conducted by Vertify. The company has its own research, development and production facility in Nijmegen and is running programmes with Vertify, HLB, Oost NL and Foodvalley. Through Foodvalley, Gravity Gardens has also accessed an SME Innovation Voucher. The technology was developed with support from the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre Noordwijk, adding an unusual technology-development pathway to a company focused on one of agriculture's most basic inputs. For investors, the potential lies not only in improving establishment but in expanding the addressable market for seed activation. If a dry process can materially reduce the cost and operational complexity associated with conventional priming, activation could potentially move from a specialist treatment for high-value seeds towards a broader agricultural input technology applicable to field crops and horticultural production. Marcel Zijp, Senior Investment Manager at Brightlands Venture Partners, said the platform combines biological performance with the potential for wider commercial deployment. “Germination is the most critical phase in plant development. Gravity Gardens’ platform stimulates the plant’s natural power, and its cost competitive technology can be applied in a wide variety of crops,” Zijp said. “We believe this is an important step towards less chemical use and the natural strengthening of plant germination.” The new funding will now shift Gravity Gardens from technology validation towards industrialisation. The company plans to invest in industrial-scale equipment development and expand trial programmes across additional crops, with market readiness targeted for 2027. Gravity Gardens is working with Dutch engineering group Demcon on the development of industrial-scale equipment while continuing field and research programmes in parallel. The combination of equipment scale-up and expanded crop trials will be critical to determining whether the technology can move from a promising seed-treatment platform into a commercially deployable solution for large-volume agricultural markets. The timing also reflects a broader shift in agriculture towards technologies that can improve crop performance before plants enter the field. Seed treatment is increasingly viewed as an opportunity to build resilience into crop production at the earliest stage, particularly as growers face variable weather, pressure to reduce chemical inputs and tighter resource constraints.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4663/bejo-invests-in-new-dongen-facility-to-accelerate-lettuce-breeding-and-speed-breeding.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4663/bejo-invests-in-new-dongen-facility-to-accelerate-lettuce-breeding-and-speed-breeding.html Tue, 15 Sep 2026 19:30:49 +0530 Bejo has completed the acquisition of a new facility in Dongen, the Netherlands, as part of a strategic investment to expand its lettuce breeding programme and accelerate the development of new varieties. The site, a former orchid greenhouse, will replace the company’s current lettuce breeding facility in Breda, with the relocation expected to take place in summer 2027. The investment comes as advances in plant breeding place greater demands on infrastructure, particularly facilities capable of supporting controlled growing conditions and faster breeding cycles. For Bejo, the Dongen site provides the additional space and technical capacity needed to scale its speed-breeding activities while keeping the lettuce programme within the same region. A major advantage of the new location is its extensive electricity connection. This will allow Bejo to expand its use of speed breeding, a technique that enables breeders to shorten generation times under controlled growing conditions and move promising genetic material through breeding cycles more rapidly. For a crop such as lettuce, where breeding cycles and market requirements can move quickly, the ability to accelerate the development and evaluation of new varieties can provide a significant competitive advantage. Bejo sees the additional capacity as a way to strengthen its ability to develop varieties that offer growers reliable performance across changing production conditions. Jenco Krooneman, General Manager of Bejo Benelux, said the investment creates the space required to further develop the company’s lettuce breeding programme while preserving operational continuity in the region. “With this investment, we are creating the space to further develop our lettuce breeding programme. The site not only offers the technical capabilities we need, but also enables us to remain active in the same region. That is important for the continuity of our operations and for our colleagues,” Krooneman said. The facility also gives Bejo an opportunity to combine breeding expansion with improvements in energy management. The former orchid greenhouse is equipped with around 2,650 solar panels and a battery storage system, providing the infrastructure to generate and store electricity and manage energy consumption more efficiently. That combination is increasingly relevant for modern breeding operations, where controlled environments can require substantial and consistent energy inputs. By retaining an existing greenhouse facility and using its renewable-energy infrastructure, Bejo can expand its breeding capacity while integrating energy efficiency into the development of the new site. The company’s focus on speed breeding is central to the investment. Bejo had already begun using the technique at its Breda facility, but available space limited the scope for further expansion. Roel Veenstra, Head of Breeding at Bejo, said lettuce is a fast-growing and dynamic crop, making the ability to accelerate breeding particularly important. He said the Dongen facility will allow Bejo to take its speed-breeding programme to the next level while providing experienced employees with opportunities to develop alongside the expanded operation. “Lettuce is a fast-growing and dynamic crop. We had already started speed breeding in Breda, but we couldn’t grow any further there. The site in Dongen offers us the opportunity to further develop this technique and take our lettuce programme to the next level. I also think it’s important that we remain in the same region, so that our experienced colleagues can grow with us,” Veenstra said. The regional continuity is also an important element of the investment. Rather than moving the programme to a different part of the country, Bejo is shifting its operations from Breda to nearby Dongen, allowing the company to retain access to its existing pool of experienced breeding and technical personnel. The acquisition is now complete and Bejo has begun preparations to commission the facility. Work will include adapting the greenhouses for Bejo’s crops, creating additional speed-breeding cells and expanding office and canteen facilities. The move is scheduled for summer 2027, giving Bejo time to prepare the site for the requirements of its lettuce breeding programme. The company expects the expanded infrastructure to provide greater flexibility for breeding activities while supporting the development of new varieties for growers in its markets. The investment also illustrates how seed companies are increasingly treating breeding infrastructure as a strategic asset rather than simply a research facility. Faster breeding cycles, controlled environments, energy availability and data-driven selection are becoming increasingly important as growers seek varieties capable of delivering consistent performance amid changing production conditions. Dongen facility brings those requirements together in one location. Its combination of expanded greenhouse capacity, speed-breeding infrastructure and renewable-energy assets is intended to give the lettuce programme room to grow without breaking its operational links with the region. With commissioning preparations under way and the relocation planned for 2027, the company is effectively laying the physical foundation for the next phase of its lettuce breeding strategy. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4662/uk-project-brings-precision-pollination-to-commercial-fruit-production-and-breeding.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4662/uk-project-brings-precision-pollination-to-commercial-fruit-production-and-breeding.html Tue, 15 Sep 2026 19:21:34 +0530 A new UK research and innovation project is seeking to change how commercial fruit growers manage one of the most important — and least precisely measured — variables in crop production: pollination. The two-year Precision Pollination to Accelerate Breeding and Boost Productivity in Fruit Production project, led by agri-technology company AgriSound in partnership with Hutton Scientific Services, will develop a data-driven approach to monitoring pollination in commercial fruit production. The initiative aims to help growers identify pollination gaps, improve fruit set and yield, and generate new insights that can feed directly into the breeding of future fruit varieties. The James Hutton Institute will play a central research role through Hutton Scientific Services, drawing on its expertise in crop genetics, plant breeding and pollination science. Hutton Scientific Services provides analytical, research and development, consultancy, plant breeding and licensing services, with a focus on science-led solutions to agricultural and sustainability challenges. The commercial importance of the project is straightforward. Pollination determines whether flowers successfully progress to fruit, influencing fruit set, quality and ultimately the volume of marketable produce. Yet pollination management in many commercial systems still relies heavily on visual observations, conventional hive recommendations and growers’ experience. That approach is becoming harder to rely on as weather patterns become more variable, pollinator populations shift and pollinator activity differs between crops, farms and production environments. Growers can therefore struggle to establish whether sufficient pollination is taking place, where gaps exist or when intervention is justified. The new project is designed to replace that uncertainty with measurable field-level data. “Pollination is mission-critical to fruit production, but it is still too often managed through assumption. Our goal is to make precision pollination scalable across crops and useful as a day-to-day production tool,” said Dr Casey Woodward, CEO of AgriSound. The project will build on AgriSound’s existing Precision Pollination platform, which combines in-field bioacoustic sensors with artificial intelligence-based analytics to monitor pollinator activity within crops. The partners will expand the technology into a multi-species, multi-crop system capable of monitoring honeybees, bumblebees, solitary bees and hoverflies. The initial focus will span five commercially important fruit crops — strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and cherries. By tracking different pollinator species across different production systems, the project aims to build a more detailed picture of how pollination behaves in real-world commercial environments. The research will go beyond simply counting pollinator activity. Validation studies will combine acoustic monitoring with smart-tag observations, time-lapse imaging, environmental monitoring and crop performance assessments. These datasets will allow researchers to refine pollinator detection algorithms and examine how pollinator behaviour changes according to crop, production system and environmental conditions. A key objective will be to establish clearer relationships between pollinator activity and actual commercial outcomes. The research will investigate links between pollination activity, fruit set, yield and fruit quality, potentially giving growers a more practical basis for decisions about pollinator management. For fruit producers, that could shift pollination from a largely observational management issue towards another measurable component of crop productivity. Instead of relying primarily on assumptions about hive numbers or general pollinator presence, growers could eventually have access to field-level information showing when and where pollination activity is adequate and where additional action may be required. The project also has a second objective that could prove important beyond the current production cycle: using pollination data to improve fruit breeding. Hutton scientists will investigate how plant genetics and flower characteristics influence pollinator attraction and pollination efficiency. The work could help identify plant traits that make varieties more attractive or accessible to pollinators while retaining the characteristics required for commercial production. Dr Susan McCallum, Soft Fruit Geneticist and Breeder at the James Hutton Institute, said the collaboration combines technology with data-driven insight to improve understanding of pollination and its impact on soft fruit productivity. She said the research could generate practical evidence to help growers and breeders make better-informed decisions while supporting a more resilient and sustainable future for fruit production. The breeding dimension gives the project a longer-term significance. Improving pollination is not only about managing pollinators around existing varieties; it also raises the possibility of designing or selecting plants whose floral characteristics work more effectively within changing pollination environments. The initiative comes as fruit production faces a combination of pressures that are increasingly difficult to manage through individual interventions. Weather variability can alter flowering periods and pollinator activity, while changes in pollinator populations can affect the reliability of natural and managed pollination. At the same time, commercial fruit production requires consistent fruit set, quality and yield to remain economically viable. The partners therefore see precision pollination as part of a broader move towards data-driven horticulture, where biological processes that were once difficult to quantify can increasingly be monitored alongside environmental and crop-performance data. The project’s multi-species approach is particularly significant because different pollinators do not necessarily behave in the same way. Honeybees, bumblebees, solitary bees and hoverflies can differ in their activity patterns and interactions with crops. Understanding those differences could help build more targeted pollination strategies rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. The project will also generate datasets that could improve the underlying AI-based detection system. As acoustic observations are matched against smart tags, imaging and environmental measurements, researchers can improve the ability of the technology to distinguish pollinator activity and understand the conditions associated with productive pollination. Ultimately, the ambition is to make pollination as measurable and manageable as other major production variables. If successful, the technology could give growers a clearer basis for decisions while giving breeders new evidence on the relationship between plant traits, pollinator behaviour and commercial performance.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4643/adamas-ferrabait-wins-first-eu-registration-as-slug-pressure-intensifies.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4643/adamas-ferrabait-wins-first-eu-registration-as-slug-pressure-intensifies.html Thu, 10 Sep 2026 21:31:15 +0530 ADAMA has secured the first European Union registration for Ferrabait, its new molluscicide built around Feralla, a novel active ingredient approved by the EU as a low-risk active substance in 2025. The registration in Latvia marks the first regulatory breakthrough for the product and sets the stage for additional approvals and commercial launches across Europe from 2027, beginning with France, Sweden and Lithuania. The timing is significant. Slugs and snails are becoming a more persistent crop-protection challenge across Europe, with milder winters creating conditions that can increase pest survival and pressure in the field. For growers, the problem is not simply pest incidence but the potential for damage to crop establishment, yield and quality. A faster response to a growing pest problem Ferrabait is designed to deliver rapid stop-feeding activity, with ADAMA reporting fast control of slugs and snails within the first three days after application. The product is approved for use across a broad crop portfolio, including cereals, rapeseed, potatoes and high-value vegetable crops. That speed matters in crops where slug feeding can quickly translate into establishment losses and reduced stand quality. The product is positioned as an additional tool for growers facing increasingly difficult pest-management decisions. The formulation is as important as the active ingredient A key part of ADAMA’s proposition is its proprietary Desidro Technology, which uses a multi-stage drying process under controlled humidity conditions to produce a highly palatable pellet designed to retain its integrity in the field. According to comparative testing, Ferrabait has demonstrated greater longevity under wet conditions and stronger resistance to mould than leading ferric phosphate-based competitors. The objective is straightforward: keep the bait attractive and intact for longer, extending its field performance when weather conditions can otherwise undermine molluscicide effectiveness. The product combines Feralla with a proprietary formulation containing 12 components intended to improve bait attractiveness to slugs and snails while supporting growers’ sustainability objectives. Feralla opens a new regulatory and product pathway The technology behind Ferrabait starts with Feralla, which received EU approval as a low-risk active substance in 2025. That regulatory status gives ADAMA a platform from which to build a broader European product rollout. The Latvian registration is therefore more than a single-market approval. It provides the first commercial foothold for a product that ADAMA intends to take into additional European markets, with France, Sweden and Lithuania expected to follow from 2027. For a crop-protection industry navigating tighter regulatory scrutiny, resistance concerns and increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact, the emergence of new active ingredients and formulations is becoming strategically important. “European growers are facing increasing pressure to protect crops effectively while meeting evolving regulatory and sustainability expectations,” said Germain Boulay, Global Head of Herbicides and Molluscicides at ADAMA. “Ferrabait provides growers with an additional tool for managing slug and snail pressure, combining strong performance in the field with the practical benefits needed for modern crop production.” The European rollout will put that proposition to the test. If Ferrabait can combine consistent efficacy with longer bait persistence and a favourable regulatory profile, ADAMA could carve out a stronger position in a molluscicide market facing both rising pest pressure and changing expectations around crop protection. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4642/syngenta-amoba-forge-european-cereal-biocontrol-alliance-as-fungicide-options-shrink.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4642/syngenta-amoba-forge-european-cereal-biocontrol-alliance-as-fungicide-options-shrink.html Thu, 10 Sep 2026 21:26:47 +0530 Syngenta Crop Protection AG and French biocontrol company Amoéba are moving to commercialise a next-generation biological fungicide for European cereal growers, as tightening regulation and rising resistance threaten to narrow the conventional crop protection toolbox. The companies have signed an exclusive supply and distribution agreement covering a new biofungicide formulation, AXP20, derived from the lysate of the amoeba Willaertia magna C2c Maky. The agreement converts the companies’ November 2025 memorandum of understanding into a binding, long-term commercial and development partnership. Once registered, the product will be marketed under a Syngenta trademark. Under the agreement, Syngenta will hold exclusive distribution rights for cereals, excluding corn, across the EU-27, the UK, Ukraine and Switzerland. First market registrations are targeted for the third quarter of 2028, with sales expected to begin in core EU markets by the end of 2028 for use during the 2029 season. Targeting two of Europe’s biggest cereal disease threats The partnership is aimed initially at two major fungal diseases affecting European wheat: septoria tritici blotch and yellow rust. Together, the diseases are estimated to affect 9 million to 12 million hectares of cereals annually. Septoria can cause wheat yield losses of 5 per cent to 50 per cent in Germany, with annual economic losses estimated at up to €1.5 billion. Yellow rust can reduce yields by 10 per cent to 70 per cent and, in susceptible varieties, can result in complete crop failure. The commercial opportunity comes against a backdrop of diminishing conventional treatment options, driven by regulatory restrictions and growing pathogen resistance. For Syngenta, the agreement adds another potential product to its biologicals portfolio while giving Amoéba access to the commercial scale and cereal-market expertise of one of Europe's leading crop protection companies. “With conventional crop protection facing mounting regulatory and resistance headwinds, this next-generation biofungicide arrives at exactly the right moment,” said Matthew Pickard, Syngenta's Head of Seedcare and Biologicals for Europe. An unconventional biological route AXP20 is differentiated by its biological origin. The technology is based on the lysate of Willaertia magna C2c Maky, a single-celled amoeba. The product primarily works by inhibiting fungal spore germination. Field trials have demonstrated efficacy against septoria and yellow rust, while also activating the plant's natural defence mechanisms. That combination could make the technology particularly relevant to integrated crop management and resistance-management programmes. The Fungicide Resistance Action Committee classifies the lysate under FRAC Group BM02, covering biologicals with multiple modes of action. The companies say the technology has no known resistance and carries a low to very low resistance risk. The active substance received EU approval in 2025 following an assessment by the European Food Safety Authority. In June 2026, Amoéba received French marketing authorisation for AXPERA, a biofungicide based on the same technology. The French approval is expected to support national authorisation processes in other European markets. From laboratory technology to commercial platform The agreement also represents a test of whether a biological technology can move beyond niche applications and compete at scale in one of Europe's most important crop segments. Amoéba has positioned AXP20 as a key technology in its biosolutions portfolio, while Syngenta's distribution network could provide access to a large established cereal market. Jean-Marc Petat, Managing Director of Green for Agro, Amoéba's biosolutions subsidiary, said the agreement marks a defining milestone for the company and described Syngenta as a strategic partner for launching and marketing biocontrol products to European cereal growers. The companies are already investing in the next stage of development. In 2026, Syngenta and Amoéba are conducting more than 70 field trials jointly, making the programme one of the larger validation efforts currently under way in the biocontrol segment. A long runway to commercialisation Despite the strategic significance of the agreement, the commercial payoff remains several years away. First registrations in core EU markets are targeted for Q3 2028, with first sales expected towards the end of that year and farmer use beginning in spring 2029. Registrations in the UK and Switzerland are expected around 2029. The partners also see potential beyond the initial cereal applications. The agreement envisages expansion into additional crops and geographies as the product's efficacy profile develops. That could turn AXP20 from a single-product opportunity into a broader biological crop-protection platform.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4625/nichino-europe-acquires-temap-emea-rights-and-expands-strategic-partnership-with-bi-pa-.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4625/nichino-europe-acquires-temap-emea-rights-and-expands-strategic-partnership-with-bi-pa-.html Tue, 08 Sep 2026 17:30:08 +0530 Nichino Europe has acquired all intellectual property rights for TEMAP from Belgian crop-protection innovator Bi-PA across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), deepening a longstanding partnership as the companies move to accelerate the availability of the bio-fungicide to growers across the region. The agreement gives Nichino Europe control of TEMAP intellectual property in the EMEA market while establishing a framework for continued cooperation with Bi-PA. For Nichino Europe, the transaction expands its crop-protection portfolio with a differentiated technology aimed at supporting plant health and more sustainable disease-management programmes. TEMAP, based on choline pelargonate, is a patented bio-fungicide developed by Bi-PA for broad-spectrum fungal disease control. Development work by the Belgian company has demonstrated preventive, eradicative and early curative activity against a wide range of fungal diseases. Bi-PA describes TEMAP as a contact fungicide that can also be used in programmes with other fungicides and in tank-mix combinations with systemic products. The technology works by disrupting fungal cell membranes, affecting both spores and mycelium and leading to cell lysis. According to Bi-PA, this prevents germination and stops the spread of pathogens while offering a low environmental impact and low risk of resistance occurrence. TEMAP also adds another option to integrated disease-management and resistance-management programmes. The recent classification of choline pelargonate in the FRAC BM 03 group further strengthens its positioning as a tool for growers seeking to manage resistance development. The product has demonstrated efficacy across several crops and diseases. Bi-PA says trials have shown particularly strong performance in rice, cereals, bananas, fruits and vegetables, including activity against sheath blight and blast in rice, Septoria tritici in wheat, black Sigatoka in banana and apple scab. The acquisition comes as Nichino Group seeks to expand the use of bioresources and develop new sources of revenue while strengthening the competitiveness of its crop-protection business. The company has increasingly focused on technologies that can complement conventional crop-protection chemistry and support more sustainable agricultural production. “We are excited to add TEMAP, a product we have successfully trialled for several years, to our portfolio which will expand our offering of differentiated and efficient technologies to support plant health,” said Manfred Hilweg, Managing Director of Nichino Europe. For Bi-PA, the agreement represents a route to scale an internally developed technology through Nichino Europe's regulatory, commercial and market capabilities. Bi-PA said TEMAP is among the most important innovations it has developed in recent years and reflects its focus on bringing novel and sustainable crop-protection solutions to growers. “TEMAP is one of the most important innovations developed by Bi-PA in recent years, reflecting our commitment to bringing novel and sustainable crop protection solutions to the market. We are delighted to partner with Nichino Europe, whose expertise, market presence, and long-term vision make them the ideal organization to unlock the full potential of TEMAP across the EMEA region. Together, we can accelerate the availability of this innovative fungicide and deliver tangible value to growers,” said Johan De Saegher, CEO of Bi-PA. The partnership builds on several years of collaboration between the two companies, with Nichino Europe having trialled TEMAP before taking ownership of its EMEA intellectual property rights. The companies will continue to work together as the product moves toward wider availability in the region. For growers, the strategic importance of TEMAP lies not only in its disease-control spectrum but also in its potential role within integrated crop-protection programmes. Bi-PA's development work positions the product as a complementary technology that can be used alongside other fungicides, giving growers another tool as resistance management becomes an increasingly important part of crop-protection strategies. Nichino Europe's acquisition therefore goes beyond adding another product to its catalogue. It gives the company ownership of a patented biological fungicide across a large and diverse agricultural market, while strengthening its relationship with a specialist developer of biological and alternative crop-protection technologies. As regulatory pressure, resistance concerns and demand for more sustainable crop-protection solutions reshape the European market, Nichino Europe and Bi-PA are betting that technologies combining efficacy with differentiated modes of action can play a larger role in the next generation of crop protection. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4624/belgian-approval-opens-new-european-market-for-sunoil-biodiesel.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4624/belgian-approval-opens-new-european-market-for-sunoil-biodiesel.html Tue, 08 Sep 2026 17:23:29 +0530 Dutch biofuel producer Sunoil Biodiesel has secured regulatory approval to supply its sustainable fuels in Belgium, opening another European market as the company expands its footprint beyond the Netherlands. The approval adds Belgium to a growing list of European markets where Sunoil is authorised to distribute its waste-based biodiesel products. Belgium’s Federal Public Service Economy lists Sunoil Biodiesel under approved Category C biofuel technical dossiers for FAME, with its three dossiers valid through June 30, 2029. For Sunoil, however, market expansion is not simply a question of finding new customers. The company says entering a new market requires robust traceability, strong sustainability systems and the ability to meet local regulatory requirements across the supply chain. That infrastructure is increasingly important as European demand for lower-emission fuels expands and biofuel producers compete across national markets with different certification and compliance requirements. Sunoil says the systems it has established provide a foundation for further growth across Europe. The company’s expansion comes alongside a push to demonstrate how waste-based biodiesel can be deployed in real-world transport applications. One of its latest examples is the inland barge Birjo II, which has been converted to operate entirely on B100 biodiesel. The vessel, owned by DK Shipping and operated by BFT Tanker Logistics, now runs on 100 percent biodiesel produced by Sunoil in the Netherlands. The conversion was carried out in collaboration with BFT and allows the barge to transport biodiesel between Sunoil’s facilities and customers while using the same renewable fuel to power its operations. The move is significant because it demonstrates a pathway for decarbonising existing inland shipping assets without replacing the vessel or its engine. Sunoil said the Birjo II can reduce CO₂ emissions by around 90 percent compared with fossil diesel while continuing normal operations. The project also creates a practical demonstration of a renewable fuel supply chain running from production and transport to end use. The Birjo II can be fuelled directly from Sunoil’s Kampen facility, integrating the company’s own biodiesel production with its logistics operations. For Sunoil, the barge is more than a demonstration project. The company sees it as a potential platform for converting and rolling out B100 across additional inland vessels in Europe. Sunoil Chief Commercial Officer Jeroen Hovius said the project is particularly valuable because the Birjo II operates on Sunoil’s own biodiesel while transporting renewable fuels between the company’s locations and customers. The collaboration with BFT, he said, is focused on practical solutions for making inland shipping more sustainable and could support the conversion of multiple barges to B100 across Europe. BFT General Manager Johann de Koning said the partnership is centred on reliability, quality and continuity, adding that the Birjo II represents a step toward more sustainable and efficient inland shipping operations. The Belgian approval adds another commercial outlet to that broader operating model. Sunoil converts certified waste oils and fats, including used cooking oil, into high-grade biodiesel at its production facilities in Emmen and Kampen. The business is supported by trading operations in Amsterdam and serves markets across Europe. Its biodiesel is positioned both as a lower-emission alternative to fossil diesel and as a blend component for conventional fuels, with applications spanning road transport, marine and inland shipping, energy and other sectors. Sunoil says its biodiesel can deliver CO₂ emissions savings of up to 90 percent compared with conventional diesel. The company’s Belgian entry therefore represents more than the addition of another national market. It comes as Sunoil seeks to build a wider European supply network around certified waste-based feedstocks, regulatory compliance and practical applications for renewable fuels. With Belgium now added to its approved markets and the Birjo II providing a working example of 100 percent biodiesel in commercial inland shipping, Sunoil is positioning its next phase of European growth around both market access and the ability to demonstrate that waste-based fuels can move beyond blending into everyday transport operations. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4604/aflabox-targets-africa-with-1-35-mn-to-scale-portable-aflatoxin-detection.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4604/aflabox-targets-africa-with-1-35-mn-to-scale-portable-aflatoxin-detection.html Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:31:10 +0530 Aflatoxin testing is often a race against time. Agricultural commodities can move from farms to collection centres and processors long before laboratory results are available, leaving farmers, traders and food companies to make quality and purchasing decisions with limited information. Italian AgTech startup Aflabox is trying to close that gap. The company has raised €1.35 million in a seed funding round to scale a portable system designed to detect mycotoxins, assess grain quality and generate field-level data in less than 90 seconds. The round was completed through FoodSeed, the agrifood startup programme within CDP Venture Capital’s National Accelerator Network and managed by Eatable Adventures. Farming Future, the National Agrifood Tech Technology Transfer Hub promoted by CDP Venture Capital SGR in partnership with ToSeed & Partners, also participated. Founded in July 2024 by Fabrizio Cardillo and Luca Alinovi, Aflabox is developing what it describes as a field intelligence platform rather than a conventional testing device. The system combines UV and white-light imaging with artificial intelligence, geolocated data collection and cloud-based dashboards to provide rapid assessments of agricultural samples. The underlying problem is particularly significant in regions where access to specialised laboratories is limited. Conventional mycotoxin testing can require laboratory equipment, qualified personnel and turnaround times ranging from several hours to several days. That makes frequent testing difficult at farms, collection points and other locations where crops first enter the commercial supply chain. Aflatoxins are among the most serious mycotoxin-related food-safety concerns. Contamination can affect human health, reduce the quality and value of agricultural commodities and prevent products from meeting requirements for domestic or international markets. For producers and buyers, the financial consequences can extend from rejected consignments to lost market opportunities. Aflabox is seeking to move at least part of that testing process out of the laboratory and into everyday agricultural operations. Its system captures sample information through UV and white-light imaging and processes those signals through AI models before producing a digital result. The company says each scan takes less than 90 seconds, while the associated geolocation data can be added to a growing database of information on quality, contamination and agricultural risk. That creates several potential use cases across the supply chain. Farmers can use the system to assess crop quality in the field. Aggregators and collection centres can use test results when purchasing or storing commodities, while traders can gain additional information before making commercial decisions. For food processors and exporters, the technology could support quality control, traceability and market-access requirements. At the institutional level, the same data could help governments, donors and international organisations identify areas with elevated contamination risks and target food-safety programmes more effectively. The business case therefore extends beyond faster testing. Aflabox is also building a data infrastructure around those tests, with the aim of turning individual field measurements into a broader picture of agricultural quality and contamination patterns. The company has already begun testing that proposition in the market. It has supplied 20 devices to the World Food Programme in Kenya and presented its technology at the Cereal Millers Association Annual Technical Conference in April 2026 as it began its commercial development. Aflabox has also completed an initial validation phase for its AI-based technology and filed a patent application covering its solution. Africa is a key part of the company’s expansion plans. Aflabox is headquartered in Italy and operates in Nairobi through Aflazero Ltd, giving it a base from which to develop its business in African agricultural markets while maintaining its European operations. The new funding will be used to complete validation and certification of the device, expand commercial activity in Kenya, Nigeria and Italy and begin development of a micro-factory dedicated to manufacturing Aflabox units. The company also plans to invest in its AI platform, improve detection accuracy, expand its distribution network across Africa and Europe and strengthen its team. For Aflabox, the move into Africa is not simply an expansion into another geographic market. It is closely tied to the problem the company is attempting to solve. In agricultural regions where laboratory infrastructure is uneven and supply chains are highly dispersed, the ability to generate quality information closer to the point of production could have a greater commercial value. The potential impact is also broader than the individual farmer. A rapid test at a collection centre, for example, could influence whether a commodity is purchased, stored, processed or rejected. At the exporter level, faster quality information could help determine whether a shipment meets market requirements. At the government level, aggregated data could provide a more detailed picture of contamination risks across producing regions. This gives Aflabox a potentially larger opportunity than the market for portable testing equipment alone. The more measurements the system generates, the more valuable its underlying data infrastructure could become for monitoring quality and risk across agricultural supply chains. However, scaling the model will require more than proving that rapid testing can be performed outside a laboratory. Aflabox will need to demonstrate consistent performance across different crops, environments and operating conditions while completing certification and establishing a reliable manufacturing and distribution network. The company is now entering that next stage. The €1.35 million round gives Aflabox capital to move from early technology validation toward commercial deployment, while its initial work with the World Food Programme and its presence in Kenya provide an early foothold in the market. The broader opportunity comes as food businesses and agricultural supply chains face growing pressure to improve food safety, traceability and quality assurance. Technologies that can produce reliable information at the point where commodities are produced and traded could become increasingly important as supply chains become more data-driven. Aflabox’s approach combines that trend with a specific food-safety problem. By bringing imaging and AI-based analysis closer to farms and collection centres, the company is attempting to make contamination data available when commercial decisions are still being made, rather than after commodities have already moved through the supply chain. The next test for the Italian startup will be whether it can turn that technical proposition into a scalable business across Africa and Europe. Its new funding will now support the certification, manufacturing, distribution and AI improvements needed to make that transition. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4595/wild-bio-acquires-f1-seed-to-build-uk-wheat-business.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4595/wild-bio-acquires-f1-seed-to-build-uk-wheat-business.html Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:59:31 +0530 Wild Bioscience, the University of Oxford spinout focused on crop improvement, has acquired independent wheat breeder F1 Seed Ltd, bringing together an AI-driven biotechnology platform and an established UK wheat breeding pipeline. The deal turns Wild Bio into a fully integrated seed company, covering trait discovery, genetic improvement, breeding and delivery of new varieties to farmers. F1 Seed, led by veteran wheat breeder Bill Angus, contributes more than a decade of germplasm development and breeding expertise, while Wild Bio brings evolutionary biology, gene editing and machine-learning tools designed to identify useful plant traits. The combination is aimed at one of the most persistent problems facing British arable farming: wheat yields have shown little improvement for roughly three decades. At the same time, higher input costs and increasingly volatile weather are putting additional pressure on farm economics. Wild Bio points to two consecutive dry and hot springs in England in 2025 and 2026, with 2025 recorded as the driest spring in more than a century and 2026 the warmest on record. The company says the impact is already visible in farm performance. UK wheat yields in 2025 were about 13% below the 10-year average, while climate modelling indicates that parts of England's wheat-growing regions could lose 10% to 25% of their productive potential over the next two decades. With around one-third of UK farms currently loss-making and considering whether to leave the industry, improving crop performance has become an increasingly important commercial issue. Wild Bio's technology is designed to search plant biology for solutions that evolution has already produced under difficult growing conditions, including drought, heat and flooding. The company uses biological datasets and AI and machine-learning tools to identify genetic patterns associated with desirable traits, which can then be targeted through precision breeding. The acquisition gives Wild Bio the breeding infrastructure needed to turn those discoveries into commercial wheat varieties. By bringing precision breeding and conventional breeding capabilities under one business, the company expects to move more quickly on traits linked to yield, yield stability and disease resistance while tailoring varieties to UK growing conditions. The move also has implications for Britain's domestic seed industry. Wheat is the UK's largest arable crop and typically contributes around £3 billion to the economy, but its genetics and seed markets have historically been heavily influenced by subsidiaries of international agricultural companies. Wild Bio's strategy is to develop traits and varieties within the UK and for British growers, giving the company a more direct role in a crop that is central to domestic food supply. Regulatory changes in England are also creating a route for precision-bred crops. The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Regulations came into force in November 2025, establishing a framework for targeted genetic changes that could potentially have been achieved through conventional breeding. Wild Bio sees the framework as an opportunity to bring its AI-led discovery and precision-breeding capabilities into commercial agriculture. Ross Hendron, Co-Founder and CEO of Wild Bio, said the integration with F1 Seed gives the company the capabilities required to develop wheat varieties around the traits growers need, rather than treating trait discovery and breeding as separate activities. Bill Angus, Founder and Director of F1 Seed, brings two decades of experience running major UK wheat breeding programmes at Nickerson and Limagrain. He said the combination of new traits with established UK germplasm could accelerate the next phase of wheat breeding. The acquisition also marks a strategic shift for Wild Bio beyond technology development and licensing. Stuart Harrison, Chief Business Officer at Wild Bio and a former Syngenta executive, said the deal transforms the company into a full seed business while retaining the speed and flexibility of a startup. For Wild Bio, the immediate opportunity is to apply its technology to a market where stagnant productivity, climate pressure and thin farm margins have created a clear demand for better-performing varieties. The company now has both the genetic discovery platform and breeding pipeline to pursue that opportunity directly. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4557/viet-nams-seafood-exports-to-norway-gain-value-as-shrimp-leads-growth-opportunity.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4557/viet-nams-seafood-exports-to-norway-gain-value-as-shrimp-leads-growth-opportunity.html Thu, 27 Aug 2026 19:01:49 +0530 Norway may be one of the world's leading seafood exporters, but it remains an important import market for species that are not readily available in Nordic waters. For Vietnamese exporters, that creates an opportunity to expand sales—provided they can meet increasingly demanding standards on sustainability, traceability and product origin. Data from the International Trade Center, cited by Viet Nam's Agency of Foreign Trade, shows that Norway imported 82,900 tonnes of seafood worth $399.23 million in the first half of 2026. While import volumes fell 36 per cent from a year earlier, the value of those imports rose 12.4 per cent, pointing to a shift toward higher-value seafood purchases. Viet Nam was among the suppliers that increased sales to Norway. Norwegian seafood imports from Viet Nam rose 2.6 per cent in volume and 3.5 per cent in value during the first six months of 2026. Viet Nam is now Norway's seventh-largest seafood supplier, accounting for 2.67 per cent of import volumes and 5.04 per cent of the value of the country's seafood imports. A Small Market With High-Value Potential With a population of about 5.6 million, Norway is not among the world's largest consumer markets. But its high purchasing power and seafood consumption make it strategically important for exporters targeting the Nordic region. Seafood consumption in Norway stands at around 18 kg per person annually, while the country's total seafood imports generally range between $450 million and $500 million a year. Imports help fill gaps in Norway's domestic seafood supply, particularly for species not harvested or farmed locally, while also supplying restaurants, foodservice companies and supermarket chains. For Viet Nam, the opportunity lies in increasing its share of this high-value import market. But Norwegian consumers are placing growing importance on sustainability and product traceability. More than 80 per cent of consumers prioritise sustainably certified seafood, making internationally recognised standards such as Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification for farmed products and Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for wild-caught seafood increasingly important for market access. Shrimp Remains Viet Nam's Largest Export to Norway According to Viet Nam Customs data, Vietnamese seafood exports to Norway reached approximately 1,200 tonnes worth $9.3 million in the first seven months of 2026. The figures show a 14.5 per cent decline in export volume, but a 17.2 per cent increase in value compared with the same period in 2025. The divergence suggests that Vietnamese exporters are achieving higher average prices in the Norwegian market despite shipping lower overall volumes. Frozen shrimp remains the largest Vietnamese seafood category exported to Norway. Shipments reached 735.3 tonnes valued at $5.4 million, accounting for approximately 59 per cent of both total export volume and value. Shrimp's dominant position also suggests significant room for further expansion as Vietnamese exporters look to strengthen their presence in the Norwegian retail and foodservice sectors. Other Seafood Categories Post Strong Gains Several other Vietnamese seafood products recorded rapid growth, albeit from a smaller base. Frozen crab exports increased 56 per cent in volume and 61.9 per cent in value, while frozen pangasius shipments rose 67.2 per cent in volume and 50.5 per cent in value. Frozen tuna recorded one of the sharpest increases, with export volume climbing 114.5 per cent and value surging 693.5 per cent. Frozen catfish also posted exceptional growth, with shipments increasing 604.8 per cent in volume and 552.6 per cent in value. The gains indicate that Viet Nam's opportunity in Norway may extend beyond shrimp, particularly as importers seek a broader range of species and value-added seafood products. Higher Prices Offset Lower Volumes The overall increase in export value despite lower shipment volumes reflects a rise in the average prices received by Vietnamese exporters. Frozen cod recorded an average export price of US$13.86 per kg, up 107.4 per cent from the same period a year earlier. The average price of frozen crab reached $13.27 per kg, an increase of 3.8 per cent. Frozen squid averaged $5.92 per kg, up 8.6 per cent, while frozen mackerel reached$4.36 per kg, rising 41.3 per cent year on year. The trend highlights an increasingly important opportunity for Vietnamese seafood exporters: growth in Norway may not necessarily depend on sending larger volumes. Improving product mix, targeting premium categories and meeting sustainability requirements could help exporters generate higher returns from the market. Christmas Demand Could Support Year-End Exports The outlook for the remainder of 2026 remains positive, particularly as Norwegian retailers and food businesses build inventories ahead of the Christmas and New Year season. Year-end festive demand traditionally drives higher food purchases and stockpiling, potentially creating additional opportunities for Vietnamese seafood exporters. The bigger challenge will be maintaining competitiveness in a market where consumers and buyers are demanding greater transparency around environmental impact, sourcing and sustainability. For Viet Nam, Norway represents a relatively small but potentially lucrative market. Shrimp remains the anchor product, but the rapid growth in categories such as tuna, pangasius, crab and catfish points to a wider opportunity. As Norwegian seafood imports increasingly favour higher-value products, Viet Nam's next phase of growth may depend less on volume and more on its ability to deliver certified, traceable and premium seafood to one of Europe's most quality-conscious markets. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4548/frances-first-asc-certified-seabass-and-seabream-farm-marks-milestone-for-aquaculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4548/frances-first-asc-certified-seabass-and-seabream-farm-marks-milestone-for-aquaculture.html Wed, 26 Aug 2026 14:44:26 +0530 French aquaculture producer Gloria Maris Côte d’Opale has become the country’s first seabass and seabream farm to receive certification from the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), marking a significant milestone for France’s farmed seafood industry. Located along the coast of the Hauts-de-France region, the facility earned the certification after demonstrating compliance with the ASC’s standards for seabass and seabream farming. The framework covers environmental responsibility, animal welfare, responsible feed and resource use, and social accountability. The certification expands the availability of ASC-certified farmed seafood in France and positions Gloria Maris Côte d’Opale as a pioneer in the country’s aquaculture sector. “ASC congratulates Gloria Maris Côte d’Opale on this remarkable achievement,” said Maxime Engler, ASC France Market Development Manager. “As a pioneer, Gloria Maris Côte d’Opale is leading the way and demonstrating that a transparent and responsible French aquaculture sector can meet the highest environmental and social standards.” Operating since 1982, Gloria Maris Côte d’Opale has been farming seabass and seabream for more than four decades. The certification followed an independent audit conducted by a Conformity Assessment Body, which evaluated the farm’s performance across a range of environmental, operational and social criteria. The assessment included the monitoring and reduction of environmental impacts, management of aquaculture-related discharges, protection of surrounding ecosystems, responsible resource and animal health management, and working conditions. Bastien Riera, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Gloria Maris Group, said the certification recognised years of work by the company’s teams. “Achieving ASC certification is an important recognition of the work carried out by our teams over many years,” Riera said. “This certification reflects our commitment to contributing to the development of a responsible, transparent and demanding French aquaculture sector.” The milestone comes as aquaculture producers face growing pressure to demonstrate stronger environmental performance, responsible production practices and greater transparency across seafood supply chains. Certification is increasingly becoming a differentiator for producers seeking to respond to changing expectations from consumers, retailers and the wider food industry. For Gloria Maris Côte d’Opale, the ASC designation places the company at the forefront of this transition in France. More broadly, the certification offers a new benchmark for the country’s seabass and seabream farming sector, demonstrating how established producers can align long-standing aquaculture operations with increasingly rigorous environmental and social standards.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4533/sunoil-and-bft-pioneer-100-biodiesel-for-inland-shipping.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4533/sunoil-and-bft-pioneer-100-biodiesel-for-inland-shipping.html Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:20:33 +0530 The project demonstrates how existing vessels could transition towards lower-emission operations without waiting for entirely new fleets or propulsion systems to be developed. By adapting the Birjo II to run on B100, the partners have shown that conventional inland shipping assets can potentially be repurposed to operate on renewable fuel while retaining their existing engines. Owned by DK Shipping, the Birjo II is a large barge operating on Dutch inland waterways and plays a central role in Sunoil's own logistics chain. The vessel is primarily used to transport biodiesel from Sunoil's production facility in Kampen to storage locations and also carries out direct deliveries to customers. The conversion creates a particularly integrated model: the barge will transport renewable fuels while being powered by biodiesel itself. It can be fuelled directly at Sunoil's Kampen facility, connecting renewable fuel production, transport and end use within a single operational chain. According to the companies, switching the vessel from fossil fuel to B100 could reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90 per cent, while allowing the barge to continue normal operations without requiring the replacement of its existing engine. That practical advantage could prove important for the inland shipping sector, where replacing vessels or installing entirely new propulsion systems can require significant capital investment and operational downtime. The Birjo II project instead focuses on converting an existing vessel to use a renewable fuel that is already commercially produced and available. The companies describe Birjo II as one of the first barges in the world capable of operating fully on 100 per cent biodiesel. “What makes this project especially valuable for Sunoil is that Birjo II now operates on our own biodiesel while transporting renewable fuels between our locations and customers,” said Jeroen Hovius, chief commercial officer at Sunoil. The project also builds on a long-standing collaboration between Sunoil and BFT, with the two companies positioning the conversion as a potential platform for wider deployment. “Together with BFT, we are continuing a strong long-term collaboration focused on practical solutions that help make inland shipping more sustainable,” Hovius said. “At the same time, this project creates a platform for the conversion and rollout of multiple barges operating on B100 across Europe.” For the broader biofuels industry, the Birjo II conversion offers an example of how renewable fuels can be deployed beyond road transport. While electrification and alternative propulsion technologies continue to develop, the project highlights the potential role of drop-in or near-drop-in renewable fuels in reducing emissions from existing transport infrastructure. With the Birjo II now operating on B100 and directly integrated into Sunoil's renewable fuel supply chain, Sunoil and BFT are looking beyond a single vessel. The project could provide a model for converting additional barges across Europe, offering inland shipping operators a potentially scalable route to reduce emissions while continuing to use existing assets.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4530/computomics-raises-6-3-million-series-b-to-scale-climate-smart-crop-breeding-platform.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4530/computomics-raises-6-3-million-series-b-to-scale-climate-smart-crop-breeding-platform.html Mon, 24 Aug 2026 17:58:14 +0530 Computomics GmbH has raised €6.3 million in new equity in a Series B financing round led by Convent Capital Agri Food Fund, which invested €5 million, as the German agricultural technology company prepares to scale commercial delivery of its climate-smart crop breeding platform. Existing investors, including High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), MBG Baden-Württemberg and Amathaon Capital, also participated in the round, alongside Computomics’ founders and scientific advisers. The new capital will be used to expand the commercial delivery of Computomics’ technology, which uses machine learning to help crop breeders predict how different plant genotypes are likely to perform under specific environmental conditions. The company’s technology combines genomic information with environmental variables, including temperature, rainfall and soil conditions, as well as field measurements. The objective is to give breeders greater insight into how candidate varieties could perform under increasingly variable growing conditions before those varieties go through years of conventional field testing. The financing arrives as European agriculture faces mounting pressure from heat and drought. The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre has revised down its 2026 yield forecasts for spring and summer crops, with particularly significant reductions for maize and sunflower. France is also heading towards one of its weakest maize harvests in decades, highlighting the growing challenge for breeders seeking to develop varieties capable of maintaining performance under harsher environmental conditions. For Computomics, the changing climate is accelerating the need to modernise how crop varieties are selected. “Breeders have never lacked ambition about climate resilience. What they have lacked is a way to see it before the field tells them, which takes years they no longer have,” said Dr. Sebastian J. Schultheiss, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Computomics. “This financing is about getting that capability into far more breeding programs, faster,” Schultheiss added. Using AI to predict crop performance Computomics has developed machine learning models designed to predict the interaction between a plant’s genetics and its growing environment. Traditional breeding programmes can require extensive field trials across multiple locations and seasons to determine whether a candidate variety is sufficiently resilient and stable. Computomics aims to complement that process by allowing breeders to analyse genetic and environmental information computationally and identify promising candidates earlier. The company’s ×SeedScore platform runs these predictions at the scale of commercial breeding programmes. The technology can help breeders assess questions such as which candidates are likely to maintain performance under hotter and drier conditions, which varieties demonstrate consistent performance across multiple environments and where a particular variety may be best suited for cultivation. The approach is designed to help breeders move beyond simply identifying the highest-performing candidate in a single environment and instead understand how genetics interact with different environmental conditions. Computomics works with commercial breeders across field crops, forages, vegetables and specialty crops. Climate pressure raises urgency for breeders The Series B financing comes against a backdrop of increasing climate volatility across European agriculture. Higher temperatures, changing rainfall patterns and more frequent periods of drought are complicating the development of crop varieties that can perform consistently across different growing environments. The challenge is compounded by the time required to bring new varieties to market. Crop varieties currently entering commercial production were often developed using breeding programmes and environmental assumptions that reflect a different climate from the one farmers are increasingly experiencing. Computomics believes predictive breeding can help shorten the feedback loop between genetic selection and real-world performance. By incorporating environmental data into breeding decisions, the company aims to help breeders identify varieties with resilience traits before they are fully validated through multiple seasons of field trials. Convent Capital leads Series B Convent Capital Agri Food Fund led the financing with a €5 million investment, signalling investor confidence in the intersection of agricultural technology, artificial intelligence and climate resilience. Stephen McLoughlin, Partner at Convent Capital Agri Food Fund, said the company’s commercial model is closely linked to its potential environmental impact. “We back companies whose environmental impact grows with their commercial success,” McLoughlin said. “Better breeding predictions mean fewer wasted seasons and varieties that hold up in the field, so the impact case and the business case point the same way. That alignment is why we led this round,” he added. The participation of Computomics’ existing investors provides continuity as the company moves from technology development towards broader commercial deployment. Existing investors back next stage of growth High-Tech Gründerfonds, MBG Baden-Württemberg and Amathaon Capital participated in the Series B, alongside founders and scientific advisers. HTGF has backed Computomics since its seed stage and views AI-enabled breeding as an important technology for adapting agriculture to climate change. “AI-based breeding of stress-resistant crops is part of the German federal government's High-Tech Agenda for good reason: it is one of the levers that matter most as the climate shifts,” said Dr. Frank Hensel, Principal at High-Tech Gründerfonds. “HTGF has supported Computomics since the seed phase and congratulates the team on this growth financing,” Hensel added. The latest investment provides Computomics with additional capital to expand the reach of its technology among commercial breeding organisations and strengthen the company’s ability to translate complex genetic and environmental datasets into practical breeding decisions. From climate-smart breeding to commercial scale The Series B marks another step in Computomics’ effort to make data-driven breeding a more integral part of commercial crop development. The company is targeting a fundamental challenge for agriculture: developing crops that can maintain productivity as the environmental conditions under which they are grown become less predictable. Rather than replacing conventional field trials, Computomics’ platform is designed to give breeders additional information earlier in the selection process, potentially allowing them to focus costly testing and development resources on the most promising candidates. The company’s technology therefore sits at the intersection of AI, genomics, agricultural data and climate adaptation. With €6.3 million of new equity, Computomics now plans to expand commercial delivery of its platform and bring predictive breeding capabilities to more breeding programmes. The financing also benefits from support from the European Union under the InvestEU Fund, adding a European policy dimension to efforts to accelerate technologies that can strengthen agricultural resilience. As climate pressure intensifies across European farmland, the ability to predict which crop varieties can withstand heat, drought and changing environments could become an increasingly important competitive advantage for breeders—and a critical tool for farmers seeking more reliable yields. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4528/oceanloop-secures-up-to-38-5-million-to-scale-its-land-based-aquaculture-technology-and-europes-first-farmed-giant-grouper.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4528/oceanloop-secures-up-to-38-5-million-to-scale-its-land-based-aquaculture-technology-and-europes-first-farmed-giant-grouper.html Mon, 24 Aug 2026 17:42:49 +0530 German aquaculture technology company Oceanloop has secured up to €38.5 million in financing to scale its software-driven recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and expand commercial production of Giant Grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) in Europe. The financing marks a major transition for Oceanloop, which has spent more than a decade developing and operating land-based marine aquaculture systems. The company has now moved from biological and technical development into commercial production, becoming the first company to farm Giant Grouper in Europe. The funding combines new equity commitments from Hatch Blue’s Blue Revolution Fund and Stolt Ventures, the venture investment arm of Stolt-Nielsen, with a €32 million venture-debt facility from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The EIB financing is supported by the European Union’s InvestEU programme and is intended to support Oceanloop’s research, development and commercial expansion in Germany and Spain. The company’s existing land-based farm in Strande near Kiel began commercial sales in April 2026 through Oceanloop’s sister company, Honest Catch. The facility is expected to produce approximately 20 tonnes of Giant Grouper in 2026 and around 40 tonnes in 2027. The new capital will support the next phase of Oceanloop’s expansion. Construction of a new 250-tonne-per-year farm in Kiel is planned to begin by the end of 2026. The company is then planning a 2,000-tonne commercial facility on Gran Canaria, with construction currently scheduled to start in 2029. “This financing marks the beginning of Oceanloop’s industrial scale-up,” said Dr. Fabian Riedel, Founder and CEO of Oceanloop. “Together with Sander Aqua, we have spent more than a decade developing, operating and continuously improving land-based marine aquaculture systems.” “With Hatch Blue, Stolt Ventures and the European Investment Bank, we are bringing together specialist aquaculture investment expertise, decades of commercial seafood experience and long-term European growth financing. This gives us the foundation to scale Oceanloop from proven technology into an international aquaculture platform,” he added. From R&D to commercial production Oceanloop’s financing comes at a critical point in the company’s development as it seeks to demonstrate that land-based marine aquaculture can move beyond pilot and R&D facilities into repeatable commercial operations. The company’s existing site in Strande near Kiel has been used to develop and optimise its biological and technical systems. With commercial sales now underway, Oceanloop is using the site as a foundation for its larger-scale expansion. The planned 250-tonne Kiel farm will complement the existing R&D operation and is designed to become both a commercial production facility and a reference platform for Oceanloop’s wider technology rollout. The facility is expected to combine farming operations with applied research, biological optimisation, laboratory services, digital monitoring, software development and operator training. Oceanloop intends to use the facility to demonstrate its complete operating model under commercial conditions, covering the production cycle from juvenile stocking and biological management to harvesting, processing and product quality. Data generated at the Kiel site will be used to continuously improve future farm designs, feeding strategies, animal welfare, energy efficiency and overall production performance. The company expects this approach to help convert its more than 10 years of operational, biological and engineering experience into a repeatable model that can be deployed in other locations. Gran Canaria to become first industrial-scale platform Following the expansion in Kiel, Oceanloop plans to develop a 2,000-tonne annual production facility on Gran Canaria. Oceanloop already operates a local subsidiary on the island and is progressing project development, planning and site-related activities. The proposed facility is intended to become Oceanloop’s first industrial-scale production platform and a key reference project for the international deployment of its RAS technology. The Gran Canaria project is being designed as an integrated aquaculture platform covering hatchery operations, farming, processing, digital farm management and quality control. The location is also expected to offer several advantages for land-based aquaculture, including access to seawater, renewable-energy potential, aquaculture expertise and proximity to major European seafood markets. The company currently expects construction to begin in 2029. Giant Grouper becomes Oceanloop’s lead commercial species Oceanloop will initially focus the commercial rollout of its own farms on Giant Grouper, a species that the company considers particularly well suited to its land-based farming platform. Giant Grouper is one of the world’s largest grouper species and is highly valued in Asian premium seafood markets. It is known for its firm white flesh, delicate flavour and culinary versatility. Oceanloop believes these characteristics make the species attractive to professional kitchens, foodservice operators and premium seafood distributors. By producing Giant Grouper locally in Europe, the company aims to establish a new premium seafood category while offering European buyers an alternative to long-distance imports. The company’s focus on Giant Grouper is also intended to demonstrate the flexibility of its technology. Oceanloop’s RAS platform is designed to be modular, software-controlled and adaptable to different marine species, farm sizes and regional operating requirements. The company will continue its research and development activities in land-based shrimp farming. Oceanloop is already in discussions with potential international partners interested in deploying its technology for regional shrimp production. These discussions could result in licensing agreements, strategic partnerships and joint ventures in seafood markets that remain heavily dependent on imports. Oceanloop says its platform can support partners throughout the development process, from assessing species, market conditions, locations, water supply and energy availability to detailed engineering and construction supervision. Future operating teams could also be trained at the Kiel facility before Oceanloop specialists assist with system commissioning, stocking and biological stabilisation at new sites. “Our own European farms will initially focus on Giant Grouper, but the wider Oceanloop platform is designed for international replication across different species and markets,” said Dr. Bert Wecker, Founder and CTO of Oceanloop. “We see significant interest from partners that want to produce premium seafood closer to consumption without having to develop the required biology, engineering, software and operational expertise from the ground up,” Wecker said. Hatch Blue brings specialist aquaculture investment expertise The new financing brings Hatch Blue’s Blue Revolution Fund (BRF) into Oceanloop’s growth story. Hatch Blue is a global investment firm focused on aquaculture, combining investment with venture programmes and advisory activities across major aquaculture production markets. The Blue Revolution Fund is a €92 million fund focused on scaling sustainable innovation in aquaculture from Seed to Series A. For Oceanloop, Hatch Blue brings specialist knowledge of aquaculture, an international network and experience supporting technology-driven farming companies as they move from pilot operations towards commercial scale. Its expertise spans areas including biology, farm economics, seafood markets and international project development. “Oceanloop has demonstrated the quality of the product, the strength of the technology, and a clear market strategy, backed by a team that combines technical expertise, biological understanding and commercial savviness,” said Georg Baunach, Founder and CEO of Hatch Blue. Stolt Ventures adds decades of seafood experience Stolt Ventures, the venture investment arm of Stolt-Nielsen, is also participating in the financing. Stolt-Nielsen has longstanding interests in logistics, distribution and aquaculture. Through Stolt Sea Farm, the group has been involved in premium seafood farming since 1972. Stolt Sea Farm is a land-based aquaculture company and supplier of turbot and sole, with experience covering species development, hatchery operations, farming, processing, biosecurity, product quality, food safety and international seafood distribution. The company has also developed and operated recirculation systems for marine species. Oceanloop said Stolt Ventures brings more than financial capital to the partnership. Its connection to Stolt Sea Farm provides access to decades of practical experience in scaling premium marine aquaculture, developing species, operating facilities in different locations and establishing routes to market. “The combination of Stolt-Nielsen’s operational aquaculture experience and Oceanloop’s integrated RAS platform creates a strong strategic fit,” Riedel said. “Very few investors can combine long-term capital with first-hand knowledge of hatcheries, marine biology, farm operations, processing and international seafood markets,” he added. Axel de Mégille, Head of Stolt Ventures, said Oceanloop has developed a differentiated platform for the controlled production of premium marine species on land. “Its focus on biology, repeatable farm design and commercial operations strongly aligns with Stolt-Nielsen’s long-term experience in aquaculture and the development of high-quality seafood markets,” de Mégille said. EIB provides €32 million venture debt The European Investment Bank is supporting Oceanloop with a €32 million venture-debt facility. The facility was initially signed on October 7, 2024, and amended on July 20, 2026, to include Giant Grouper farming. The financing is intended to support Oceanloop’s growth in Germany, its expansion to Gran Canaria and continued development of its recirculating aquaculture technology. The EIB project commitment covers research, development and innovation activities in Germany, as well as the construction and operation of an RAS and processing unit for Grouper in the Canary Islands. EIB venture debt is designed to support innovative European growth companies by combining long-term financing with instruments linked to company performance. This allows companies to finance major growth programmes without relying exclusively on conventional equity capital. The Oceanloop facility is backed by InvestEU, the European Union programme designed to mobilise investment in sustainable infrastructure, innovation and strategic European industries. The EIB’s participation highlights the potential role of land-based aquaculture in strengthening European seafood supply, innovation and lower-impact protein production. “Land-based aquaculture can become an important additional pillar of European seafood supply,” Riedel said. “The EIB financing allows us to invest with a long-term perspective in our technology, infrastructure and biological capabilities that are difficult to finance through conventional start-up capital alone,” he added. Building a European platform for land-based seafood Oceanloop’s latest financing represents a shift from proving the feasibility of its technology to building a scalable commercial business. The company’s immediate priorities are the expansion of its Kiel operation, development of the planned Gran Canaria facility and continued optimisation of its software-driven RAS platform. While Giant Grouper will remain the initial focus of Oceanloop’s own European farms, the company intends to use the underlying technology across species and markets. Its longer-term strategy is to establish a platform that allows premium seafood to be produced closer to consumers while reducing dependence on long-distance supply chains. The combination of specialist aquaculture investors, commercial seafood expertise and European growth financing gives Oceanloop a new capital base from which to pursue that strategy. With commercial sales already underway in Germany and two larger facilities planned, the company is now entering the next stage of its ambition: turning more than a decade of marine biology, engineering and operational experience into a repeatable model for industrial-scale land-based aquaculture. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4479/eu-sunflower-output-poised-for-strong-recovery-as-2026-harvest-tops-9-5-mn-tonnes.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4479/eu-sunflower-output-poised-for-strong-recovery-as-2026-harvest-tops-9-5-mn-tonnes.html Mon, 17 Aug 2026 18:30:22 +0530 The European Union is on course for its largest sunflower seed harvest in three years, with the European Commission forecasting 2026 production at slightly more than 9.5 million tonnes as an expansion in planted area combines with improved yields. The forecast represents an increase of more than 9 per cent from 2025 and would give the EU its strongest sunflower harvest since 2023. The latest projection also broadly confirms the Commission's earlier April estimate, pointing to a significant recovery in European sunflower production after weaker harvests in recent years. The improvement is being driven by both acreage and productivity. EU sunflower cultivation is estimated to have expanded by around 5 per cent in 2026 to approximately 4.9 million hectares. Average yields are projected at about 19.5 decitonnes per hectare, up from 18.7 decitonnes per hectare in 2025 and well above the 17.4 decitonnes per hectare recorded in 2024. Romania is expected to retain its position as the EU's largest sunflower producer despite a reduction in planted area to approximately 1.1 million hectares. Improved yields are forecast to lift Romanian production slightly to around 2.2 million tonnes, compared with approximately 2.1 million tonnes a year earlier. Bulgaria is also strengthening its position in the European sunflower market. With production expected to approach 2.1 million tonnes, the country is projected to rank second among the EU's major sunflower producers in 2026. The country's strong harvest outlook highlights the continued importance of southeastern Europe to the bloc's oilseed supply. Germany is recording a particularly notable expansion in sunflower cultivation. According to research by Agrarmarkt Informations-Gesellschaft, German farmers have increased sunflower acreage for the second consecutive year, with the area reaching approximately 98,000 hectares. That would represent the country's largest sunflower cultivation area on record. The expansion in German sunflower acreage has its roots partly in the changes to cropping patterns that followed the outbreak of war in Eastern Europe in 2022. Farmers substantially increased sunflower cultivation at that time, and the crop has continued to gain ground as producers look to diversify rotations and introduce additional summer crops. Germany's 2026 sunflower harvest is expected to reach approximately 222,000 tonnes, an increase of around 79,000 tonnes from 2025. However, the country's yield outlook remains constrained by weather conditions, with heat stress and water shortages weighing on the productivity potential of oilseed crops. The Union zur Förderung von Oel- und Proteinpflanzen has pointed to crop-rotation diversification as an important factor behind the continued expansion of sunflower cultivation in Germany. The crop offers farmers another summer-grown option within rotations and has consequently attracted greater interest in recent seasons. France presents a contrasting picture. While the European Commission expects French sunflower production to reach nearly 1.5 million tonnes, around 60,000 tonnes above the 2025 harvest, the increase is largely attributable to a substantial expansion in planted area rather than stronger yields. French sunflower acreage is estimated to have risen by approximately 11 per cent in 2026. However, persistent drought and repeated heat waves during the summer have adversely affected crop development and yield potential. As a result, the larger cultivated area is expected to compensate for only part of the decline in productivity. The contrasting performances across major producing countries highlight the growing influence of weather conditions on Europe's oilseed production. While improved yields in parts of the EU are supporting a larger overall harvest, drought and heat remain significant risks in several key production regions. Nevertheless, the projected EU harvest of more than 9.5 million tonnes marks a significant improvement for the bloc's sunflower sector. The combination of higher acreage and a return to yields above the long-term average is expected to strengthen the region's domestic sunflower seed supply and reinforce the crop's role within Europe's wider oilseed market. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4456/eu-harvest-set-to-fall-below-10-million-tonnes-interpoma-takes-stock-of-the-industrys-challenges-.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4456/eu-harvest-set-to-fall-below-10-million-tonnes-interpoma-takes-stock-of-the-industrys-challenges-.html Wed, 12 Aug 2026 22:51:53 +0530 The 2026 season is set to be one of the leanest apple harvests in the European Union for years, with fruit volumes falling below 10 million tonnes. This is according to forecasts from WAPA – the World Apple and Pear Association – presented on 6 August at the Prognosfruit conference,  which counts Interpoma among its event partners.  The international trade fair dedicated to the apple industry, taking place from 25 to 27 November at Fiera Bolzano, will therefore arrive in the midst of a season heavily affected by extreme weather events – including spring frosts, heatwaves, drought and hailstorms – alongside new phytosanitary threats. Against this backdrop, which will leave growers facing the challenge of ensuring product availability in years to come, Interpoma will place particular emphasis on the latest developments in spraying technology.  The European harvest: what to expect  Looking in detail at the data released at Prognosfruit, EU production for 2026 is estimated at 9.5 million tonnes, the lowest figure recorded in the past nine years, down 16 per cent on the previous season and 14% below the three-year average.  Poland, particularly hard-hit by frost, will see one of the most significant declines, with production of 2.7 million tonnes (-30 per cent). France will register a 24 per cent drop to around 1.2 million tonnes, a decline driven mainly by aphids and pathogens. Germany is down, at 1 million tonnes (-11 per cent), along with Belgium (-25% per cent) and the Netherlands (-17 per cent). Italy has held up comparatively well, with 2.3 million tonnes marking a 2 per cent fall. Spain, by contrast, is up 8 per cent, while Greece is approaching 300,000 tonnes with a 53 per cent increase.  By variety, the sharpest declines in 2026 are seen in Golden Delicious and Gala, down 11 per cent and 9 per cent respectively. Red Delicious (-5 per cent) and Granny Smith (-4 per cent) are also down, while Fuji is holding steady (+1 per cent) and new varieties are up 9 per cent, approaching 700,000 tonnes. On quality, WAPA's forecasts point to slightly smaller fruit sizes than last year and an earlier harvest in many countries.  While the 2026/2027 season points to a relatively stable outlook for growers commercially, the main challenge in the years ahead will be sustaining harvest quantity and quality through new technologies and innovative tools.  Spraying technology takes centre stage  Innovation will indeed be a key theme at Interpoma 2026, which will focus on digitalisation as applied to spraying technology – central to turning orchard protection into a driver of strategic efficiency and competitiveness.  "New Approaches in Spraying Technology: Efficiency meets sustainability" is the Day 1 headline of the Interpoma Congress, taking place on Thursday, 26 November. During the day, experts from the scientific and technology worlds will explore solutions to improve treatment precision, optimise product use, reduce off-target losses and guide the orchard towards more efficient and sustainable production models.  But the topic extends well beyond the Congress. As the true common thread of this edition, spraying technology will also take centre stage at the Interpoma Award and in the exhibition area at the FieraMesse H1 Eventspace, which will host the "Orchard of the Future".  Equally interesting for analysing industry  developments will be the second day of the international Congress, on Friday, 27 November. "Regional Opportunities and Global Challenges: Latin America in Focus" will provide an internationally strategic  perspective on rapidly evolving apple-producing regions in Latin America, including Brazil, Chile and Mexico.  The story continues in ipoma magazine  The first content from the 2026 edition of ipoma magazine, coordinated by expert and consultant Gerhard Dichgans, is already available online, with new in-depth features to be published in the coming days. In an exclusively digital format, continuing the evolution launched in 2024, the fourth issue of ipoma will offer ongoing insights into trends, the future of the sector and the key players shaping the apple industry worldwide.   The 14th edition of Interpoma will take place from 25 to 27 November 2026 at Fiera Bolzano.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4432/insectbiotech-raises-7-2-mn-to-scale-black-soldier-fly-technology-for-agricultural-waste-conversion.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4432/insectbiotech-raises-7-2-mn-to-scale-black-soldier-fly-technology-for-agricultural-waste-conversion.html Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:06:31 +0530 Spanish biotechnology startup InsectBiotech has secured €7.2 million in fresh funding to accelerate the commercialization of its insect biotechnology platform that converts agricultural waste into sustainable proteins, oils and regenerative soil products, marking another milestone in Europe's fast-growing circular bioeconomy. The investment round was led by Arcano Partners' Asset Management division, which committed €3.8 million through the Impacto Andalucía Innovación y Desarrollo SICC fund. A consortium of U.S. investors contributed the remaining €3.4 million, providing the capital needed to expand the company's research pipeline and industrial-scale production capabilities. The funding comes as Europe intensifies efforts to reduce agricultural waste, strengthen domestic protein production and promote regenerative farming practices. InsectBiotech's proprietary platform utilizes Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae to biologically convert agricultural residues—including olive pomace (alperujo)—into high-value proteins and oils for animal nutrition, alongside bio-based products designed to improve soil health. Having spent several years validating its technology through research collaborations, pilot production and commercial testing, the Seville-based company is now preparing to move into the next phase of industrial deployment. A significant portion of the investment will finance the construction of a new processing facility in Andalusia capable of handling 7,500 tonnes of agricultural waste annually. Strategically located close to major olive-growing regions, the plant will transform waste streams generated by olive mills and agricultural operations into commercially valuable products while supporting rural employment and local supply chains. The technology underpinning the company was developed through years of research in collaboration with the University of Granada, resulting in a patented insect bioconversion process that positions InsectBiotech within Europe's emerging sustainable protein sector. The investment also reflects growing institutional support for innovation-led companies in southern Spain. Arcano manages the €55 million Impacto Andalucía Innovación y Desarrollo SICC fund, primarily financed through the Andalusia ERDF 2021–2027 Programme and the Regional Government of Andalusia. The initiative forms part of a broader financial instrument established by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to stimulate research, innovation and digitalization across the region. "The support of key investors such as Arcano Partners will allow us to scale both our research and production capabilities," said Ignacio Gavilán, CEO and Co-founder of InsectBiotech. "We aim to achieve meaningful production volumes, reduce Spain's and the European Union's dependence on imported proteins, and foster regenerative agricultural models." Arcano said the investment aligns with its strategy of deploying public capital alongside private investment to accelerate innovative businesses capable of delivering both commercial returns and measurable environmental impact. The funding highlights increasing investor confidence in insect biotechnology as governments and industries seek scalable alternatives to conventional feed ingredients while addressing agricultural waste management and resource efficiency. As Europe pursues circular economy goals and greater food system resilience, companies capable of transforming agricultural by-products into value-added biological products are attracting growing strategic interest. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4417/eu-extends-approval-periods-for-21-crop-protection-active-substances-as-regulatory-reviews-continue.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4417/eu-extends-approval-periods-for-21-crop-protection-active-substances-as-regulatory-reviews-continue.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:08:33 +0530 The European Union has extended the approval periods of 21 active substances used in crop protection products, giving agrochemical companies and farmers additional regulatory certainty as scientific reviews of these molecules remain underway. The extension, adopted through a new European Commission implementing regulation, does not represent a fresh approval of the products. Instead, it prevents existing authorisations from expiring while regulators complete their ongoing assessments under the EU's rigorous pesticide renewal framework. The measure took effect on August 1, 2026, ensuring uninterrupted availability of several widely used fungicides, herbicides, insecticides and plant growth regulators across the European market. The decision reflects a recurring challenge within the European Union's pesticide regulatory system. Active substances are approved only for fixed periods and must undergo comprehensive scientific reviews before their approvals can be renewed. However, the evaluation process—which involves assessments by member states, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission—often takes longer than the original approval period. Rather than forcing products off the market because of administrative timelines, the Commission can temporarily extend their approvals until the scientific reviews are completed. Among the substances receiving extended approval are several products that play important roles in European agriculture. Fungicides such as pyraclostrobin, cyprodinil, fludioxonil, fosetyl and penconazole remain essential tools for managing fungal diseases in cereals, fruits, vegetables and vineyards. Insecticides including pirimicarb and formetanate continue to be widely used against aphids and other sucking pests, while herbicides such as clomazone, dichlorprop-P and phenmedipham support weed management in a range of crops. The revised validity dates vary by active substance, reflecting the progress of individual renewal assessments. While the approval for pyraclostrobin has been extended until December 2026, other molecules have received significantly longer extensions. Penconazole, for example, will remain approved until February 2029, while substances including fosetyl and beflubutamid have been extended into 2028. For pesticide manufacturers, the decision removes the immediate uncertainty surrounding products approaching regulatory deadlines. Companies can continue manufacturing, marketing and supplying formulations containing these active ingredients while the European review process proceeds. The extensions are particularly significant because many of the affected molecules are well-established products with broad commercial use across the EU's fruit, vegetable, cereal and horticultural sectors. An interruption in approvals could have disrupted crop protection programmes, affected seasonal input planning and forced growers to switch to alternative products with little notice. For farmers, the decision provides continuity during upcoming growing seasons. Growers relying on these active substances for disease, weed or pest management will not have to alter their crop protection strategies solely because of pending regulatory reviews. However, the extensions should not be interpreted as permanent endorsements of the products. Each active substance must still complete the full scientific renewal process, and the final outcome could include renewal, restrictions on use or, in some cases, non-renewal depending on the evidence reviewed by regulators. The move also highlights the increasingly demanding nature of pesticide regulation in Europe. Under Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009, every active substance is reassessed against updated scientific standards covering human health, environmental safety, biodiversity, groundwater protection and potential risks to non-target organisms. As scientific requirements become more extensive and datasets grow larger, regulatory evaluations have become more time-consuming, making temporary approval extensions a more common feature of the EU's regulatory system. For the crop protection industry, the decision offers breathing space but not long-term certainty. Companies continue to invest heavily in new active ingredients, biological products and lower-risk technologies as regulatory expectations become more stringent. At the same time, manufacturers must continue generating additional scientific data to support renewal applications for established chemistries. The latest extensions therefore illustrate the balancing act facing European regulators. On one hand, authorities are under pressure to maintain one of the world's most rigorous pesticide approval systems. On the other, they must ensure that essential crop protection tools remain available until science-based assessments are completed, avoiding unnecessary disruption to agricultural production and food supply chains.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4406/micropep-expands-global-push-for-peptide-based-crop-protection-with-u-s-and-eu-regulatory-filings-for-promisin.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4406/micropep-expands-global-push-for-peptide-based-crop-protection-with-u-s-and-eu-regulatory-filings-for-promisin.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:15:25 +0530 Agricultural biotechnology company Micropep Technologies has submitted regulatory dossiers for its flagship peptide-based biofungicide Promisin in the United States and the European Union, marking a major step toward commercializing a new class of sustainable crop protection products. The latest submissions extend Micropep's regulatory reach beyond earlier filings in Brazil and Paraguay, positioning the company across three of the world's most influential agricultural regions as it seeks global approval for its lead crop protection technology. While regulatory applications in Latin America focus on soybean diseases, the U.S. and EU submissions target fungal diseases affecting grapevine and potato, reflecting the product's expanding application across both broad-acre and high-value crops. Promisin is the first commercial candidate developed through Micropep's proprietary Krisalix discovery platform, which uses peptide-based technologies to create next-generation biological crop protection products. The company says the biofungicide combines a novel peptide-based mode of action with commercial-scale performance and production economics suitable for widespread agricultural adoption. The regulatory milestone follows more than three years of product development and over 200 field trials conducted across North America, Europe and Latin America. According to the company, Promisin has consistently demonstrated strong control of major fungal diseases while remaining compatible with existing crop protection programs. "The completion of our U.S. and EU regulatory submissions represents a defining milestone for Micropep and validates years of scientific innovation and field development of Promisin," said Dr. Kevin Leiner, Chief Regulatory Officer at Micropep. He added that the company looks forward to working with regulatory authorities as it advances the review process and prepares to introduce its first peptide-based biofungicide to growers seeking innovative and sustainable disease management solutions. Micropep has positioned Promisin as a response to several structural challenges facing global agriculture, including rising fungicide resistance, evolving regulatory standards and increasing demand for environmentally responsible crop protection technologies. Among its key features, the company highlights broad-spectrum activity against fungal pathogens, a novel peptide-based mode of action, compatibility with resistance management programs, suitability for tank-mixing and rotational use, a favorable environmental and safety profile with no residue concerns, and production economics designed for large-scale commercial agriculture. Beyond Promisin, Micropep is continuing to expand its innovation pipeline through the Krisalix platform, with peptide candidates under development targeting fungal diseases, insect pests and invasive weeds. "Promisin shows that peptide-based solutions can deliver the performance, scalability, and economics required for broad agricultural adoption, opening the door to a new generation of products for growers worldwide," said Georg Goeres, Chief Executive Officer of Micropep. The regulatory submissions reinforce the growing momentum behind peptide-based biologicals as the crop protection industry accelerates investment in sustainable technologies capable of complementing or replacing conventional chemical pesticides. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4403/limagrain-secures-global-genome-editing-license-from-qi-biodesign-to-accelerate-next-generation-crop-breeding.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4403/limagrain-secures-global-genome-editing-license-from-qi-biodesign-to-accelerate-next-generation-crop-breeding.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 14:17:24 +0530 French seed company Limagrain has signed a worldwide licensing agreement with Chinese genome-editing specialist Qi Biodesign to access a portfolio of advanced genome-editing technologies, strengthening its efforts to develop the next generation of field and vegetable crop varieties. The agreement marks a strategic step in Limagrain's long-term innovation roadmap as the company expands beyond conventional breeding into advanced genomic technologies capable of delivering crops with improved productivity, resilience and sustainability. Under the partnership, Limagrain will gain immediate access to Qi Biodesign's proprietary portfolio of genome-editing tools, including a novel CRISPR nuclease designed to complement first-generation genome-editing systems. The agreement also establishes a framework through which Limagrain can leverage future innovations emerging from Qi Biodesign's research pipeline. Rather than relying on a single editing platform, the collaboration enables Limagrain to diversify its genome-editing capabilities, providing researchers with multiple tools tailored to different crops, traits and breeding objectives. The partnership comes as genome editing gains momentum as one of the most transformative technologies in modern plant breeding. While conventional CRISPR systems have already demonstrated their value, breeders are increasingly seeking specialized editing platforms to tackle more complex genetic improvements involving disease resistance, climate resilience, resource-use efficiency and crop quality. The timing is also significant for the European seed industry. The agreement coincides with ongoing efforts by the European Union to modernize regulations governing New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), a policy shift expected to expand opportunities for the commercial development of genome-edited crop varieties across the region. By combining its elite germplasm and breeding expertise with Qi Biodesign's genome-editing technologies, Limagrain aims to accelerate the development of improved crop varieties capable of helping farmers respond to climate change, evolving pest and disease pressures, resource constraints and increasing sustainability requirements. Beyond access to technology, the collaboration also reflects the growing convergence between global seed companies and biotechnology innovators as advanced breeding increasingly depends on partnerships that combine genetics, molecular biology and precision genome engineering. "The future of plant breeding will be driven by scientific excellence, technological diversity and strategic partnerships," said Sébastien Chauffaut, Chief Executive Officer of Limagrain and Chairman of the Scientific Committee. He said the agreement broadens Limagrain's access to complementary breeding technologies while strengthening its ability to develop improved crop varieties that address some of agriculture's most pressing global challenges. Kevin Zhao, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Qi Biodesign, said the partnership represents an important milestone in expanding the application of the company's proprietary genome-editing technologies across global crop breeding programs. He added that combining Qi Biodesign's scientific innovations with Limagrain's expertise in crop genetics, breeding and international seed markets would accelerate the delivery of improved crop varieties supporting sustainable agriculture worldwide. The collaboration further strengthens Limagrain's position among leading global seed companies investing in next-generation breeding technologies while reinforcing Qi Biodesign's growing role as a provider of advanced genome-editing platforms for international agricultural research and commercial crop development. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4381/mars-expands-shubh-mint-programme-into-european-supply-chain-to-strengthen-sustainable-menthol-sourcing.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4381/mars-expands-shubh-mint-programme-into-european-supply-chain-to-strengthen-sustainable-menthol-sourcing.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:06:00 +0530 ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/interviews/19/4373/why-el-nio-is-forcing-cotton-farming-to-rethink-productivity.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/interviews/19/4373/why-el-nio-is-forcing-cotton-farming-to-rethink-productivity.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 14:33:19 +0530 For decades, cotton farming has measured success in tonnes harvested and yields achieved. But as climate extremes become more frequent, that definition is beginning to change. In this exclusive conversation with AgroSpectrum, Alison Ward, CEO of CottonConnect, explains why El Niño is more than a weather event—it is exposing structural weaknesses in conventional cotton production, from degraded soils and rising input costs to fragile supply chains. She makes a compelling case that resilience, not just productivity, will determine the future competitiveness of the cotton sector. Backed by evidence from CottonConnect's work with farmers, Alison discusses how regenerative practices are improving profitability while reducing dependence on synthetic inputs and scarce natural resources. She also highlights the growing role of brands, traceability and long-term partnerships in building climate-ready cotton value chains. At a time when agriculture is being forced to adapt faster than ever before, this interview offers an important perspective on what it will take to grow cotton sustainably in an increasingly unpredictable world. The Stress Test for Modern Cotton Farming El Niño events often expose vulnerabilities that remain hidden during normal growing seasons. Why do periods of extreme heat and erratic rainfall tend to reveal the limitations of input-heavy cotton production systems more sharply than other climatic events? El Niño acts as a stress test because it combines multiple pressures at once, extreme heat, delayed rainfall, and sudden shifts in growing conditions. Cotton systems that rely heavily on external inputs such as irrigation, fertilisers, and pesticides are typically designed around stable, predictable environments. When those conditions change, their effectiveness becomes less reliable. Over time, the intensive use of chemical inputs can weaken soil biology. That matters because climate resilience is also about whether the farming system itself is strong enough to cope when weather patterns become more volatile. When heavy rainfall follows dry periods, for example, soils with poor structure are more vulnerable to erosion and runoff. El Niño does not create entirely new risks, but it makes existing weaknesses much more visible. This is why we have worked with local partners in regions affected by El Niño to run education sessions for farmers on preventative measures and share government technical advisories with them.  When More Inputs Deliver Diminishing Returns Many cotton-growing regions have responded to climate uncertainty by increasing applications of fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation. At what point does this strategy become a form of risk amplification rather than risk management, particularly under El Niño conditions? In many cotton-producing regions, increasing inputs has been seen as a way to manage uncertainty. However, under conditions of extreme heat and water stress, the efficiency of those inputs declines. Fertilisers are less effectively absorbed, pest dynamics become harder to predict, and irrigation becomes both more costly and less reliable. At a certain point, this dynamic shifts from risk management to risk amplification. Farmers are investing more in inputs while outcomes become increasingly unpredictable. This raises the cost base without guaranteeing returns. Evidence from CottonConnect’s programmes shows that reducing reliance on synthetic inputs, through approaches such as improved soil management and biological alternatives, can lower input costs while maintaining or improving yields, leading to stronger overall profitability. Farmers in these programmes have seen a 15.4 per cent reduction in input costs alongside a 7.5 per cent increase in yields, contributing to a near 35 per cent increase in profitability. This suggests that resilience is not necessarily about increasing inputs, but about improving how the system functions. The Water-Energy-Fertilizer Nexus Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells frequently coincide with rising irrigation costs and reduced nutrient-use efficiency. How does El Niño challenge the economic logic of production systems that are heavily dependent on external inputs? El Niño intensifies the interdependence between water, energy, and fertiliser use. Delayed rainfall increases reliance on irrigation, which in turn raises energy costs for pumping water. In some areas, delayed monsoons can also contribute to the depletion of underground water tables altogether, making it even harder for farmers to access water for irrigation. At the same time, dry soil conditions reduce nutrient-use efficiency, so fertilisers are less effectively absorbed. Farmers are therefore exposed to rising costs across multiple inputs, while productivity becomes less predictable. Cotton systems in some regions are already highly dependent on irrigation, particularly in areas with low rainfall, where production cannot take place without it. El Niño intensifies this dependency and exposes its economic vulnerability. This is where approaches that reduce synthetic fertiliser use, improve soil health and promote more efficient irrigation practices can help lower water consumption and reduce overall input dependency, improving the economics of production and increasing farmer profitability. CottonConnect’s 2025 Impact Report shows that the REEL Programme recorded reduced input costs, reduced chemical fertiliser and pesticide use, and increased farmer profit compared with control farmers, supporting the case for shifting from input intensity to more resource-efficient farming systems. Resilience Versus Productivity For decades, cotton innovation has largely focused on maximizing yields. Has the industry underestimated resilience as a breeding and management objective, and are El Niño years forcing a rethink of what agricultural success should actually look like? Historically, cotton production has prioritised yield maximisation, often under the assumption of relatively stable growing conditions. This has been shaped by the need to meet rising global demand and ensure consistent supply. El Niño, however, exposes the limits of measuring success through yield alone. Success cannot be simply about meeting demand today, but ensuring cotton can continue to be produced reliably in the years to come. As climate volatility increases, that requires a broader view of agricultural success, one that values resilience alongside productivity. Through CottonConnect's programmes, we encourage farmers to view farming as a holistic business, helping them to consider profitability, risk management and the long-term health of their farms. With our support, many farmers are adopting regenerative practices such as intercropping, biodiversity enhancement and Integrated Pest Management. These approaches help improve productivity, lower input costs, diversify income streams and enable farmers to adapt to a changing climate. Brands also have an important role to play. Building resilience takes time, and farmers are more likely to invest in long-term improvements when they know they have sustained support. By investing in farmer training, water management, farm infrastructure and other resilience-building interventions, brands can help strengthen farming communities while securing a more stable and sustainable cotton supply for the future. Traceability and due diligence systems are equally important, providing the visibility and assurance needed to support long-term sourcing relationships. Soil Health as Climate Infrastructure Many agronomists argue that healthy soils function as a form of natural climate insurance by improving water retention and nutrient cycling. To what extent do El Niño episodes highlight the consequences of neglecting soil biology in favour of input-driven productivity models? Healthy soils play a critical role in buffering crops against climate variability. They improve water retention, support nutrient cycling, and maintain structure during heavy rainfall. Where soils have been degraded, often through overuse of synthetic inputs and limited organic matter, this buffering capacity is reduced. Crops become more vulnerable to both drought and flooding, both of which occur as a result of El Niño, and inputs become less effective. Regenerative agriculture can play an important role in reducing reliance on synthetic inputs and supporting long-term soil stewardship. In 2024-25, CottonConnect's programmes have seen a 127.3 per cent increase in the use of natural pesticides and a 107.6 per cent increase in the use of natural fertilisers, alongside a 15.2 per cent reduction in chemical pesticide use and an 11.8 per cent reduction in chemical fertiliser use. Whilst El Niño holds a magnifying glass up to some of these issues around soil health, it is a conversation that is, and must continue to be, much more widely had in order to scale up regenerative farming practices in all regions and across all industries that rely on agriculture. Rethinking Risk in Cotton Economics When rainfall becomes unpredictable and heat stress intensifies, farmers often face rising input costs alongside declining returns. Does El Niño expose a deeper flaw in how agricultural risk is currently assessed and managed within cotton value chains? El Niño exposes a deeper issue in how risk is assessed within cotton value chains. Traditional approaches have often assumed a relatively predictable relationship between inputs and outputs: if farmers invest more in fertilisers, pesticides and irrigation, they should achieve higher yields and stronger returns. As climate volatility increases, that relationship becomes far less certain. Farmers can face rising costs at the same time as yields become more variable, making it harder to predict whether those investments will pay off. This challenge is compounded by the fact that input costs are rising faster than cotton prices in many markets, placing increasing pressure on profitability. As a result, agricultural risk management must account for both climate volatility and economic pressures, with a greater focus on building farming systems that can withstand both. Ultimately, El Niño highlights a structural imbalance within cotton value chains. Farmers often absorb the immediate impacts of climate and market volatility, while the wider value chain depends on a stable supply of cotton. Responding effectively requires a broader view of risk, extending beyond production to the people and communities that underpin cotton supply chains.At CottonConnect, we take a systematic approach to identifying and addressing these risks through risk mapping, Human Rights Due Diligence interventions, stakeholder engagement, training and a 24/7 grievance mechanism. Building resilience starts with supporting the farmers, workers and partnerships that sustain cotton production over the long term. The Future of Regenerative and Climate-Smart Cotton There is growing interest in regenerative agriculture, biological inputs and diversified farming systems. Are these approaches proving more resilient during El Niño years, or is the evidence still insufficient to justify a large-scale transition away from conventional input-intensive models? Approaches that enhance soil health, reduce synthetic inputs, and improve water management are showing measurable benefits, including reduced input costs, improved yield performance and greater profitability for farmers. CottonConnect's 2024 Life Cycle Assessment also found significant environmental benefits associated with practices such as improved irrigation and reduced fertiliser use. Compared with conventional production, the REEL Cotton Programme demonstrated a 35.4 per cent saving potential in greenhouse gas emissions, a 44 per cent reduction in eutrophication, a 42 per cent reduction in ecotoxicity, and around 35 per cent lower water use per kilogram of fibre. That said, evidence on performance under extreme weather events such as El Niño is still developing, and outcomes can vary by location. So, the case is not for an overnight replacement of existing systems, but for a managed transition towards lower-risk, more resource-efficient production models that can better support farmers and supply chains in a changing climate. Beyond Adaptation: Designing the Cotton System of the Future If climate variability becomes the new normal rather than an occasional disruption, what fundamental changes will be required in cotton production systems, supply chains and agricultural policy to ensure long-term viability in an increasingly volatile climate? As climate variability becomes more persistent, the cotton sector will need to move beyond short-term adaptation and focus on structural change across farming systems and supply chains. At farm level, this means strengthening the natural resilience of production systems. In practice, this includes improving soil organic content through composting and bio-based inputs, adopting intercropping, mulching and reduced tillage techniques, and supporting farmers with continuous training, demonstrations and practical advisory tools. But farm-level change cannot happen in isolation. Farmers need access to knowledge, technical support, markets, finance, local institutions and enabling policy if these practices are to be adopted at scale. This is why partnerships matter: they help connect individual farm practice with the wider systems that shape whether farmers can actually make and sustain change. CottonConnect works with a strong network of local NGO partners with grassroots reach, as well as agricultural science centres, the International Cotton Advisory Committee, Bangladesh’s Cotton Development Board, the Sustainable Agriculture Network, the Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council and local government departments. These partnerships support practical interventions such as soil and water conservation, tree plantation and access to government schemes. That makes resilience bigger than any one farm, because it links farmer training with local expertise, public support and supply chain demand. Traceability will also play a critical role. CottonConnect has achieved 100 per cent traceability for REEL Cotton through TraceBale, while the REEL Cotton and REEL Regenerative Codes have evolved into sustainability standards with producer group certification. This visibility and standardisation helps verify how cotton is produced and whether sustainability efforts are translating into real-world outcomes, supporting the wider transition to more resilient and sustainable cotton supply chains.  -- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4370/potato-juice-becomes-climate-solution-as-europe-scales-up-circular-biorefinery-innovation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4370/potato-juice-becomes-climate-solution-as-europe-scales-up-circular-biorefinery-innovation.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 16:41:59 +0530 Europe has taken a major step towards advancing circular chemistry and sustainable industrial production with the launch of PACE (Potato Juice to Fatty Acids for New Bio-based Value-Chains in Europe), a flagship biorefinery initiative designed to convert potato processing by-products into valuable bio-based chemical building blocks. The project will demonstrate Europe’s first full-scale retrofitted biorefinery by upgrading part of an existing production facility operated by Royal Avebe, transforming an underutilised potato juice side-stream into sustainable medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) through advanced fermentation and microbial chain elongation technologies. By converting an industrial by-product into high-value materials, PACE aims to demonstrate how circular solutions can be integrated into existing manufacturing systems while reducing dependence on fossil-based and palm oil-derived chemicals. The initiative represents a significant milestone for Europe’s bioeconomy ambitions, showing how locally available agricultural side-streams can support new value chains, improve resource efficiency and create commercially viable alternatives for the chemical industry. Turning Potato Processing Side-Streams into Industrial Solutions Potato processing generates significant quantities of side-stream materials that traditionally have limited value. Through PACE, potato juice will be upgraded into bio-based MCFAs — versatile chemical intermediates with applications across multiple industrial sectors. The project combines advanced fermentation processes with microbial chain elongation technology to create sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical feedstocks. Rather than developing new infrastructure from the ground up, PACE takes a more efficient approach by retrofitting existing industrial facilities. This model demonstrates how established production assets can be adapted to support the transition towards a circular and low-carbon economy. Strengthening Europe’s Circular Chemical Value Chains The launch of PACE comes as European industries seek innovative pathways to reduce reliance on fossil resources and develop more resilient supply chains. By using agricultural side-streams generated within Europe, the project supports the creation of regional bio-based value chains while reducing dependence on imported raw materials. Niels van Stralen, PACE project coordinator, said the initiative demonstrates how circular chemistry can be integrated into existing industrial systems at meaningful scale. According to van Stralen, upgrading existing infrastructure and utilising locally available resources proves that sustainable chemical production can be achieved without completely rebuilding industrial ecosystems. PACE highlights how Europe can strengthen its chemical sector by combining innovation, circular resource management and industrial collaboration. Industrial Demonstration to Accelerate Commercial Adoption Following the launch, the PACE consortium will focus on implementing the first stages of the biorefinery development and optimising the medium-chain fatty acid production process. Project partners will also advance testing and validation of bio-based MCFAs for targeted industrial applications, helping identify future commercial opportunities. Alongside technical development, the consortium will conduct detailed assessments covering sustainability performance, circularity benefits and market potential. These evaluations will support future replication of similar biorefinery models across Europe. The project aims not only to demonstrate technological feasibility but also to establish a pathway for wider industrial adoption of circular bio-based solutions. Collaboration Drives the Future of Bio-Based Industry PACE brings together stakeholders from across the value chain, creating a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange, innovation and commercial development. Engagement with industry partners, researchers and other stakeholders will remain a central component throughout the project, helping ensure that the technology aligns with real-world market requirements. The initiative reflects a broader transformation taking place across Europe’s industrial landscape, where agriculture, biotechnology and chemical manufacturing are increasingly converging to create sustainable alternatives. A New Model for Europe’s Bioeconomy The development of the PACE biorefinery demonstrates the growing potential of agricultural side-streams as sources of high-value materials. As industries face increasing pressure to reduce emissions, improve resource efficiency and replace fossil-based inputs, circular biorefineries are emerging as a critical pathway towards sustainable production. By converting potato juice into valuable bio-based fatty acids, PACE showcases how food industry by-products can become strategic resources for future chemical value chains. The project represents a significant advancement in Europe’s ambition to build a more sustainable, competitive and resilient bioeconomy — one where waste streams are transformed into opportunities for innovation and industrial growth. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4347/eu-rapeseed-imports-fall-as-stronger-harvest-curbs-demand-australia-retains-top-supplier-position.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4347/eu-rapeseed-imports-fall-as-stronger-harvest-curbs-demand-australia-retains-top-supplier-position.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 09:12:52 +0530 The European Union's rapeseed imports from non-EU countries declined sharply during the 2025/26 marketing season as a stronger domestic harvest reduced import demand, although Australia retained its position as the bloc's largest external supplier. According to European Commission data, the EU-27 imported 5.4 million tonnes of rapeseed from non-EU countries during the 2025/26 season, down significantly from 7.5 million tonnes in the previous marketing year. The decline reflects improved domestic production, reducing the need for overseas supplies. The Union zur Förderung von Oel- und Proteinpflanzen (UFOP) said it expects another strong EU rapeseed harvest in 2026 despite extreme weather conditions experienced across parts of Europe in recent weeks. The association noted that feedstock demand continues to be shaped by national quota obligations under the implementation of the Renewable Energy Directive III (RED III), a development expected to favour European rapeseed producers. Australia remained the EU's leading overseas supplier despite a substantial decline in shipments. Imports from Australia fell approximately 41 per cent year on year to 2.1 million tonnes, while deliveries from Ukraine, the bloc's second-largest supplier, declined by around 34 per cent to 1.6 million tonnes. Imports from Canada also weakened during the season, falling to 870,000 tonnes from 1.1 million tonnes a year earlier. Because Canadian rapeseed production largely relies on genetically modified varieties, rapeseed oil derived from Canadian imports faces restrictions for certain food applications within the European Union and is used predominantly in biofuel production. Despite the decline in imports, the EU continues to rely on external supplies to meet overall demand. In response, UFOP has urged European farmers to maximise opportunities for sustainable rapeseed cultivation when planning crop rotations for the 2027 harvest, highlighting the crop's growing importance within Europe's renewable energy and food production sectors. The association also pointed to revised NUTS 2 default greenhouse gas emission saving values, noting that rapeseed used for biofuel production now demonstrates improved emissions performance. According to UFOP, rapeseed cultivated on Germany's mineral soils delivers the strongest greenhouse gas savings within the EU, creating a competitive advantage that should be reflected in future sourcing and marketing strategies. The latest trade figures underscore how stronger domestic production, evolving sustainability policies and changing biofuel regulations are reshaping Europe's rapeseed market, while maintaining the strategic importance of imports from key suppliers such as Australia and Ukraine. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4334/ausnutria-royal-a-ware-unlock-growth-in-europes-goat-dairy-market.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4334/ausnutria-royal-a-ware-unlock-growth-in-europes-goat-dairy-market.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:30:57 +0530 Dairy nutrition company Ausnutria and Dutch dairy producer Royal A-ware have entered into a strategic partnership centred on Amalthea Group, a leading goat dairy producer, marking a significant step toward strengthening Europe's fast-growing goat dairy value chain. Under the agreement, Royal A-ware will acquire a 35 per cent equity stake in Amalthea, while Ausnutria will retain majority ownership with 65 per cent, ensuring continued operational control as both companies pursue long-term expansion opportunities. The collaboration is designed to capitalize on the growing international appetite for goat dairy products, particularly premium cheeses and value-added nutritional ingredients. Royal A-ware will spearhead the domestic and international commercialization of Amalthea's goat cheese portfolio, leveraging its extensive marketing and distribution capabilities across Europe and beyond. Ausnutria, meanwhile, will continue focusing on the production and utilization of high-value whey proteins, a critical ingredient in infant nutrition and specialized dairy formulations. Beyond commercial collaboration, the partners have committed to jointly investing in the expansion and modernization of Amalthea's cheese manufacturing operations. The investments are expected to enhance production capacity, improve operational efficiency and position the business to meet sustained demand for goat milk products in both mature and emerging markets. The alliance reflects a broader transformation taking place across the global dairy industry, where companies are increasingly integrating production, processing and market access to build more resilient supply chains. By combining Royal A-ware's expertise in dairy commercialization with Ausnutria's strengths in nutritional science and goat milk processing, the two companies aim to maximize the value extracted from every component of goat milk while creating a more efficient farm-to-consumer ecosystem. The transaction also provides strategic financial benefits for Ausnutria. The partial divestment unlocks capital while allowing the company to retain majority ownership and continue consolidating Amalthea within its business. According to regulatory disclosures, the agreement is complemented by a long-term governance framework, including shareholder arrangements and a 10-year exclusive supply agreement under which Amalthea will supply products to Royal A-ware. The structure is intended to provide long-term revenue visibility, improve capacity utilization and create a stable platform for future expansion. Consumers are increasingly seeking premium, specialty and nutrition-focused dairy products, prompting manufacturers to invest in integrated production models capable of supporting both food and infant nutrition segments. As companies look to strengthen supply security and improve operational efficiency, strategic partnerships are becoming an increasingly important growth lever. For Royal A-ware, the investment expands its presence in the premium goat dairy segment while complementing its existing cheese portfolio. For Ausnutria, the partnership reinforces its strategy of focusing on high-value nutritional ingredients and international expansion without relinquishing control of a strategically important asset. Together, the companies are positioning Amalthea as a stronger player in Europe's evolving goat dairy industry, backed by shared investments, complementary expertise and a long-term vision for sustainable growth. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4309/roches-axelios-1-shows-promise-for-high-speed-agricultural-genomics-says-keygene.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4309/roches-axelios-1-shows-promise-for-high-speed-agricultural-genomics-says-keygene.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:56:50 +0530 Plant research company KeyGene has validated the performance of Roche's AXELIOS 1 sequencing platform, concluding that the next-generation technology could significantly accelerate crop genomics by enabling rapid, high-accuracy genome sequencing and single-nucleus transcriptomics at unprecedented scale. The evaluation, conducted in collaboration with Roche, assessed the newly launched AXELIOS 1 platform across agricultural applications ranging from whole-genome resequencing to single-cell gene expression analysis. The findings suggest the system could substantially shorten breeding cycles while improving researchers' ability to identify valuable crop traits. As plant breeding increasingly relies on large genomic datasets, the demand for sequencing technologies that combine speed, accuracy and scalability has intensified. KeyGene believes the new platform addresses many of these bottlenecks. Designed for large-scale crop genomics The AXELIOS 1 platform combines Roche's Sequencing-by-Expansion (SBX) chemistry with high-throughput sequencing capabilities, supporting both duplex sequencing for highly accurate genome analysis and simplex sequencing for transcriptomics. For plant breeders, this could translate into faster screening of breeding populations, improved identification of genetic variation and more efficient validation of gene-edited crops. In its pilot evaluation, KeyGene benchmarked the platform against established reference genomes for tomato and lettuce, achieving near-complete genome alignment while maintaining high sequencing accuracy. According to the company, the duplex workflow generated more than 20 billion sequencing reads during a single run, providing sufficient output to sequence approximately 75 tomato genomes at 30× coverage within four hours. "The SBX-D duplex workflow on AXELIOS 1 produced 30× concordant duplex coverage for approximately 75 tomato genomes in a single four-hour run, enabling rapid, cost-effective resequencing of crops such as tomato and lettuce," said Alexander Wittenberg, Genomics Scientist at KeyGene. Deeper insights into plant biology Beyond genome sequencing, KeyGene also evaluated the platform's performance in single-nucleus RNA sequencing, a rapidly growing technique that enables researchers to examine gene activity within individual plant cells. Using tomato roots exposed to drought-mimicking conditions, researchers generated billions of sequencing reads per sample and identified thousands of individual cell nuclei. The higher sequencing depth enabled scientists to distinguish rare cell populations and refine the identification of specialised root tissues involved in drought response, capabilities that are expected to improve crop resilience research. "Using the SBX-S workflow on AXELIOS 1, we were able to resolve thousands of individual nuclei with unprecedented detail, confirming drought-response mechanisms while enabling deeper and broader plant single-nucleus studies," said Petra van Bergeijk, Single-Cell Transcriptomics Specialist at KeyGene. Implications for agricultural innovation As genomic technologies become central to modern crop improvement, sequencing speed is increasingly viewed as a competitive advantage rather than simply a laboratory metric. Researchers say platforms capable of processing dozens of crop genomes within hours could significantly accelerate breeding programmes, improve trait discovery and support the development of climate-resilient crop varieties. The technology could prove particularly valuable for crops with large and complex genomes, where sequencing costs and turnaround times have traditionally limited the scale of research projects. For KeyGene, the evaluation reinforces the growing role of advanced genomics in agricultural innovation, where faster sequencing is expected to play an increasingly important role in delivering improved crop varieties to farmers. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4293/bayer-signs-licensing-agreement-with-ragt-and-begins-broad-hybrid-wheat-commercialization-by-early-2030s.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4293/bayer-signs-licensing-agreement-with-ragt-and-begins-broad-hybrid-wheat-commercialization-by-early-2030s.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:53:17 +0530 Bayer enters an exclusive licensing agreement with RAGT, a leading company in the European wheat seed market, advancing its plans to sell hybrid wheat seeds in Europe and North America simultaneously by the early 2030s. Hybrid wheat represents a large, untapped opportunity in the world’s most widely grown food crops and Bayer targets annual revenues of up to 1 billion euros after just over a decade after launch. The move is part of Bayer's growth ambitions beyond its current blockbuster launches by expanding its core portfolio to hybrid wheat as a key franchise. The new agreement with RAGT materially strengthens Bayer’s position in Europe, as it involves the broad licensing of elite wheat germplasm tailored for European environments. This gives Bayer the ideal foundation to further advance and deploy its powerful breeding engine based on its longstanding hybrid wheat R&D efforts, to develop innovations that provide greater productivity and sustainability to farmers at a time when many face challenging weather and growing conditions. “Wheat is one of the most important staple food crops in the world. But wheat production has stagnated and is coming under pressure from prolonged drought and heatwaves, such as the one we just experienced in Europe. At the same time, sturdier hybrid varieties of wheat are still not widely available,” said Peter Mueller, Cereals, Cotton, Canola/OSR & Biofuels Lead at Bayer’s Crop Science division. “Our deal with RAGT is about to change that. Combining RAGT’s top performing germplasm and know-how with our breeding capabilities will significantly boost and expand our pipeline of hybrid wheat varieties, allowing us to compete in a rapidly evolving market. With the North American program in full gear, we will deliver higher value to growers on both sides of the Atlantic.” Sébastien Chatre, Head of R&D at RAGT added, “We’re very excited about the potential of this broad licensing agreement with Bayer, as it represents a significant step in RAGT’s commitment to innovation in wheat breeding. By sharing our expertise, we can accelerate the development of hybrid wheat solutions that will benefit the entire market and meet the evolving needs of farmers and the seed industry.” For the European market, Bayer will focus its efforts on winter wheat. In North America, the company will introduce both spring and winter wheat, building on its successful WestBred wheat franchise. In both Europe and the U.S., the genetic material Bayer uses for breeding has the potential to fit in more than 80 percent of the wheat hectares, spanning across countries in Europe and across classes in the U.S. Bayer’s leading position in the crop protection space for wheat and the respective customer relations, combined with its access to elite germplasm for Europe and North America, precision breeding capabilities, seed production know-how, as well as digital and agronomic expertise will help the company build a competitive, holistic wheat system for farmers. Hybrid wheat to deliver higher yields Hybrid wheat seeds can increase wheat production without additional land or resource use, adding 10 percent compared to conventional open-pollinated wheat, right from the early stages of introduction of the new technology, with continuous additional yield gains going forward. Additional benefits for farmers include more reliability and robustness because key attributes of hybridization include an enhanced root system and faster growth to establish a strong crop against external factors, leading to potential better disease, weed and pest tolerance, and greater resilience to drought and heat. With hybridization of wheat still largely untapped, investing in hybrid wheat presents a unique opportunity for growth and enhanced food security. As the world’s number one food crop, wheat covers over 220 million hectares globally and feeds around 30 percent of the population, making it an essential source of the world’s calories and a staple crop for fighting hunger. With climates in wheat-growing regions becoming hotter and drier, demand is continuing to increase further for resilient hybrid seeds that offer higher and more stable yields. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4282/sunpine-acquisition-bolsters-varopreems-advanced-biofuels-strategy-across-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4282/sunpine-acquisition-bolsters-varopreems-advanced-biofuels-strategy-across-europe.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:45:13 +0530 VAROPreem has completed the acquisition of Sunpine, the world's largest Raw Tall Oil (RTO) biorefinery, in a strategic move that strengthens its vertically integrated renewable fuels business and enhances Europe's supply of advanced biofuel feedstocks. The transaction gives the energy company full ownership of a critical upstream asset at a time when demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) is accelerating across the continent. Following the acquisition, the Swedish biorefinery will operate as VAROPreem Sunpine, combining Sunpine's proprietary refining technology and nearly two decades of industrial expertise with VAROPreem's growing renewable energy portfolio. The integration is expected to improve feedstock security, optimise refining operations and reinforce the company's position in Europe's rapidly evolving low-carbon fuels market. Located in Piteå, Sweden, the facility processes approximately 400,000 tonnes of Raw Tall Oil annually, converting forestry residues into high-quality renewable feedstocks used in the production of HVO and SAF. Certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) framework, the feedstock delivers greenhouse gas emission reductions of up to 99.7 per cent compared with conventional fossil fuels while avoiding competition with food crops or agricultural land. The acquisition comes as European energy markets prepare for tighter sustainability mandates under regulatory frameworks such as RED III, ReFuelEU Aviation and FuelEU Maritime, all of which are expected to drive substantial growth in demand for advanced renewable fuels. By securing direct control over a limited and traceable feedstock source, VAROPreem aims to improve long-term supply certainty while increasing operational efficiency across its refining, trading and logistics network. Renewable feedstocks produced at the Piteå facility will continue to be processed into HVO and SAF at VAROPreem's refining assets, supporting the company's broader strategy of supplying both conventional and renewable energy solutions to transport and industrial sectors. The site's integrated sustainability model also captures surplus process heat for use in the local district heating network, further improving resource efficiency and reducing the facility's environmental footprint. The company indicated that further investments will be directed towards expanding operational flexibility and supporting future production growth as Europe's energy transition gathers pace. Commenting on the acquisition, Dev Sanyal, Group CEO of VAROPreem, said the transaction strengthens a strategically important renewable fuels value chain while enhancing the company's ability to support Europe's decarbonisation ambitions. "Sunpine has built one of Europe's most distinctive renewable fuels businesses. This acquisition strengthens a strategic value chain and reinforces VAROPreem's position in Europe's energy transition." David Öquist, CEO of Sunpine, said joining VAROPreem creates new opportunities to expand the reach of Sunpine's technology and build on its established industrial platform. "Joining VAROPreem opens a new chapter. Together we can build on Sunpine's strong foundations and bring our technology to a wider market." With full ownership of one of Europe's most significant renewable feedstock producers, VAROPreem is positioning itself to capture growing opportunities in advanced biofuels while strengthening the resilience, traceability and sustainability of its renewable fuels supply chain. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4278/euroseeds-secures-eudr-exemption-for-soybean-seeds-as-eu-refines-deforestation-rules.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4278/euroseeds-secures-eudr-exemption-for-soybean-seeds-as-eu-refines-deforestation-rules.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:47:02 +0530 Euroseeds has welcomed the European Commission's decision to exclude soybean seeds for sowing from the scope of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), describing the move as a pragmatic policy refinement that recognises the unique characteristics of the seed value chain while maintaining the Regulation's environmental integrity. The exemption, introduced through a Delegated Act adopted on 13 July 2026 amending Annex I of the EUDR, removes soybean seeds intended for planting from the Regulation's due diligence requirements, providing greater regulatory clarity for Europe's seed companies and plant breeders. Euroseeds, which has consistently advocated for the exclusion, argued that certified soybean seed forms part of a highly regulated, fully traceable and distinct production system that bears no meaningful link to deforestation or land-use change. Subjecting the sector to the same compliance obligations as commodity supply chains, the association maintained, would have imposed significant administrative complexity without generating corresponding environmental gains. According to Euroseeds, extending EUDR due diligence requirements to soybean seed production would have disproportionately increased compliance costs for breeders and seed companies, potentially restricting access to breeding material, slowing innovation and undermining broader European efforts to expand domestic plant protein production. Beyond its immediate implications for the seed sector, the Commission's decision highlights the importance of risk-based and evidence-driven regulation. Euroseeds noted that environmental legislation delivers maximum effectiveness when compliance obligations are aligned with demonstrable deforestation risks rather than applied uniformly across fundamentally different agricultural activities. The association emphasised that sectors such as soybean breeding and certified seed production, which operate within transparent and tightly controlled value chains, should not be subject to regulatory measures intended for commodities directly associated with forest conversion. Recognising these distinctions, it argued, strengthens both regulatory credibility and implementation efficiency while avoiding unintended consequences for agricultural innovation. Euroseeds further described the amendment as an example of proportionate policymaking that balances environmental ambition with economic competitiveness. By maintaining the EUDR's focus on products genuinely linked to deforestation risk, the revised framework provides greater legal certainty for seed companies, safeguards breeding innovation and supports the European Union's strategic objectives for sustainable agriculture, food security and greater protein self-sufficiency. The organisation said the Commission's decision reinforces confidence that future sustainability legislation can continue to combine robust environmental safeguards with science-based regulation that enables innovation, investment and long-term resilience across the European agricultural sector. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4276/syngenta-and-groundwork-bioag-enter-partnership-to-bring-innovation-in-biologicals-and-soil-carbon-solutions-to-farmers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4276/syngenta-and-groundwork-bioag-enter-partnership-to-bring-innovation-in-biologicals-and-soil-carbon-solutions-to-farmers.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:32:31 +0530 Syngenta and Groundwork BioAg today announced a strategic partnership to market Groundwork's mycorrhizal technology. Syngenta, the global leader in biological crop protection, now offers a biological solution that enhances crop performance, provides resistance to plant stress while improving soil health with a carbon credit program, generating an additional revenue stream for farmers.  Under the partnership, Syngenta will commercialize mycorrhiza-based products and soil carbon solutions under its own label. The innovative offer will initially target corn, soy, cereals and sunflower in Latin America and Europe. Groundwork BioAg will be responsible for manufacturing, supply, digital tooling and the full carbon program development process. Farmers will benefit from enhanced nutrient uptake that delivers higher, more resilient crop yields, while simultaneously unlocking a new revenue stream from carbon credits. Petra Laux, Chief Sustainability Officer of Syngenta Group, comments: “The model we've built with Groundwork BioAg goes beyond farming carbon - it builds resilience, restores soil health, and accumulates long term carbon stocks at a remarkable pace, while generating carbon credits from which farmers directly benefit. We see this as a natural evolution of what carbon programs can achieve. This new offering perfectly fits within Syngenta’s sustainability goal of supporting farmers to produce higher yield while lowering their impact on the environment”. Alon Werber, CEO of Groundwork BioAg: “By combining Syngenta's market access with our proven mycorrhizal capabilities, we are positioning mycorrhizal fungi as both a valuable agronomic input and a significant pathway for agricultural climate mitigation through our end-to-end carbon program.” Emilhano Lima, Global Head Seedcare & Biologicals: “This partnership reflects how biologicals are increasingly becoming a central part of agriculture. Nature-inspired solutions give farmers effective, reliable tools, while also providing concrete agronomical returns.”  Soil carbon sequestration is the process by which carbon dioxide is drawn from the atmosphere by plant photosynthesis and stored in the soil through biological activity. Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with crop root systems, improving nutrient and water uptake and supporting long-term soil health. The fungi also catalyse the formation of durable mineral-associated organic matter, increasing the potential for long-term carbon storage. For farmers, soils that sequester more carbon are generally more fertile, retain water more effectively, and are more resilient to drought and erosion.    ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4271/uk-unveils-revenue-certainty-framework-to-de-risk-sustainable-aviation-fuel-investments.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4271/uk-unveils-revenue-certainty-framework-to-de-risk-sustainable-aviation-fuel-investments.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:57:25 +0530 The UK Government has unveiled its proposed framework for allocating contracts under the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Revenue Certainty Mechanism (RCM), signalling a decisive policy intervention to accelerate commercial deployment of sustainable aviation fuels while enhancing the investment attractiveness of the UK's emerging SAF ecosystem. The Revenue Certainty Mechanism has been designed to mitigate market and revenue risks that have historically constrained investment in first-of-a-kind SAF production facilities. By providing long-term revenue visibility, the scheme is expected to improve project bankability, lower financing costs and crowd in institutional and private capital for large-scale domestic SAF manufacturing. Introducing the strategy, Aviation Minister Keir Mather reaffirmed the Government's commitment to decarbonising aviation without compromising the sector's strategic contribution to economic competitiveness, international connectivity, trade and employment. He underscored sustainable aviation fuel as a cornerstone of the UK's aviation transition strategy and reiterated the country's ambition to establish itself as a global frontrunner in next-generation aviation fuels. The proposal builds upon the UK's Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate, introduced in 2025 to stimulate market demand for low-carbon aviation fuels, and the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Act, which secured Royal Assent in March 2026, providing the statutory foundation for implementing the revenue support framework. Government officials said the proposed allocation methodology has been formulated following extensive industry consultation and is intended to address the financing bottlenecks that continue to impede commercial-scale SAF deployment. Beyond facilitating decarbonisation, policymakers expect the framework to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, reinforce national energy resilience, retain greater economic value within the UK and stimulate the creation of highly skilled green industrial employment. The Revenue Certainty Mechanism constitutes a critical pillar of the Government's broader aviation decarbonisation agenda, complementing initiatives spanning airspace modernisation, low- and zero-emission aircraft development, carbon pricing mechanisms, research into non-CO₂ aviation effects, the Low Carbon Fuels Fund and the Department for Transport-backed SAF Clearing House. Collectively, these policy instruments are intended to establish a commercially resilient SAF value chain while accelerating the UK's progress towards net-zero aviation. By reducing investment uncertainty and strengthening long-term market confidence, the Government aims to position the UK as one of the world's most competitive destinations for sustainable aviation fuel production, while ensuring that the transition delivers durable economic value without imposing disproportionate costs on consumers. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4247/europes-soy-industry-wins-key-policy-battle-in-parliament.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4247/europes-soy-industry-wins-key-policy-battle-in-parliament.html Thu, 09 Jul 2026 15:47:01 +0530 The European Parliament has voted to block a proposed regulation that would have classified soybean oil as a high indirect land-use change (ILUC) risk feedstock under the Renewable Energy Directive, handing a significant policy victory to Europe's agricultural and bioeconomy sectors. The decision follows the Parliament's adoption of a motion objecting to the European Commission's Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/2680, a proposal that had raised concerns across the continent's farming, feed, processing and biofuel industries. The move was widely welcomed by a broad coalition representing farmers, agricultural cooperatives, seed companies, feed manufacturers, processors, biodiesel producers and commodity traders, who argued that the proposed classification lacked scientific balance and threatened investment across the soy value chain. Industry groups described the parliamentary vote as an endorsement of evidence-based policymaking and a step towards aligning the European Union's renewable energy ambitions with its broader agricultural competitiveness and food security objectives. The outcome is expected to provide greater regulatory certainty for businesses that rely on soybeans and soybean-derived products across Europe's food, feed and renewable fuel sectors. Soybean oil and meal remain integral to the region's livestock production systems, while soybeans have become increasingly important to the EU's strategy of expanding domestic protein production and reducing dependence on imported feed ingredients. The decision also carries broader strategic implications. As Europe seeks to strengthen supply chain resilience amid geopolitical uncertainty and rising sustainability expectations, policymakers have been under growing pressure to ensure climate regulations do not inadvertently undermine agricultural productivity, protein self-sufficiency or rural investment. Industry stakeholders argued that categorising soybean oil as a high ILUC-risk feedstock could have weakened incentives for investment throughout the European soy ecosystem, affecting processors, livestock producers, feed manufacturers and renewable fuel producers alike. The Parliament's intervention, they said, preserves a more stable environment for innovation and long-term capital deployment across the sector. Looking ahead, the coalition has urged the European Commission to revisit its approach and develop a scientifically robust and transparent methodology that balances climate objectives with agricultural competitiveness. The organisations contend that future policy should support both decarbonisation and Europe's ambition to build a stronger domestic protein economy without creating unintended market distortions. The parliamentary vote highlights the increasingly delicate balancing act facing European policymakers as they pursue ambitious climate targets while safeguarding food security, farm incomes and the competitiveness of the region's agricultural value chains. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4233/fmc-begins-production-of-closed-transfer-crop-protection-system-at-italy-facility.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4233/fmc-begins-production-of-closed-transfer-crop-protection-system-at-italy-facility.html Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:46:52 +0530 FMC Corporation has reached a significant manufacturing milestone with the first commercial production of Spotlight Plus 5L integrated with easyconnect Closed Transfer System (CTS) technology at its San Colombano production facility in Italy. The production campaign will support the initial rollout of the enhanced formulation in the Netherlands, marking FMC's latest effort to improve operator safety while advancing sustainable crop protection practices across the European market. The easyconnect system is designed to minimize direct contact between operators and crop protection products during mixing and loading operations. By creating a sealed transfer process, the technology helps reduce operator exposure while limiting product spills and environmental contamination during pesticide handling. The initiative aligns with the European crop protection industry's broader push toward safer product stewardship and supports CropLife Europe's 2030 Protecting People Commitment, which seeks wider adoption of closed transfer systems as part of responsible pesticide use. The achievement represents the culmination of cross-functional collaboration involving FMC's operations, engineering, packaging, marketing and stewardship teams, alongside external technology partners, to bring advanced handling solutions from development into commercial production. With closed transfer technologies gaining increasing regulatory and industry attention across Europe, FMC's integration of easyconnect™ into its manufacturing operations underscores the growing emphasis on combining crop protection performance with enhanced user safety and environmental responsibility. The company expects the technology to strengthen its European crop protection portfolio while contributing to wider industry efforts to improve pesticide handling standards and promote more sustainable agricultural practices. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4229/kubota-increases-stake-in-uv-boosting-to-expand-climate-smart-crop-solutions.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4229/kubota-increases-stake-in-uv-boosting-to-expand-climate-smart-crop-solutions.html Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:31:03 +0530 Kubota Corporation has expanded its commitment to sustainable agriculture by making an additional investment in French agri-tech startup UV Boosting through its European holding company, Kubota Holdings Europe (KHE). The move is aimed at accelerating the commercialization of innovative UV-based crop protection technologies across Europe while reinforcing the long-term strategic partnership between the two companies. The latest investment builds on Kubota's initial backing of UV Boosting in 2024, after which the companies collaborated on demonstration trials to evaluate the technology under commercial farming conditions. Following encouraging results, Kubota began marketing UV Boosting's products this year through its established European distribution network, marking a significant step toward wider adoption. The partnership comes at a time when European agriculture is increasingly prioritizing technologies that lower environmental impact and reduce dependence on conventional chemical crop protection products. Regulatory pressures, sustainability targets, and growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible farming practices are driving interest in alternative disease management solutions. UV Boosting has developed a proprietary UV flash technology that uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light to activate plants' natural defense mechanisms. Rather than targeting pathogens directly, the technology stimulates the production of salicylic acid and other plant hormones, strengthening the plant's own resistance against diseases while improving tolerance to environmental stresses such as frost and drought. The technology has broad applicability across high-value crops, including vineyards, orchards, and vegetable production, where disease pressure and pesticide use remain significant challenges. By enhancing natural plant immunity, the solution offers growers an opportunity to reduce chemical inputs without compromising productivity. Independent field evaluations have demonstrated promising performance in vineyards, where the technology achieved a 40% reduction in disease incidence alongside a 13% increase in yield. These outcomes highlight its potential to support both economic and environmental sustainability in specialty crop production. With the additional investment, Kubota intends to expand the deployment of UV Boosting's technology across Europe, helping growers improve disease management, strengthen climate resilience, and advance more sustainable agricultural production systems. The collaboration also aligns with Kubota's broader strategy of investing in innovative technologies that address emerging challenges in global agriculture while supporting the transition toward low-impact farming.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4224/corteva-turns-to-biological-seed-technologies-for-next-wave-of-innovation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4224/corteva-turns-to-biological-seed-technologies-for-next-wave-of-innovation.html Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:51:07 +0530 As agriculture shifts towards more resource-efficient crop production, Corteva Agriscience has partnered with Swedish crop nutrition company Arevo to integrate an innovative seed-applied nutrition technology into its European soybean portfolio. The collaboration centres on Arginex Soy, an arginine-based seed treatment developed by Arevo that is designed to enhance early root development, stimulate nodulation and improve nutrient uptake during the critical establishment phase of soybean growth. The agreement highlights the increasing convergence of seed technology and crop nutrition as companies seek to improve productivity while reducing agriculture's environmental footprint. Seed Becomes the First Nutrient Delivery Platform Rather than relying solely on in-season fertilizer applications, the partnership reflects a growing industry trend towards delivering targeted nutrition directly through treated seeds. Arginex Soy uses arginine—an amino acid that serves as an organic nitrogen source—to encourage the development of root hairs, the structures responsible for forming nodules where nitrogen-fixing bacteria colonise soybean roots. Improved nodulation enables soybean plants to fix atmospheric nitrogen more efficiently, strengthening root systems and enhancing nutrient use during the earliest stages of crop establishment. The approach aims to improve plant vigour before crops encounter environmental or nutritional stress, potentially laying the foundation for higher productivity throughout the growing season. From Evaluation to Commercial Integration Before entering Corteva's commercial portfolio, the technology underwent an extensive technical assessment covering agronomic performance, formulation stability and compatibility with the company's existing seed treatment systems. According to the companies, the evaluation demonstrated that the product could be integrated into existing commercial seed treatment operations without requiring changes to manufacturing or application processes. The compatibility is expected to simplify adoption for growers while enabling the technology to reach the market through Corteva's established soybean seed distribution network across Europe. Improving Nutrient Efficiency The partnership comes as European agriculture faces mounting pressure to improve nutrient-use efficiency amid rising fertilizer costs, tightening environmental regulations and increasing scrutiny over agricultural emissions. Soybean cultivation has become an important component of sustainable crop rotations because of the crop's natural ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Technologies that strengthen this biological process are increasingly viewed as valuable tools for improving productivity while reducing dependence on external nitrogen inputs. Seed-applied nutritional technologies are also attracting growing interest because they provide targeted support during early crop development, when strong root establishment often determines later-season performance. Biological Innovation Gains Momentum The agreement underscores the broader transformation underway in crop input innovation. Rather than focusing exclusively on traditional fertilizers or crop protection products, agricultural companies are increasingly investing in biological and physiological solutions that improve nutrient efficiency, plant resilience and overall crop performance. By combining advances in seed treatment, plant nutrition and biological processes, these technologies are becoming central to strategies aimed at producing more with fewer inputs. For Arevo, the collaboration provides access to one of Europe's largest commercial seed platforms, significantly expanding the reach of its proprietary technology. For Corteva, it strengthens a seed treatment portfolio increasingly focused on helping growers maximise crop performance while advancing more sustainable production systems. As the seed industry continues to evolve beyond genetics into integrated crop performance solutions, partnerships like this illustrate how innovation is increasingly beginning not in the field—but on the seed itself. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4215/england-unveils-farming-roadmap-2050-to-strengthen-agricultural-resilience-and-profitability.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4215/england-unveils-farming-roadmap-2050-to-strengthen-agricultural-resilience-and-profitability.html Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:45:49 +0530 The UK government has launched Farming Roadmap 2050: Growing England's Future, a long-term strategy aimed at providing greater certainty for farmers while strengthening the resilience, profitability and sustainability of English agriculture. Described as the most significant policy commitment to farming since the Second World War, the roadmap outlines a long-term vision for the sector, recognising its vital role in food security, environmental stewardship and the national economy. Farmers currently produce around 65 per cent of the nation's food, manage 70 per cent of England's land, and support the country's £153 billion agri-food sector, which is recognised as Critical National Infrastructure. Developed in collaboration with farmers and industry stakeholders, the roadmap focuses on helping the sector adapt to increasing climate-related challenges through nature-based solutions, including improved soil health, enhanced water management and sustainable land-use practices. The government said the strategy aims to provide long-term policy stability, enabling farmers to invest confidently in innovation and business growth. To support this transition, the government has announced an additional £53 million for the Farming Innovation Programme, taking total innovation funding for 2026 to £123 million. The investment will support research and commercialisation in areas such as agricultural robotics, precision farming, soil health and water management technologies. The roadmap also promotes greater adoption of collaborative business models, including farmer cooperatives, to help producers reduce input costs, share investment risks and strengthen supply chain resilience through collective purchasing and marketing. In addition, the government plans to review how the economic contribution of agriculture is measured. Working with the Office for National Statistics (ONS), it aims to develop supplementary indicators that capture the wider value generated across the food supply chain, including processing, manufacturing, distribution and retail, rather than relying solely on primary agricultural output. The roadmap is expected to guide agricultural policy over the coming decades, supporting a more productive, climate-resilient and competitive farming sector while reinforcing England's long-term food security objectives. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4209/resurrect-bio-and-bejo-partner-to-advance-spinach-disease-resistance.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4209/resurrect-bio-and-bejo-partner-to-advance-spinach-disease-resistance.html Wed, 01 Jul 2026 22:10:40 +0530 Resurrect Bio, a UK biotechnology company developing disease-resistance traits for crops, today announced a joint development agreement with Bejo, a leading vegetable breeding company, to explore new approaches to disease resistance in spinach. The collaboration will focus on resistance to spinach downy mildew, widely recognised as one of the most destructive diseases affecting spinach production worldwide. The announcement comes at a time when seed companies are seeking faster, more targeted ways to respond to evolving disease pressures, while supporting resilient production systems and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Grown year-round and consumed around the world in every season, spinach is valued for its nutritional profile as a low-calorie crop rich in vitamins and minerals. As a fast-growing leafy crop produced across multiple growing cycles each year, disease resistance typically breaks down quickly. For growers, disease resistance is an important characteristic of a spinach variety, alongside general resilience and leaf colour. For Bejo, it is a crop worth investing in for the future. Bejo and Resurrect Bio first began working together several years ago, when Resurrect Bio was in the early stages of exploring the potential of its technology. Since then, Resurrect Bio has continued to develop and validate its approach, and the collaboration has now been formalised through a joint development agreement. Under this agreement, Resurrect Bio will apply its targeted trait discovery approach to identify disease-resistance mechanisms that could support the development of more resilient spinach varieties. The project brings together Bejo’s expertise in vegetable breeding with Resurrect Bio’s work in restoring and strengthening crop immunity. Resurrect Bio makes crops resistant to disease by identifying where plant immune systems have been defeated by pathogens. Its targeted trait discovery approach is designed to uncover resistance mechanisms that can restore or improve immune function faster than conventional breeding approaches, creating actionable disease-resistance traits that can be taken forward by seed companies through their own breeding and innovation pipelines. “Spinach is a strong candidate for this kind of work because it is fast-growing, widely consumed and affected by a major global pathogen in downy mildew,” said Dr Cian Duggan, CEO and Co-Founder of Resurrect Bio. “This collaboration with Bejo is an opportunity to apply our disease-resistance trait discovery approach to a crop that matters to growers, breeders and consumers around the world. By combining Resurrect Bio’s understanding of plant-pathogen interactions with Bejo’s deep crop breeding expertise, we can explore new routes to spinach disease resistance that are grounded in the biology of how the pathogen interacts with the crop.” Dr Laurens Kroon, Head of Research at Bejo said: “This collaboration reflects Bejo’s commitment to innovation in vegetable breeding and to developing high-quality spinach varieties with strong and durable disease resistance. Our aim is to guarantee greater stability in spinach production and extend the lifetime of crop varieties and their resistance, helping to ensure a reliable supply of a vegetable consumed worldwide. ” For Resurrect Bio, the agreement marks another important step in its commercial development, following the completion of its Series A in May 2026, which raised a total of $10.3 million. The partnership demonstrates how the company’s platform can be applied across different crops and disease species, supporting its wider ambition to work with leading seed companies to develop stronger and more durable crop disease resistance. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4205/fmc-bolsters-financial-flexibility-with-landmark-investment-from-tessenderlo-group.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4205/fmc-bolsters-financial-flexibility-with-landmark-investment-from-tessenderlo-group.html Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:38:01 +0530 FMC Corporation has secured a strategic minority investment of approximately $400 million from Belgium-based industrial conglomerate Tessenderlo Group, a transaction that significantly bolsters the agricultural sciences company's financial position and marks the conclusion of its strategic review process. Under the definitive agreement, Tessenderlo Group will acquire a roughly 20 percent ownership stake in FMC through an equity investment priced at $13.30 per share. The deal aligns with Tessenderlo's long-term strategy of building an agricultural platform through cornerstone investments in companies with strong growth prospects and differentiated technologies. For FMC, the investment represents a pivotal step in its efforts to improve financial flexibility and accelerate the execution of its operational and strategic priorities. The company intends to use the proceeds to further reduce debt, enabling it to achieve its target of approximately $1 billion in debt repayment. The transaction also brings an end to the strategic alternatives review initiated earlier this year, with FMC opting to continue operating as an independent company while advancing its innovation pipeline and strengthening its competitive position in the global crop protection market. Over the past several months, FMC has undertaken a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing liquidity, unlocking capital and sharpening its strategic focus. These measures include amending its revolving credit facility to obtain covenant relief, raising $1.2 billion through a secured high-yield bond offering, and agreeing to sell its India commercial business for $252 million. The company has also entered into a strategic supply and licensing agreement with Corteva that includes an initial prepayment of $200 million, alongside a framework agreement for the sale and leaseback of its Newark, Delaware, property valued at approximately $114 million. Collectively, these actions have significantly strengthened FMC's balance sheet and provided additional flexibility to invest in research and development, commercialize new technologies and pursue long-term growth opportunities. The investment underscores confidence in FMC's pipeline of proprietary molecules and next-generation crop protection solutions, which are expected to play an increasingly important role as the agricultural sector seeks innovative technologies to improve productivity and sustainability. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of necessary regulatory approvals. Upon completion, the partnership is expected to provide FMC with enhanced financial resilience and a stronger foundation to pursue its strategic ambitions in the global agricultural sciences industry. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4204/amobas-axpera-gets-green-light-in-france-accelerating-european-biocontrol-ambitions.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4204/amobas-axpera-gets-green-light-in-france-accelerating-european-biocontrol-ambitions.html Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:33:25 +0530 French industrial greentech company Amoéba has secured marketing authorization in France for its biofungicide AXPERA, marking a major milestone in the company's strategy to expand its footprint in Europe's rapidly growing biocontrol market. The approval, granted by France's national health and food safety agency following a comprehensive scientific evaluation, represents the first long-term European authorization for the company's natural microbiological crop protection solution. As France served as the rapporteur member state for the product's assessment, the decision is expected to accelerate national approval procedures in several other European countries over the coming months. The authorization officially launches the commercial phase of AXPERA in partnership with agricultural biosolutions company Koppert. Initial commercialization will begin in France before expanding into other European markets as national regulatory approvals are secured. AXPERA has been approved for use against several major fungal diseases affecting vineyards and vegetable crops. The biofungicide can be deployed in both open-field and protected cultivation systems and is designed to prevent fungal infections by inhibiting spore germination. The product's approved applications include the control of downy mildew and powdery mildew in grapes and cucurbits, as well as late blight and powdery mildew in tomatoes and eggplants, among other crop uses. The product has also received low-risk classification, enabling its use in both conventional and organic farming systems. Its favorable regulatory profile includes some of the shortest re-entry periods, pre-harvest intervals and safety distances granted to plant protection products in France, enhancing its practicality and appeal for growers. A key competitive advantage for AXPERA lies in its active ingredient, a lysate derived from the amoeba Willaertia magna C2c Maky, which is exempt from maximum residue limits. The exemption reduces compliance requirements for treated produce and simplifies market access for farmers and supply chains increasingly focused on residue-free production. The company also intends to have AXPERA included on France's official list of biocontrol products, a designation that could facilitate environmental certifications, support agroecological farming practices and strengthen the product's acceptance among producers and distributors. The French approval is expected to serve as a catalyst for broader European expansion. Applications for open-field uses have already been submitted in Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece, while approvals for protected cultivation are being pursued in several additional markets, including Belgium, Poland and Germany. The company is also planning mutual recognition applications in a dozen more member states to support market entry beginning in 2027. The authorization is valid for 15 years and is renewable, providing Amoéba with a long-term platform to expand the product's geographic reach and potentially broaden its applications to additional crops and plant diseases. As agricultural producers increasingly seek sustainable alternatives to conventional crop protection products, Amoéba believes the approval of AXPERA positions the company to play a larger role in Europe's transition toward environmentally responsible and residue-conscious farming systems. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4197/eu-approves-first-whole-food-mycelium-ingredient-opening-new-chapter-for-alternative-proteins.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4197/eu-approves-first-whole-food-mycelium-ingredient-opening-new-chapter-for-alternative-proteins.html Tue, 30 Jun 2026 15:43:14 +0530 The European Union has authorised the sale of Fermotein, a whole-food mycelium ingredient developed by Dutch food technology company The Protein Brewery, marking the first approval of a novel mycelium ingredient under the bloc's Novel Food regulation. The authorisation represents a significant milestone for the alternative protein industry and establishes a regulatory precedent for whole-food ingredients produced through biomass fermentation. The European Commission has adopted an implementing regulation permitting the commercialisation of Rhizomucor pusillus mycelium and adding the ingredient to the Union's list of authorised novel foods. The decision follows a positive scientific opinion issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in December 2025 and a favourable vote by the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed in May this year. The regulation will come into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, after which The Protein Brewery will be permitted to market the ingredient across EU member states. Under the authorisation, the company has secured exclusive rights to the scientific studies and safety data supporting the ingredient's approval for a period of five years, in addition to protections linked to its patented production process. Fermotein is produced through the biomass fermentation of Rhizomucor pusillus, a non-fruiting fungal species related to microorganisms traditionally used in Asian fermented foods such as tempeh. The ingredient contains approximately 50 per cent complete protein, including all essential amino acids, along with around 30 per cent dietary fibre and naturally occurring micronutrients and bioactive compounds. Industry observers view the approval as a landmark for European food innovation because it demonstrates that whole-food mycelium ingredients can be successfully evaluated and authorised within the existing EU regulatory framework for novel foods. The European Commission's decision to classify the ingredient specifically as "Rhizomucor pusillus mycelium" also provides greater clarity regarding its identity and intended use for both manufacturers and consumers. The ingredient has been approved for use in a wide range of health and wellness-focused food and beverage applications, including protein powders, dietary supplements, nutrition bars, dairy alternatives and other better-for-you products. The authorisation is expected to enable food manufacturers to formulate products with higher protein and fibre content while meeting growing consumer demand for nutrient-dense and sustainable ingredients. The regulatory approval concludes a process that began in May 2020 when The Protein Brewery first submitted its dossier to the European Commission. Over the subsequent years, the company worked closely with European regulators and scientific bodies to demonstrate the safety and nutritional profile of the ingredient. Commercially, Fermotein® is already available in Singapore and the United States, and the company is now preparing to expand production to serve the European market. The Protein Brewery expects to supply around 600 metric tonnes of Fermotein in 2027 from its production facility in Breda, supported by customer commitments in Europe, the United States and Singapore. The company is also planning a substantial scale-up in manufacturing capacity, targeting production of more than 2,000 metric tonnes by 2029. In parallel, the company is pursuing regulatory approvals in several other markets, including the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia and New Zealand, with the first additional authorisation expected in the UK later this year. The ingredient has also received growing industry recognition. In May 2026, Fermotein won the Vitafoods Startup Challenge in the Most Innovative Sustainable Solution category, highlighting increasing confidence in whole-food mycelium as a next-generation ingredient platform for sustainable nutrition. The EU approval is expected to accelerate the commercialisation of biomass fermentation technologies and strengthen Europe's position in the rapidly expanding alternative protein sector, where companies are increasingly seeking ingredients that combine nutritional value, sustainability and functionality in a single product. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4196/hynfra-and-fidelity-group-sign-investment-agreement-for-green-ammonia-project-in-jordan.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4196/hynfra-and-fidelity-group-sign-investment-agreement-for-green-ammonia-project-in-jordan.html Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:44:06 +0530 Poland's Hynfra and Jordan's Fidelity Group have signed a binding investment agreement to jointly develop a 120,000-tonne-per-year green ammonia plant in Aqaba, marking a significant step in Jordan's ambitions to become a regional hub for low-carbon fuels and sustainable industrial products. The project is expected to become one of the most advanced green ammonia developments in the Middle East and will primarily cater to European customers seeking low-carbon ammonia for fertiliser production and emerging energy applications. The joint venture has already received a major regulatory boost, with Jordan's Council of Ministers approving the agreement earlier this year, providing a supportive framework for the project's development. Denmark-based engineering company Topsoe has been appointed to lead the front-end engineering and design (FEED) work, a critical phase in preparing the project for execution and financing. The proposed facility will produce green ammonia using renewable electricity to power electrolysers that generate hydrogen from water. The hydrogen will then be combined with atmospheric nitrogen to produce ammonia without the carbon emissions associated with conventional ammonia production. The project's location in Aqaba offers a significant logistical advantage. Situated on the Red Sea, the city provides direct access to European markets while creating an export corridor that bypasses the Persian Gulf. The route has gained strategic importance amid ongoing disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, prompting buyers and developers to explore alternative supply chains for energy and industrial commodities. The Aqaba development further expands Hynfra's growing portfolio of green ammonia projects, which already includes initiatives in Egypt, Mauritania and Ukraine. The company has been actively pursuing opportunities to build an international platform for low-carbon ammonia production aimed at supporting the global energy transition and decarbonisation of hard-to-abate industries. While the partners have not yet announced a construction timeline or final investment decision, the project will need to secure financing and commercial arrangements before moving into the execution phase. Industry observers note that financing costs remain one of the biggest challenges facing large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia projects globally, particularly as developers seek to bridge the cost gap between low-carbon and conventional production methods. Despite these challenges, the Aqaba project underscores growing momentum behind green ammonia as both a sustainable feedstock for fertiliser production and a potential energy carrier for international markets. By combining Jordan's renewable energy potential with strategic access to export markets, the development is expected to strengthen the country's position in the emerging global hydrogen economy. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4189/flagship-pioneering-launches-terion-to-build-digital-infrastructure-for-future-of-agriculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4189/flagship-pioneering-launches-terion-to-build-digital-infrastructure-for-future-of-agriculture.html Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:25:55 +0530 ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4188/swedish-agtech-startup-arevo-raises-7-3-mn-to-bring-next-generation-fertilizer-technology-to-brazil.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4188/swedish-agtech-startup-arevo-raises-7-3-mn-to-bring-next-generation-fertilizer-technology-to-brazil.html Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:19:35 +0530 Swedish agricultural technology company Arevo has secured €7.3 million in new funding as it accelerates plans to commercialize its Arginex fertilizer platform in Brazil by 2027, betting on the growing demand for more sustainable and efficient nutrient solutions in commercial horticulture. The latest investment will be used to support regulatory approvals, expand commercial operations, and fund additional agronomic trials as the company prepares for entry into one of the world's largest horticultural markets. Arevo's technology addresses a growing challenge facing commercial growers as the industry increasingly transitions away from peat-based growing media. Environmental concerns and regulatory restrictions have accelerated the adoption of peat-free substrates such as coir, rockwool, and wood fiber, but these alternatives have created new nutrient management challenges because conventional mineral fertilizers were originally developed to perform within the chemistry of peat-based systems. Arginex has been designed specifically for peat-free growing environments. The platform utilizes arginine, an amino acid, combined with phosphate to deliver nitrogen in a molecular form that the company believes is better suited to the faster pH dynamics of modern growing substrates. The approach is intended to improve nitrogen uptake while reducing nutrient losses caused by leaching and volatilization. The company positions Arginex as a potential alternative to conventional nitrogen fertilizers rather than a supplementary input, with the technology aimed at materially lowering synthetic nitrogen requirements over an entire crop cycle in peat-free production systems. Brazil has emerged as the company's primary commercialization target due to its sizable ornamental and vegetable horticulture industries and the increasing adoption of peat-free substrates driven by environmental considerations and evolving agricultural practices. The country's large protected cultivation sector also presents a significant opportunity for nutrient technologies that can improve productivity while reducing fertilizer dependency. The latest funding round follows Arevo's introduction of Arginex to European markets in 2025, where the technology has been targeted at protected cropping systems and nursery production. The company is now seeking to build on its early market presence by expanding internationally and establishing Brazil as a strategic growth market. Founded on research into amino-acid-based nitrogen delivery systems, Arevo is part of a growing wave of agricultural technology companies seeking to improve nutrient-use efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of modern farming. Rising fertilizer costs, stricter environmental regulations, and increasing pressure to improve agricultural sustainability have created a growing market for alternatives that can deliver higher nutrient efficiency with fewer inputs. The investment also underscores broader investor confidence in technologies designed to address the intersection of productivity and sustainability in agriculture. As growers worldwide seek ways to optimize nutrient management and reduce dependence on conventional fertilizers, innovations that improve resource efficiency are expected to play an increasingly important role in the future of commercial horticulture. With fresh capital in hand and a major international expansion on the horizon, Arevo is positioning itself at the forefront of the next generation of fertilizer technologies, aiming to reshape nutrient management for a rapidly evolving horticulture industry. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4169/roquette-targets-sustainable-agriculture-market-with-new-plant-based-formulation-platform.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4169/roquette-targets-sustainable-agriculture-market-with-new-plant-based-formulation-platform.html Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:25:06 +0530 As agriculture grapples with rising climate stress, soil degradation and growing pressure to improve productivity sustainably, ingredient manufacturers are increasingly focusing on technologies that help crops perform under more challenging conditions. Against this backdrop, French plant-based ingredient specialist Roquette has launched a new multifunctional polyol range aimed at supporting next-generation agricultural formulations. The new range, known as NEOSORB AG, is designed for agriscience professionals developing products such as biostimulants, foliar fertilizers, micronutrient formulations and crop nutrition solutions. The launch reflects growing demand for ingredients that not only improve formulation performance but also contribute to plant resilience and nutrient efficiency in increasingly unpredictable growing environments. The agricultural inputs industry is undergoing a significant transformation as farmers face mounting environmental pressures, including salinity stress, water scarcity and extreme weather events. These challenges are pushing formulators to develop products capable of enhancing crop performance while aligning with sustainability goals. Roquette's latest offering is positioned squarely within this emerging market trend. At its core, the platform combines three key functionalities: potential biostimulant properties, moisture-retention capabilities for foliar and liquid fertilizer systems, and organic complexation that can improve micronutrient delivery. By integrating multiple functions into a single ingredient platform, the company aims to simplify formulation development while enhancing product effectiveness. The range consists of two liquid-grade solutions tailored to different formulation requirements. The first, NEOSORB AG S50, features a clear syrup format containing 69.5 per cent to 70.5 per cent  dry matter, 10 per cent  mannitol and a minimum of 69 per cent  sorbitol. The highly defined composition is intended for applications where consistency and precision are critical. The company highlighted trial results involving tomatoes grown under salinity stress, one of the most significant challenges affecting crop productivity globally. According to Roquette, foliar applications of the product delivered improvements in several agronomic indicators compared with sodium chloride control treatments, including gains in biomass production, chlorophyll content and root development. The second grade, NEOSORB AG L20, contains 65 per cent  dry matter, 10 per cent  mannitol and 50 per cent  to 70 per cent  sorbitol on a dry-matter basis. Designed as a more flexible formulation platform, it targets a broad range of agricultural products, including adjuvants, liquid fertilizers, foliar nutrition solutions, micronutrient products and biostimulants. The company says the ingredient supports moisture retention, nutrient delivery and plant resilience while helping manufacturers create more differentiated products for increasingly competitive agricultural input markets. The launch comes at a time when the global biostimulant and specialty crop nutrition sectors are experiencing rapid growth. Farmers are increasingly seeking solutions that complement traditional fertilizers and crop protection products, particularly those capable of improving nutrient-use efficiency and helping plants withstand environmental stress. For formulation companies, the challenge is balancing performance, sustainability and ease of application. Multifunctional ingredients that can deliver several agronomic benefits simultaneously are therefore attracting greater attention across the industry. Roquette believes its new platform addresses that demand by offering formulators greater flexibility in product development while supporting innovation in sustainable agriculture. The broader significance of the launch lies in the growing convergence between plant science, formulation technology and sustainability objectives. As climate variability continues to influence agricultural productivity worldwide, demand is rising for ingredients that help crops maintain performance under difficult conditions without increasing environmental pressure. Rather than focusing solely on yield enhancement, the next generation of agricultural inputs is increasingly centered on resilience, resource efficiency and formulation sophistication. Roquette's latest entry into the agriscience sector reflects that shift. With the agricultural industry searching for tools that can help farmers navigate a more complex production landscape, multifunctional plant-based ingredients are emerging as a key area of innovation. The introduction of NEOSORB AG signals how ingredient manufacturers are positioning themselves to play a larger role in the future of sustainable crop production—where formulation performance is becoming as important as the active ingredients themselves. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4164/norway-and-fao-scale-up-forest-monitoring-for-climate-action.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4164/norway-and-fao-scale-up-forest-monitoring-for-climate-action.html Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:50:16 +0530 The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) today announced a new investment from Norway to strengthen forest monitoring worldwide, helping countries strengthen climate action, improve transparency and unlock finance to protect and restore forests. Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI) will provide 90 million Norwegian kroner (approximately $9.5 million) to support the third phase of FAO’s System for Earth Observation Data Access, Processing and Analysis for Land Monitoring (SEPAL) through to December 2030. Norway’s support for SEPAL is aligned with the Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Forests (AIM4Forests) programme, and together they will expand technical assistance for forest monitoring. “As artificial intelligence accelerates, open and transparent data tools are becoming even more essential for forest countries. SEPAL strengthens governments’ capacity to lead their own monitoring, and to make informed decisions for their forests for the benefit of their citizens, and for all of us” said Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, Minister of Climate and Environment, Norway. “Countries need reliable, accessible and transparent forest data to manage their forests sustainably, meet climate reporting requirements and access science-based finance,” said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu. “This new funding will strengthen national forest monitoring systems and accelerate the use of innovative technologies, turning data into better decisions for the climate change and for sustainable development.” The announcement was made at the event Forest monitoring for communities, conservation and climate during London Climate Action Week. SEPAL Phase 3 First developed in 2016, SEPAL is part of FAO’s Open Foris initiative, a suite of open-source digital public goods used by governments, technical institutions and practitioners worldwide to monitor forests and land use, support national reporting and inform sustainable land management. The SEPAL platform provides instant access to Earth observation data and advanced processing tools, enabling countries to detect change, track deforestation and support restoration efforts. Phase 3 will focus on delivering next-generation geospatial solutions, helping countries to meet climate reporting requirements while building the skills, tools and systems needed to monitor forests independently. As of June 2026, SEPAL reported more than 30,000 active users across 205 countries and territories. One forest monitoring ecosystem The third phase of SEPAL is designed to work in close coordination with the AIM4Forests programme - a flagship FAO-United Kingdom partnership supporting countries to strengthen forest monitoring through technical innovation, capacity development and inclusive approaches - enabling countries to move from generating forest data to using it for policy decisions, climate transparency and greater engagement with finance. Together, they also promote inclusive approaches to forest monitoring, supporting the participation of Indigenous Peoples and other stakeholders whose knowledge and involvement are essential for sustainable forest management. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4140/indonesia-norway-forest-initiative-blends-carbon-goals-with-rural-development.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4140/indonesia-norway-forest-initiative-blends-carbon-goals-with-rural-development.html Mon, 22 Jun 2026 14:27:24 +0530 Indonesia and Norway have jointly reviewed the progress of a major forest restoration initiative in South Kalimantan as part of efforts to reduce land-use emissions and advance Indonesia’s climate commitments under the FOLU Net Sink 2030 programme. Officials from Indonesia’s Environmental Fund Management Agency and Norway’s climate project team conducted field inspections across nearly 83 hectares of rehabilitated forest land in Hulu Sungai Tengah Regency. The assessment focused on evaluating tree survival rates, vegetation growth, and the overall effectiveness of restoration activities being carried out under the programme. The initiative forms part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to achieve a net carbon sink in the forestry and land-use sector by 2030 through large-scale forest rehabilitation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable land management practices. The restoration model combines environmental conservation with rural livelihood development. Local communities participating in the programme have planted a mix of long-term tree species, including rubber, durian, mahogany and longan, alongside short-cycle crops such as chilli, tomato and eggplant to generate income during the early stages of forest regeneration. Officials said the integrated approach is designed to improve land cover, enhance ecosystem resilience and create sustainable economic opportunities for forest-dependent communities. Community forestry groups are expected to play a central role in maintaining the plantations and ensuring the long-term success of rehabilitation efforts. The Indonesia–Norway collaboration reflects growing international cooperation on climate action and nature-based solutions, with forest restoration emerging as a key pillar in Indonesia’s strategy to curb emissions, strengthen biodiversity conservation and support sustainable rural development. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4086/cargill-invests-e56-mn-to-expand-food-innovation-and-manufacturing-footprint-in-belgium.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4086/cargill-invests-e56-mn-to-expand-food-innovation-and-manufacturing-footprint-in-belgium.html Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:43:56 +0530 New investments in edible oils, premium chocolate and R&D facilities position Belgium at the center of Cargill’s European growth strategy Global food and agriculture major Cargill is deepening its commitment to Belgium with a series of strategic investments totaling approximately €56 million, reinforcing the country’s role as a key manufacturing, innovation and supply hub for the company’s European operations. The investment package spans three facilities and is designed to expand production capacity, accelerate product innovation and strengthen customer collaboration across food, feed and specialty ingredient markets. At its Izegem facility, Cargill has completed a €21 million modernization and expansion program at what is already its largest edible oils bottling site in Europe. The project has transformed roughly 60% of the facility, nearly doubling production capacity while introducing new automation technologies aimed at boosting efficiency and enhancing supply reliability. Two dedicated foodservice production lines have also been added, increasing flexibility and strengthening the site's ability to serve restaurants, catering operators and foodservice customers across the region. The company is also scaling up its gourmet chocolate operations in Mouscron through a €30 million investment that adds approximately 10,500 square meters of production space. The expansion nearly doubles manufacturing capacity for premium chocolate products and is expected to help customers respond more effectively to seasonal demand cycles, accelerate product customization and shorten delivery timelines. The site produces Veliche, Cargill’s premium couverture chocolate brand, serving artisanal chocolatiers, foodservice operators and food manufacturers. Complementing these manufacturing investments, Cargill has strengthened its research and development capabilities through a €5.4 million investment in a new extrusion pilot plant at its Vilvoorde Innovation Center. The facility will support rapid product prototyping, ingredient performance testing and collaborative innovation across food, animal nutrition and pet food applications. The latest addition builds on the company’s previously announced €45 million investment in its Vilvoorde food innovation campus, further enhancing Cargill’s European R&D ecosystem. “Belgium is a key strategic hub for Cargill in Europe, thanks to its strong food industry, close customer connectivity and advanced logistics infrastructure,” said Geert Maesmans, Vice President of R&D for Cargill’s Food business in EMEA and the company’s Belgium country lead. He noted that the investments will strengthen local manufacturing and innovation capabilities while enabling the company to deliver a broader portfolio of solutions to customers across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The latest expansion adds to Cargill’s long-standing presence in Belgium, where the company has operated since 1953. Today, Cargill employs more than 1,500 people across nine locations, encompassing production facilities, research centers and regional coordination functions. By expanding capacity in edible oils and premium chocolate while investing in next-generation food innovation, Cargill is positioning Belgium as a critical pillar of its European growth strategy, aimed at meeting evolving consumer preferences and accelerating innovation across the food value chain. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4084/eu-bets-on-digital-transparency-with-biggest-crop-protection-label-reform-in-decade.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4084/eu-bets-on-digital-transparency-with-biggest-crop-protection-label-reform-in-decade.html Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:29:47 +0530 New framework combines technology, sustainability and regulatory oversight to modernize agricultural inputs The European Union has unveiled a sweeping overhaul of labeling requirements for crop protection products, setting the stage for a more digital, transparent and sustainability-focused regulatory framework across the agricultural sector. The European Commission has adopted Regulation (EU) 2026/1123, replacing the long-standing Regulation (EU) No. 547/2011. The new rules will begin taking effect from January 1, 2028, with a phased rollout of digital labeling requirements culminating in full implementation by 2030. At the heart of the reform is the introduction of mandatory digital labeling, requiring plant protection products to feature QR codes or equivalent digital links that provide users with free access to updated product information. The move is expected to modernize how farmers, distributors and regulators access critical product data, while allowing manufacturers to update information without relabeling physical packaging. The regulation also strengthens alignment with the EU’s Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) framework, aiming to improve consistency in hazard communication and provide clearer safety guidance for users. Officials say the revised system introduces a more structured, risk-based approach to conveying handling instructions, disposal requirements and risk-mitigation measures. Environmental protection has emerged as a central pillar of the new framework. The regulation introduces a dedicated bee hazard pictogram, standardized disposal instructions, and mandatory sensitization warnings for microorganism-based products. New labeling categories covering treated seeds and environmental safeguards are also intended to improve awareness of ecological risks associated with pesticide use. Beyond safety and sustainability, the reforms seek to support the EU’s broader push toward precision agriculture. Labels will now reference Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and consider precision application technologies, encouraging more targeted and efficient use of crop protection products. The regulation further tightens oversight of parallel trade products, introducing enhanced identification and traceability requirements designed to combat fraud and strengthen market surveillance across supply chains. Industry stakeholders—including manufacturers, distributors and authorization holders—will now face a multi-year transition period to update compliance systems and labeling practices. Once fully operational, the new regime is expected to fundamentally reshape how crop protection product information is communicated throughout the European agricultural market, blending traditional labeling with real-time digital access to safety, environmental and usage data. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4078/aphea-bio-and-bayer-join-forces-to-develop-next-generation-bioinsecticides-for-global-agriculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4078/aphea-bio-and-bayer-join-forces-to-develop-next-generation-bioinsecticides-for-global-agriculture.html Wed, 10 Jun 2026 14:53:16 +0530 Partnership targets sap-sucking pests in fruit and row crops as growers seek new solutions amid rising resistance and tighter pesticide regulations Belgian agricultural biotechnology company Aphea.Bio has entered into a strategic research partnership with Bayer to accelerate the development of bioinsecticides targeting sap-sucking insects, a major class of agricultural pests responsible for billions of dollars in crop losses worldwide. The collaboration aims to expand the crop protection options available to growers by combining Aphea.Bio’s microbial discovery platform with Bayer’s global development, regulatory, and commercialization capabilities. The companies will initially focus on fruit crops, including pome fruits, stone fruits, citrus, and grapes, while exploring future applications in vegetables and large-scale row crops such as cotton and soybean. The agreement comes at a time when farmers are facing mounting pressure from insecticide resistance and increasingly stringent regulatory requirements that are reshaping the global crop protection landscape. Responding to a Growing Pest Management Challenge Sap-sucking insects remain among the most damaging agricultural pests globally, reducing yields, transmitting plant diseases, and threatening crop quality across multiple production systems. At the same time, restrictions on certain conventional insecticides and the emergence of resistant pest populations have heightened demand for new modes of action capable of delivering effective control while meeting evolving sustainability expectations. Aphea.Bio is seeking to address this gap through a portfolio of bioinsecticides derived from microbial metabolites—naturally occurring compounds produced by selected microorganisms. Unlike many biological products based on living organisms, these solutions combine the environmental advantages of biological crop protection with the storage stability and ease of use typically associated with conventional products. The company has built its pipeline by screening thousands of microbial strains and advancing promising candidates through a rigorous development process focused on efficacy, safety, manufacturability, and regulatory readiness. Combining Discovery Expertise with Global Scale Under the partnership, Aphea.Bio will contribute its expertise in microbial lead discovery, characterization, and early-stage development, while Bayer will provide its extensive capabilities in product development, regulatory engagement, and global market access. The agreement was formally signed during a ceremony in Monheim, Germany, highlighting both companies’ commitment to advancing biological crop protection technologies. "The bioinsecticide market has been waiting for a partnership like this," said Isabel Vercauteren, CEO of Aphea.Bio. "Bayer's decision to collaborate with us reflects confidence in our ability to develop high-quality bioinsecticide leads, while Bayer brings the capability to deliver these solutions to millions of farmers around the world." Benoit Hartmann, Insights, Innovation & Partnerships Lead at Bayer Crop Science, said the collaboration reflects the industry's growing focus on expanding biological crop protection options. "Through this research partnership with Aphea.Bio, we aim to broaden the crop protection toolbox and accelerate the development of innovative, effective, and scalable biological solutions that meet the evolving needs of growers," he said. Accelerating the Path to Commercialization The companies plan to work jointly on advancing prototype products through field validation and early regulatory engagement, with development milestones tied to key performance criteria including efficacy, safety, production scalability, and regulatory feasibility. While financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, the partnership underscores increasing investment across the agricultural sector in biological solutions that can complement existing crop protection strategies. Biologicals Gain Strategic Importance The collaboration reflects a broader shift within global agriculture as growers, regulators, and agribusiness companies seek new technologies capable of balancing productivity, sustainability, and resistance management. As biological crop protection continues to gain momentum, partnerships that combine innovative discovery platforms with large-scale commercialization capabilities are increasingly viewed as critical to bringing next-generation solutions from the laboratory to the field. For Aphea.Bio, the agreement marks a significant step in validating its microbial innovation platform. For Bayer, it reinforces a growing commitment to expanding biological offerings within its crop protection portfolio. Together, the companies are betting that the future of pest management will increasingly rely on biologically derived solutions capable of addressing some of agriculture’s most persistent and economically damaging insect threats. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4071/nutrient-efficiency-technologies-can-directly-reduce-agricultures-environmental-footprint.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4071/nutrient-efficiency-technologies-can-directly-reduce-agricultures-environmental-footprint.html Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:25:39 +0530 Exclusive interview with Borregaard's Sondre Lomeland on reducing fertilizer losses, improving uptake, and advancing sustainable farming In an exclusive interaction with AgroSpectrum, Sondre Lomeland, Product Manager, Plant Nutrition at Borregaard, discusses the launch of Activance NUE, a next-generation biostimulant ingredient designed to improve nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency while helping growers maximise returns from fertilizer investments. He explains how the CE-marked technology combines multiple modes of action to enhance nutrient uptake, reduce leaching losses, and deliver measurable gains in root development, crop performance, and environmental sustainability. Lomeland also highlights the growing role of proven, fertilizer-compatible biostimulants in helping agriculture transition from input-intensive practices to efficiency-driven crop nutrition strategies. Looking ahead, he shares Borregaard’s broader vision for sustainable agriculture and previews future innovations that could further redefine nutrient management and organic farming systems. Activance NUE enters the market at a time when nutrient-use efficiency is becoming a central focus for agriculture. What specific industry challenges were you aiming to address through the development of this biostimulant ingredient? First, being certified under the EU Fertilising Products Regulations, customers can confidently buy a product that is safe to use and supported by documented agronomic efficiency. Historically, it has been difficult for farmers and fertilizer manufacturers to distinguish between biostimulants that consistently deliver measurable field performance and those that rely primarily on marketing claims. The biostimulant sector has expanded rapidly, but the lack of harmonized standards and independent validation has often created uncertainty around product efficacy. By obtaining certification under the EU regulatory framework, Activance NUE provides assurance that its nutrient-use efficiency benefits have been demonstrated through rigorous testing and verified according to recognized standards. This gives growers greater confidence that the product will perform under real-life field conditions and helps manufacturers bring a proven solution to market without undertaking extensive validation work themselves. Second, Activance NUE was developed with a strong focus on compatibility with common fertilizers and existing application systems. Many biostimulants face challenges when mixed with fertilizers, often causing tank sedimentation, precipitation, filter blockages, or nozzle clogging. These issues can create operational inefficiencies and discourage adoption, particularly in large-scale farming systems where ease of application is critical. Activance NUE has been formulated to work seamlessly with widely used fertilizer products, enabling growers to integrate nutrient-use efficiency benefits directly into their current crop nutrition programs. This compatibility allows farmers to apply fertilizers and biostimulants together without disrupting existing practices, making adoption simpler and more practical. Ultimately, the goal was to develop a solution that combines proven agronomic performance, regulatory credibility, and operational simplicity, addressing some of the key barriers that have limited wider adoption of biostimulant technologies in agriculture. The product is certified under the EU Fertilising Products Regulation as a PFC 6(B) non-microbial plant biostimulant. How significant is this CE-marking from a commercial and regulatory perspective for fertilizer manufacturers operating in Europe? Europe is a heavily regulated market for biostimulants. In order to receive the CE-marking, we have conducted a lot of field trials and got verified nutrient use efficiency from an external party. Now we can sell Activance NUE as a B2B product to manufacturers of specialty fertilizers, and they can include the nutrient use efficiency on their label, without needing to conduct time-consuming and expensive field trials on their own. Activance NUE claims to improve both nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency. Can you explain how its three modes of action work together to enhance nutrient uptake while reducing nutrient losses? Activance NUE has been shown to improve nutrient-use efficiency through three complementary modes of action that work together at both the plant and soil level. The first mode of action is the stimulation of plasma membrane H+-ATPase activity. This enzyme plays a central role in plant physiology and is often referred to as the engine that drives nutrient uptake. Increased H+-ATPase activity promotes stronger root growth and development, improving the plant's ability to explore a larger volume of soil and access available nutrients. It also enhances the transport of mineral nutrients across root cell membranes and supports the plant's ability to adapt to abiotic stresses such as drought, temperature fluctuations, and nutrient limitations. By strengthening these fundamental physiological processes, the plant becomes more efficient at acquiring nutrients from its environment. The second mode of action involves improving the plant's ability to absorb and utilize nitrogen. In corn trials with Activance NUE, we observed stimulation of both nitrate reductase activity and nitrate transporters. Nitrate transporters facilitate the movement of nitrate from the soil into the plant, while nitrate reductase is a key enzyme involved in converting absorbed nitrate into forms that can be used for growth and development. By supporting both uptake and assimilation pathways, Activance NUE helps plants make better use of available nitrogen, increasing nutrient efficiency rather than simply increasing nutrient supply. This is particularly important as nitrogen is often one of the most expensive and environmentally sensitive inputs in modern agriculture. The third mode of action occurs in the soil, where Activance NUE improves the availability and retention of phosphorus and nitrogen through its complexing capacity with phosphates and nitrates. In many soils, phosphorus can become fixed and unavailable to plants, while nitrogen is susceptible to leaching beyond the root zone. Activance NUE helps reduce these losses by keeping nutrients in more plant-available forms for longer periods. This not only improves nutrient accessibility for crops but also contributes to reducing nutrient losses to the surrounding environment. Together, these three mechanisms create a synergistic effect. The plant develops a stronger root system capable of accessing more nutrients, its internal processes become more efficient at absorbing and utilizing those nutrients, and the nutrients themselves remain more available in the soil. The result is improved nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency, enabling plants to make more effective use of applied fertilizers while supporting both productivity and sustainability objectives. Field trials showed improvements in root growth, nitrate uptake, and crop yields across multiple crop categories. Which results surprised you the most during the development and validation process? One of the most surprising results came from a broccoli field trial that was originally designed to measure nitrogen-use efficiency rather than environmental outcomes. During the trial, irrigation and fertilizer injection events created conditions where nitrates could be washed away from the topsoil and move beyond the root zone. Since the contract research organization (CRO) was already monitoring nitrate concentrations in the leachate as part of the study, we had a valuable opportunity to directly observe how the product influenced nutrient losses under real field conditions. What stood out was that the plots treated with Activance NUE consistently showed lower nitrate leaching compared to the untreated control plots. While we expected to see improvements in nutrient uptake and crop performance based on the product's mode of action, the magnitude and consistency of the reduction in nitrate losses were particularly encouraging. It provided direct evidence that the product was not only helping plants utilize nutrients more effectively but was also keeping more nitrogen available within the root zone where it could be used by the crop. This finding is significant because nitrate leaching represents both an economic and environmental challenge. From a grower's perspective, nutrients lost through leaching are nutrients that have been paid for but never utilized by the crop. From an environmental perspective, nitrate movement into groundwater and surrounding ecosystems is an increasing concern for regulators and the agricultural industry alike. Seeing a measurable reduction in leaching reinforced our understanding that improving nutrient-use efficiency is not only about increasing yields but also about reducing nutrient losses. Beyond the broccoli trial, we were pleased to see consistent improvements in root growth, nutrient uptake, and yield performance across multiple crop categories. However, the nitrate-leaching results were particularly memorable because they highlighted an additional sustainability benefit that complemented the agronomic gains. It demonstrated that technologies designed to improve nutrient efficiency can deliver value on multiple levels—supporting crop productivity, improving fertilizer return on investment, and reducing the environmental footprint of agricultural production. With fertilizer prices remaining volatile and growers under increasing pressure to maximise input efficiency, how do you see nutrient-use efficiency technologies reshaping fertilizer strategies over the next decade? I believe volatile prices and uncertain supply of fertilizers are changing the fertilizer programs across the world. Instead of adding fertilizers to reach a maximum yield, the dosage is targeted for the maximum return of investment. Biostimulants are key ingredients in this strategy, where they can maintain high crop yields while reducing the amount of fertilizer applied to the fields. Many fertilizer manufacturers are now looking beyond traditional nutrient formulations toward biological and biostimulant-enhanced products. How do you see the role of ingredients like Activance NUE evolving within the broader crop nutrition market? Activance NUE is specifically designed as a B2B ingredient for fertilizer manufacturers, and we see its role becoming increasingly important as the crop nutrition market continues to evolve toward higher-value, performance-driven solutions. Fertilizer manufacturers are investing more heavily in specialty fertilizers and biostimulant-enhanced products as growers demand solutions that deliver measurable agronomic benefits, improve nutrient-use efficiency, and help address sustainability goals. A key trend we are observing is that manufacturers are becoming more selective about the technologies they incorporate into their products. They are looking for ingredients that not only offer proven agronomic performance but are also supported by robust scientific validation and regulatory compliance. Activance NUE addresses this need by providing documented nutrient-use efficiency benefits and certification under the EU Fertilising Products Regulation, giving manufacturers greater confidence when bringing new products to market. Another important factor is formulation compatibility. Many biostimulants show promising results in trials but can be difficult to incorporate into commercial fertilizer formulations because they are incompatible with high-salt environments, low pH formulations, or commonly used fertilizer ingredients. This often creates challenges related to product stability, storage, handling, and application. Activance NUE was specifically developed to overcome these barriers. Its compatibility with a wide range of fertilizer systems allows manufacturers to integrate the technology into existing product portfolios without extensive reformulation work. From a commercial perspective, this compatibility significantly shortens time-to-market. Fertilizer companies can incorporate Activance NUE into liquid fertilizers, water-soluble fertilizers, fertigation products, and other specialty nutrition solutions more efficiently, reducing development timelines and accelerating product launches. This is particularly valuable in a market where innovation cycles are becoming shorter and customer expectations are increasing. Looking ahead, I believe ingredients like Activance NUE will play an increasingly strategic role within the broader crop nutrition industry. Rather than being viewed as optional additives, biostimulant ingredients with proven efficacy will become core components of next-generation fertilizer products designed to maximize nutrient efficiency, improve crop performance, and reduce environmental impact. As the industry shifts toward more sustainable and resource-efficient agriculture, manufacturers will increasingly seek technologies that combine scientific credibility, regulatory acceptance, formulation flexibility, and measurable field performance—and that is precisely the role Activance NUE is designed to fulfill. The product has been developed for compatibility across liquid NPKs, fertigation systems, hydroponics, and water-soluble fertilizers. How important was formulation flexibility in the design process, and what feedback have you received from potential industry partners? The formulation flexibility is one of the key advantages of Activance NUE in the biostimulant market. The feedback from industry partners has been very positive. In broadacre systems, growers value that it can be mixed directly into liquid starter fertilizers such as 10-34-0 and applied in standard field operations. In horticulture, it is appreciated that it can be used in fertigation systems, for example together with WSF, without causing clogging issues. The compatibility makes it easier for formulators and growers to adopt the technology in current practices. Agriculture is increasingly expected to balance productivity with environmental stewardship. To what extent can improved nutrient-use efficiency contribute to reducing nutrient runoff, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall environmental impact? Fertilizer use is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, both through the energy-intensive manufacturing process and through emissions generated after fertilizers are applied in the field. Today, less than half of the nitrogen fertilizer applied to agricultural land is actually utilized by the crop. The remainder is often lost through leaching, runoff, volatilization, or conversion into nitrous oxide—a greenhouse gas that has a substantially higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide. Technologies that improve nutrient-use efficiency directly address this challenge by helping plants utilize a greater proportion of the nutrients that are applied. When crops can absorb and use nitrogen and phosphorus more effectively, growers can maintain productivity while reducing fertilizer application rates. This not only lowers input costs but also reduces the environmental footprint associated with fertilizer production, transportation, and field application. Improved nutrient-use efficiency can also play an important role in reducing nutrient runoff and leaching into surrounding ecosystems. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus can contribute to water quality issues, including eutrophication of rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. By increasing nutrient availability to the plant and minimizing nutrient losses from the soil, efficiency-enhancing technologies help keep more nutrients within the crop production system and out of the environment. Beyond nutrient losses, there is also a broader sustainability benefit. Agriculture is under increasing pressure to produce more food from limited resources while meeting climate and environmental targets. Nutrient-use efficiency technologies provide a practical pathway to achieve both objectives simultaneously—supporting high yields and crop quality while lowering resource consumption and environmental impact. As regulatory frameworks become more focused on sustainability and as food value chains place greater emphasis on climate-smart production, technologies that improve nutrient-use efficiency will become increasingly important. In that context, solutions that enable growers to achieve more output from every unit of fertilizer applied can make a meaningful contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving water quality, and enhancing the overall sustainability of modern agriculture. Looking ahead, what is Borregaard’s broader vision for biostimulants and sustainable crop nutrition? Are there additional innovations in the pipeline that could further transform how nutrients are managed in modern agriculture? Borregaard’s vision is to contribute to a shift from input-driven to efficiency-driven agriculture. We already support this through a broad portfolio of crop nutrition solutions, including complexing agents, organomineral fertilizers, and soil conditioners. In the innovation pipeline we do have a new biostimulant that could change the way organic farming is managed. The product launch will likely happen towards the start of 2027. -- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4015/borregaard-unveils-ce-marked-biostimulant-ingredient-to-boost-nutrient-efficiency-and-fertilizer-performance.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/4015/borregaard-unveils-ce-marked-biostimulant-ingredient-to-boost-nutrient-efficiency-and-fertilizer-performance.html Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:29:25 +0530 Activance NUE enables validated nitrogen and phosphorus efficiency claims, offering fertilizer manufacturers a regulatory-ready solution for sustainable crop nutrition Borregaard has introduced Activance NUE, a new CE-marked biostimulant ingredient designed to enhance nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency across a wide range of crops, as fertilizer manufacturers increasingly seek technologies that improve productivity while reducing nutrient losses and environmental impact. Certified under the European Union Fertilising Products Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 as a PFC 6(B) non-microbial plant biostimulant, Activance NUE enables fertilizer producers to develop advanced nutrition products with validated nutrient-use efficiency claims while maintaining flexibility across multiple formulation systems. The launch comes amid growing pressure on farmers and input manufacturers to optimise fertilizer use as rising input costs, supply chain volatility and sustainability requirements reshape global crop production strategies. By improving how plants absorb and utilise nutrients, the new ingredient aims to help growers maintain productivity while using fertilizer resources more efficiently. According to Borregaard, Activance NUE has been specifically developed to simplify product development for fertilizer manufacturers. The ingredient can be incorporated into PFC 7 fertilizer blends, allowing manufacturers to retain validated nitrogen and phosphorus efficiency claims on final product labels while accelerating regulatory compliance and commercialisation within European markets. “Activance NUE combines validated nutrient-use efficiency claims with strong formulation compatibility, providing fertilizer manufacturers with a regulatory-ready solution for next-generation fertilizer products,” said Eduardo Pereira, Business Director Agri at Borregaard. The technology works through three scientifically validated mechanisms that enhance nutrient uptake and utilisation. These include stimulation of root development through activation of plasma membrane H⁺-ATPase activity, improved phosphorus availability through metal-phosphate complex formation, and enhanced nitrate uptake coupled with reduced nitrate leaching. Together, these mechanisms are designed to strengthen nutrient acquisition and improve overall fertilizer efficiency under a range of growing conditions. Field and laboratory evaluations conducted by Borregaard demonstrated significant agronomic benefits. Trials showed a 28.6 per cent increase in total root length and a 21 per cent improvement in nitrate uptake rates compared with untreated controls, highlighting the ingredient’s potential to improve nutrient absorption and plant vigour. Yield improvements were also recorded across multiple crop categories. Open-field studies reported yield gains of 4 per cent to 11 per cent in fruit crops, more than 10 per cent in vegetables, and over 5 per cent in broadacre field crops, indicating broad applicability across diverse agricultural systems. Beyond conventional fertilizer programmes, Activance NUE demonstrated particular value under nutrient-limited conditions, where crops typically face greater productivity losses. This capability is expected to resonate with growers seeking to maximise returns on fertilizer investments while mitigating production risks linked to fluctuating input availability and costs. The ingredient has been engineered for compatibility across a broad spectrum of fertilizer systems, including liquid NPK formulations, fertigation programmes, hydroponic systems and water-soluble fertilizers. Available in both soluble powder and microgranule formats, Activance NUE has also been designed to maintain stability under high-salt and low-pH formulation environments, expanding its potential application across specialty nutrition products. The introduction of Activance NUE reflects a wider industry shift toward nutrient stewardship and resource efficiency. As regulators, food companies and agricultural value chains place increasing emphasis on sustainable production practices, technologies that improve nutrient-use efficiency are becoming an increasingly important component of modern crop nutrition strategies. With its regulatory certification, validated agronomic performance and formulation flexibility, Borregaard positions Activance NUE as a next-generation ingredient capable of helping fertilizer manufacturers develop more efficient, sustainable and market-ready plant nutrition solutions for an evolving agricultural landscape. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3979/uk-study-uncovers-genetic-drivers-of-vaccine-escape-in-h5-avian-influenza.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3979/uk-study-uncovers-genetic-drivers-of-vaccine-escape-in-h5-avian-influenza.html Thu, 28 May 2026 13:57:14 +0530 Research integrates antigenic mapping and structural modelling to track mutations affecting immune protection in poultry The UK’s The Pirbright Institute has identified key genetic mutations in the haemagglutinin (HA) protein of H5 avian influenza viruses that significantly influence vaccine effectiveness in poultry, offering new insights into how viral evolution may undermine existing disease control strategies. The findings, published in the Journal of Virology, stem from a multidisciplinary study combining phylogenetic analysis, antigenic cartography, structural modelling, and experimental validation. Together, these approaches enabled researchers to map the molecular drivers behind antigenic drift in highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses. Since its emergence in 1996, the H5 avian influenza lineage A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996 (Gs/GD) has diversified into more than 30 genetically and antigenically distinct clades. Among them, clade 2.3.4.4b has become globally dominant in recent outbreaks, affecting domestic poultry, wild birds, and an expanding range of mammalian hosts. While vaccination remains a cornerstone of avian influenza control in poultry and a critical tool in reducing zoonotic spillover risks, the rapid evolution of the virus continues to challenge vaccine efficacy. Frequent mismatches between vaccine strains and circulating field viruses can reduce immune protection and allow continued viral spread. In the study, researchers used reverse genetics to generate recombinant viruses representing multiple H5 clades, enabling detailed analysis of their antigenic relationships through haemagglutination inhibition assays and antigenic cartography. This allowed the team to visualize immunological distances between viral strains and assess how they evolve over time. The analysis identified 48 candidate amino acid positions in the HA protein associated with antigenic variation. Experimental validation further confirmed four mutations—R82K, A83T, T204I, and F229Y—as having significant effects on antigenicity, with three of them (R82K, T204I, and F229Y) newly recognized as important determinants of immune escape. Researchers noted that some of these mutations have already been detected sporadically in recent outbreaks, including the ongoing H5N1 epizootic in North American cattle, suggesting their potential role in shaping future viral evolution and vaccine performance. The study also found that clade 2.3.4.4 viruses are not only genetically distinct but also antigenically separated from other H5 lineages, with substantial diversity even within the clade itself. This complexity presents ongoing challenges for vaccine seed strain selection and underscores the need for more precise antigenic matching in poultry vaccine development. In addition, variations in glycosylation sites on the HA protein were identified as another mechanism contributing to immune evasion, as these modifications can shield viral epitopes from antibody recognition and enhance vaccine escape potential. According to lead author Professor Munir Iqbal, head of the Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease group at The Pirbright Institute, the findings provide a practical framework for improving vaccine design and selection strategies, with implications for both animal health and zoonotic disease prevention. Overall, the study offers a comprehensive model for tracking antigenic drift and anticipating viral changes, potentially supporting more effective surveillance systems and more resilient poultry vaccination programs in the face of rapidly evolving avian influenza threats. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3967/eib-and-bnp-paribas-unlock-e200-mn-to-expand-agricultural-and-bioeconomy-finance-for-eu-smes.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3967/eib-and-bnp-paribas-unlock-e200-mn-to-expand-agricultural-and-bioeconomy-finance-for-eu-smes.html Wed, 27 May 2026 16:07:39 +0530 Funding under the EIB’s €3 billion programme aims to boost long-term credit access, climate-linked investment, and equipment leasing for farmers and agribusinesses across Europe The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €200 million ($234 million) financing agreement with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions to expand access to long-term credit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies across Europe’s agriculture and bioeconomy sectors, with initial allocations expected in Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. The initiative forms part of the EIB’s broader €3 billion pan-European agricultural programme, launched in 2024 to accelerate sustainable investment across EU farming systems. Under the structure, at least 70 per cent of financing will be directed to SMEs, while the remaining 30 per cent will support mid-cap agribusinesses. In addition, a minimum of 30 per cent of each allocation will be dedicated to climate action and environmental sustainability projects. The financing structure is designed to address persistent gaps in long-term credit access for small farmers and agribusiness operators across the European Union. By combining EIB-backed public capital with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions’ distribution network, the programme aims to reduce financing costs while expanding access to asset-backed leasing for agricultural equipment, renewable energy systems, and sustainable farming technologies. The EIB said the initiative will particularly benefit young, new, and female farmers, who often face structural barriers in accessing investment capital, while also supporting broader modernisation of European agricultural systems through improved liquidity and risk-sharing mechanisms. In 2025, the EIB Group provided €6.9 billion in total financing to the agriculture and bioeconomy sector, with approximately 60 per cent channelled to SMEs through partner financial institutions. The new agreement extends this capacity by mobilising additional private capital through leasing structures rather than direct lending, enabling more flexible, asset-linked financing solutions for the sector. The announcement also comes amid evolving policy responses in the EU, including temporary adjustments to state aid rules allowing member states to subsidise up to 70 per cent of additional fuel and fertiliser costs for farmers through end-2026, following ongoing supply chain pressures linked to global energy market disruptions. The EIB stated that the programme is designed to strengthen long-term agricultural resilience in Europe by improving investment flows into climate-smart farming, bioeconomy innovation, and next-generation agricultural infrastructure. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3966/basf-commissions-new-fermentation-biohub-in-ludwigshafen-to-scale-biological-crop-protection-portfolio.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3966/basf-commissions-new-fermentation-biohub-in-ludwigshafen-to-scale-biological-crop-protection-portfolio.html Wed, 27 May 2026 15:57:57 +0530 High double-digit million-euro investment strengthens in-house production of microbial-based fungicides and seed treatments, enhancing supply chain resilience and biologicals capacity BASF Agricultural Solutions has successfully commissioned its new BioHub fermentation plant at its Ludwigshafen site, marking a strategic expansion of its industrial biotechnology capabilities with a focus on biological and biotechnology-based crop protection solutions. The facility represents a high double-digit million-euro investment aimed at scaling BASF’s biologicals portfolio and strengthening long-term supply chain resilience. The new BioHub facility uses microbial fermentation processes to convert renewable feedstocks such as glucose into active biological ingredients. The plant has already begun commercial production of key active substances, including Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, which forms the basis of the biological fungicide Serifel, and the main component of Inscalis, an insecticide derived from the fungal strain Penicillium coprobium. These products are designed to support integrated crop protection programs focused on sustainability and reduced chemical dependency. BASF stated that bringing fermentation processes in-house significantly enhances production flexibility, execution efficiency, and supply chain stability, allowing the company to better align research capabilities with industrial-scale manufacturing. The company also noted that internal production strengthens its ability to respond to rising global demand for biological crop protection solutions. According to BASF Agricultural Solutions, the global biologicals market continues to expand steadily, driven by increasing demand for sustainable agricultural inputs. The BioHub is expected to provide a scalable and flexible manufacturing platform to support this growth while ensuring consistent supply of biological active ingredients to farmers worldwide. Dr. Melanie Bausen-Wiens, Member of the Management Board of Agricultural Solutions responsible for Technology, said the commissioning of the BioHub marks a key milestone in BASF’s industrial biotechnology strategy, enabling closer integration between research and large-scale production and accelerating the development of biotechnological innovations. Maximilian Becker, Member of the Management Board responsible for Business, added that the facility strengthens BASF’s BioSolutions portfolio and enhances its ability to deliver reliable biological products to customers, positioning the company to capture growth in sustainable crop protection markets. With the commissioning of the Ludwigshafen BioHub, BASF reinforces its strategic shift toward biological and fermentation-based solutions, aligning with broader industry trends toward sustainable agriculture, integrated crop protection, and reduced environmental impact. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3958/novonesis-expands-eu-approval-for-phytase-product-unlocking-broader-use-across-livestock-feed-sector.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3958/novonesis-expands-eu-approval-for-phytase-product-unlocking-broader-use-across-livestock-feed-sector.html Tue, 26 May 2026 14:16:53 +0530 Full label registration for next-generation enzyme enables cross-species deployment, improving feed efficiency, cost performance, and nutrient utilization Novonesis has received a full label registration for its next-generation phytase HiPhorius, increasing flexibility of use and bringing its superior performance and cost efficiency to farm and feed producers of all monogastric species across EU-countries. Previously authorized for all poultry species for fattening, poultry reared for laying or reared for breeding, sows and fin fish, HiPhorius can now also be used for laying hens, breeding poultry, piglets and fattening pigs. The full label registration allows feed producers and farmers the opportunity to use a single, high efficiency phytase solution across multispecies operations further enhancing both efficiency and sustainability. “Customers want one phytase solution that works across all species and life stages, while also driving superior performance and greater cost efficiency,’’ says Jens Kolind, SVP for Planetary Health for sales region Europe in Novonesis.“ With HiPhorius, we deliver a faster, more efficient and more heat stable phytase capable of delivering on these needs’’. HiPhorius is a fourth generation phytase developed on the heritage of RONOZYME HiPhos. Compared with earlier phytase solutions, it releases phosphorus faster and more efficiently, while maintaining a high level of activity during feed processing, including pelleting at elevated temperatures, helping ensure phytase performance where other solutions may lose efficacy. These properties enable near complete phytate degradation and superior nutrient utilization across poultry, swine, and aquaculture feeds. Supported by a unique range of user-friendly digital tools that ensure simple and precise application, HiPhorius enables near-complete phytate degradation. This reduces the need for costly inorganic phosphorus supplementation and supports superior growth rates and feed conversion ratios for all poultry, swine and aquaculture. Together, this supports performance, profitability and the environment. It also paves the way for the latest nutritional concepts, with their potential to transform the way livestock are fed in the future. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3945/vietnam-diversifies-export-markets-beyond-key-buyers-china-us-and-south-korea.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3945/vietnam-diversifies-export-markets-beyond-key-buyers-china-us-and-south-korea.html Mon, 25 May 2026 14:54:54 +0530 Shipments to Europe and Southeast Asia gain traction, reducing reliance on traditional export destinations Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable export sector recorded a total turnover of $2.67 billion in January–May 2026, marking a 16 per cent year-on-year increase, according to data from the Department of Customs. Export earnings in May alone were estimated at $614.79 million, remaining stable compared to the same period last year. Despite steady import growth, the sector maintained a strong external position. Imports of fruits and vegetables reached over $245 million in May, up 25 per cent year-on-year, bringing total imports for the January–May period to nearly $1.3 billion. This resulted in a trade surplus of approximately $1.37 billion, underscoring continued competitiveness in Vietnam’s horticulture exports. Key export markets including China, the United States, and the Republic of Korea remained dominant destinations, while shipments to Europe and Southeast Asia, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Malaysia, posted notable growth. This diversification has helped reduce dependence on a limited number of trading partners. Among product categories, durian emerged as the standout export driver, with Q1 turnover reaching nearly $222 million, a year-on-year increase of 127.8 per cent. Growth was supported by expanded approved growing-area codes and strengthened compliance systems. Traditional export fruits such as dragon fruit, bananas, mangoes, and coconuts continued to perform steadily. Coconut, in particular, has been identified as a strategic export commodity with long-term growth potential. According to Vietnam’s Agency of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, global import demand is expected to remain strong through 2026, supported by rising health-conscious consumption patterns and gradual economic recovery. The global fresh fruit and vegetable market is projected to reach $934.6 billion this year. Looking ahead, Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports are expected to maintain positive momentum as peak harvest seasons approach, supported by improving supply capacity, enhanced quality standards, and strengthened traceability systems across key value chains. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3935/new-report-highlights-gap-between-new-gmo-hype-and-global-market-reality.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3935/new-report-highlights-gap-between-new-gmo-hype-and-global-market-reality.html Fri, 22 May 2026 17:05:15 +0530 Lack of market uptake and unproven sustainability benefits contrast with rapid regulatory change; Public resistance to new GMOs grows around indigenous, small-holder, and farmer rights The European Non-GMO Industry Association (ENGA), The Non-GMO Project (US/Canada) and semnar (Switzerland), have announced the 2026 New GMOs Market Report. As a follow-up to the 2024 edition, the report analyses global market developments and regulatory trends related to the next generation of genetically engineered food crops. The authors point to a growing disconnect between industry expectations, sustainability claims, and the real-world deployment of new genetic engineering technologies such as CRISPR. At the same time, the report identifies recent advancements made by several global communities, often led by indigenous, smallholder farmers, peasant movements and farm workers, in resisting biotechnology in the food system. The report's findings are stark: Despite the hype of new genetic engineering breakthroughs, often driven by the promise of climate and environmental benefits, just four New GMO crops are currently cultivated commercially worldwide (only one more than in 2025), and none currently demonstrate measurable sustainability benefits. At the same time, companies are developing 108 new GMO crops, many of which have received regulatory clearance but have not reached commercial-scale cultivation. "There is a clear disconnect between promises and reality," said Heike Moldenhauer, ENGA Secretary General. "After years of development, market uptake is virtually non-existent and sustainability benefits haven't yet materialised. Whilst at the same time, New GMOs are being rapidly deregulated." Moldenhauer added,"Our findings point to another year of virtually no commercial success for New GMO products and a failure to substantiate the claims that these technologies will deliver a more sustainable food system. Instead, several developments focus on traits such as 'non-browning' or extended shelf life, which risk misleading consumers by enhancing the appearance of freshness whilst not addressing sustainability challenges." The report identified several New GMO crops that have been withdrawn from development since the 2024 report. Some of the earliest New GMO products have already been withdrawn from the market, underlining the poor commercial performance of these technologies to date. "Biotech companies continue to promote new GMO technologies with ambitious claims about sustainability and market transformation, yet they have achieved very limited commercial adoption," said Hans Eisenbeis, Director of Mission and Messaging at the Non-GMO Project. "Meanwhile, farmers, manufacturers and shoppers continue to drive demand for transparent, non-GMO, organic and regenerative food systems that already deliver proven benefits." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3931/nestle-and-first-milk-back-next-generation-of-regenerative-dairy-farmers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3931/nestle-and-first-milk-back-next-generation-of-regenerative-dairy-farmers.html Fri, 22 May 2026 13:19:29 +0530 The group toured the facility and took part in discussions on stress management, leadership and resilience Nestlé and First Milk have launched a forward-thinking initiative to support the next generation of dairy farmers. The format has been developed with 8point9 Training and Education and responds to the lack of opportunity for capable farmers to learn in a way that fits how they think and work. It focuses on practical learning, reflecting the realities of running a modern dairy business. Attending the launch event, Mike Warmington, Regeneration Lead at Nestlé UK & Ireland, said: “We want to make sure we are helping to build long-term resilience and sustainability in our supply chain. Of course, that means farming regeneratively, but it also means the long-term resilience of the farmers and their businesses. Young Dairy Leaders is a great step forward to help make sure the next generation of farmers keep doing what they’re doing today for many years to come.” Young Dairy Leaders was launched at Dovenby Hall in Cumbria, home of international motorsports business M-Sport UK, so attendees could experience a successful business outside farming and explore how different sectors deal with pressure, uncertainty and decision making. The group toured the facility and took part in discussions on stress management, leadership and resilience. Guest speakers included Cumbrian dairy farmer Robert Craig, who shared his experience of building a progressive and sustainable dairy business, alongside adventurer, author and charity founder Alex Staniforth, who spoke about overcoming extreme physical and mental challenges. Young Dairy Leaders will run a series of events in 2026 and is for First Milk members looking for relevant learning to support both business performance and personal growth, with a strong sense of community sitting at its heart. Lee Truelove, Head of Regenerative Farming at First Milk, said: “We are not building a training course. We are building the community, the confidence and the competence the next generation of regenerative farmers needs to thrive." Nestlé and First Milk believe Young Dairy Leaders come at a critical time for the sector, as dairy businesses adapt to economic pressures and the transition towards more regenerative systems. Their ambition is to create a lasting network of skilled and confident farmers who can support one another and help shape a sustainable future for the industry. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3924/philippines-eases-pork-supply-constraints-with-reopening-of-spanish-imports.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3924/philippines-eases-pork-supply-constraints-with-reopening-of-spanish-imports.html Mon, 18 May 2026 14:02:37 +0530 Decision follows confirmation of effective ASF containment and veterinary oversight in Spain The Philippines has lifted its temporary ban on pork and swine product imports from Spain following a comprehensive review of African Swine Fever (ASF) controls, marking a move expected to strengthen meat supply stability and ease pressure on domestic pork prices. The Department of Agriculture (DA), through a newly issued circular, formally recognised Spain’s ASF regionalization system, allowing the resumption of imports of pork meat, pig skin, and other swine by-products from designated low-risk zones under strict sanitary and quarantine conditions. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the decision reflects a calibrated balance between protecting domestic livestock industries and ensuring food security through science-based trade protocols. “We remain vigilant against ASF, but we also recognize the importance of science-based risk assessment and international cooperation in securing stable food supply chains,” he said, adding that regulated imports from monitored zones help diversify supply sources without compromising animal health safeguards. The Philippines had imposed a temporary ban on Spanish pork imports last year following ASF detections in parts of Europe, triggering tighter biosecurity controls aimed at protecting the local hog industry. The latest directive, issued under Department Circular No. 22, formally recognises Spain’s regional containment approach and aligns with existing veterinary frameworks governing bilateral trade partners. Under the new rules, all shipments from Spain must comply with established import protocols, Philippine quarantine requirements, and Administrative Circular No. 12 (series of 2025), which sets out guidelines for ASF regionalization agreements. The Bureau of Animal Industry confirmed that its assessment found Spain’s veterinary surveillance and disease-control systems sufficiently robust to minimise the risk of ASF transmission from approved export zones. Officials from the Philippine and Spanish veterinary authorities have also finalised technical conditions governing the certification and monitoring of pork shipments originating from designated low-risk regions, reinforcing a zone-based approach rather than nationwide trade restrictions. The DA said the policy shift reflects global best practices in animal disease management, where regionalization allows countries to contain outbreaks within specific geographic areas instead of imposing blanket import bans. Industry observers expect the decision to support market stability as the Philippines continues efforts to rebuild its domestic hog population, which has been significantly affected by ASF outbreaks in recent years. Spain, one of the world’s largest pork exporters and a long-standing supplier to the Philippine market, is expected to help diversify import sources and contribute to more stable retail pricing in the local meat sector. The Department of Agriculture said the order takes effect immediately and will remain in force unless amended or revoked in writing, underscoring its intent to maintain a flexible, risk-responsive trade framework anchored in international animal health standards. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3907/deutz-builds-strong-2026-foundation-with-broad-based-growth-across-core-segments.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3907/deutz-builds-strong-2026-foundation-with-broad-based-growth-across-core-segments.html Fri, 15 May 2026 11:56:18 +0530 The company’s “Future Fit” program exceeded savings targets while strengthening margins and operational performance Cologne-based engine manufacturer Deutz has opened the 2026 financial year with a robust performance, reporting sharp increases in new orders, revenue, and earnings in the first quarter, underscoring continued momentum from its ongoing strategic transformation. The company recorded new orders of €771.0 million, a 41.2 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2025, reflecting renewed demand across key industrial end markets, particularly construction equipment and agricultural machinery. Revenue rose 8.4 per cent year-on-year to €530.0 million, while adjusted EBIT increased by 45.7 per cent to €37.3 million. The adjusted EBIT margin improved to 7.0 per cent, up from 5.2 per cent in Q1 2025, signaling stronger underlying profitability despite traditionally softer first-quarter seasonality. CEO Sebastian C. Schulte said the company’s diversified strategy continues to deliver results across multiple business segments, including engines, new energy, defense-related activities, and services. “New orders, revenue, and earnings are all up sharply. Deutz has begun the new year with momentum, and the strategic transformation is increasingly paying off,” he said, noting that market conditions remain challenging but are being offset by operational progress and portfolio expansion. Chief Financial Officer Oliver Neu highlighted the successful completion of the company’s “Future Fit” action plan, which has now been fully implemented and is expected to exceed its original €50 million savings target by approximately 10 per cent. According to the company, more than €40 million in savings were generated within the Engines segment alone, which has returned to strong profitability, supported by efficiency gains and improved cost structures. Deutz also pointed to early signs of recovery in key end markets, particularly construction and agricultural machinery, which contributed to organic growth in its engines business and strengthened order intake during the quarter. The company emphasized that service operations continue to play an increasingly important role in its business mix, adding resilience to earnings while supporting long-term customer relationships across industrial segments. While management acknowledged that geopolitical uncertainty and broader macroeconomic pressures continue to weigh on global industrial markets, the results indicate that Deutz is entering 2026 with a strengthened balance sheet, improved margins, and growing strategic flexibility. The company stated that its transformation efforts are now increasingly reflected in financial performance, positioning it for sustained progress through the remainder of the year. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3900/denmarks-oat-revolution-takes-root-in-race-toward-climate-neutral-farming.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3900/denmarks-oat-revolution-takes-root-in-race-toward-climate-neutral-farming.html Fri, 15 May 2026 10:31:33 +0530 In the windswept farmlands of Northern Europe, where sustainability has become both political doctrine and agricultural necessity, Denmark is orchestrating an unlikely transformation around one of farming’s most understated crops The initiative arrives at a moment when global food systems stand at a delicate crossroads. Governments are under intensifying pressure to reduce agricultural emissions without compromising productivity, while farmers contend with increasingly erratic weather patterns, degraded soils, and rising input costs. Against that backdrop, Denmark is positioning oats not merely as a cereal grain, but as a strategic instrument in the architecture of climate-neutral agriculture. Already celebrated as one of the world’s most advanced organic farming nations, Denmark sees in oats a rare convergence of ecological restraint and agronomic resilience. The crop demands comparatively modest nitrogen inputs, carries a lighter carbon burden than many conventional alternatives, and demonstrates a natural robustness against weeds and disease—qualities that align seamlessly with the country’s long-term ambition to reduce chemical dependency across its agricultural sector. The science underpinning this vision is unfolding through the AVENUE research initiative, a sophisticated collaboration that intertwines plant genetics, agronomy, and computational analysis in pursuit of climate-resilient oat varieties. Researchers are examining 200 distinct strains, including genetic material preserved within NordGen, the Nordic gene repository that safeguards nearly 1,000 oat accessions from across the region. What emerges from these trials could shape the future of sustainable cereal production across Northern Europe and beyond. Experimental plots stretching across Denmark, Sweden, and Scotland have already exposed striking contrasts in how oat varieties respond to shifting environmental conditions. Some display remarkable adaptability under climatic stress; others reveal superior nutritional characteristics capable of supporting the evolving demands of plant-based food systems. Supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, the program will continue through 2027, with the explicit aim of developing breeding material suited for an increasingly unpredictable climate. Importantly, the project’s findings will be released into the public domain, creating an open scientific reservoir for breeders, researchers, and policymakers navigating the future of low-emission agriculture. Behind the technical language of genetics and sustainability lies a broader geopolitical signal. Denmark is not simply refining crop science—it is attempting to redefine the economic logic of modern farming itself. In that emerging landscape, where carbon efficiency may soon rival yield as agriculture’s defining metric, the humble oat is being recast with surprising grandeur: no longer a peripheral grain, but a quiet protagonist in the global pursuit of resilient food systems and climate equilibrium. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3881/rwanda-reorients-its-avocado-trade-toward-china-as-europes-market-saturation-reshapes-global-fruit-flows.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3881/rwanda-reorients-its-avocado-trade-toward-china-as-europes-market-saturation-reshapes-global-fruit-flows.html Wed, 13 May 2026 17:14:55 +0530 Amid oversupply in European markets and escalating logistics disruptions, Kigali accelerates a strategic pivot eastward, positioning China as a high-volume growth corridor for its rapidly expanding avocado sector In what may be interpreted as both an economic recalibration and a geopolitical reorientation of agricultural trade flows, Rwanda’s avocado industry is undertaking a decisive pivot away from increasingly saturated European markets toward the vast and structurally expanding demand base of China. The shift reflects not merely opportunistic diversification, but a more profound response to changing global horticultural equilibria in which supply gluts, freight volatility, and demand fatigue are redrawing the contours of profitability. For years, Europe and the United Kingdom functioned as the natural lodestars for Rwandan avocado exports, offering predictable demand cycles and relatively stable pricing structures. However, that equilibrium has begun to fracture under the weight of intensified competition, particularly from large-scale suppliers such as South Africa and Kenya, whose overlapping export windows have led to significant market congestion. The resulting oversupply has exerted downward pressure on prices, eroding margins for newer entrants such as Rwanda that once relied on niche positioning and quality differentiation. Simultaneously, demand signals from key consumption markets in Europe have softened, compounding the strain on exporters already navigating tighter pricing corridors. What was once a dependable export geography is now characterised by volatility, thinner premiums, and heightened buyer selectivity, leaving producers exposed to increasingly unforgiving market dynamics. Overlaying these demand-side pressures is a logistics environment that has grown markedly more complex. Disruptions along critical maritime corridors, including heightened instability near the Strait of Hormuz, have inflated freight costs and extended transit timelines. For a perishable commodity such as avocados—where ripeness is both value and vulnerability—such delays translate directly into quality deterioration and diminished export realisation. Against this backdrop of compressed margins and logistical friction, China has emerged not merely as an alternative destination, but as a strategic imperative. With its vast consumer base, expanding middle-class dietary diversification, and favourable tariff arrangements under bilateral trade frameworks, the Chinese market offers both scale and structural absorption capacity that Europe increasingly lacks. Zero-tariff access further enhances Rwanda’s competitive positioning, allowing it to circumvent some of the cost disadvantages that typically afflict emerging exporters. This pivot is occurring in parallel with a domestic supply expansion that is poised to redefine Rwanda’s export profile. As newly planted orchards reach maturity, national avocado output is projected to double within the next two years, creating an urgent need for large-volume, stable demand destinations capable of absorbing surplus production without price collapse. China, in this context, functions less as an option and more as an economic necessity. Yet the transition is far from automatic. Industry stakeholders and policymakers alike recognise that market entry at scale demands far more than trade intent. The National Agriculture Export Development Board is increasingly leaning on contract farming models to stabilise supply chains, enhance farmer financing, and ensure production consistency aligned with export requirements. In global horticultural trade, predictability is currency; volatility is liability. Equally critical is compliance with stringent quality and phytosanitary standards, particularly in high-expectation markets such as China. Achieving Good Agricultural Practices certification, improving post-harvest handling, and tightening cold chain discipline are no longer aspirational upgrades but baseline prerequisites for market access. In this sense, Rwanda’s avocado sector is not merely expanding—it is being structurally professionalised. However, the most decisive variable remains infrastructural. Without robust cold chain logistics, efficient storage systems, and real-time market intelligence, even the most promising trade corridors risk underperformance. For a fruit as temporally sensitive as the avocado, infrastructure is not a supporting actor; it is the central determinant of competitiveness. Delays, temperature fluctuations, and handling inefficiencies can rapidly convert export opportunity into economic loss. What emerges, therefore, is a sector in active transition—moving from fragmented export dependency toward strategic market engineering. Rwanda’s avocado industry is no longer reacting to global market conditions; it is attempting to reposition itself within them. The shift toward China is emblematic of a broader maturation process in which agricultural exports are increasingly governed not by tradition or proximity, but by scale, resilience, and logistical logic. If successfully executed, this eastward recalibration could elevate Rwanda from a peripheral participant in the global avocado trade to a structurally relevant supplier within Asia’s expanding fresh produce ecosystem. In a world where agricultural markets are becoming ever more contested, the ability to pivot is no longer merely an advantage—it is an existential necessity. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3868/basf-commissions-new-biohub-facility-in-germany-to-accelerate-biological-crop-protection-portfolio.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3868/basf-commissions-new-biohub-facility-in-germany-to-accelerate-biological-crop-protection-portfolio.html Tue, 12 May 2026 16:31:49 +0530 Ludwigshafen fermentation plant strengthens BASF’s biotechnology capabilities, supply chain resilience and sustainable agriculture ambitions BASF Agricultural Solutions has officially commissioned its new BioHub fermentation facility at its Ludwigshafen site, marking a significant expansion of the company’s industrial biotechnology capabilities and reinforcing its long-term focus on biological and biotechnology-based crop protection solutions. Built with an investment in the high double-digit million-euro range, the newly operational plant represents a strategic addition to BASF’s growing BioSolutions portfolio and reflects the accelerating global shift toward sustainable, integrated crop protection systems. The facility will manufacture biological fungicides and seed treatment solutions using advanced fermentation processes, enabling the company to scale production of next-generation biological crop protection products while improving operational flexibility and supply chain resilience. At the core of the BioHub is a fermentation platform that uses microorganisms to convert renewable raw materials such as glucose into biological active ingredients. The approach reflects the increasing convergence of industrial biotechnology and agricultural innovation, where biological processes are being deployed to develop lower-impact crop protection solutions suited to evolving regulatory and sustainability requirements. Production of key biological actives has already commenced at the site, including the bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, which serves as the foundation for Serifel, BASF’s biological fungicide platform. The facility is also producing the primary building block for Inscalis, the company’s novel insecticide based on the fungal strain Penicillium coprobium. By internalising fermentation production, BASF aims to strengthen manufacturing control across its biological portfolio while increasing responsiveness to market demand and reducing dependence on external supply chains. Commenting on the development, Melanie Bausen-Wiens, Member of the Management Board of BASF Agricultural Solutions responsible for Technology, described the commissioning as an important milestone in the company’s industrial biotechnology strategy. She noted that integrating fermentation production directly within BASF’s operational ecosystem creates a stronger bridge between scientific research and industrial-scale manufacturing, enabling faster adaptation and acceleration of biotechnological innovation pipelines. The launch also comes amid continued expansion in the global biological crop protection market, as growers increasingly seek solutions that align with sustainable farming practices, regulatory transitions, and integrated pest management strategies. Maximilian Becker, Member of the Management Board of BASF Agricultural Solutions responsible for Business, stated that the new fermentation platform provides BASF with a scalable and flexible production foundation capable of supporting the continued growth of its biological solutions portfolio. He added that the facility would play a critical role in ensuring consistent and dependable product availability for customers globally as demand for biological crop protection solutions continues to expand. The commissioning of the BioHub further strengthens Ludwigshafen’s role as one of BASF’s key global innovation and manufacturing centres, while underscoring the broader transformation underway within the crop protection industry — where biologicals, microbial technologies and industrial biotechnology are increasingly moving from niche applications into mainstream agricultural systems. For BASF, the facility represents not only a manufacturing expansion, but also a strategic signal of how the future of crop protection is likely to evolve — combining biological science, industrial fermentation and sustainable agriculture into a more resilient and adaptive agricultural production framework. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3867/doriane-introduces-bloomeo-breeding-bringing-ai-led-precision-to-modern-plant-breeding.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3867/doriane-introduces-bloomeo-breeding-bringing-ai-led-precision-to-modern-plant-breeding.html Tue, 12 May 2026 16:25:38 +0530 €10 million investment powers integrated breeding software designed to unify data, workflows and decision-making across global seed and research organisations Doriane SAS has officially launched Bloomeo Breeding, its next-generation software platform designed to redefine how plant breeding programmes are managed, integrated and accelerated in an increasingly data-intensive agricultural landscape. The launch marks a significant expansion of the company’s broader Bloomeo ecosystem following successful deployment across agronomy testing and variety development programmes. With the new platform now commercially available, Doriane is positioning the solution as a central operating layer for breeding organisations ranging from global seed companies to research institutions and mid-sized breeding enterprises. At a time when agricultural innovation cycles are under mounting pressure from climate volatility, food security concerns and evolving market expectations, breeding organisations are increasingly seeking systems capable not only of storing data, but of orchestrating complex scientific workflows across distributed research environments. It is precisely this transition that Bloomeo Breeding seeks to address. Unlike traditional breeding databases built around fragmented data repositories, the platform introduces a workflow-oriented architecture designed to unify every stage of the breeding lifecycle — from parental selection and crossing strategies to field advancement, trial evaluation and commercialisation pathways. At the heart of the platform lies an open, API-driven infrastructure intended to function as a central nervous system for breeding research and development. The architecture enables integration across laboratory systems, legacy databases, external analytics platforms and operational workflows, allowing organisations to consolidate breeding intelligence within a single digital environment. Commenting on the launch, Louis Gauthier, Co-CEO of Doriane SAS, noted that modern breeding organisations are moving beyond the need for static databases toward collaborative systems capable of streamlining increasingly complex breeding operations. According to him, breeding programmes today require interconnected platforms that can accelerate decision-making, integrate multi-source datasets and support cross-functional collaboration at scale. The platform has also been developed around a KPI-driven operational framework aimed at improving breeding efficiency and programme return on investment. By embedding breeding objectives into workflow execution from the outset, the system provides real-time visibility into operational performance, trial progression and programme bottlenecks. Integrated dashboards consolidate data from multiple sources, enabling breeding teams to compare cultivar performance against predefined product profiles while supporting faster and more informed decision-making. One of the platform’s defining capabilities lies in its integration of genetics, environment and management variables into a unified analytical model — often referred to within agricultural science as GxExM interactions. Through this approach, the platform enables breeders to analyse how genetic material performs not only across varying environmental conditions, but also under different agronomic and management practices. The system integrates phenotypic, genotypic, agronomic and environmental datasets within a single operational framework while supporting field data collection through a mobile offline-first application. The objective, according to the company, is to transform breeding programmes from isolated data analysis exercises into fully contextualised and predictive decision environments. Tristan Duminil, Head of Agronomy at Doriane SAS, observed that modern plant breeding increasingly depends on understanding how varieties interact dynamically with both environment and management systems rather than genetics alone. He added that the platform was specifically designed to make this complexity operationally actionable for breeding teams. Beyond scientific integration, Doriane has also placed significant emphasis on usability and organisational adoption. The platform has been designed to support stakeholders across the entire breeding ecosystem, including breeders, field technicians, laboratory teams, data scientists and management functions. According to the company, earlier Bloomeo modules currently support more than 550 users within Limagrain, achieving adoption rates of approximately 95 percent — a figure Doriane attributes to its user-centric interface design and implementation methodology. The launch of Bloomeo Breeding follows an investment of nearly €10 million over four years, combining Doriane’s four decades of expertise in plant breeding data systems with advances in software engineering and agricultural analytics. The company stated that it plans to continue investing approximately €2 million annually into platform development, with future priorities focused on envirotyping capabilities, environmental data integration, advanced analytics, workflow optimisation and partnerships with AgTech innovators. For Doriane, the launch represents more than the release of a software platform. It reflects a broader transformation underway within agricultural science — where breeding is increasingly becoming a convergence of biology, environmental intelligence, predictive analytics and digital infrastructure. As global agriculture confronts the dual challenge of producing more resilient crops while accelerating innovation timelines, platforms such as Bloomeo Breeding are emerging as the connective tissue linking scientific discovery with scalable agricultural impact. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3832/asia-pacific-nature-finance-push-gains-momentum-as-germany-partners-with-adb.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3832/asia-pacific-nature-finance-push-gains-momentum-as-germany-partners-with-adb.html Wed, 06 May 2026 15:09:25 +0530 Germany commits €5.5 Million in grant financing to accelerate biodiversity protection and nature-based solutions   The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Germany have expanded their strategic partnership to accelerate nature finance and biodiversity investments across Asia and the Pacific, marking a significant step towards strengthening climate resilience and sustainable development in the region.   Announced during the ADB Annual Meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Germany has formally joined ADB’s Nature Solutions Finance Hub as a financing partner, committing €5.5 million ($6.5 million) in grant co-financing to support the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of ecosystems and biodiversity.   The financing contribution is being provided through Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and will be implemented in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).   The announcement coincided with the signing of an implementation agreement between ADB and GIZ, formalising the collaboration and reinforcing the growing international momentum behind nature-positive financing initiatives.   ADB President Masato Kanda said nature remains central to inclusive growth, long-term development, and climate resilience across Asia and the Pacific.   He noted that Germany’s participation strengthens an expanding coalition of global partners working to scale up investments in nature through coordinated action, innovative financing structures, and long-term development collaboration.   Johann Saathoff, Parliamentary State Secretary of BMZ and ADB Governor for Germany, described the partnership as an important platform for combining Germany’s technical and financial expertise with ADB’s regional reach and development capabilities.   He stated that the collaboration would help deliver nature-based solutions aimed at addressing biodiversity loss and climate-related challenges across the region.   Launched in 2023, the Nature Solutions Finance Hub was established with the objective of catalysing at least $5 billion in nature-positive investments by 2030.   The initiative seeks to address two of the most significant barriers to scaling nature finance globally — the shortage of bankable investment-ready projects and the limited availability of financial instruments capable of attracting private-sector capital at scale.   In addition to Germany, the Hub’s growing network of partners includes Agence Française de Développement, the European Union, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Global Environment Facility, and the ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility, supported by the United Kingdom and the Green Climate Fund, alongside multiple technical partners.   The Hub is currently supporting nearly 20 projects within ADB’s development pipeline, with a strong focus on nature-based and climate-resilient infrastructure solutions.   These initiatives include flood resilience programmes in the Philippines, coastal ecosystem management projects in Thailand, river basin restoration efforts in Bangladesh, and watershed rehabilitation programmes in Uzbekistan.   ADB highlighted that approximately 75 per cent of Asia and the Pacific’s gross domestic product is linked to sectors that are moderately or heavily dependent on nature, including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism.   However, despite the region’s deep economic reliance on natural ecosystems, the global nature finance gap is estimated to exceed $900 billion annually.   The Nature Solutions Finance Hub is being positioned as an innovative partnership model aimed at narrowing this financing gap while mobilising greater public and private investment towards biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management.   Founded in 1966, ADB remains one of the region’s leading multilateral development institutions, supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth through strategic financing, infrastructure development, and collaborative partnerships across Asia and the Pacific.     ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3803/fair-trade-certified-tuna-program-aims-to-strengthen-maldives-blue-economy.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3803/fair-trade-certified-tuna-program-aims-to-strengthen-maldives-blue-economy.html Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:22:41 +0530 Women harvesters will participate in Fair Trade Committees to support sea cucumber farming and community governance Swiss seafood company Blueyou has launched a Fair Trade Certified tuna program in the Maldives in partnership with Fair Trade USA, aiming to strengthen sustainable seafood supply chains while supporting coastal livelihoods and marine conservation efforts. The initiative, announced ahead of World Tuna Day on May 2, will work with 25 island communities across eight atolls and is expected to benefit around 30,000 people, including approximately 2,500 tuna fishers and 500 women involved in sea cucumber farming and seagrass restoration activities. The fisheries component of the program focuses on skipjack and yellowfin tuna harvested through traditional pole-and-line fishing, a method widely regarded as one of the most sustainable forms of commercial tuna fishing due to its lower environmental impact and reduced bycatch. According to the companies, the program aims to scale Fair Trade-certified operations to 200 fishing vessels with an annual catch capacity of 20,000 metric tons. The initiative is also expected to channel more than $700,000 in Fair Trade Community Development Funds into participating island communities for social, environmental, and infrastructure projects. Blueyou said the program combines sustainable fisheries with restorative mariculture, community development, and marine habitat conservation to create more resilient blue economy systems. A key component of the initiative involves organizing women mariculture harvesters into Fair Trade Committees to support inclusive governance and develop alternative income opportunities through sea cucumber cultivation. The company said the program will also support seagrass conservation and restoration, recognizing the role of seagrass ecosystems in biodiversity protection, coastal resilience, and carbon storage. Additional sustainability measures include plans to pilot a solar-powered ice plant aimed at reducing emissions linked to seafood processing, along with plastic recycling and waste management initiatives funded through Fair Trade mechanisms. Blueyou said the tuna program is designed to supply shelf-stable Fair Trade Certified tuna products to retail markets in Europe and North America. The company has already secured distribution partnerships with followfood in Europe and envisible and Arkk Food in the United States. According to Blueyou, its five-year target is to supply 500 freight containers of Fair Trade Certified canned tuna to international retail markets. Industry observers say the initiative reflects growing demand from global seafood buyers and retailers for traceable, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable seafood supply chains. The program also highlights increasing efforts within the seafood industry to integrate social inclusion, climate resilience, and ecosystem restoration into commercial fisheries and blue economy development models. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3796/fmcs-first-quarter-results-reflect-continued-stress-in-agrochemical-markets.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3796/fmcs-first-quarter-results-reflect-continued-stress-in-agrochemical-markets.html Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:24:50 +0530 FMC expects pricing pressure and lower diamide partner sales to continue through 2026 FMC Corporation reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of $759 million, down 4 per cent from the same period last year, as lower pricing and continued weakness in parts of the global crop protection market weighed on earnings. Revenue excluding the company’s India business stood at $762 million during the quarter, also down 4 per cent year-on-year. Organic revenue declined 9 per cent. The company reported a GAAP net loss of $281 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, compared with a significantly smaller loss in the corresponding period last year. Adjusted EBITDA declined 40 per cent to $72 million. Adjusted loss per diluted share came in at $0.23, compared with adjusted earnings in the year-ago period, while GAAP loss per diluted share widened to $2.25. FMC attributed the weaker quarterly performance to lower pricing, higher restructuring expenses, rising interest costs, and increased raw material and tariff-related expenses. Volume Growth Offsets Part of Pricing Decline The company said first-quarter sales were slightly above the midpoint of its guidance, supported by higher volumes in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North America. Volume increased 2 per cent during the quarter, while foreign exchange movements provided a 5 per cent tailwind. However, prices declined 6 per cent, reflecting lower pricing to diamide partners, pricing actions linked to branded Rynaxypyr products, and intense competition in legacy crop protection products, particularly in Latin America. FMC said sales of new active ingredients doubled year-on-year during the quarter, while its Plant Health business recorded 6 per cent growth. Latin America and Pricing Pressure Continue to Impact Business The company said competitive pressure remained particularly intense in Latin America, where lower farmer profitability and aggressive pricing affected sales performance. FMC also pointed to continued pressure on legacy products across global markets, although stronger sales of newer active ingredients helped partly offset the decline. The company expects pricing pressure to continue through 2026, particularly as it advances its post-patent strategy for Rynaxypyr active. Company Maintains Full-Year 2026 Guidance Despite weaker first-quarter results, FMC reaffirmed its full-year outlook for 2026. The company expects full-year revenue excluding India to be between $3.60 billion and $3.80 billion, representing a decline of about 5 per cent at the midpoint compared with 2025. Adjusted EBITDA is projected in the range of $670 million to $730 million, while adjusted earnings per share are expected between $1.63 and $1.89. FMC expects free cash flow for the year to range from negative $65 million to positive $65 million. The company said sales of new active ingredients are expected to reach between $300 million and $400 million during 2026, representing growth of more than 75 per cent at the midpoint. Focus on Debt Reduction and Portfolio Transition FMC said its operational priorities for 2026 include reducing debt by approximately $1 billion, improving competitiveness in its core portfolio, and managing the post-patent transition of Rynaxypyr. The company is also focusing on expanding sales of newer active ingredients including Isoflex, fluindapyr, and Dodhylex. In parallel, FMC said its board-authorised review of strategic alternatives, announced earlier this year, remains ongoing, with multiple options under evaluation. The company stated that there is no assurance the process will result in a transaction. Cash Flow Remains Under Pressure Cash flow remained weak during the quarter, with cash from operations at negative $601 million, compared with negative $545 million in the same period last year. Free cash flow stood at negative $628 million, reflecting lower operating cash generation despite reduced capital expenditure. FMC said the decline was mainly driven by lower EBITDA and continued market pressures. Second Quarter Outlook Remains Weak For the second quarter, FMC expects revenue between $850 million and $900 million, representing a decline of about 17 per cent at the midpoint compared with the same period last year. The company expects lower volume to diamide partners, continued pricing pressure, and the absence of contributions from the India business to weigh on performance. Second-quarter adjusted EBITDA is projected between $130 million and $150 million, while adjusted earnings per share are expected in the range of $0.16 to $0.26. FMC expects a gradual recovery in the second half of the year, supported by higher volumes and growth in products based on new active ingredients. However, pricing pressure in core portfolio products and higher financing costs are expected to continue affecting profitability through the remainder of 2026. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3779/eudr-is-binary-but-cocoa-supply-chains-are-not-ihwan-rafina-on-future-of-compliance.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3779/eudr-is-binary-but-cocoa-supply-chains-are-not-ihwan-rafina-on-future-of-compliance.html Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:26:11 +0530 MosaiX Senior Director says fragmented supply chains and weak data governance pose deeper challenges than technology alone In an exclusive interaction with AgroSpectrum, Ihwan Rafina discusses how the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is reshaping global cocoa supply chains and exposing the structural complexities of compliance in producer countries like Ecuador. The interview examines the critical gaps in land tenure, traceability, and data governance that continue to challenge smallholder-driven cocoa economies despite rapid advances in digital compliance systems. Rafina also highlights the importance of moving beyond simplistic deforestation narratives toward plot-level, evidence-based due diligence models that can balance environmental accountability with on-ground socio-economic realities. Addressing the risks of supplier exclusion, he argues for remediation-focused sustainability frameworks that enable non-compliant producers to transition toward acceptable standards rather than being permanently shut out of global markets. The conversation further explores how EUDR may create a more segmented global cocoa trade, positioning Ecuador as a potentially strong but execution-sensitive origin in the emerging hierarchy of compliant suppliers. Structural Risk vs Regulatory Threshold The European Union Deforestation Regulation sets a binary compliance bar—deforestation-free or not. Yet Ecuador’s cocoa economy operates in shades of informality. How do you reconcile this mismatch between regulatory rigidity and on-ground complexity? EUDR is binary at the border, but cocoa systems are not. The practical reconciliation is to treat compliance as a risk-segmentation exercise, not a moral yes/no judgment: plots and suppliers that are already traceable and legally documented move first, while higher-risk segments need phased remediation, targeted support, and temporary market separation. That is especially relevant in Ecuador, where cocoa is highly smallholder-based and the sector is still building national traceability and due-diligence capacity. Land Tenure Informality as a Systemic Bottleneck With nearly 92 per cent of cocoa land unregistered, is land tenure the single largest constraint to EUDR compliance, or are we underestimating other risks like fragmented supply chains and data integrity? Land tenure is a major bottleneck, but probably not the only or even always the single largest one. The “92 per cent unregistered” figure is based on the desktop analysis from a public database, so it's a precautionary approach. In practice, tenure interacts with two other constraints that are just as decisive under EUDR: fragmented supply chains and weak data governance. Ecuador’s readiness work has focused not only on legality, but also on traceability design, governance mechanisms, and due-diligence tools, which suggests the constraint is systemic rather than purely cadastral. Traceability: technology vs. reality EUDR assumes plot-level geolocation and traceability at scale. In a smallholder-dominated ecosystem, how feasible is full-stack traceability, and where do current digital solutions fall short—data capture, verification, or interoperability? Full-stack traceability is feasible for organised suppliers, cooperatives, and better-structured exporters, but much harder across atomised intermediated trade. EUDR requires geolocation, including GPS points for plots under 4 hectares and polygons above 4 hectares, plus legality checks and forest/protected-area overlays. Ecuador has pilots moving in that direction, but current gaps are usually not the technology itself, they are field data capture quality, verification cost, and interoperability between trader, exporter, and public systems. It’s a people issue as much as a technology one. To achieve full traceability, you need people on the ground to verify it, and that’s a huge undertaking that will take time and resource. Deforestation attribution complexity Your findings suggest cocoa is not the primary driver of large-scale deforestation, yet it remains exposed to compliance risks. How should companies approach deforestation attribution, especially in landscapes with overlapping land-use histories? Companies should avoid simplistic commodity blame and instead use plot-based, time-bound attribution. Cocoa in Ecuador is often linked to agroforestry systems and is not always the main driver of large-scale forest conversion, but EUDR exposure still exists where farm boundaries intersect post-2020 forest loss or unclear land-use histories. So the right question is not “is cocoa the main driver nationally?” but “can this specific plot be evidenced as deforestation-free and legal since the cutoff date?”. The approach needs to be focused on gathering and verifying this evidence. Protected area overlaps and legal ambiguity The overlap of cocoa plots with protected reserves raises difficult questions. In cases where livelihoods and legality collide, how should stakeholders navigate grey zones between conservation policy and socio-economic reality? Where cocoa overlaps with protected or restricted areas, companies should separate legal compliance from livelihood response. EUDR does not create an exception for socio-economic hardship, so non-compliant supply cannot simply be waved through. But the answer should not be exclusion only, it should combine legal screening, case-by-case remediation pathways, support for transition, and engagement with local authorities where boundaries, rights, or historic occupation are contested. For multinationals operating beyond Europe, excluding non-compliant suppliers isn’t the only option – and from a sustainability perspective, exclusion can be counterproductive. The non-compliant cocoa doesn’t disappear, it simply ends up in less regulated markets.While the EUDR does not have a path to redemption, having a mechanism for remediation built into NDPE policies that allows for suppliers to be brought back into the fold once they have met the required standards is one of the best ways to drive impact. These suppliers can then be included in non-EU supply chains. Due diligence as capability, not compliance Most companies treat due diligence as a reporting exercise. Your framework suggests a shift toward operational capability. What does it take to move from static compliance checklists to dynamic, continuously auditable systems? The shift is from static documentation to an operating system: continuous supplier onboarding, geodata validation, risk scoring, protected-area and deforestation overlays, document management, incident handling, and audit trails. Ecuador’s recent EUDR readiness work is useful precisely because it tested national risk assessment, due-diligence guidance, and pilot tools in real conditions. That is the right direction, compliance as an ongoing capability, not a one-off file. Market access and competitive realignment Do you see EUDR creating a two-tier global cocoa market—where compliant origins gain preferential access and others are structurally excluded? Where does Ecuador sit in that emerging hierarchy? Yes, EUDR is likely to create a more segmented cocoa market. Origins and supply sheds with stronger organisation, cleaner traceability, and better legality evidence will gain faster access to EU buyers, while others risk discounting or diversion to less regulated markets. Ecuador is relatively well positioned compared with many origins because it has a strong export sector, active EUDR readiness programmes, and a large agroforestry cocoa base, but that advantage is conditional on execution at farmer and intermediary level. From Ecuador to global replicability To what extent are the risks identified in Ecuador representative of other cocoa-producing regions like West Africa or Southeast Asia? What lessons can be generalized versus those that remain highly context-specific? Ecuador’s risks are partly generalisable and partly unique. The general lessons, smallholder fragmentation, traceability cost, legality gaps, and the need for interoperable systems, are highly relevant to West Africa and Southeast Asia. The context-specific part is Ecuador’s stronger agroforestry profile and different deforestation dynamics compared with frontier expansion landscapes elsewhere. So Ecuador is a useful model for systems design, but not a one-to-one template for all cocoa origins. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agropsectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3765/rijk-zwaan-updates-spinach-line-for-organic-segment.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3765/rijk-zwaan-updates-spinach-line-for-organic-segment.html Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:27:20 +0530 Focus on yield stability, resistance, and suitability for different cultivation windows Reinforcing its commitment to innovation in organic agriculture, Rijk Zwaan has unveiled an updated portfolio of spinach varieties tailored for organic growers across Europe. The latest offering combines proven performers with new introductions, each selected for their strong resistance profiles, yield stability, and superior product quality under diverse growing conditions. As demand for reliable organic crops continues to rise, the company’s enhanced range addresses a critical need among growers for varieties that can withstand evolving disease pressures and climatic variability. According to crop coordinators Wim in ’t Groen and Filip Hermans, the focus is on delivering consistent performance across different growing seasons and market requirements. Among the new additions, Galago RZ stands out as a dependable option for organic baby leaf spinach cultivation, particularly suited for winter production in southern Europe and transitional sowing periods in northern regions. Its rapid growth, visually appealing leaf structure, and comprehensive resistance package against downy mildew and emerging fungal threats position it as a robust choice for growers seeking reliability. Reindeer RZ further strengthens the portfolio with its high resistance levels and uniform leaf quality, offering growers enhanced certainty during winter cultivation cycles. Meanwhile, Boomslang RZ delivers versatility across spring and autumn seasons, combining high yields with a broad resistance spectrum—making it well-suited for both open-field and protected cultivation systems. For targeted seasonal applications, Cabezon RZ is recommended for early and late summer production in northern Europe, offering strong disease resistance and attractive leaf characteristics, although alternative varieties may be better suited for peak summer conditions. Beyond fresh market production, Rijk Zwaan has also expanded its focus on spinach varieties for the processing industry, where cultivation dynamics differ significantly. With production concentrated in regions such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and France—particularly in the fertile soils of Flevoland—summer cultivation plays a pivotal role. In this segment, Silverwhale RZ emerges as a fast-establishing variety, enabling effective weed management and ensuring reliable harvests. Its strong resistance profile and consistent leaf quality have made it a preferred choice among organic growers. Complementing this is Boa RZ, a vigorous and well-established variety known for its adaptability to heavy soils, rapid germination, and suitability for early mechanical weed control—factors that contribute to higher productivity and crop success. With this expanded portfolio, Rijk Zwaan continues to support organic growers with solutions that balance agronomic resilience, market demands, and sustainability—strengthening its position at the forefront of innovation in vegetable breeding. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3744/dunhamtrimmer-highlights-shift-toward-engineered-nutrient-systems-at-nai-2026.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3744/dunhamtrimmer-highlights-shift-toward-engineered-nutrient-systems-at-nai-2026.html Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:29:42 +0530 The global specialty fertilizer market is entering a new phase of technological convergence, moving beyond conventional nutrient formulations toward integrated performance systems, according to insights shared by Vatren Jurin, Chief Technology Officer and Partner at DunhamTrimmer. Jurin is set to present “Market Trends for Specialty Fertilizers” at the NewAG International Conference & Exhibition 2026, scheduled for April 28–29 in Madrid. Drawing on a synthesis of global patent activity, academic research trends, and proprietary market intelligence, Jurin’s analysis points to a structural transformation in how innovation is defined within the fertilizer industry. Rather than focusing on nutrient composition alone, companies are increasingly prioritizing delivery mechanisms, nutrient-use efficiency, and integration with advanced materials and biological components.“This is a transition from standalone products to engineered systems designed to deliver specific agronomic outcomes,” Jurin noted. “The value is shifting toward those capable of designing and controlling these complex systems.”Structural Pressures Driving InnovationThe shift is being accelerated by a convergence of systemic challenges affecting global agriculture. Persistent inefficiencies in nutrient uptake, tightening regulatory frameworks—particularly in Europe—rising input costs, and ongoing supply chain disruptions are forcing the industry to rethink traditional approaches.These pressures are catalyzing demand for precision-driven solutions that maximize nutrient efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. As a result, innovation pipelines are increasingly concentrated around controlled-release technologies, enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, and integrated biological solutions.One of the most notable developments is the growing role of biologicals within fertilizer systems. Rather than being marketed as standalone inputs, biostimulants and microbial products are now being co-developed with fertilizers to enhance nutrient availability and plant response. However, Jurin emphasized that formulation complexity introduces new technical challenges, particularly in ensuring product stability and compatibility across diverse conditions.Convergence of TechnologiesJurin’s research highlights four primary areas of convergence shaping the next generation of specialty fertilizers: advanced delivery systems, inhibitors and stabilizers, materials science, and biological integration.Controlled-release and water-soluble fertilizers continue to evolve, supported by innovations in polymer coatings and carrier materials. At the same time, inhibitors targeting nitrogen loss pathways—such as volatilization and leaching—are gaining traction as regulatory scrutiny intensifies.Materials science is also playing a critical role, enabling the development of novel carriers and formulations that improve nutrient uptake efficiency. Meanwhile, biological integration is redefining product design, with companies seeking to combine chemical and biological modes of action within a single platform.“The challenge is no longer just innovation, but integration,” Jurin explained. “Ensuring that these components work together in a stable and predictable way is now central to product development.”Market Outlook: Toward Multi-Functional SystemsLooking ahead, the specialty fertilizer market is expected to continue its transition toward multi-functional, co-engineered systems. These solutions will combine nutrients, biological agents, and advanced materials to deliver targeted agronomic performance, tailored to specific crops, geographies, and environmental conditions.In this evolving landscape, competitive advantage will increasingly depend on data integration and system design capabilities. Companies that can effectively translate scientific insights into scalable commercial solutions are likely to capture a disproportionate share of market value.DunhamTrimmer positions itself as a strategic intelligence provider in this space, leveraging what it terms “International Bio Intelligence” to help stakeholders interpret complex data signals and anticipate market direction.NAI 2026: Focus on Innovation and Market AccessThe NewAG International Annual 2026 will reflect these industry dynamics through a dual-track program covering specialty fertilizers and biological agricultural inputs. The event will showcase advancements in sustainable fertilization, BioAg technologies, and regulatory-driven innovation across Europe.Key themes include next-generation fertilizer formulations, biostimulants and biocontrol strategies, and the integration of circular economy principles such as waste-to-fertilizer solutions. Participants will also gain insights into European market trends and opportunities, particularly in the rapidly expanding BioAgTech segment.With a strong emphasis on scientific research, field validation, and commercial scalability, the conference aims to bridge the gap between innovation and market adoption. Networking opportunities with regional distributors and industry stakeholders are expected to further support market entry and expansion strategies. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3732/elsoms-seeds-unveils-vision-for-innovation-new-era-in-crop-science-begins.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3732/elsoms-seeds-unveils-vision-for-innovation-new-era-in-crop-science-begins.html Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:24:00 +0530 State-of-the-art centre to accelerate breeding, strengthen R&D, and power the next generation of resilient crops In a decisive step towards advancing global agricultural innovation, Elsoms Seeds has announced a major investment in a cutting-edge Innovation Centre, designed to significantly expand its research and development capabilities. As one of the United Kingdom’s leading independent seed businesses with a growing global footprint, the company is reinforcing its commitment to plant science, improved varieties, and sustainable food production. Scaling Research, Accelerating Results The new facility will markedly increase R&D capacity, enabling faster development of high-performing, resilient crop varieties tailored to evolving agricultural challenges. By enhancing scientific capabilities and streamlining delivery, the centre is set to strengthen support for customers and partners across international markets. Crucially, it will also bring together teams from Elsoms Seeds, Elsoms Wheat, and Elsoms Ackermann Barley under one roof, fostering collaboration and accelerating innovation pipelines. Strategic Location, Seamless Integration Positioned adjacent to the company’s trial grounds near its headquarters in Spalding, the Innovation Centre will offer a unique integration of laboratory science and field application. Visitors and partners will be able to witness first-hand how advanced techniques and technologies are applied to unlock plant potential, while also exploring demonstration plots in real-world growing conditions. The site will further serve as a hub for future customer engagement events and open days. Designed for Scientific Excellence Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with a one-year build programme planned to deliver a comprehensive suite of facilities. These will include climate-controlled growing rooms, specialised laboratories, and modern office spaces, alongside upgrades to existing infrastructure. The development reflects a forward-looking approach to research, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of seed innovation. Driving Productivity and Sustainability According to David Coop, Managing Director of Elsoms Seeds, the investment is firmly rooted in customer needs and long-term sustainability goals. By advancing plant science and breeding superior varieties, the company aims to help growers achieve higher productivity with fewer resources—supporting both economic viability and global food security. Innovation at the Heart of Agriculture’s Future As the pressures of climate change, resource constraints, and population growth intensify, investments such as this signal a critical shift towards science-led solutions. With its new Innovation Centre, Elsoms Seeds is not only expanding its capabilities—it is helping shape a more resilient and productive agricultural future. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3703/second-wave-of-artificial-intelligence-set-to-be-decisive-for-agribusiness-rodny-a-coronel-regional-manager-elo-digital-office-espana.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3703/second-wave-of-artificial-intelligence-set-to-be-decisive-for-agribusiness-rodny-a-coronel-regional-manager-elo-digital-office-espana.html Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:58:58 +0530 Artificial intelligence is rapidly shedding its identity as a tool exclusive to the tech industry and emerging as a strategic asset in agribusiness. From document management to the automation of administrative and operational processes, AI is advancing across the entire agri-food value chain. According to Rodny A. Coronel, Regional Manager at ELO Digital Office España, the sector is now entering a critical phase: the “Second Wave” of AI. “Agribusiness can no longer approach AI as an isolated experiment. Competitive advantage will depend on how effectively it is integrated into core business processes,” Coronel said in an interview ahead of ELO Horizons Barcelona 2026.From Digitalization to Operational IntelligenceAcross Europe, AI adoption is accelerating. In Spain, more than 23 per cent of SMEs already use AI technologies, while 21.1 per cent of large enterprises have embedded them into production processes. In the agro-industrial context, this is translating into a quiet yet profound transformation: digitalization of agricultural contracts, automation of purchase orders, document traceability, and predictive analytics applied to management.The most common applications—such as natural language processing (44.7 per cent) and workflow automation (39 per cent)—are directly impacting critical areas of the sector, including compliance, supplier management, certification processes, and quality control.“In agribusiness, information is highly fragmented—from contracts with producers to logistics and regulatory records. AI enables companies to unify and activate that knowledge,” Coronel explained.Brazil Signals the Future of Ibero-American AgribusinessDevelopments in Brazil reinforce this trajectory. With AI adoption at around 40 per cent—a level close to Europe—the country is already seeing tangible results: 95 per cent of companies report revenue growth, and 96 per cent report productivity gains.In agro-industry, these improvements are evident in more efficient administrative management, optimized commercialization processes, and enhanced responsiveness to regulatory and market demands.“Brazilian agribusiness is showing what will happen in Europe in the coming years: AI as the central axis of competitiveness,” Coronel noted.Europe: Progress with Structural GapsDespite steady progress, Europe still faces significant disparities. Northern countries lead adoption rates, while markets such as Portugal lag behind, with an adoption rate of just 11.54 per cent. The primary barrier is not technological but organizational—over 74 per cent of companies cite a lack of internal expertise.For agribusiness, this challenge is particularly acute. AI adoption requires not only investment but also workforce training to integrate these technologies into complex processes that combine production, logistics, regulation, and commercialization.The Second Wave: End-to-End AutomationThe concept of the “Second Wave” marks a fundamental shift. While the first phase focused on isolated tools—such as AI assistants or pilot generative AI projects—the new phase is defined by full business process automation.In agribusiness, this means embedding AI across the entire document chain: from raw material intake to export operations, including certifications, invoicing, logistics, and regulatory compliance.“The key is no longer automating tasks, but orchestrating complete processes,” Coronel summarized.This shift addresses a global challenge: although 88 per cent of companies use AI in some capacity, only a minority achieve significant financial impact. Those that do are organizations that redesign workflows holistically.Intelligent Document Management at the CoreIn this context, platforms like ELO ECM Suite 25 are gaining prominence by positioning document management at the center of digital transformation in agribusiness.The solution enables automated document capture, AI-driven metadata extraction, adaptive workflow management, and natural language search across enterprise information. The result is a dramatic reduction in processing time—tasks that once took days can now be completed in hours, with full traceability.For agro-industrial companies, the implications are direct: Streamlined contract management with producers and distributors; Enhanced control over certifications and international regulationsIntegration with ERP and CRM syste, ms; Optimization of procurement and sales processes; Reduced errors and operational risks Regulation, Infrastructure, and Hybrid ModelsEurope’s regulatory environment adds another layer of complexity. Approximately 42 per cent of AI investment is tied to compliance requirements, driving the adoption of hybrid models that combine cloud infrastructure with on-premise systems.In agribusiness—where traceability and data security are critical—this flexibility is essential. “This is not just a technological decision; it is a risk management strategy,” Coronel emphasized.Barcelona as a Strategic Hub for Digital AgricultureThe choice of Barcelona as the host city for ELO Horizons 2026 is strategic. The city is home to initiatives such as AI Factory, aimed at democratizing access to advanced AI infrastructure and accelerating innovation in key sectors, including agri-food.The event, open to the public and free of charge, will take place on April 29 at Tech Barcelona.With an investment of approximately €198 million, AI Factory is expected to enable companies to develop solutions in areas such as climatology, biotechnology, and data analytics—fields that are critical to the future of agribusiness.A Moment of DecisionThe message is clear: the time for experimentation has passed. “2026 will be the year of real implementation,” Coronel stated.In a sector where margins are tightening and regulatory pressure is increasing, operational efficiency and adaptability will be decisive. For agribusiness, the “Second Wave” of AI is not merely a technological evolution—it represents a redefinition of the business model.Companies that integrate AI into the core of their operations will be able to scale, optimize, and compete in an increasingly demanding global market. Those that do not risk being left behind, constrained by slow, fragmented, and less profitable processes.Agriculture is already changing—and this time, the decisive factor will not be land or climate, but the intelligence with which data is managed. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3694/european-commission-has-approved-e3-7-billion-czech-state-aid-scheme-for-sustainable-biomethane-production.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3694/european-commission-has-approved-e3-7-billion-czech-state-aid-scheme-for-sustainable-biomethane-production.html Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:41:01 +0530 Transition towards a net-zero economy The European Commission has approved a €3.7 billion Czech scheme to support the construction of biomethane production stations in line with the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal. This measure will contribute to the transition towards a net-zero economy. The scheme was approved under the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF) adopted by the Commission on 25 June 2025. The Czech measure Czechia notified to the Commission a €3.7 billion scheme to support the production of sustainable biomethane, to be used in transport, heating and industry. The scheme will run until 31 December 2030. The scheme will support new capacity in both newly-built biomethane stations and existing biogas stations that are converted into biomethane stations. The scheme will be open to biomethane producers holding a gas production licence in the Czechia. To qualify for aid under the scheme, biomethane production must comply with the requirements set out in the EU Renewable Energy Directive. The measure is expected to benefit mostly small and medium-sized farms. The aid will take the form of a direct price support scheme, with a two-way contract for difference that provides a bonus for each MWh of biomethane produced for a duration of 15 years, based on a so-called strike price. If market prices of natural gas are lower than the strike price, the State will pay the producers. If they are higher, the companies will pay back the difference. The beneficiaries will be selected through a competitive tendering procedure. The scheme is expected to support installations with a total output of 350 million standard cubic meters of sustainable biomethane, which contributes to the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal. The Commission assessed the scheme under EU State aid rules, in particular Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU ('TFEU'), which enables Member States to support the development of certain economic activities subject to certain conditions, as well as under the CISAF. The Commission found that the Czech scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the CISAF. In particular, the aid will be granted based on a scheme with a clear estimated volume and budget, and the aid will be provided as direct price support through a two-way contract for difference, which will be awarded via a competitive bidding process. The Commission concluded that the Czech scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to accelerate the transition towards a net-zero economy and facilitate the development of certain economic activities, which are of importance for the implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal. On this basis, the Commission approved the aid measure under EU State aid rules. Background On 25 June 2025, the Commission adopted the CISAF to foster support measures in sectors which are key for the transition to a net-zero economy, in line with the Clean Industrial Deal. The CISAF allows the following types of aid to accelerate the green transition: Measures accelerating the rollout of renewable energy and low-carbon fuels (sections 4.1 and 4.2). Member States can set up schemes for investments in all renewable energy sources as well as energy storage, with simplified tender procedures. Specific rules are also provided to accelerate the roll-out of low-carbon fuels. Measures allowing temporary electricity price relief for energy-intensive users to ensure the transition to low-cost clean electricity (section 4.5). Such measures will help to avoid industrial activities relocating to locations where environmental regulations are absent or less ambitious, before the decarbonisation of the EU's electricity system fully translates into lower electricity prices. Measures facilitating the decarbonisation of industrial processes (section 5). Member States can support investments in the decarbonisation of industrial activities to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels. This can happen through electrification, energy efficiency and the switch to the use of renewable and electricity-based hydrogen which complies with certain conditions, with expanded possibilities to support the decarbonisation of industrial processes switching to hydrogen-derived fuels. Measures to ensure sufficient clean technology manufacturing capacity (section 6). Member States can grant investment support for strategic projects in line with the Net Zero Industry Act (such as batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, heat-pumps, electrolysers, and carbon capture usage and storage). This also includes the production of key components and the production and recycling of related critical raw materials. Measures to de-risk private investments required for the roll-out of clean energy, industrial decarbonisation, clean tech manufacturing, certain energy infrastructure projects, and projects supporting the circular economy  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3690/new-farm-engine-runs-on-data-not-diesel.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3690/new-farm-engine-runs-on-data-not-diesel.html Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:42:49 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Simon Henry outlines how aerial intelligence is cutting inputs, boosting yields, and driving ESG outcomes Simon Henry, Vice President of Business Development – EMEA / Ireland at ZenaTech, outlines how precision agriculture is rapidly shifting from a niche innovation to a necessity across EMEA, driven by regulatory pressure, rising costs, and climate volatility. He emphasizes that ZenaTech’s Drone-as-a-Service model is breaking down cost and complexity barriers, making advanced aerial intelligence accessible to farms of all sizes. The company is tackling one of the sector’s biggest challenges—turning complex data into actionable insights—by embedding AI-driven analytics that deliver real-time, field-level decisions. Henry highlights how drone-led automation can significantly cut input waste, improve water efficiency, and boost profitability while aligning with sustainability and ESG goals. Looking ahead, he envisions a digitally integrated farming ecosystem powered by AI, predictive analytics, and emerging technologies, positioning drones as a critical support system rather than a replacement for farmers. Precision Agriculture at Scale ZenaTech’s drone solutions enable plant health monitoring, crop mapping, and early stress detection using multispectral imaging. How do you see precision agriculture evolving from a niche technology to a mainstream farming necessity across EMEA markets? In the EMEA region, precision agriculture is already considered a structural necessity, rather than a luxury, in many regions. This has been driven by increasingly rigorous EU mandates, rising input costs, and fluctuating supply markets. The reason this may not be illustrated in practice is because mainstream adoption has been hindered by the high cost of entry and technical complexity required by many solutions currently on the market.  ZenaTech is bridging this gap through our Drone as a Service (DaaS) model. By building precision agriculture as a scalable utility, we enable farmers to meet strict targets and maximise their inputs without the burden of hardware ownership. As climate volatility increases, our real-time multispectral insights will provide the essential resilience needed to transform localized data into a universal standard for sustainable, high-yield farming. Harnessing this resilience will become crucial to safeguarding yields throughout the coming decades, as farms of all sizes and specialisms worldwide grapple with intensifying climate volatility. From Data to Decisions Your platforms generate high-resolution, real-time agricultural data. What are the biggest barriers farmers face in translating this data into actionable decisions, and how is ZenaTech addressing this gap? For most farmers, the primary barrier is the challenge of translating complex multispectral maps into practical field-level actions. Most platforms provide data that requires manual interpretation, creating a technical gap that stalls decision-making and in doing so, lessens impact. ZenaTech is focused on addressing this by integrating AI-powered analytics directly into our ZenaDrone ecosystem. Our software processes raw data into prescription maps that identify specific issues like nitrogen deficiency or pest outbreaks in real-time, cutting out the middleman entirely. By providing actionable insights and ensuring our software platform integrates with existing farm management systems, we turn aerial intelligence into a practical tool for increasing crop yields and operational efficiency. This allows farmers to make better, faster decisions with confidence,  based on our data-based insights. Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) vs Ownership Models ZenaTech’s DaaS model removes the need for upfront drone investment. How disruptive is this model for traditional agri-tech adoption, especially among small and mid-sized farms? DaaS model is cutting-edge in innovating legacy and low-tech processes. Historically, precision agriculture required six-figure investments in hardware, specialized pilot training, and complex regulatory compliance. As a result, the largest industrial farms could avail of this technology. By removing the capital expenditure wall and supporting users with a skilled DaaS consultant who provides in-person setup and ongoing customer support tailored to clients' needs, we have democratized access through our drone technology. Small and mid-sized farmers can now access advanced multispectral imaging and precision spraying through a manageable, predictable operational expense. We also manage the technical overhead, including AI data processing and flight certifications, to ensure farmers are provided with actionable insights without the need for deep technical knowledge on their end. This pay-per-use flexibility ensures that cutting-edge aerial intelligence is no longer a luxury but an accessible tool for increasing profit and enhancing sustainability across the entire agricultural spectrum. AI, Automation & Farm Economics With AI-driven plant counting, disease detection, and yield optimization, how significantly can drone-led automation reduce input costs and improve farm profitability in real terms? Crucially, our drone technology has the capacity to eliminate the need to "blanket spray” fertilizer, which is a traditional approach that wastes a substantial amount of chemical input for the average farmer annually, while also stifling their ability to meet key sustainable targets. Instead, our multispectral drone imaging enables precise, variable-rate application, reducing fertilizer and pesticide costs. By moving operations to the air, we also have the capacity to eliminate soil compaction caused by heavy machinery, which can improve yields significantly. Meanwhile, our disease and pest detection software helps to mitigate unforeseen risks, ensuring farmers can maximise yield from their inputs. Ultimately, Zenatech’s Drone as a Service model replaces high-risk investments with a “pay-per-use” service that slashes labour, input waste, and mitigates profit lost through avoidable risks, ensuring precision agriculture is the most profitable path for any modern farm. Water & Climate Intelligence Given increasing climate stress and water scarcity, how can drone-based 3D mapping and irrigation analytics reshape water-use efficiency in agriculture? We tackle this in a similar way to how we effectively manage fertilizer use; through the insights provided by our drone-based 3D mapping, we replace broad irrigation tactics with 3D-driven precision irrigation. Through our ZenaDrone technology, we create high-resolution topographic maps that reveal exactly how water moves across a field, identifying drainage issues and high-risk drought zones. Complementing this, our multispectral and thermal sensors detect crop water stress in real time, allowing for localized, variable-rate irrigation. By targeting only the areas in need, farmers can significantly reduce water (and energy waste) while maintaining optimal plant hydration. Through our DaaS model, this high-level irrigation intelligence becomes an affordable necessity for every kind of farm navigating the challenges of global water scarcity. Integration with Broader Agri-Tech Ecosystems How does ZenaTech envision integrating drone data with farm management systems, satellite analytics, and IoT platforms to create a unified “digital farm” ecosystem? In ZenaTech’s vision for a unified “digital farm” ecosystem, ZenaDrone serves as the primary engine for real-time intelligence. We integrate aerial data with IoT ground sensors and satellite analytics via our Enterprise SaaS platform, creating a single source of truth for farmers to refer to. By using open APIs, our AI-driven insights flow directly into existing farm management systems and smart machinery, enabling automated, variable-rate applications. This seamless integration (supported by our upcoming quantum-enhanced processing) transforms fragmented data points into a cohesive, predictive toolset, allowing farmers to optimize every acre with unprecedented speed and precision. Regulatory & Airspace Challenges in EMEA Drone deployment in agriculture is often constrained by regulatory frameworks. What are the key policy bottlenecks across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and how can they be streamlined to unlock scale? As with any set of tech-focused regulatory frameworks, this is an ongoing conversation across many jurisdictions. Specifically, governments around the world have placed a focus on developing regulatory frameworks for the new world of drones for a number of years already, with the aim of opening airspace to enable businesses to use this technology. The good news is that ZenaTech’s DaaS model is specifically designed to manage these considerations on behalf of the end-user. Rather than forcing farmers to carry the regulatory burden, we can offer Drone as a Service as an end-to-end solution, controlling all aspects of the drone analytics process from hardware, software, and AI-driven analytics to operational flight services. This gives farmers peace of mind that the regulatory aspect of our operation is compliant within the areas we service. Sustainability & ESG Alignment With increasing focus on carbon footprint and sustainable farming, how can drone-enabled agriculture contribute to measurable ESG outcomes for farmers, agribusinesses, and investors? On the environmental side, our ZenaDrone technology enables a significant reduction in chemical inputs through precision variable-rate spraying, which directly lowers nitrous oxide emissions and prevents nitrogen run-off. By replacing heavy, diesel-burning tractors with autonomous aerial systems, we also eliminate soil compaction, which restores soil health and improves carbon sequestration, while reducing the farm’s overall footprint. From a monitoring and governance perspective, our integrated Enterprise SaaS platform provides an automated, immutable audit trail for every field action. This high-level transparency provides the comprehensive proof required for agribusinesses to validate sustainable practices, comply with the EU Green Deal, and secure green financing from ESG-focused investors. The Future: Autonomous Farming Systems Looking ahead to 2030, do you see agriculture moving toward fully autonomous, drone-led farm management systems? What role will AI, predictive analytics, and possibly quantum computing play in that transition? Our Drone-as-a-Service model is not engineered to realize a fully autonomous, drone-led farm management system but to permanently alleviate the time, environmental, and safety burdens associated with traditional management systems from farmers, while boosting their confidence to make more informed strategic decisions. We recognize the many plates that the modern farmer has to spin, from business strategy to supply chain management to everyday risk management and execution. We want to position ourselves as supporting staff, easing the day-to-day burden for farmers by providing them with detailed, actionable insights, specific to their operation, thereby enhancing their decision-making, without requiring extra elbow work. By 2030, we want to be facilitating as many farmers as possible to leverage the benefits of AI, predictive analytics, and quantum computing in their everyday practice to enhance sustainability, mitigate risk, reduce costs, and increase yield, while lessening their workload. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3665/hormuz-effect-when-energy-fertilizer-and-food-collide.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3665/hormuz-effect-when-energy-fertilizer-and-food-collide.html Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:39:54 +0530 FAO Chief Economist Máximo Torero warns of cascading impacts on energy, fertilizer supply, and global food systems as tanker traffic collapses and shipping risks surge The ongoing disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a major shock to global commodity flows, with implications for energy, agriculture, and food security. According to Máximo Torero of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, tanker traffic through the corridor has dropped by more than 90 percent within days of the escalation. The strait typically carries around 20 million barrels of oil per day—about 35 percent of global crude flows—along with significant volumes of liquefied natural gas and fertilizers. Speaking at a United Nations briefing, Torero described the situation as a systemic shock affecting global food systems, not just energy markets. He highlighted the Gulf region’s role in supplying nearly half of global sulfur, a key input in phosphate fertilizer production. Disruptions to sulfur flows could impact fertilizer output worldwide, including in major agricultural economies. Shipping challenges have intensified due to surging war-risk insurance premiums, with recovery expected to take months even if tensions ease. Systemic Shock Transmission To what extent does the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz represent a new class of systemic risk, where energy, fertilizer, and food supply chains converge into a single point of failure? The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most concentrated chokepoint for simultaneously disrupting energy, fertilizer, sulfur, and agrifood systems. Under normal conditions, it carries roughly 20 million barrels of oil per day (one‑quarter of global seaborne oil), one‑fifth of global LNG, and up to 30 percent of internationally traded fertilizers. The current conflict has collapsed tanker traffic by more than 90 percent within days, stalling an estimated 3–4 million tonnes of fertilizer trade per month. What makes this a new class of systemic risk is the convergence of three interdependent chains: Energy – oil and gas prices spiked 20–35 percent (Brent) and 50–75 percent (European gas). Fertilizer – no strategic reserves exist; urea prices rose 19 percent in one week. Sulfur – essential to produce phosphate fertilizer. Food – Gulf countries import 70–90 percent of their food, and import‑dependent nations face immediate yield threats. Because natural gas is the feedstock for nitrogen fertilizers, and sulfur (half of global trade passes through Hormuz) is essential for phosphate processing, a single disruption simultaneously raises fuel costs, fertilizer prices, and transport expenses. The FAO notes that “there are no large strategic fertilizer reserves comparable to oil stocks,” so any sustained interruption quickly elevates global food inflation. This convergence turns a maritime chokepoint into a single point of failure for the entire agrifood value chain. Fragility vs. Resilience of Globalization Does this crisis fundamentally challenge the assumption that globalized agricultural supply chains are efficiency‑maximizing, but structurally fragile in the face of geopolitical shocks? Global supply chains are needed to assure all countries have access to the diversity of food that is required and to use our natural resources optimally. Although it is true that on the inputs there are shock points  that increase the risks for global supply chains but will be the same for local supply chains. The FAO analysis shows that the current globalized system delivered low costs and just‑in‑time efficiency in peacetime, but the Hormuz disruption exposes its structural fragility. Within days, a conflict in one region removed a quarter of global oil trade, one‑third of fertilizer trade, and a major share of food demand from the Gulf. The document highlights that the Gulf States’ high import dependency (70–90 percent for staples) was sustainable only when trade routes were open. Once the strait closed, their strategic grain reserves (4–6 months) became a finite buffer, not a solution. Similarly, fertilizer‑importing countries like Bangladesh (53 percent Gulf dependency) and Kenya ( 40 percent ) face immediate shortages with no alternative supply chain ready. The FAO’s modeling of a “policy inaction baseline” shows that without coordinated intervention, real household income in Gulf countries could decline 14–18 percent, and global cereal producer income could drop nearly 5 percent. This is not a temporary inefficiency; it is a structural vulnerability built into efficiency‑maximized, highly concentrated supply chains. The crisis therefore challenges the assumption that globalization’s benefits automatically outweigh its geopolitical risks. Fertilizer Dependency Trap Given the heavy reliance on energy‑linked fertilizers, are we approaching a structural ceiling in yield growth, where input dependency itself becomes the primary constraint on global food security? The evidence points toward a growing constraint, not yet a hard ceiling, but dangerously close in many regions. Nitrogen fertilizers are produced from natural gas, and the Persian Gulf is a low‑cost producer. When energy prices spike, fertilizer prices follow directly. The FAO estimates that if the crisis continues, global fertilizer prices could average 15–20 percent higher in the first half of 2026. The “dependency trap” operates through three mechanisms: Cost‑driven reduction – Farmers facing high prices apply less fertilizer, reducing yields. No strategic reserves – Unlike oil, there is no global fertilizer stockpile to smooth shocks. Nonlinear yield response – In low‑input systems (e.g., sub‑Saharan Africa at ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3660/syngenta-builds-world-leading-research-center-for-agricultural-bioscience-with-130-m-investment-in-uk.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3660/syngenta-builds-world-leading-research-center-for-agricultural-bioscience-with-130-m-investment-in-uk.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:23:40 +0530 Powered by advanced technology and AI Syngenta, a global leader in agricultural innovation, announced it is building a new USD 130 million (GBP 100 million) world-leading research center for agricultural bioscience at its existing R&D hub in Jealott’s Hill, UK. The Biological Sciences Technology and Research center (BioSTaR) will deliver the latest advances in biological sciences, molecular and analytical research and digital innovation to shape the future of sustainable agriculture. Significant investment in cutting-edge AI capabilities will accelerate Syngenta’s ability to design and deliver the next generation of differentiated agricultural solutions to farmers. Once complete, the BioSTaR facility will bring together approximately 300 scientists who already work at Jealott’s Hill, uniting their expertise in a purpose‑built environment designed to accelerate discovery and product development. It is expected to be fully operational in 2028, further strengthening the UK’s role as a global center for agricultural innovation and ensuring scientists have the advanced infrastructure needed to push the boundaries of bioscience, digital research and AI‑driven innovation. New scientific frontiers in agriculture are emerging rapidly and the new BioSTaR facility will bring these advances together under one roof—from designing crop protection solutions with novel modes of action and anticipating resistance before it develops, to creating products that respond to environmental signals such as temperature and soil quality. Modern bioscience sits at the intersection of biological, chemical and digital disciplines, and is now powered by real-world data, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence.  By combining these capabilities at BioSTaR, scientists will deepen understanding of how pests, pathogens, plants and soils interact and accelerate the development of tools that protect crops more effectively, reduce environmental impact and strengthen farming systems in a changing climate. For example: Decoding biological complexityUnderstanding how organisms interact with each other and the environment reveals specific points of intervention from pest control and plant growth simulation to greater natural resilience. Designing new classes of crop protection toolsNovel chemical and biological agents with new and different modes of action deliver the intended effects safely and reliably. Ensuring delivery and responsible breakdownResearchers can track how compounds move through plants and soils, how they break down, and how that process can be optimized for performance and environmental safety. Scaling sustainable manufacturingBiological manufacturing processes make it possible to develop complex chemical and biological agents at scale and viable cost—putting innovation within reach of farmers everywhere. “At Syngenta, we are focused on creating a more productive and sustainable future for agriculture. With this investment, we are pushing the boundaries of science,” said Camilla Corsi, Global Head of Crop Protection R&D at Syngenta. She added that Syngenta’s leadership is built on cutting‑edge infrastructure and its culture of scientific excellence. “Our ability to collaborate—across disciplines, across borders and with partners worldwide—is core to our success. It powers our speed, our creativity and our impact,” Corsi explained. Mike Hollands, President of Syngenta UK said: "As the birthplace of many ideas that have transformed the world, the UK has a long history of innovation, and for nearly a century, our Jealott’s Hill research hub has pioneered many of the discoveries that continue to advance global agriculture. Already the UK’s largest facility dedicated to agricultural technology research, our investment in BioSTaR signals the next chapter in Jealott's Hill's critical role in advancing agricultural innovation.” UK Minister for Investment Lord Stockwood said: “This major investment is a strong vote of confidence in the UK’s world class agri science sector. It demonstrates Syngenta’s long-term commitment to the UK while supporting 300 high quality jobs and delivering real benefits for the local community. With digital and tech central to our Modern Industrial Strategy, this announcement will help create next-generation sustainable agricultural solutions for farmers, strengthening the UK’s position as both a thriving business hub and tech hotspot.” UK Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle said: “Syngenta’s investment in the new BioSTaR facility at Jealott’s Hill is a clear vote of confidence in the UK and our world-leading agricultural science. This government is backing agri-tech growth and British farming, investing GBP 345 million in grants for equipment and innovation to help farmers grow food more sustainably while protecting the natural environment and building a profitable, resilient future for the sector.” Councillor Paul Bidwell, Cabinet member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “We are proud that Bracknell Forest will be the location of this new world-leading and innovative research centre for agricultural bioscience. The development of this new BioSTaR facility is great news for our borough. Bracknell Forest is a thriving business centre, and we are excited that further scientific advancements will be made right here on our doorstep.” Syngenta owns one of the world’s leading innovation pipelines for agricultural technologies. It holds more than 10,000 patents covering seed and crop protection technologies, driving next-generation solutions such as TYMIRIUM® technology, PLINAZOLIN® technology, X-Terra® hybrid wheat and an expanding portfolio of biological and precision agriculture solutions. Each year, the company invests more than USD 800 million in crop protection R&D, incorporating AI and fostering research collaborations that accelerate its work at the frontiers of science. The investment in BioSTaR in the UK is part of a long-term strategy to fortify its research capabilities around the world, which also includes global research hubs in Switzerland, the US and China. Syngenta’s Jealott’s Hill R&D site is the largest research facility in the UK dedicated to agricultural technology research, and Syngenta’s largest crop protection R&D site worldwide, employing more than 800 scientists. Its researchers have developed some of the most important agricultural breakthroughs – including the invention and development of key technologies such as Amistar® and PLINAZOLIN® technology. The newest innovation developed at the site, VIRESTINA™ technology, is designed to control herbicide-resistant weeds and was developed using Syngenta’s “Safer by Design” research approach—engineering solutions that deliver higher yields while reducing the impact to the planet. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3654/the-eu-and-australia-strengthen-free-trade-cooperation-boosting-agri-food-exports.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3654/the-eu-and-australia-strengthen-free-trade-cooperation-boosting-agri-food-exports.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:39:11 +0530 The free trade agreement ends eight years of bilateral negotiations Australia and the EU have strengthened their partnership by finalizing negotiations for a balanced free trade deal. A formal discussion initiated to associate Australia with Horizon Europe, the world's largest research and innovation funding program, reinforcing their close ties in a period of geopolitical uncertainty. Canberra between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese represented the formal agreement signing ceremony. The free trade agreement (FTA) after eight years of negotiations, marking a significant milestone in bilateral trade relations. The EU has a positive trade balance for agri-food products with Australia, worth €2.3 billion in 2024. The agreement will   eliminate tariffs on major EU exports such as cheeses, meat preparations, wine and sparkling wine, some fruits and vegetables including preparations, chocolate, and sugar confectionary. The agreement takes into account the interests of EU agricultural producers. For sensitive agricultural sectors such as livestock, sugar, some dairy products and rice, the agreement will allow zero or lower tariff imports from Australia only in limited amounts, through carefully calibrated Tariff Rate Quotas.   In addition, the agreement includes a bilateral safeguard mechanism allowing the EU to take measures to protect sensitive European products and their producers in the unlikely event of a surge in imports from Australia causing injury to the EU market. As an additional layer of protection for farmers, the bilateral safeguard mechanism will be operationalised in a self-standing EU regulation that will see swift and effective protections kick into gear, in the unlikely event of an unforeseen and harmful surge in imports or an undue decrease in prices for EU producers. Moreover, the Agreement will protect 165 agricultural and food Geographical Indications (‘GIs') and 231 spirit drink GIs including some of the most renowned ones such as Comté, Irish Whiskey, Queso Manchego, Salam de Sibiu, Istarski pršut ham, Lübecker Marzipan and Masticha Chiou.   The EU and Australia have also agreed on a modernised bilateral wine agreement, updating the full list of EU wine GIs and traditional terms protected in Australia. Building on the previous successful agreement, it will offer protection for all EU wine GIs (representing 1,650 names), including the addition of 50 new wine GIs from 12 different Member States.     Response from the farmers community The EU has long been a key market for Australian canola, purchasing 3.65 million tonnes of canola seed in the year to September 2025 out of total exports of 5.4 million tonnes. The FTA will set the tariff on Australian canola oil to zero, down from 5.1-9.6 %, benefiting the biodiesel market and creating value for Australian growers. However, farm bodies have expressed disappointment, arguing the deal offers limited agricultural market access gains and questioning the EU's potential use of subsidies to support its producers. Critics, including the National Farmers Federation and Victorian Farmers Federation, contend that the FTA fails to address the challenges Australian farmers face, such as global trade headwinds from conflicts, tariffs, and rising costs. They argue that no deal would have been preferable to the current terms, which they see as offering subpar access for key agricultural commodities. Despite these concerns, the FTA is set to remove most Australian tariffs on EU imports, including wine, spirits, and machinery, while also providing Australian exporters with duty-free access for 98 % of the current value of their exports to the EU. The agreement also clarifies geographical indicators, preserving Australian winemakers' rights to produce and sell Prosecco domestically and allowing phased-out use of certain terms like Feta and Gruyere. Economic Impact: Beyond agriculture, the FTA is expected to enhance trade and investment between Australia and the EU, the world's second-largest economy. It will improve access for Australian service providers in sectors like financial services, education, and tourism, while also streamlining professional mobility and qualifications recognition. The deal supports Australia's ambition to become a renewable energy superpower by eliminating EU tariffs on critical minerals and hydrogen. Additionally, Australian businesses will gain better access to lucrative EU government contracts, valued at approximately $845 billion annually. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Trade Minister Don Farrell have hailed the agreement as a strategically important step that will deliver long-term benefits for both parties, despite the challenges and criticisms raised by some sectors. By Hithaishi Bhaskar ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3609/japans-sumitomo-chemical-group-to-integrate-french-subsidiaries-to-further-strengthen-crop-protection-business-in-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3609/japans-sumitomo-chemical-group-to-integrate-french-subsidiaries-to-further-strengthen-crop-protection-business-in-europe.html Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:27:29 +0530 Business operations under the new structure will begin on April 1, 2026 Sumitomo Chemical announces that, as part of the Company’s ongoing efforts to further strengthen its crop protection business operations in Europe, it has decided to reorganize its group companies in France. Sumitomo Chemical Agro Europe S.A.S. (“SCAE”), Sumitomo Chemical’s subsidiary, will absorb Philagro Holding S.A., a French subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical, as well as Philagro France S.A.S., Philagro Holding’s subsidiary. SCAE overseas the Sumitomo Chemical Group’s crop protection business in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and also develops and sells crop protection products and agricultural materials in these regions. Philagro France engages in the development and sale of crop protection products in France. Following the integration, business operations under the new structure will begin on April 1, 2026. Europe has a vast crop protection market, surpassing that of North America. At the same time, as environmental regulations have been tightened in recent years, demand for biorationals has increased in the region, and those products are becoming a pillar to support Europe’s future agricultural production. In the European crop protection market, France accounts for the largest share. To expand its agricultural solutions business in the country, Sumitomo Chemical acquired shares of its French subsidiary Philagro Holding in January 2025, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary, and has since been working to integrate the operations of SCAE and Philagro Holding. The integration announced will further advance these efforts, consolidating development, sales, and administrative functions of SCAE, Philagro Holding, and Philagro France and thereby enhancing organizational efficiency and agility. Going forward, SCAE will further strengthen its sales strategy of promoting conventional crop protection products along with biorationals and other environmentally friendly products, and will also establish an operations system that can swiftly and accurately respond to evolving market needs in France. SCAE will continue to provide the same level of support and services to local producers, distributors, and business partners, and will strive to build even stronger relationships of trust with those stakeholders while it will actively pursue business expansion in France. The Sumitomo Chemical Group will continue to leverage SCAE as the core of its operations in France and the rest of Europe, as well as in the Middle East and Africa. Furthermore, the Group remains committed to contributing to advancing regenerative agriculture and achieving a sustainable society through the development and sale of innovative, environmentally friendly crop protection products and a wide range of biorationals. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3603/taiwans-dragon-fruit-jujubes-and-lychees-approved-for-export-to-the-eu.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3603/taiwans-dragon-fruit-jujubes-and-lychees-approved-for-export-to-the-eu.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:42:07 +0530 Builds on bilateral agricultural trade relation The Plant Health Unit of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), has approved the export of Taiwan-produced dragon fruit, jujubes, and lychees to the EU market. This marks another significant milestone in bilateral agricultural trade, following the successful entry of Taiwanese guavas and mangoes into the EU market last June 2025. According to EU guidance, import requirements for these items are detailed in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2072. Taiwanese exporters must strictly comply with the relevant provisions in Annex XI of this regulation. They must also accompany shipments with phytosanitary certificates issued by Taiwanese authorities to ensure products meet EU plant health standards. Regarding occasional time lags in the administrative process of EU Member States, and based on past experience, the detailed quarantine conditions and operational specifications for individual fruits still require final confirmation with the actual importing EU Member State. If the latest quarantine regulations or implementation status of the target country (specific EU Member State) cannot be fully confirmed before formally launching exportation, Taiwanese exporters must consult the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency (APHIA). The official agency will fully assist in contacting and confirming details, providing the industry with the strongest technical support. This EU market opening not only demonstrates the competitiveness of Taiwan's premium fresh fruits but also underscores the international recognition of our nation's robust animal and plant quarantine capabilities. The APHIA urges exporters to ensure that orchard and packing facilities carefully inspect and select fruit prior to shipment. Beyond supplying high-quality produce, it is essential to verify that the goods are free from quarantine pests of concern to EU countries to facilitate smooth customs clearance. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3601/vitafoods-europe-to-gather-global-nutraceutical-functional-food-beverage-and-dietary-supplement-industries-in-barcelona-5-7-may-2026.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3601/vitafoods-europe-to-gather-global-nutraceutical-functional-food-beverage-and-dietary-supplement-industries-in-barcelona-5-7-may-2026.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:48:31 +0530 Barcelona, 5-7 May 2026 Vitafoods Europe 2026 expands with enhanced networking and new features Vitafoods Europe, the leading global event for the nutraceutical, functional food and beverage, and dietary supplement industries, returns to Barcelona, between 5-7 May 2026 with enhanced opportunities to connect and inspire – including double the dedicated networking floor space. As the show continues to grow in line with the needs of the nutraceutical industry, the 2026 edition – the show’s largest to date – will expand into a new exhibition hall, increasing total floor space by 22%. This expansion aims to provide a vibrant community platform built around deeper collaboration and even more opportunities to connect and learn. Even more ways to connect with the community With community and collaboration at the heart of Vitafoods Europe, the 2026 event will see double the available networking space, with several new dedicated areas opening across the show floor. New for 2026 is a purpose-built networking area and an additional VIP lounge, creating an improved environment to facilitate planned and spontaneous meetings across the industry. As part of the enhanced networking focus for 2026, the Community Lounge will introduce a dedicated space for small associations and industry groups to partake in intimate networking sessions, and spark conversations in a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. This will include organisations such as the Spanish Food Supplements Association (AFEPADI) and European specialist sports nutrition alliance (ESSNA), helping bring together key voices from across the European supplements landscape. In addition to these new networking features, returning favourites such as Lunch & Learn sessions and the Women’s Networking Breakfast will offer focused, insight-led discussions in an informal setting, while the popular Coffee & Churros and Sunrise Yoga are back to encourage relaxed, authentic connections on and off the show floor. Smarter, more accessible experiences To complement the expanded networking opportunities at Vitafoods Europe 2026, attendees will also benefit from enhanced digital tools designed to make connecting easier than ever. The upgraded event platform allows visitors to browse exhibitor profiles, shortlist suppliers, and use online matchmaking to set up meetings – either in person or virtually. Paired with an improved event app, these tools will help attendees navigate the show floor efficiently and plan their meetings and personal agendas to make the most of every opportunity. Innovation on display Reflecting the strong consumer interest in pet health, Vitafoods Europe 2026 will expand the Pet Nutrition Hub, a space that will showcase the latest innovations in pet health and nutrition through curated display pods on the show floor. This will join returning favourites - like the Tasting Centre, New Products Zone, and New Ingredients Zone - creating focused areas where visitors can explore the newest innovations, sample products, and connect directly with suppliers. New for 2026: spotlight sessions Day 3 of the show will incorporate new spotlight sessions on weight management and nutricosmetics, highlighting some of the most dynamic areas shaping the market. These sessions will examine how the sector is adapting to the seismic shift in healthy weight strategies driven by the 1.6 million adults in Great Britain1 and 13% of the U.S. population2 now using GLP-1 medications and explore how the industry must evolve to meet rapidly changing consumer behaviours. Nutricosmetics will also take centre stage, reflecting the growing beauty-from-within market. Attendees will be able to explore the key drivers, emerging ingredients, and functional foods shaping this fast-growing global market, and discover how nutrition is increasingly understood to impact skin health and more. These sessions will complement the broader programme and extensive learning opportunities offered by the Vitafoods Insights Theatre and Vitafoods Europe Conference across the entire course of the show. Rewarding innovation Finally, returning for its second year, the Vitafoods Europe Innovation Awards will once again celebrate industry excellence by recognising groundbreaking products, ingredients and technologies shaping the future of nutrition. The awards aim to provide a platform for companies to showcase the forward-thinking solutions, creativity, and science driving the nutraceutical sector forward. A global meeting place that shapes what’s next "There’s a renewed energy across the nutraceutical industry right now, fuelled by the pace of innovation and rapid shifts in consumer health priorities – and Vitafoods Europe 2026 is designed to channel that momentum into real connection," says Gareth Baguley, Brand Director, Vitafoods Europe, Informa Markets. "As our largest event to date, with new features and significantly expanded networking spaces, we’re creating the environment for more meaningful conversations and stronger partnerships that will define the industry’s next chapter. As new areas of innovation continue to emerge, Vitafoods Europe remains where the global community comes to discover what’s next and find more to connect with across the industry." Registration for Vitafoods Europe 2026 is now open, with tickets available at a 40% discount until 22 March. To find out more, visit: https://www.vitafoods.eu.com/en/home.html   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3563/syngenta-and-statkraft-sign-five-year-virtual-power-purchase-agreement-2.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3563/syngenta-and-statkraft-sign-five-year-virtual-power-purchase-agreement-2.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 12:50:09 +0530 Virtual wind PPA with guarantees of origin to decarbonize Syngenta's plants in Europe Syngenta, one of the world’s biggest agricultural innovation companies, and Statkraft, a leading provider of innovative green energy solutions in Europe, have signed a virtual power purchase agreement (vPPA) covering Syngenta’s CP & Seeds operations for a period of five years. The volume amounts to 125 GWh per year and a total of 625 GWh of green electricity by the end of the contract in 2030. With the vPPA, Statkraft is supporting Syngenta in advancing its sustainability strategy through the purchase of renewable energy. "This is Syngenta's first vPPA, marking a pivotal step in our decarbonization strategy," said Rachel Stenson Bugnon, Global Head CP Sourcing at Syngenta. "This tailored approach allows us to make meaningful progress toward our carbon reduction targets for Syngenta AG while maintaining operational efficiency across our European facilities." “VPPAs are also becoming increasingly important in Germany. We are delighted to support Syngenta with this tailor-made PPA solution to decarbonize its production”, says Sascha Schröder, Vice President Central European Origination at Statkraft. “We are building a bridge between operators of wind farms that are no longer eligible for subsidies, who typically prefer short delivery terms, and companies seeking long-term green power procurement that integrates smoothly into their established sourcing strategy.” The agreement is based on an artificial wind farm with which Statkraft maps the entire generation capacity of onshore wind turbines in the German market, enabling tailor-made electricity supply offers for companies. In addition, Syngenta is securing green electricity indexed to the electricity spot market for five years. Under the vPPA, Syngenta obtains the certificates of origin for the agreed electricity volume. The vPPA is a financial supply contract without physical electricity flow. The key advantage is that companies such as Syngenta can pursue their sustainability goals without having to change their operational processes or contracts with their energy supplier. At the same time, Syngenta supports the continued economic operation of wind facilities that would otherwise face economic uncertainty after government subsidy expiration, helping to keep clean energy flowing to the grid. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3551/india-and-eu-seal-landmark-free-trade-agreement-fta-boosting-the-agri-food-sphere.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3551/india-and-eu-seal-landmark-free-trade-agreement-fta-boosting-the-agri-food-sphere.html Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:44:43 +0530 Significant elimination of agri-food tariffs, opening India's vast market to European farmers and food producers The European Union and India have concluded negotiations on a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that promises to reshape agricultural trade between the two economic giants. A key highlight of the deal is the significant reduction or elimination of agri-food tariffs, opening India's vast market to European farmers and food producers. The agreement will slash often prohibitive Indian tariffs on EU agri-food exports, which currently average over 36%. For instance, tariffs on wines will drop from 150% to 75% upon implementation and eventually to as low as 20%. Olive oil tariffs will fall from 45% to 0% over five years, while processed agricultural products like bread and confectionery will see tariffs of up to 50% eliminated. However, the deal also ensures the protection of sensitive European agricultural sectors. Products such as meat, rice, and sugar are excluded from liberalization, maintaining safeguards for these industries. Additionally, all Indian agri-food imports into the EU will continue to comply with the bloc's strict health and food safety standards. This FTA marks India's most ambitious trade opening to date, offering European agri-food businesses unparalleled access to the world's most populous country and fastest-growing large economy, with a GDP of €3.4 trillion and 1.45 billion consumers. In parallel, the EU and India are negotiating a separate agreement on Geographical Indications (GIs), aimed at protecting traditional EU farming products from imitations in the Indian market. This move is expected to further enhance opportunities for iconic European agricultural goods. The deal underscores the EU and India's joint commitment to economic openness and sustainable trade, with a dedicated chapter on trade and sustainable development addressing environmental protection, climate action, and workers' rights. This historic agreement positions European agri-food producers to capitalize on new opportunities while reinforcing the EU-India partnership in a time of global economic challenges. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3509/from-additives-to-spices-cac48-redraws-rules-of-global-food-trade.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3509/from-additives-to-spices-cac48-redraws-rules-of-global-food-trade.html Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:50:16 +0530 Codex and FAO officials detail how updated standards aim to protect consumers without triggering disproportionate trade disruption for export-dependent economies In an exclusive Agrospectrum and NUFFOODS Spectrum interview with global food-standards leaders — Sarah Cahill, Codex Secretary; Lingping Zhang, Food Standards Officer, Codex Secretariat; Markus Lipp, Senior Food Safety Officer, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO); Gracia Brisco, Food Standards Officer, Codex Secretariat; and Hilde Kruse, Senior Food Standards Officer, Codex Secretariat — CAC48 emerges as a decisive moment for Codex amid rising geopolitical fragmentation. The experts reaffirm Codex’s science-based, consensus-driven mandate, which shaped major reforms including additive reviews, aflatoxin updates, pesticide-residue reference guidelines and new maximum lead levels for spices. They underline how improved Codes of Practice, surveillance support and harmonised quality parameters enable consumer protection while minimising trade disruption for export-reliant economies. Looking ahead, they highlight the Codex Strategic Plan 2026–2031, which places digital traceability, climate-risk foresight, and advanced analytical technologies at the core of modernising global food safety governance. Edited excerpts; Codex at a Geopolitical Crossroads The 48th Session saw critical standards adopted across additives, contaminants, and fresh-produce quality. At a time when food systems face geopolitical fragmentation, supply-chain shocks, and rising protectionism, how does Codex ensure these standards remain science-led, globally harmonized, and insulated from political pressure? The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is a Member-driven body with its commitment to a science-based approach to standard setting enshrined in its procedures. Its work is guided by its strategic goals, and its core values of collaboration, inclusiveness, consensus building and transparency. Codex texts are the benchmark for food safety under the World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) and are relevant to the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement) where WTO members refer to harmonization with international standards such as the Codex Alimentarius for food-related issues such as labelling. Codex standards play an important role in addressing specific trade concerns or for dispute settlement cases. Wherever you are, whatever you do, safe food is an everyday need. And it is a global commodity. These aspects are integral to every discussion in the Codex Alimentarius Commission. “Together” was also the theme of CAC48, which served to highlight that when it comes to food safety and quality it is only by working together that we can effectively and efficiently ensure food is safe and of good quality.  The GSFA Overhaul: Science, Safety, and Consumer Trust More than 500 food additive provisions were reviewed, leading to revocations and new inclusions. What principles guided the reassessment—particularly for colourants like annatto extracts—and how does FAO ensure regulators and industry transition smoothly to these updated provisions without disrupting product availability or trade flows? All Codex work is conducted following approval by CAC. Thus, the decision for reassessment was taken by Members. In the case of annatto extracts, this decision was based on: The need to align the General standard for food additives with relevant sections of commodity standards. In this case, for example, there was a need to align with the Standard for fermented milks, which does not provide for the addition of annatto extracts in plain milk. Codex texts are developed through consensus by all its Members in a deliberate manner that often spans a timeframe of several years. The national Codex contact points serve as a primary node to disseminate all applicable information to national stakeholders. In addition, FAO provides support when requested by Member Countries to strengthen national Codex structures, thereby enhancing national capabilities in disseminating all relevant Codex texts to national stakeholders. Aflatoxins in Peanuts: New Science, New Responsibilities The revised Code of Practice on aflatoxins integrates updated agronomic science, maturity-stage tables, and roasting effects. How will FAO help producing countries—especially smallholder-dependent economies—translate these best practices into field-level change? Are new surveillance, extension, or capacity-building mechanisms planned? FAO stays ready to support its members needs and will respond to requests by its members for additional capacity building measures correspondingly. FAO and Codex furthermore have published numerous guidance documents, codes of practice and related texts that is publicly available, ready to be used by any other organization that would like to use this information in order to support producers of peanuts. Lead Limits in Spices: Balancing Public Health and Trade facilitation With new maximum levels now set for dried bark (cinnamon) and culinary herbs, exporting nations such as —India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia—face compliance pressure. How does Codex balance the dual mandate of protecting consumers health while ensuring fair practices in trade, in this case, preventing trade disruptions for economies reliant on spice exports? The mandate to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in the food trade is the statutory purpose of CAC. This means that, when it comes to food safety standards such as maximum levels for contaminants in foods, CAC will not establish more stringent measures than necessary to protect consumers health so that the measures themselves do not become a technical barrier to trade which may then translate in trade disruption that may impact economic growth and ultimately food security.   Although spices and culinary herbs are consumed in small amounts, as opposed to other foods, it remains important to assess the safety of lead levels in these foods due to the impact of lead toxicity on human health that may include neurodevelopmental effects such as decreases in Intelligence Quota (IQ) and attention span in children, impaired renal function, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, impaired fertility, and adverse pregnancy outcomes and therefore the ALARA continued to apply when CCCF discusses risk management considerations related to health and trade so that while ensuring the safety of the food, this does not imply high rejections rate of lot consignments, at import control point. CCCF does provide support to Codex Members to enable them to comply with MLs, by developing codes of practice, a compendium of risk management measures and practices to assist in reducing food contamination, in this case CAC40 adopted in 2017 the Code of practice for the prevention and reduction of mycotoxins in spices (CXC 78-2017). FAO does have a role to play in assisting countries with the implementation of the CoP, helping them to identify specific risk management measures that may not be included in the CoP, as they are usually overarching texts, that can complement the measures applicable worldwide that are described in these CoPs. The Codex Alimentarius Commission has now adopted MLs for lead in spices and culinary herbs, specifically, dried bark (cinnamon) and dried culinary herbs. The MLs are 2.5 mg/kg for lead in spices, dried bark and 2.0 mg/kg for lead in culinary herbs, dried and will now be added to the General Standard for contaminants and toxins in food and feed (CXS 193-1995).  Pesticide Reference Materials: A Quiet but Critical Reform The guidelines allowing extended use of pesticide reference materials beyond labelled expiry dates could significantly reduce laboratory costs and waste. What drove this reform? And how does FAO envision it strengthening residue monitoring systems in low- and middle-income countries where testing infrastructure remains limited? Pesticide residues in food are a subject of particular concern for consumers and in the food trade. To ensure the safety of food, the regulation of pesticide use, and relevant residues, must be enforced and guaranteed. Part of the process of testing for pesticide residues relies on laboratories being able to access what are known as reference materials, or RMs. But these are costly and sold with 2-to-5-year short-term expiry dates, though there is no requirement to find maximum shelf life. This can force laboratories to buy new RMs more frequently than potentially necessary. This leads to additional work and additional costs, and that can hinder how much testing can be done.  The Codex Alimentarius Commission has now adopted guidelines that provide a scientifically sound framework to monitor the purity and stability of reference materials under defined conditions, which, if implemented correctly, may allow continued use of RMs beyond their expiry date - where purity remains within acceptable limits. This reduces recurring costs, minimizes waste, and ensures confidence in the reliability of pesticide residue analysis.  The work on the development of guidelines for monitoring the purity and stability of reference materials of pesticides during prolonged storage commenced at CCPR51 in 2019, when some delegations expressed concerns regarding the limitation of the use of reference materials beyond the expiry date, leading to significant recurring costs for laboratories. As chair of the electronic working group (EWG), India led the work to develop these guidelines. FAO stays ready to support its members needs and will respond to requests by its members for additional capacity building measures correspondingly.  Read more about this work in the 2025 edition of the CODEX magazine   Standard for Fresh Dates: Trade Enablement for Climate-Stressed Regions The new standard comes after a decade of negotiations and is deeply important for date-producing regions across the Middle East and North Africa. How will harmonized quality parameters—size, colour, uniformity, defects—reshape global trade? Can such standards help climate-stressed producers secure better prices in high-value retail markets ? By adopting the new Standard for fresh dates, Codex Members now have an international reference that provides the baseline for international trade of this commodity upon which trading partners can agree on additional quality provisions based on their consumers’ preferences. For producing countries, this opens up trade possibilities across the globe, which, in many cases, will support the livelihoods of small producers, bolster economies and provide a safe, good quality product for consumers worldwide. Castilla Lulo (Naranjilla): Regional Standards as a Strategic Tool This new regional standard reflects the fruit’s cultural importance and emerging trade value in Latin America. What criteria does Codex use to decide when a product merits a regional rather than global standard? And do regional standards serve as testbeds for potential future global adoption? When considering new work proposed by FAO/WHO regional coordinating committees, CAC considers, amongst other things, whether the new work is justified on the grounds that the product in question is significantly traded intraregionally and that there is no significant trade between or within other regions When a commodity for which there is a regional standard, sees increased trade at a global level, the coordinating committee concerned, or a Member, can propose extension of the territorial application of the standard. This involves new work, which has to be approved by CAC. CAC48 approved, for example, new work on converting the Regional standard for laver products (Asia) to a worldwide standard, work that will be carried out by the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products (CCFFP). The Next Frontier: Modernizing Codex for a New Era of Food Risks From AI-driven food systems to precision fermentation, novel ingredients, and climate-linked contaminants, food safety risks are evolving faster than many national regulatory systems. What are FAO’s top priorities for modernizing Codex over the next decade? How will future standards incorporate digital traceability, climate risk modelling, and new analytical technologies? FAO is a parent organization of Codex, together with the World Health Organization (WHO). However, work prioritization in Codex is the remit of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. CAC47 adopted the Codex strategic plan 2026–2031 and CAC48 its monitoring framework. The purpose of the Codex strategic plan and its renewal and renegotiation every five years is to ensure that Codex work is aimed at achieving the most appropriate objectives. FAO has a very long-standing tradition to inform the Codex Alimentarius Commission and its subsidiary bodies with all relevant information to facilitate forward looking workplanning. FAO continues to offer its support to all its members and the members of the Codex Alimentarius Commission to assist in national capacity building activities to strengthen food control systems, food safety governance and all related aspects. The new strategic plan has as its first Strategic Goal to: Respond to Members’ needs for protecting the health of consumers and ensuring fair practices in the food trade in an evolving global landscape, by developing science-based standards and related texts 1.1 Foresight and horizon-scanning activities are used to support the identification of issues likely to impact food safety, quality and trade. 1.2 Scientific advice that addresses the needs identified by CAC and its subsidiary bodies is primarily provided by FAO and WHO and their joint scientific advisory bodies, informed by globally representative data and appropriate international expertise and methodology. 1.3 Scientific advice is used by CAC and subsidiary bodies in line with Codex risk analysis principles. 1.4 Codex standards and related texts are developed, reviewed and adopted in a timely, transparent and inclusive manner. Thus, with reference to FAO’s foresight programme ( https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/foresight/en/ ), Codex will aim to keep ahead of emerging trends Codex work is already addressing some of the key emerging issues and adapting based on Members’ priorities: Digital traceability is already a key topic of discussion in the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems (CCFICS), and work is ongoing to develop texts for the digitalization of national food control systems. CAC47 adopted the Codex Committee on Food Labelling’s (CCFL’s) Guidelines on the provision of food information for pre-packaged foods to be offered via e-commerce New food sources and production systems have been discussed extensively in Codex in recent years. In this context several areas of new work are under discussion which will help define how codex addresses this emerging area moving forward. Changing climate is also impacting food safety and this is also impacting the standard setting work of Codex. For example, the Codex Committee on Contaminants in Food (CCCF) elaborated and CAC47 adopted the Code of practice for the prevention or reduction of ciguatera poisoning, in response to the evolving nature of this issue, which is related to climate factors. The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene developed and CAC46 adopted Guidelines for the safe use and reuse of water in food production and processing in response to Members concerns about the need to ensure that in the context of water resource challenges, the safety of food was not negatively impacted. There is a continued emphasis, particularly within CCCF, on the issue of mycotoxins, the threat of which is evolving and possibly expanding as climate factors change. —---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3468/kerry-signs-strategic-agreement-with-expo-city-dubai-to-establish-new-regional-co-creation-center-to-drive-food-beverage-innovation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3468/kerry-signs-strategic-agreement-with-expo-city-dubai-to-establish-new-regional-co-creation-center-to-drive-food-beverage-innovation.html Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:16:49 +0530 Driving food and beverage innovation in one of the world’s most dynamic markets Kerry, a global leader in sustainable taste and nutrition solutions, today announced the signing of a long-term lease agreement with Expo City Dubai to establish its new Regional Customer Co-Creation Centre. The agreement represents a significant milestone in Kerry’s continued growth across the Middle East and underscores the company’s commitment to driving food and beverage innovation in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. Located in the heart of Expo City Dubai — the UAE’s first Green Innovation District and a thriving global hub for innovation, sustainability and future-focused development — the new Kerry facility will serve as a state-of-the-art regional centre for research, development and applications. Leveraging Kerry’s deep scientific expertise and global capabilities, the centre will enable Kerry to work even more closely with customers, supporting them from concept through to commercialisation and accelerating the delivery of high quality, market-ready products with greater speed, efficiency and impact. “Our partnership with Expo City Dubai marks an exciting milestone for Kerry as we continue to expand our presence and capabilities across the Middle East,” said Peter Dillane, President and CEO of Kerry APMEA. “We are deeply grateful to Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, for her vision in positioning Expo City as a platform for world-class research and innovation, and to Ambassador of Ireland to UAE, Alison Milton and Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of Ireland, Peter Burke, for their leadership in strengthening economic ties and championing investment in food technology. Together, we share a common ambition to advance collaboration and innovation across the global food ecosystem.” Creating a World-Class Ecosystem for Food & Beverage Innovation Kerry’s new Expo City facility is designed to elevate customer collaboration and accelerate the development of sustainable, nutritious and market-leading innovation. The centre will: Build a world-class ecosystem that connects customers, food and beverage manufacturers, academic institutions, government entities and industry experts. Provide an immersive environment showcasing Kerry’s integrated portfolio of science- backed sustainable nutrition solutions across Taste, Proactive Health, Enzymes, and Food Protection and Preservation. Enable deeper co-creation with customers to deliver the next generation of food and beverage solutions tailored to the needs of consumers in the Middle East and beyond. “As the UAE’s first Green Innovation District, Expo City is dedicated to hosting businesses, innovators and organisations who are actively engineering positive sustainable change,” said Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture, Expo City Dubai. “We’re delighted to welcome Kerry to our growing community, where its expertise in sustainable nutrition will be an important addition to our ecosystem as we work together to build a decarbonised and resilient future.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3454/vietnam-evaluates-reinforcing-legal-framework-and-sustainability-practices-to-attract-european-investments.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3454/vietnam-evaluates-reinforcing-legal-framework-and-sustainability-practices-to-attract-european-investments.html Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:08:58 +0530 EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) and the European Chamber of Commerce in Viet Nam (EuroCham) reviews legal framework, the circular economy, recycling, and agricultural and environmental cooperation Vietnam's Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Le Cong Thanh, held the meeting with a delegation from the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) and the European Chamber of Commerce in Viet Nam (EuroCham). The discussion focused on the legal framework, the circular economy, recycling, and agricultural and environmental cooperation. At the meeting, Ms. Li Chen, a Member of the EU-ABC Executive Board and Head of Public Affairs for ASEAN at HSBC, introduced the EU-ABC as an organization recognized by the European Commission and the ASEAN Secretariat to represent the European business community operating in Southeast Asia, with EuroCham representing the European business community in Viet Nam. The year 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and the European Union (1990-2025), a significant milestone opening up a period of deeper and more comprehensive cooperation between the two sides. On this occasion, EU-ABC and EuroCham expressed their appreciation towards Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment in drafting and amending key bills in 2025, such as the Land Law and the Law Amending and Supplementing a Number of Articles of Laws in the fields of agriculture and environment. According to Ms. Li Chen, the current legislative refinement process creates an important opportunity to enhance environmental protection and climate change response, while also promoting green transition, smart agriculture development, and increasing added value in agricultural production - areas of particular interest to the European business community, which is ready to accompany and provide support. European businesses are supporting Vietnam constantly including their recent contributions to disaster prevention and emergency relief, and continued cooperation in remote sensing, spatial data, renewable energy, water treatment, low-emission products, and biomass energy from agricultural by-products. European Business Mission to Viet Nam To realize their commitment to cooperate with the Vietnamese Government on these priorities, and to support their members in increasing investment by establishing a platform for constructive dialogue between the Government and businesses, EU-ABC and EuroCham co-organized a High-Level European Business Mission to Viet Nam from November 24 to 27, followed by the Green Economy Forum (GEF) 2025, which will be chaired by EuroCham. During the working session, representatives of the businesses in the delegation stated that the European business community is committed to long-term partnership with Viet Nam in sustainable development, with the desire to promote the circular economy model and efficient resource utilization. Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh affirmed that, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment continues to develop and amend legal regulations to develop agriculture not merely as a production sector, but as a high value-added commodity production sector capable of meeting the strict requirements of markets, including the European market. Regarding resource utilization, the Ministry is finalizing policies to ensure that resources such as land, water, minerals, and forests are strictly managed and used efficiently and sustainably, securing development opportunities for future generations. He noted that environmental regulations in recent years have changed significantly toward administrative procedure reform, shifting from pre-inspection to enhanced post-inspection, approaching the advanced management methods applied by the EU. The National Assembly is currently considering amendments to a number of articles in 15 laws related to agriculture and the environment; this is the initial step to address urgent issues, but there will be deeper amendments in the future, including to the environmental laws. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the comments and recommendations from businesses serve as important questions and suggestions for the policy refinement process, especially concerning the circular economy, recycling, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the carbon market, and carbon credits. The Ministry is researching how to make EPR regulations more favorable and plans to issue a decree soon; it is also considering learning from good European experiences, including regulations on mandatory recycling rates for certain products and packaging. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3451/eu-approves-provisional-agreement-on-new-genomic-techniques-for-plant-breeding.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3451/eu-approves-provisional-agreement-on-new-genomic-techniques-for-plant-breeding.html Fri, 05 Dec 2025 11:37:12 +0530 Innovative new genomic techniques (NGTs) to enhance agricultural sustainability and competitiveness The European Commission welcomes the provisional political agreement reached by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU on new EU rules for plants obtained by using new genomic techniques (NGTs). The agreed measures will enable more innovative plant breeding in the EU, helping farmers to grow plants that are more resilient to climate change and making them more sustainable as producers will require less resources, fertilisers and pesticides to fight pests. This will allow breeders and farmers to be more competitive by levelling the international playing field with other producers. The new measures will significantly reduce the administrative burden too, while ensuring high safety standards for NGT plants and products. New genomic techniques are innovative tools that can boost our agricultural and bioeconomy sectors through enabling faster, more targeted and more precise changes to plant varieties than conventional breeding techniques. More improved plant varieties can be developed, such as those that are climate resilient, pest resistant, or provide higher yields. Once adopted and fully implemented, the measures agreed today will create two distinct pathways for NGT plants to be placed on the market: NGT plants that could also occur naturally or by conventional breeding (so-called 'category 1 NGT plants') will be subject to a verification procedure, based on set criteria. NGT plants that meet these criteria will be treated like conventional plants and exempted from the requirements of the genetically modified organisms (GMO) legislation; For all other NGT plants ('category 2 NGT plants'), the requirements of the current GMO legislation would apply. They will be subject to a risk assessment and authorisation procedure before they can be put on the market. They will have to be traceable and labelled as GMOs, with the possibility of a voluntary label to indicate the purpose of the genetic modification. The Commission will oversee transparency and licencing practices related to patents, and provide guidance where needed. It will also assess the impact of patents on breeders' access to genetic material and on farmers' access to plant varieties, with a view to proposing follow-up measures if necessary. Next steps The agreed Regulation must be formally adopted by the Council and the European Parliament. It will be published in the Official Journal in the course of 2026 and will start applying two years later. The implementation of the Regulation will be supported by a robust monitoring programme of economic, environmental and social impacts of NGT products that will focus, inter alia, on aspects of sustainability and safety. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3445/biotalys-receives-regulatory-approval-by-u-s-epa-for-its-biofungicide-evoca.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3445/biotalys-receives-regulatory-approval-by-u-s-epa-for-its-biofungicide-evoca.html Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:12:36 +0530 U.S. Registration marks a significant milestone as the first protein-based Biofungicide of its kind to be approved by the EPA. Belgium based Biotalys announced that it has received regulatory approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its first biofungicide, EVOCA™*.   This product was developed using Biotalys’ AGROBODY™ technology platform and is the first protein-based biofungicide of its kind to be approved by the EPA. EVOCA is a precision biocontrol solution with a new mode of action** that targets the fungal pathogens botrytis (grey mold) and powdery mildew in high-value fruits and vegetables while minimising the risk to beneficial organisms or the environment. With this approval in hand, Biotalys can proceed with the dossiers for state registrations in California and Florida, two of the most important growing regions for fruit and vegetables in the United States***. In Europe, EVOCA has entered the peer review phase, and the Netherlands – as the rapporteur member state – has proposed approval in Europe, subject to the provision for certain additional data as requested during the peer review phase. Additionally, the company can move forward with building up the U.S. regulatory submission for EVOCA NG – its next-generation product – currently in the final phases of development. The regulatory review process for EVOCA NG is expected to be significantly shorter, as the product contains the same active ingredient as EVOCA and features enhanced formulation and production methods. Biotalys envisages obtaining registration of EVOCA NG in the U.S. in 2028-29 and in the EU and Brazil in 2029-30, and subsequently launching it commercially in these markets worth around USD 1.2 billion combined. “This approval marks a major regulatory milestone for EVOCA and moves us closer to delivering a new, sustainable tool for farmers to protect their crops,” said Kevin Helash, CEO of Biotalys. “The product has an entirely new mode of action to target fungal diseases, highlighting the uniqueness of Biotalys’ technology platform as a pathway to discovering many new modes of action in the coming years. The EPA’s decision reinforces the potential of our technology to help shape the future of agriculture and is a testament to the dedication of our entire team.” EVOCA is developed to provide growers with a novel solution that bridges the efficacy and scale of commonly used chemistries with the environmental advantages of biological solutions. End of October 2025, the EPA also posted a final rule exempting EVOCA’s active ingredient residues on treated crops from tolerance requirements. No maximum residue limits will apply given EVOCA’s exemplary safety profile. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3442/sacha-hoffmann-santelices-reveals-engineering-behind-komets-irrigation-edge.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3442/sacha-hoffmann-santelices-reveals-engineering-behind-komets-irrigation-edge.html Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:22:47 +0530 In this exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Sacha Hoffmann Santelices, Managing Director, Komet Irrigation, explains how the company rebuilt its manufacturing philosophy by benchmarking against automotive plants rather than agricultural peers. He outlines how precision engineering, tighter tolerances, and operator-led quality have become strategic differentiators that translate directly into field performance and farmer trust. Sacha highlights Komet’s tightly integrated feedback loops across continents, which allow rapid redesigns and testing updates based on real-world agronomic challenges. He also details how lean culture, digitalized flow systems, and carefully balanced automation help the company maintain industry-leading delivery despite global volatility. Looking ahead to Irrigation 2030, Hoffmann describes investments in advanced materials, digital twins, and cutting-edge laboratories that will anchor the next decade of hydraulic innovation. Raising the Bar: From Irrigation to Industry Leading Manufacturing Komet’s Lienz facility has been compared to automotive plants. What cultural, process, and technology shifts have allowed you to build a factory that outperforms the typical agricultural benchmark ? We began with a cultural reset. Instead of comparing ourselves to other agricultural manufacturers, we benchmarked against the best automotive plants. This changed how we design processes, how we hire, and how we use technology. We invested heavily in process engineering, standardization, and eliminating root causes, not symptoms. Today, repeatability, traceability, and defect-prevention are built into every workflow. That is why our factory performs far above typical agri-equipment standards. Precision as Strategy, Not Just Manufacturing Discipline Your components have tolerances much tighter than industry norms. How has precision become a strategic advantage in the field ? Precision is not just a technical choice; it is a strategic differentiator. Tighter tolerances deliver more consistent water distribution, less variability across environments, and better agronomic reliability. Farmers see this immediately in uniformity and yield. Precision becomes trust, and trust becomes market share. By designing every part to tighter tolerances than the industry expects, we turn manufacturing accuracy into better field performance. Quality at the Source: Redesigning the Role of Operators You say quality must be “produced,” not “controlled.” How do you ensure operators act as problem-solvers rather than machine operators waiting for inspection ? We shifted the operator’s role from a “machine runner” to a “process owner,” anchored on three reinforcing pillars. First, our systems are designed to make errors almost impossible—through poka-yoke mechanisms, real-time SPC dashboards, and standardized work that makes any deviation immediately visible. Second, we hire for problem-solving ability and cross-functional flexibility rather than narrow machine skills, ensuring operators can manage multiple tasks and think beyond their stations. Third, our incentives reward quality and ownership instead of sheer output volume, recognizing those who take responsibility and actively contribute to improvements. This transformation is sustained through continuous training: once operators truly understand that they produce quality rather than merely inspect it, the entire quality curve shifts upstream. Closing the Loop: Farmer Feedback Driving Factory Decisions How does feedback from growers in very different regions influence product design or manufacturing ? We have structured feedback channels across Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the US. This information is reviewed weekly and directly informs our design and production decisions. For example, when farmers in drought-prone areas report behaviour at extremely low pressure, we adjust our testing protocols and may even redesign geometry or materials. The loop from field to factory is short, and agility is one of our biggest strengths. Agility Under Volatility: Supply Chain and Flow Redesign How do you maintain leading on-time delivery despite volatile demand, raw-material swings, and logistics disruptions ? We moved from a “batch and push” model to a flow-driven, demand-synchronized system. We also built dual sourcing for critical components to reduce risk. On the shop floor, we redesigned lines into flexible U-Lines, like Toyota’s approach, so teams can scale up or down quickly while keeping flow stable. At the same time, we accelerated production digitalization, giving us real-time visibility of lead times and faster decision-making. These structural changes allow us to keep industry-leading delivery performance even in unstable market conditions. Lean as a Cultural Engine, not a Toolkit What has been the hardest lean discipline to embed, and how do you maintain weekly improvement momentum ? The hardest discipline is consistency, following standards every day, on every shift. Tools are simple; culture is not. We built a strong shop-floor management system with daily and weekly routines at all leadership levels. Meetings follow a clear, standard format so communication is aligned and transparent. Problems are solved quickly, directly at the source. Our Komet Lean House provides a long-term roadmap with principles, behaviour, and five-year milestones. It keeps our transformation structured and focused. Lean is not a toolkit for us; it is how we think and operate. Innovating Without Over-Automating How do you balance automation with human craftsmanship when small errors can have large field consequences ? We automate where it adds robustness, not where it replaces craftsmanship. For irrigation components, a sub-millimeter misalignment can change the entire hydraulic profile, so we focus on automation that eliminates variability but keep human expertise where judgment is critical. At the same time, automation plays an important ergonomic role: it removes repetitive, physically demanding tasks and allows our people to work in safer, more sustainable conditions. The balance is intentional, automation for stability and ergonomics, skilled people for precision and sensitivity. Preparing for Irrigation 2030: The Next Capability Leap What new competencies are you developing to stay ahead of future irrigation needs ? We are building capabilities far beyond traditional manufacturing: advanced materials science, integrated testing environments, digital twins, and a workforce with stronger analytical and polyvalent skills. A major step is our new laboratory building in Brazil, one of the most advanced in the irrigation industry. It allows high-resolution testing, simulation of extreme conditions, and faster development cycles. Insights from the lab flow directly into product design, material choices, and manufacturing. This keeps us ahead of agronomic and hydraulic challenges and prepares us for the needs of 2030 and beyond. Our goal is clear: build today the capabilities that will define the next decade of irrigation performance. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3425/global-biostimulant-market-reaches-4-47-bn-as-industry-signals-maturity.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3425/global-biostimulant-market-reaches-4-47-bn-as-industry-signals-maturity.html Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:48:01 +0530 New Dunham Trimmer report reveals sector resilience with 9.9 per cent CAGR projection through 2030 The global biostimulant market has achieved $ 4.47 billion in value with a visible shift from opportunistic to science-based market development, according to Dunham Trimmer's new 2025 Global Biostimulant Market Report, set to be unveiled at the Biostimulants World Congress in Barcelona, December 1-4, 2025. The comprehensive analysis projects a 9.9 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2030—the first time future growth projections have dipped below the double-digit benchmarks historically associated with the broader biologicals sector. However, the firm emphasizes this reflects the natural evolution of a strong market rather than weakness. Dunham Trimmer Market Reports are widely regarded as the most accurate and insightful studies serving the biologicals industries. "Mathematics have been unyielding," said Manel Cervera, Managing Partner and Chief Commercial Officer at Dunham Trimmer, when speaking of the growth rate. "Two factors fundamentally explain this outcome: several of the largest markets are showing early signs of maturity while at the same time the market's critical mass has increased substantially—thus, even when absolute growth remains strong, relative growth rates decline." Notably, the Report reveals that market absolute values will increase by more than half a billion dollars annually through the end of the decade, underscoring the segment's robust (albeit moderating) expansion. Regional Dynamics Reshape Global Landscape Latin America has consolidated its position as the leading market in both value and growth, with Brazil contributing half the region's revenue. The USA maintains its status as the world's largest single market, with Dunham Trimmer citing the significant impact of major U.S. distributors who have evolved into formulation powerhouses. Europe's fourth-place ranking may surprise observers, given European companies' historical leadership in international market development. While Mediterranean markets created major industry leaders, growth elsewhere in the region has not reached critical mass to elevate overall trajectories. However, increasing interest in CE certification could reinvigorate the unified 27-country EU market. Africa remains relatively small overall, with structural constraints—including commercial-channel development and agricultural-system fragmentation—limiting widespread adoption, though DunhamTrimmer anticipates accelerated emergence as a growth pole early next decade. Product Innovation and Application Trends Amino acids reaffirm their leadership position among biostimulant substances, valued for versatility in formulations and strong alignment with circularity principles. Algae extracts also retain premium positioning as the second-largest segment, while humic and fulvic acids remain relevant, particularly as irrigated acreage expands. As a potential game-changer going into the future, Dunham Trimmer highlights the emerging Single Biostimulant Molecule (SBM) market, which is bringing forth products that offer higher specificity and more consistent efficacy (with reduced dependency on agronomic conditions)—potentially unlocking large-scale adoption in row crops and cereals. For the first time, the new Global Biostimulant Report takes on a major innovation by subdividing the market by product use. Spurred by segmentation aligned with EU Regulation 2019/1009 (Fertilising Products Regulation, or FPR) , nutrient use efficiency (NUE) represents the largest biostimulant application category, followed closely by abiotic stress resistance, which is capturing growing market share amid climate challenges in all geographies. Fruits and vegetables remain the primary crop segment, representing over half of total demand, though row crops and cereals are expanding most rapidly—positioned to become the next major growth driver. Despite moderated percentage growth, Dunham Trimmer concludes that the sector's proven resilience through pandemic disruptions and inflationary pressures, combined with emerging technological opportunities, strongly reinforces optimism for biostimulants' role in addressing agricultural challenges while advancing global sustainability objectives. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3413/inside-factory-how-komet-irrigation-is-rewriting-rules-of-agri-manufacturing.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3413/inside-factory-how-komet-irrigation-is-rewriting-rules-of-agri-manufacturing.html Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:45:26 +0530 In a quiet Alpine town better known for its panoramic peaks than production lines, Komet Irrigation is building what may be the most advanced manufacturing ecosystem in the global irrigation industry. While sector growth worldwide remains steady, Komet is breaking away from the pack—setting new benchmarks in precision, agility, and engineering discipline that resemble elite automotive and aerospace standards more than traditional agri-equipment norms. At the heart of its rise is a factory floor driven by an almost obsessive commitment to accuracy. Komet’s lean, data-driven plant manufactures components with tolerances far tighter than industry expectations, supported by poka-yoke error-proofing systems and a “quality at the source” philosophy. The mandate is simple: defects aren’t inspected out—they are designed out. This approach ensures first-time-right performance, even at scale. “You don’t control the quality; you must produce the quality. Komet is really doing this,” says Sacha Hoffmann, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer at Komet Irrigation. Despite growing global demand and increasingly complex logistics, Komet has maintained world-leading on-time delivery through an agile production system that combines speed with engineering discipline. Orders move through the workflow with near-clinical precision, proving that high output and high quality can reinforce each other rather than compete. Designed to withstand extreme terrains and climates, Komet’s irrigation components continue performing where many competitors fail. Reliability is not just promised—it is engineered into every design decision and constantly refined through real-world farmer feedback. This deep understanding of field performance has become a competitive advantage that shapes both product design and factory operations. “Our philosophy is clear: operators don’t just run machines; they are problem-solvers who own quality,” Hoffmann notes. “There’s not a single customer who visits our factory and isn’t impressed by the production process.” Stepping into Komet’s Lienz facility feels more like entering an advanced aerospace or automotive plant than a typical irrigation equipment workshop. The site is 5S-disciplined, hospital-clean, digitally tracked, and standardized down to the smallest detail. Real-time performance dashboards help prevent breakdowns before they occur, while continuous-improvement teams make incremental yet compounding gains week after week. Every operator understands how each part performs in the field and why its reliability matters to the farmer. The factory is, in essence, directly connected to the realities of agriculture around the world. This manufacturing culture has made Komet a destination for industry learning. Last year, a major agricultural conglomerate sent 14 team members to Lienz to study the company’s systems firsthand—a sign that Komet’s operational playbook is becoming an aspirational model across the sector. “Compared to the automotive industry, we still have room to grow,” Hoffmann acknowledges. “But within irrigation, Komet is already the benchmark. We’re setting the new standard, not just catching up.” Komet’s rise is rooted in a long-term strategy focused on manufacturing excellence, operational agility, and sustainable innovation. Quality is engineered from design sketch to final inspection through high-grade materials, sub-millimeter tolerances, and rigorous testing regimes. Agility is achieved by relentlessly removing waste, optimizing flow across the shop floor, and empowering cross-trained teams who can adjust quickly to shifting market demands while maintaining cost discipline and delivery reliability. Sustainability is embedded into the factory’s architecture, which maximizes natural light, minimizes energy and water consumption, and advances material choices to reduce environmental impact. In the field, Komet’s low-pressure irrigation systems help farmers cut energy use, reduce water consumption, and lower their overall carbon footprint. For growers, these decisions translate into equipment that lasts longer, breaks down less often, and keeps operations running smoothly through tough seasons. Komet is also working to educate farmers about product longevity; just as with any vehicle or machine, irrigation components have a finite lifespan, and proactive replacement can prevent costly downtime. Looking ahead, Komet is doubling down on its manufacturing vision by investing in Industry 4.0 machinery, expanding workforce training, and accelerating advanced materials research. These investments are designed to pull the company ahead of the next global growth cycle. “Manufacturing is not a support function; it’s a strategic advantage,” Hoffmann concludes. “By investing in our people, our processes, and our factory, we are shaping the irrigation industry’s first true Lean benchmark. This means building better products and empowering farmers to be more resilient, more competitive, and fully prepared for the future.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3380/europe-leads-asia-accelerates-suzanne-mckenzie-on-global-push-for-recycled-jet-fuel.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3380/europe-leads-asia-accelerates-suzanne-mckenzie-on-global-push-for-recycled-jet-fuel.html Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:16:11 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Suzanne McKenzie, Sales Director, Lifecycle Oils Ltd, UK, explains how Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) produced from used cooking oil goes through advanced filtration, hydrotreating, and hydrocracking before being blended to meet strict jet specifications—distinctly different from fossil fuels derived via crude oil distillation. She notes that second-generation SAF from waste streams can slash lifecycle emissions by up to 80 per cent versus fossil fuel, without competing with food crops or land. Mandates in the UK, EU and Asia are accelerating adoption, though scaling production and infrastructure remains a major challenge. Suzanne highlights constraints around finite UCO supply, price gaps, and rapidly growing SAF demand—forecast to reach 15 million Mt by 2030 versus ~1 million Mt today. Looking ahead, she sees diversification into algae oils, tall oil, cover crops and Power-to-Liquid e-fuels as essential to achieving aviation’s Net Zero ambitions. I. SAF Production & Environmental Impact From Fryer to Fuel: Could you walk us through the lifecycle of SAF made from used cooking oil, highlighting the key technological and operational steps that differentiate it from conventional jet fuel? First, we collect the used cooking oil (UCO) from across the food industry, including food manufacturers, quick service restaurants and food service providers, as well as from household waste sites around the UK. This is then transported to our processing plant in Wednesbury.We then filter the UCO to remove all contaminants and process it using a unique multi-stage filtration and settling process to turn it into a specification suitable for use as a feedstock for producing SAF, HVO, Biofuels and our patented LF100 biofuel. The pre-treated UCO is then hydrotreated – a process where hydrogen is used to remove the oxygen from the free fatty acids, converting the carbon bonds into long-chain hydrocarbons. The hydrocarbons are then hydrocracked to break them down into shorter molecules through isomerisation, which is critical for creating a fuel with the right freezing point and combustion properties for use in jet engines. The resulting fuel is then blended with conventional jet fuel to the required level to meet to required specification for SAF. Conventional jet fuel is created by fractional distillation and cracking, where the oil is heated and separated into different fractions, including one that can be used as jet fuel.Sustainability Metrics: How does SAF made from waste streams like used cooking oil perform in terms of carbon intensity, lifecycle emissions reductions, and broader environmental benefits compared to traditional fossil jet fuels? The sustainability credentials of SAF depend heavily on the feedstock used to create it. First-generation SAF – made from virgin crops like palm oil or rapeseed oil – come with inherent trade-offs from a sustainability perspective. Growing feedstock crops for SAF can be carbon-intensive and are associated with deforestation, land conversion, biodiversity loss, and high water consumption. They require agricultural land, which means directly competing with the food chain for resources. Second-generation SAF, like UCO processed by Lifecycle Oils, offers substantial environmental advantages by avoiding these issues entirely. There’s no extra land required, and no additional resources required to grow new crops. It’s repurposing a waste stream, and one we have great access to as we’re partnered with 96% of household recycling centres across the UK. As a result of using previously waste materials, UCO-derived biofuels can slash lifecycle carbon footprints by an estimated 80 per cent when compared to conventional fuels, and 40 per cent when compared to first-generation biofuels.II. Industry Adoption & Market DynamicsAdoption Trends: How quickly are airlines and airports embracing SAF, and what patterns are you seeing in Europe versus other regions? Are current mandates and voluntary targets driving meaningful uptake? There is a clear trend – countries worldwide see SAF as the best way to cut aviation emissions in the mid-term.As a result, airlines and airports worldwide are steadily increasing their SAF use, with the SAF mandates driving much of the uptake – especially in Europe and the UK, where we already have a 2 per cent SAF mandate in place for 2025, which will rise to 6 per cent and 10 per cent respectively by 2030.Across the Asia-Pacific region, we’re also seeing new policies, targets and emerging targets on SAF. Japan is exploring a 10 per cent SAF mandate by 2030 for departing flights, and Singapore is introducing a 1 per cent SAF target for 2026, which could rise to 3-5 per cent by 2030. South Korea and India are both considering a 1 per cent target for 2027. In terms of voluntary uptake, we’re seeing commitments tied to net-zero pledges from airlines, but it’s the mandates that are likely to drive real change.Feasibility & Scalability: SAF adoption faces technical and logistical challenges. From your perspective, what are the main bottlenecks in scaling production, blending, and distribution for commercial aviation? One key challenge is bringing production capacity on board to meet demand! Current forecasts predict that by 2030, global demand for SAF will be around 15 million Mt, and by 2035, this looks set to reach 40 million Mt. In 2024, global SAF production was around 1 million Mt, with current predictions suggesting global capacity will only grow to around 18 million Mt by 2035. There’s a big gap!There are also challenges in developing the blending and depot infrastructure at major airports, so that the SAF can be integrated into existing supply chains.From a UCO perspective, the challenge is supply – UCO is a finite and increasingly in-demand resource for all kinds of biofuels. While there is room to scale, it’s not infinite, and will only ever form part of the SAF mix. The final challenge is price. SAF is currently more expensive than jet fuel – and significantly so! In a fuel-hungry industry where profit margins are tight, and are currently focused on securing the cheapest fuel possible, the market is naturally resistant to more expensive solutions, however much better for the planet. III. Policy & Regulatory LeversGovernment Role: How critical are policy incentives, mandates, and regulatory frameworks in accelerating SAF adoption? What works best: carbon pricing, blending obligations, or subsidies for feedstock collection? Blending mandates are already creating a guaranteed market for SAF and accelerating adoption worldwide. It seems likely these mandates will be the main drivers over the coming decade.Carbon pricing is an interesting prospect that could have a meaningful impact on the price difference between SAF (and especially UCO-derived SAF) and conventional jet fuel, which could make it more appealing to airlines.Tax subsidies definitely make a big difference – the US Sustainable Aviation Fuel tax credit directly reduces the final cost of SAF, making it more competitive and attractive to airlines. In the UK, there is talk of a revenue certainty mechanism, which could also stabilise costs and attract future investment into the SAF market.Lifecycle Oils collects UCO from takeaways, high-end restaurants, high street chains, industrial facilities and food manufacturers of all shapes and sizes, so naturally we’d love subsidies on collection – but given the rising demand and limits on supply for UCO globally, it seems unlikely that this would be introduced.Cross-Border Policy Alignment: Given aviation’s global nature, how do differing regulatory regimes in the EU, UK, and Asia impact the economics and deployment of SAF produced from recycled oils? The fuel markets are all connected, and there are so many different factors in play (tax credits, mandates, tariffs, lifecycle emissions criteria, etc.) across the globe that the picture becomes very complex regarding market demands and incentives to supply.In terms of the global UCO market, we’re already seeing some impact in terms of reduced overseas supply, as Asian countries increase biofuel blends and consider SAF mandates.Asia is a key source of UCO, but as Asian countries (e.g., Japan, India, Singapore) introduce their own SAF mandates, they will increasingly seek to utilise their domestic UCO supply. This will have a knock-on effect in Europe and potentially drive up prices as supply constraints come into play.IV. Economics & Supply Chain Cost and Competitiveness: SAF is often more expensive than conventional jet fuel. How do supply chain constraints—such as feedstock availability, collection logistics, and refinery scale—affect long-term pricing and commercial viability ?With oil prices depressed, and aviation fuel exempt from tax in many cases, gaining parity with jet fuel prices is a real challenge – especially if the projections are right, and future demand for SAF significantly outstrips supply. There is a chance that future carbon pricing, or the introduction of a jet fuel tax, could close this gap – but the commercial viability of SAF is primarily supported by mandates, and a global desire to decarbonise aviation and achieve ‘Jet Zero.’Investment & Industry Partnerships: What role do corporate offtake agreements, private investment, and airline collaborations play in scaling SAF production sustainably and profitably?Long-term corporate agreements help guarantee demand, which is essential for gaining finance for production projects and for sustainable profitability.Aligning with corporate sustainability objectives, like reducing Scope 3 emissions, can also support scaling SAF production. If decarbonising aviation is a real priority, then SAF is the most realistic and implementable solution we have. ‘Book and claim’ credits or premiums systems can be effective ways of subsidising SAF production, while helping corporates to fulfil sustainability ambitions. Global Potential: Used cooking oil is a finite resource. Beyond this feedstock, what other waste or renewable sources hold the most promise for SAF at scale, and how can Lifecycle Oils help lead that diversification ? At Lifecycle Oils, our focus is on UCO – it’s about utilising a waste product to create sustainable fuels as part of a more circular economy, and our mission is to continue to scale this model by engaging with companies across the food industry and beyond.Ultimately though, the supply is finite – and if we’re going to deliver SAF at scale, it will only be part of the solution, and to meet the mandate, we will need to increase the feedstocks used. In terms of more sustainable solutions, using oilseed cover crops is an option, and there is real potential in oils derived from algae – though this is still in the very early stages of development. Tall Oil is another good source of feedstock to produce fossil-free biofuel. It is crude tall oil (CTO) and a byproduct of the wood pulping process. This demonstrates a pathway for producing SAF from a renewable, forestry-based feedstock, which can reduce lifecycle emissions compared to traditional jet fuel.  Alternative fuel options and SAF alternatives like synthetic Power-to-Liquid (PtL) synthetic e-fuels, or even the introduction of hydrogen flight, could also be part of the long-term solution to decarbonisation. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3374/role-of-mancozeb-in-safeguarding-grapes-global-food-security.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3374/role-of-mancozeb-in-safeguarding-grapes-global-food-security.html Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:33:57 +0530 The agriculture sector, known for its high-value fruits and significant export potential, is facing a convergence of agronomic, economic, and regulatory pressures. On October 13, a distinguished panel of scientists, industry leaders, and regulatory experts convened virtually to discuss the multifaceted role of Mancozeb in sustainable agriculture, in Agrospectrum webinar titled - The Future of Mancozeb: Science, Stewardship, and Global Food Security. The webinar examined the fungicide’s scientific attributes, its integration into disease management programs, regulatory trends, and its broader implications for farm profitability and food security.  The virtually held discussions underscored that fungicide stewardship is no longer merely a technical matter; it is intricately linked to growers’ livelihoods, market access, and global food stability.  Economic Lessons from Disease Modeling The session commenced with a presentation by Dr Kaushik Banerjee, FRSC, FNAAS, Director of ICAR-NRC for Grapes and Honorary Professor at Queen's University Belfast and the University of Laval, Canada. Dr Banerjee framed the discussion by highlighting the economic and systemic impacts of grape disease outbreaks. Using advanced agronomic modeling, he demonstrated that fungal infections, particularly under high-pressure disease scenarios, can trigger cascading effects on farm profitability, regional supply chains, and even international markets. His analysis emphasised that targeted fungicide programs, including those employing Mancozeb, are not merely preventive measures at the field level but essential tools for stabilising grower income and maintaining global food security. "Every outbreak of grape disease is not just a threat to individual farms—it sends shockwaves through regional supply chains, export markets, and farmer livelihoods. Strategic fungicide programs, including judicious use of Mancozeb, are critical investments. Timely, science-driven interventions safeguard yields, stabilize income, and ensure that agriculture continues to feed both people and economies sustainably." – Dr Kaushik Banerjee, FRSC, FNAAS, Director of ICAR-NRC for Grapes and Honorary Professor at Queen's University Belfast and the University of Laval, Canada Dr Banerjee illustrated that under certain high-incidence conditions, the absence of an effective fungicide program could result in yield losses exceeding 30 to 40 percent, with downstream effects on pricing, processing capacity, and export viability. He stressed that investments in fungicide programs, though an upfront cost, are economically justified when considering the potential revenue losses avoided and the risk mitigation achieved.  Ensuring Safe Access to Mancozeb Worldwide Following Dr Banerjee’s presentation, the discussion shifted to regulatory science and risk assessment. Richard Mills, Global Director of Trade and Government Affairs at UPL, provided a comprehensive overview of the evolving global regulatory landscape for fungicides. Mills articulated the distinction between risk-based and hazard-based regulatory frameworks, emphasising that risk-based assessments evaluate the probability and impact of exposure under realistic use conditions, whereas hazard-based approaches may restrict chemicals based solely on intrinsic properties without contextual application data. He further elaborated on the importance of personal protective equipment compliance, residue monitoring, and data-driven stewardship programs to maintain both domestic and international access to Mancozeb. "Regulatory frameworks are only as effective as the practices behind them. Risk-based assessments let us evaluate real-world exposure, while hazard-based approaches can be overly restrictive. By combining compliance, PPE, residue monitoring, and proactive stewardship, we ensure safe, responsible use of Mancozeb, protecting both public health and growers’ market access across diverse international jurisdictions." –Richard Mills, Global Director of Trade and Government Affairs at UPL Mills highlighted that harmonizing regulatory compliance across countries is essential for exporters, as maximum residue limits (MRLs) vary widely across jurisdictions. He stressed that proactive engagement with regulators, transparent record-keeping, and adherence to recommended application practices are vital to safeguarding market access while ensuring public safety.  How Tech is Revolutionising Disease Control Building upon the regulatory perspective, Sandeep Jagtap, Senior Business Development Manager at Ross LifeScience, addressed the integration of Mancozeb into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and the role of digital agriculture. Jagtap elaborated on how precision tools, including digital disease forecasting models, remote monitoring platforms, and app-based advisory services, allow growers to optimise fungicide use, ensuring applications are timely and necessary, thereby minimizing both economic and environmental costs. He underscored that combining chemical interventions with cultural practices such as canopy management, crop rotation, and resistant varieties enhances the sustainability and effectiveness of disease control programs. "Integrating Mancozeb into IPM isn’t just about spraying—it’s about precision, timing, and sustainability. Digital tools like disease forecasting and remote monitoring help growers apply fungicides only when necessary, reducing costs and environmental impact. When combined with cultural practices like canopy management and resistant varieties, these strategies optimize yield, protect the ecosystem, and make viticulture smarter for every scale of farming." – Sandeep Jagtap, Senior Business Development Manager at Ross LifeScience By demonstrating case studies where digital tools helped reduce fungicide usage without compromising yield, Jagtap highlighted that technology adoption in viticulture can be scaled to support both large commercial growers and smaller farmers, providing actionable insights that translate into improved farm profitability and environmental stewardship.   Collaborative Approaches to Fungicide Stewardship Concluding the speaker presentations, Amiya Kumar Bartia, Strategic Marketing Head at Indofil, shared the industry’s perspective on stewardship and sustainable crop protection strategies. Bartia emphasized that ensuring responsible access to Mancozeb requires multi-level collaboration among growers, industry stakeholders, and regulators. He described initiatives such as educational outreach programs, grower training sessions, and digital monitoring tools that reinforce proper application practices and adherence to safety protocols. "Responsible access to Mancozeb demands collaboration across growers, industry, and regulators. Stewardship isn’t just compliance—it’s a strategic imperative. Through training, outreach, and digital monitoring, we ensure safe, effective application while safeguarding market continuity. By building trust and engagement, we balance crop protection, environmental responsibility, and social accountability, promoting sustainable practices in high-value horticulture." –Amiya Kumar Bartia, Strategic Marketing Head at Indofil Bartia noted that stewardship programs are not merely regulatory obligations but strategic imperatives that secure long-term market continuity and support sustainable agricultural systems. By fostering trust and engagement between stakeholders, the industry aims to balance crop protection needs with environmental and social responsibility, illustrating a pragmatic approach to chemical management in high-value horticulture. Following the formal presentations, the webinar hosted a dynamic Q&A session, providing participants an opportunity to engage directly with the expert panel. Key questions centered on practical challenges, including managing resistance to single-site fungicides, navigating divergent international MRLs, adopting digital forecasting tools, and understanding the cost-benefit dynamics of fungicide programs. In addressing resistance concerns, Dr Banerjee recommended adherence to rotation strategies and integration of multi-site fungicides like Mancozeb into IPM programs. Richard Mills responded to regulatory queries, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining meticulous residue records and proactively engaging with trade authorities to navigate changing international standards. When participants inquired about digital adoption among smallholder farmers, Sandeep Jagtap highlighted the scalability of mobile-based platforms and cloud-supported advisory services that enable data-driven decision-making even for resource-constrained growers. Dr Banerjee quantified the economic benefits of preventive fungicide programs, showing that costs incurred are substantially offset by avoided yield losses, revenue stabilization, and mitigation of downstream market risks. Finally, Bartia discussed the components of effective stewardship, including transparent application practices, grower partnerships, and continuous monitoring, which collectively ensure responsible fungicide use while safeguarding the environment. Several overarching themes emerged from the discussion. First, Mancozeb remains an indispensable tool in grape disease management, particularly in regions facing high disease pressure. Its multi-site activity not only provides immediate disease control but also preserves the efficacy of other fungicides, underpinning the sustainability of crop protection programs. Second, agronomic and economic modeling validates the cost-effectiveness of fungicide interventions, highlighting that upfront expenditure on well-planned programs mitigates larger financial risks from yield losses, quality deterioration, and compromised market access. Third, regulatory vigilance and proactive stewardship are crucial to ensuring safe, compliant access to fungicides in a rapidly evolving global trade environment. Fourth, the integration of digital agriculture and IPM enhances both efficacy and sustainability, enabling precision application, reducing environmental impact, and supporting data-driven farm management. Finally, collaborative industry frameworks, which align growers, regulatory bodies, and companies, are essential for maintaining market continuity, promoting responsible chemical use, and reinforcing sustainable agricultural practices. The webinar also underscored the broader implications of fungicide management beyond the vineyard. By mitigating disease losses and supporting yield stability, effective fungicide programs contribute to food security, particularly in regions dependent on horticultural exports for economic and nutritional resilience. In addition, the discussions highlighted that responsible fungicide stewardship intersects with environmental goals, including reduction of chemical overuse, protection of soil and water quality, and mitigation of pesticide resistance. As the agricultural sector navigates the dual pressures of climate variability and intensifying disease outbreaks, the integrated strategies discussed in this webinar offer a blueprint for sustainable crop protection. Participants and speakers alike noted that the convergence of scientific knowledge, regulatory compliance, economic modeling, and digital innovation is reshaping the landscape of viticulture. Mancozeb’s role, while sometimes viewed through the lens of regulatory scrutiny, remains pivotal in maintaining both productivity and market viability. The insights shared during the webinar demonstrate that strategic, data-driven approaches to fungicide use can yield multifaceted benefits, reinforcing economic resilience for growers, sustaining export markets, and protecting public health and the environment. The dialogue also highlighted the importance of ongoing education, capacity building, and collaboration among all stakeholders, as sustainable crop protection requires continuous adaptation to evolving challenges and opportunities. In conclusion, the Mancozeb stewardship webinar successfully illuminated the complex, interconnected dimensions of modern grape cultivation. The expert panel provided a comprehensive analysis of agronomic strategies, regulatory frameworks, digital innovations, and stewardship initiatives, offering actionable insights for growers, industry participants, and policymakers. The integration of scientific rigor, economic modeling, and regulatory understanding demonstrated that sustainable crop protection is achievable when multi-disciplinary approaches are applied thoughtfully and collaboratively. By emphasizing responsible fungicide use, digital integration, and stakeholder engagement, the webinar charted a pragmatic path forward for safeguarding grape yields, ensuring market access, and contributing to global food security. The discussions reaffirmed that effective disease management is not merely a technical endeavor but a critical component of resilient agricultural systems capable of meeting both economic and nutritional demands in a rapidly changing world. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3361/coral-reefs-vs-climate-chaos-dr-jenni-brandon-on-race-to-save-earths-underwater-cities.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3361/coral-reefs-vs-climate-chaos-dr-jenni-brandon-on-race-to-save-earths-underwater-cities.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:30:22 +0530 In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Dr. Jenni Brandon, CEO and Sustainability Consultant at Wild Beacon Consulting, reveals how coral reefs marshal an arsenal of biological ingenuity — from genetically diverse lineages to symbiont-swapping survival strategies — to endure the escalating tyranny of warming and acidifying oceans. She argues that restoration must be rooted not in cosmetic transplantation but in evolutionary prudence, selecting morphologies and genotypes most equipped for tomorrow’s oceans and leveraging naturally resilient habitats such as upwelling zones. Dr. Brandon spotlights the reefs’ macroeconomic indispensability: they are coastal sentinels, food-system pillars, and tourism engines whose erosion could destabilize livelihoods and national balance sheets alike. Although reefs are not classical blue-carbon sinks, she underscores their essential role in safeguarding carbon-rich ecosystems — a rationale for scaling blue bonds and debt-for-nature swaps that yoke biodiversity protection to investible climate outcomes. With the advent of AI-assisted surveillance, satellite foresight and rapid eDNA diagnostics, she concludes, humanity now possesses the tools to pre-empt catastrophe — so long as governance frameworks unite scientific precision, local stewardship, and uncompromising urgency. I. Reef Resilience and Climate Dynamics Mechanisms of Resilience: With rising sea surface temperatures and ocean acidification, what are the most decisive biological and ecological mechanisms that enable certain coral species or reef systems to withstand climate stress, and how can this inform targeted conservation strategies? More resilient corals have a few ecological commonalities, including living in deeper, colder waters, but also living in more variable waters, where they have become more resilient to changing temperatures than those in stable environments. Biologically, certain genetic strains seem to be more resilient, as well as the corals with more diverse genetic makeup. If you have higher genetic diversity, you are more likely to have some strains survive a bleaching event. Certain morphologies also seem to survive better, like in Papua New Guinea, where big boulder-shaped corals have taken over reefs compared to more fragile branching corals that are more sensitive to ocean acidification. Then there are also the coral-algae symbionts, where corals with more heat-resistant symbiotic algae survive better, and some corals will actually swap out their symbiotic algae for more heat-resistant algae in a warming event. Adaptive Management under Uncertainty: Given the high variability of reef responses across regions, how should policymakers and investors design adaptive, evidence-based interventions that balance short-term protection with long-term ecosystem integrity? Some intervention approaches include replanting coral outcroppings, and this should be done thinking about the morphology, symbiotic algae community, and genetic diversity of those corals. Too many of the same corals replanted will not add to the genetic diversity and could all be wiped out in a marine heat wave. Similarly, replanting corals in areas of upwelling may lead to those corals becoming more resilient and lead to more long-term resiliency. II. Economics, Valuation, and Climate Finance Monetizing Reef Resilience: Coral ecosystems provide critical services—fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection. How can we rigorously quantify these benefits in economic terms to attract private investment and integrate reef conservation into ESG portfolios? I'm not an economist, so I can't definitively answer that. But you have to think of the jobs created not just by the fishing vessels themselves, but the seafood processing plants, and the seafood markets and seafood restaurants. The tourism jobs that would disappear if there was no healthy coral reef to visit (hotels, restaurants, SCUBA boats, beach shops, etc). Also, the coastal protections that a coral reef provides, including stopping storm surge, protecting during hurricanes, fighting erosion, being nursery habitat for those fisheries. It goes on and on. Florida values their coral reefs at a value of $8.5 billion, when you start to add all those pieces together. Blue Carbon and Market Mechanisms: What are the methodological and regulatory challenges of incorporating coral reefs into carbon markets or nature-based solutions financing, and how can these frameworks ensure both ecological fidelity and investor confidence? Coral reefs are not direct blue carbon sinks themselves, because the act of calcification releases CO2. But they help protect other blue carbon ecosystems like seagrass from erosion or storm surge, so they are part of the blue carbon ecosystem. But to be part of the carbon market, there would need to be significant research on the MRV, or measurement, reporting, and verification, of exactly where the carbon goes in a reef system and how permanently it is sequestered, if at all. That's not to say that coral reefs aren't a nature-based solution, for all the ecosystem services I mentioned above. They are, and financing coral reef and restoration for those ecosystem services makes a lot of sense for both ecological and economic reasons. III. Cross-Sector Governance and Strategic Collaboration Private-Public Synergy: How should corporations, philanthropic organizations, and governments strategically co-invest in reef resilience to generate measurable climate, biodiversity, and economic impact simultaneously? There are debt instruments like blue bonds that are being created where a government, development bank, or corporation, issues a bond that is specifically designed for projects that benefit the ocean and the blue economy. These can be used for things like coral reef restoration, or preventing water pollution from entering the ocean and polluting reefs, or establishing an MPA, or making a fishery more sustainable. These often include debt-for-nature swaps, where a country's foreign debt is reduced in exchange for investing in conservation projects. These bonds are new but have been incredibly successful both economically and for the climate. IV. Innovation and Forward-Looking Insights Technology-Enabled Monitoring and Intervention: Emerging tools—AI-driven reef health analytics, satellite imaging, and environmental DNA—offer unprecedented monitoring precision. How can these technologies be integrated into decision-making pipelines to optimize intervention timing, prioritize restoration, and de-risk investments in reef resilience? These tools are de-risking some of the decisions about where and when to focus restoration efforts. They are allowing scientists to be more precise in replanting efforts, but also to see a bleaching event coming earlier so they can react quicker. They are taking the guesswork out of some of this research and allowing scientists to not spend so many manhours underwater surveying the reef, but instead have eyes on what's going on nearly 24/7. By allowing scientists to see what's going on at all times, that allows them to make more informed, quicker, restoration and policy decisions. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3353/reefs-as-climate-infrastructure-case-for-treating-coral-systems-like-coastal-assets.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3353/reefs-as-climate-infrastructure-case-for-treating-coral-systems-like-coastal-assets.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:38:41 +0530 he traditional logic of reef conservation—protect the habitat, and the habitat will recover—is breaking down under the realities of a warming ocean. MPAs still matter, but they are being outpaced by global environmental change that local policies cannot contain. The future of coral reefs will depend on dynamic, data-driven management, active restoration, and financial mechanisms that treat reef health as essential climate-resilience infrastructure. In this new era, the question is not whether reefs can be protected—but how fast we can redesign the systems meant to save them. For decades, the global conservation community placed its faith in marine protected areas (MPAs) as the primary shield for coral reef ecosystems. The theory was simple: Designate zones where fishing is curtailed, run-off is controlled, and coastal development is managed—and healthy coral systems will recover, thrive, and resist shocks. However, the fundamental logic of that model is now under grave pressure. As marine heatwaves grow in frequency, intensity and duration, and ocean chemistry shifts with acidification, the assumption that protection from local threats alone can ensure reef survival has proven increasingly inadequate. “The speed of climate change is pushing coral reefs beyond the environmental boundaries they evolved to survive in. A reef functions much like an underwater city—dense, highly organized, and full of interdependent life. Corals rely on a narrow band of temperatures and water chemistry, and when waters warm, they expel their symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, which provide most of their energy. Without that partnership, corals begin to starve, and pollution or disease can accelerate the decline. When corals die, the reef’s architecture breaks down, fish lose habitat, invertebrates lose food, and the ecosystem shifts into a simpler state with far less ecological function and economic value. Reef restoration is advancing, from coral nurseries to selective breeding and assisted evolution. Some coral–algae partnerships show natural heat tolerance, and herbivore-rich reefs in the South Pacific have demonstrated surprising capacity to rebound. But the communities that return are not the same, and we are only beginning to understand the implications for fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection.” --- Camille Gaynus, Chief Science Officer, BIMS (Black in Marine Science) Inside key reef systems—from the vast expanse of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to the unique ecosystems of the Red Sea and the island-state reefs of the Seychelles—this truth is becoming ever more apparent. MPAs remain essential, but they are no longer sufficient. In this new era, reef resilience demands a fundamentally re-engineered approach: One that blends dynamic management, cutting-edge restoration, climate-smart zoning, real-time monitoring, and financial innovation. Equally, coral reef ecosystems must be woven into the climate-finance architecture—not simply as biodiversity assets, but as resilience infrastructure for coastal societies. This article examines three intertwined themes. First, the limitations of the traditional MPA model in a climate-changed ocean. Second, the emergence of what we might call “climate-smart MPAs” that attempt to address the new stress regime. Third, the critical gap in global finance: reefs are largely excluded from blue-carbon frameworks despite their enormous value, and that must change if scaled resilience is to be achieved. Why MPAs Are Failing in the Face of Global Stressors For much of the late twentieth and early twenty-first century, marine protected areas (MPAs) stood at the center of global coral reef conservation strategy. The theory behind them was straightforward: if reefs were shielded from local, human-driven pressures, their natural ecological resilience would give them the capacity to withstand shocks and regenerate over time. The traditional MPA model focused on what were understood as the primary drivers of degradation: unsustainable and destructive fishing practices, nutrient and sediment runoff from agriculture and coastal development, and physical damage from tourism or dredging. In many cases, this approach worked. Where MPAs were institutionally strong—backed by enforcement, ecological monitoring, and community participation—indicators such as fish biomass, herbivore abundance, and coral recruitment showed measurable improvement. These reefs, free from chronic local stress, were able to maintain healthier ecological structure and clearer competitive balances, particularly the crucial balance between corals and macro-algae. In this sense, MPAs succeeded in delivering what they were designed to do. " Coral reefs are one of the ecosystems that have been most devastated by climate range, with 14 per cent of the world's coral dying from 2009 to 2018. Climate change has multiple impacts on coral reefs, including sea level rise, that brings sedimentation, stronger and more frequent storms that destroy reefs, changing precipitation patterns that bring increased runoff, freshwater and land pollutants, often causing algal blooms or infectious diseases, and altered ocean currents that can affect coral larval dispersal. But the biggest effects of climate change on coral reefs are increased ocean acidification and ocean warming, which lead to coral bleaching events.  However corals are resilient. Although right now 80 per cent + of world corals are in a mass bleaching event because the ocean is so warm, that does not mean that all of those corals are going to die. It means those corals are incredibly stressed, and their zooxanthellae (the photosynthetic organisms that live inside corals and give them food) have left the corals, leaving them vulnerable to starvation and disease. But when the temperature goes down and the bleaching event is over, the zooxanthellae can return. The coral can survive. There are also pockets of coral that are surviving and adapting to these very hot temperatures, like in the Red Sea, where corals seem to be evolving to the hotter waters. And corals near cold upwelling waters from the deep seem to be surviving and then dispersing to farther reefs after heat wave events. Corals are in an incredibly vulnerable spot right now, but they are not doomed. " -- Jenni Brandon, PhD, Science and Sustainability Consultant, Wild Beacon Consulting Yet in the past decade, the conservation narrative has shifted dramatically. The stressors now driving coral reef decline are no longer predominantly local; they are global, atmospheric, and systemic. Marine heatwaves have emerged as the most immediate and widespread threat. As oceans warm, corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that give them both color and metabolic energy. The result is bleaching—an outwardly visible symptom of profound physiological stress. Where heatwaves were once rare, today they are more frequent, more intense, and longer in duration, leaving insufficient time for reefs to recover between events. Ocean chemistry has also begun to turn against corals. As the ocean absorbs increasing amounts of atmospheric CO₂, its pH gradually drops. This process of acidification diminishes the availability of aragonite, a mineral corals need to build their calcium-carbonate skeletons. Even corals that survive bleaching events may struggle to rebuild structure, weakening reefs in the long term and reducing their capacity to provide habitat and shoreline protection. “Mauritius has experienced multiple mass bleaching events over the past three decades, each revealing both vulnerability and resilience within its reef systems. The first major bleaching in 1998, during an exceptionally strong El Niño, caused widespread stress but relatively low coral mortality compared to neighboring Seychelles and Maldives. Local cooling from cyclonic activity helped buffer the reefs, though shallow, poorly flushed lagoons were significantly affected. Subsequent surveys in 2005 showed coral cover below 5 per cent at many sites, with nutrient pollution, algal overgrowth, and crown-of-thorns starfish driving further decline. However, some locations like Bel Ombre retained high coral cover and species diversity, illustrating the importance of site-specific conditions and local management. During the global bleaching of 2016, Mauritius again saw widespread bleaching but limited mortality at monitored sites. Factors such as water circulation, herbivore populations, and depth played key roles in recovery potential. The most recent 2024 bleaching event underscores growing pressure, with regional data showing high rates of bleaching and mortality across the Western Indian Ocean. While comprehensive national assessments remain limited, these recurring events highlight the urgent need for sustained monitoring, improved wastewater management, reef restoration, and climate-adaptive marine protection strategies.” --- Anusha Devi Nawoor, PhD - Environmental Scientist, Tunley Environmental Case studies from around the world echo this conclusion. The Great Barrier Reef, widely considered the gold standard of marine protection and monitoring, has suffered multiple mass-bleaching events in the past decade and recently recorded its worst coral loss in nearly four decades. These outcomes occurred despite comprehensive zoning systems, restrictions on fishing, and sustained management investment. In the Red Sea, which has been viewed as a natural thermal refugia due to its unusually warm baseline conditions and the presence of heat-tolerant coral lineages, reefs are now beginning to show signs of climate-linked stress. The message here is not that the Red Sea is “safe,” but that even systems with higher inherent resistance face limits in a rapidly warming ocean. In the Seychelles, long held up as a model for island-state marine governance, reef systems remain deeply vulnerable to bleaching and acidification despite sustained conservation commitments and the establishment of extensive MPAs. These national efforts have strengthened governance, protected fisheries, and improved local ecological conditions—yet none of these interventions can halt the rise in sea temperature or shift the chemistry of the global ocean. Taken together, the pattern is undeniable. The MPA remains a critical conservation tool, but it is no longer sufficient as the foundation of reef survival strategy. It can control fishing pressure and pollution; it cannot control heat. It can restore ecological function; it cannot rewrite the physics of ocean-atmosphere carbon exchange. The challenge now is not to abandon MPAs, but to rethink what they are for, how they operate, and how they integrate into broader climate adaptation frameworks. The era of “protection alone” has ended. The era of “protection plus climate-resilience intervention” must begin. Emergence of Climate-Smart MPAs If the traditional model falters, what does the next generation of reef protection look like? Conservation practitioners, marine scientists and policy innovators are converging on a new paradigm we might call “climate-smart MPAs.” These have several defining features. First, they adopt dynamic zoning and adaptive management rather than fixed boundaries and static rules. In a warming, acidifying ocean, it makes sense to manage based on real-time risk: closing regions temporarily during heatwave projections, prioritizing coral refuges, relocating species to cooler or deeper waters when viable. In essence, the MPA becomes a living, adaptive system, not a static map overlay. Second, they integrate active resilience-reinforcement: restoration at scale, assisted evolution (breeding heat-tolerant coral strains), microbiome manipulation, artificial reef structures and shading technologies. In this model the MPA is not only a “do not touch” zone—it is a hub of intervention. Given the intensity of climate stress, passive protection alone is insufficient. Active adaptation is required. Restoration practitioners are now embedding interventions inside MPA frameworks to complement protection with adaptation. Third, monitoring and technology become central. Climate-smart MPAs invest in satellite–drone–autonomous vehicle systems, AI image-analysis, heat-anomaly forecasting and rapid response capacity. This allows managers to anticipate threat windows, execute intervention strategies, and adapt governance accordingly. Without such capability, MPA management risks being reactive rather than proactive. Fourth—and perhaps most critically—these next-gen MPAs are tied into financial and governance models aligned with climate-resilience outcomes. This means moving beyond donor-driven conservation budgets to resilience bonds, insurance-linked protection, private-sector risk sharing and credit flows tied to ecosystem services. In short, the reef becomes an asset class for coastal resilience. Some pioneering efforts hint at this shift. The Global Fund for Coral Reefs (under the World Bank/GEF umbrella) is exploring reef-plus financing models, integrating reef health with coastal-defense economics and tourism-risk mitigation. Island nations with tourism-dependent reefs (such as the Seychelles) are beginning to explore parametric insurance tied to reef condition. While these efforts are nascent, they mark the transition from protection-only to resilience-oriented financial design. One of the key challenges remains prioritising within MPAs those reef systems that have the greatest chance of persisting—so-called climate refugia. These are reefs naturally exposed to cooler upwelling, shading, or adaptive coral strains. Protecting these first may offer higher bang-for-buck than attempting to protect all reefs equally. This shift requires sophisticated data analytics, modelling, and risk-mapping. Policy: Where It’s Adapting—and Where It’s Stagnating On the policy front, there is both movement and inertia. A growing number of national adaptation plans, especially among small island developing states (SIDS), now recognise coral reef resilience as a critical adaptation pathway. International bodies, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), now emphasise reef protection within climate adaptation agendas. Yet significant policy gaps endure. Many MPAs continue to be designed primarily for fishing-pressure reduction or pollution control—not thermal-stress mitigation or adaptive zoning. Institutional capacity in many reef nations remains weak, particularly for technical monitoring, dynamic governance or financial innovation. Perhaps most fundamentally, the global climate regime has no dedicated mechanism for reef protection—no reef-specific emissions target, no international reef insurance fund, no global carbon-market equivalency for reef resilience. In the absence of such mechanisms, MPAs remain dependent on national budgets or donor grants alone, limiting scale and innovation. Some countries show flashes of policy innovation. The Seychelles, for instance, has piloted marine-resilience bonds and sustainable tourism-linked reef protection. In Australia, the management of the Great Barrier Reef has begun to incorporate resilience-based interventions and climate-risk forecasting. Still, these remain exceptions, not yet the norm. A further policy bottleneck is the disconnect between conservation agencies and finance ministries. Reefs have long been viewed through a biodiversity lens rather than as climate-resilience infrastructure. This framing limits access to adaptation finance, risk‐finance instruments, and climate-resilience capital flows. Changing this framing is essential. The Coral-Carbon Paradox: Why Reefs Are Missing from Blue Carbon Finance—and How That Can Change In parallel to governance reform, there is a glaring gap in how coral reefs are treated within the climate-finance architecture. The concept of “blue carbon” has gained traction in recent years, describing the capacity of coastal and marine habitats to absorb and store CO₂—mangroves, seagrasses and tidal marshes being the primary beneficiaries. These ecosystems have measurable carbon stocks, standardised accounting methodologies, and thus meaningful access to carbon-finance instruments. By contrast, coral reefs are largely absent from blue-carbon markets—and yet the logic for including them is compelling. Reefs provide vast ecosystem services: they support fisheries, protect coastlines from storm surge and erosion, undergird tourism economies and harbour biodiversity. Their failure imposes heavy social, economic and adaptation costs on coastal communities. So why haven’t they entered the carbon-finance agenda in any meaningful way? The answer lies in several structural and technical impediments. First, reefs store comparatively little long-term organic carbon. Their skeletal calcium-carbonate structures do not translate easily into the carbon-sequestration units used in current carbon markets. As one ecosystem-finance review notes: “Limited evidence is hindering uptake and progress” of blue-carbon schemes for non-traditional habitats. Second, the vulnerability and high risk of reef decline make them unattractive as long-term assets for investors. Third, policy definitions of blue carbon rarely include reef habitats, so the institutional pathways for finance are largely closed. Yet the time is right for change. If we shift the metric from pure carbon-storage to resilience value, reefs merit serious inclusion. Reefs reduce wave energy, limit coastal erosion, support fisheries and tourism livelihoods—all of which have measurable economic value. The emerging field of parametric insurance for reefs—linking reef health to payouts after storm events—is one frontier. Another is biodiversity-credit systems coupling conservation outcomes with finance. For global institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the opportunity is two-fold. First, they can catalyse reef-resilience finance by underwriting pilot instruments, setting standards, and integrating reef metrics into adaptation funding. Second, they can shift national budgeting paradigms—treating reef health as climate-adaptation infrastructure rather than discretionary conservation. Doing so unlocks funding, elevates reef protection in national priorities, and draws in risk-capital. Toward a Resilient Future for Coral Reefs Re-designing reef management and finance for the climate-era means doing several things concurrently. We must actively identify and protect climate-refugia reefs—those naturally more resistant to heat stress or acidification—and prioritise them for interventions. We must equip MPAs with the technical capacity, real-time monitoring and adaptive governance necessary to anticipate and respond to heatwaves, bleaching events and acidification pulses. We must expand restoration and assisted-evolution tools: transplanting resilient strains, manipulating symbionts, deploying artificial reef frameworks and experimenting with shading or cooling technologies. From a finance and policy perspective, the shift is equally urgent. Reefs must enter the adaptation finance agenda, not just the conservation agenda. Carbon-finance definitions must evolve to resilience-finance definitions, making reef health a measurable asset. Incentives need to shift: tourism operators, insurers, coastal developers and governments all benefit from healthy reefs—so they should help pay for them. Multilateral institutions must create frameworks for reef-linked resilience bonds, parametric reef insurance, biodiversity credits and adaptation trusts. Finally—and critically—none of this will succeed if global greenhouse-gas emissions continue to rise unchecked. The best-designed MPAs, the most sophisticated monitoring systems, the most resilient coral strains will still collapse under the weight of relentless warming. A recent mapping study warns that reef futures are “intrinsically tied to global emission trajectories.” Local action buys time—but it does not buy immunity. Conclusion Coral reefs were once assumed to be savable with well-designed marine parks, strong fisheries management and clean-water regulation. In a warming, acidifying ocean, that assumption is no longer sufficient. The model of “protect and leave alone” must give way to “protect, adapt and finance.” MPAs should evolve into climate-smart hubs of resilience. Reefs should be reframed not simply as biodiversity-treasures, but as critical infrastructure for coastal protection, food security and climate adaptation. Reef resilience must be embedded within the climate-finance system—bridging conservation budgets and adaptation capital, drawing private and public investment into the blue economy. The path ahead is formidable. But the choice is stark: evolve the model—or let thousands of reef systems crumble under the tide of climate change. For the millions who depend on them for food, income, and coastal protection, there is no other option. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3332/skybound-sustainability-indias-race-to-become-saf-hub-of-global-south.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3332/skybound-sustainability-indias-race-to-become-saf-hub-of-global-south.html Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:59:05 +0530 India is charting a bold course to become the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) hub of the Global South, leveraging its vast biomass, ethanol infrastructure, and policy-driven mandates. With domestic blending targets, state-backed incentives, and pioneering projects like IOC’s Panipat facility, the country is converting waste streams—used cooking oil, agricultural residues, and municipal solid waste—into low-carbon jet fuel. By 2040, India could produce 8–10 million tonnes of SAF annually, slashing lifecycle emissions by up to 80 per cent, generating green jobs, and creating export opportunities across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Startups, EPC firms, and R&D hubs are strengthening industrial capability, while harmonized global standards ensure both domestic adoption and international credibility. In short, India is transforming a climate challenge into a strategic, economic, and environmental advantage, positioning itself as the engine of aviation decarbonization for emerging markets. Aviation is global yet carbon-bound. Planes still rely on liquid hydrocarbons; electrification is limited, hydrogen is years away, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is the only immediate lever to cut emissions in a sector responsible for 2–3 per cent of global CO₂. “The trajectory of SAF is nothing short of extraordinary—expanding from a nascent 5 million gallons in 2021 to 24.5 million gallons in 2023, a CAGR exceeding 100 per cent. Yet this still accounts for less than 0.1 per cent of global jet fuel demand, underscoring both the scale of the challenge and the immensity of the opportunity ‘’, mentioned Dr. Nripanka Das, Author, Sustainability & Carbon Markets. “The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge, announced in 2021, has set audacious targets of 3 billion gallons by 2030 and 35 billion gallons by 2050, requiring unprecedented scaling of production capacity and technological deployment. Pathways such as Fischer–Tropsch, approved by ASTM in 2009, already demonstrate how woody biomass, municipal solid waste, and agricultural residues can be transformed into jet fuel virtually indistinguishable from conventional Jet A. In this lies the promise of scaling an industry that not only meets aviation’s exacting standards but also redefines waste as the feedstock of the skies ,” he opined. In 2024, SAF supplied under 1 per cent of demand, leaving the Global South exposed. Fast-growing airlines in India, ASEAN, and Africa face minimal local supply, giving India a strategic opening. “In 2025, real progress in SAF isn’t measured by headlines but by bankable projects—those reaching final investment decision, securing long-term offtakes with price floors or contracts for difference, and moving into genuine EPC mobilization. Success is also measured in carbon intensity as much as in gallons produced, with lowering lifecycle emissions now as critical as expanding capacity,” stated Dr Jennifer Holmgren, CEO, LanzaTech. “In Washington, the vaunted ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ has compressed SAF’s erstwhile premium of $1.75 per gallon to a modest $1.00 under 45Z, ostensibly levelling the fiscal playing field with ethanol, but in reality propelling capital to cheaper road-fuel pathways such as renewable diesel. India, by contrast, has wisely eschewed the per-gallon palliatives of subsidies in favour of mandated momentum: a 1 per cent SAF blend in international flights by 2027, 2 per cent in 2028 under CORSIA, and an aspirational trajectory toward 5 per cent thereafter. Augmented by state-level incentives—capital subsidies, land concessions, and tax reimbursements—New Delhi is not merely nudging an industry, it is summoning it inexorably forward, guaranteeing a market, and inscribing India’s aviation future in cleaner, greener, and more resilient hues,’’ she added. " The American model bets on the market rewarding low-carbon fuels without playing favorites; the Indian model assumes SAF won’t take off without a legal runway. The strategic takeaway is clear: in the U.S., the winners will treat thinner credits as a design constraint, focusing on relentless carbon intensity reduction, locking in ironclad offtakes, and securing feedstock certainty. In India, success will hinge on executing the mandate-to-manufacturing flywheel—leveraging guaranteed demand, building robust domestic supply chains, and maintaining strict capex discipline. In both markets, SAF will only scale at pace where policy certainty aligns with the discipline of bankable project finance " -------- Dr Jennifer Holmgren, CEO, LanzaTech India’s aviation sector, ferrying 240 million passengers in 2024 and poised to double by 2030, stands at a pivotal inflection point. Fuel demand is projected to soar from 16 million tonnes in 2030 to 31 million by 2040. Enter Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): capable of slashing lifecycle emissions by up to 80 per cent, India could produce 8–10 million tonnes annually by 2040—surpassing domestic demand, catalyzing 1.4 million green jobs, and opening export avenues. Already, 88 airports operate on green energy, with Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad setting carbon-neutral benchmarks of global significance. IOC is spearheading commercial SAF production at Panipat, with ISCC CORSIA certification. An initial 35,000-tonne annual output, sourced from used cooking oil from hotels, restaurants, and food manufacturers like Haldiram’s, will satisfy India’s 1 per cent international blending mandate. Alcohol-to-jet pathways and export prospects, initially targeting European carriers, are also under exploration. With blending mandates proliferating across Indonesia, Mexico, Canada, Europe, and Africa, and with low-carbon ethanol prospects beckoning in the United States, Praj finds itself at the cusp of a transformative expansion—broadening its portfolio in CBG, SAF, and ETCA while simultaneously amplifying the international dimension of its enterprise. Aircraft readiness is assured: Airbus confirms all planes can operate on a 50 per cent SAF blend, and Indian carriers have successfully executed demonstration flights. India is positioning itself not merely as a consumer, but as the SAF fulcrum of the Global South—where policy, pilots, and production converge to chart a sustainable, high-flying future. India’s Feedstock Opportunity: A Diverse Ecosystem India’s edge in the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) race lies in its abundant and diverse biomass, not subsidies. Unlike nations constrained by monocultures or geography, India can channel agricultural residues, industrial by-products, urban waste, and renewable energy into multiple SAF pathways—positioning itself as both a domestic and export hub. In words of Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Chairman Praj Group, “India is uniquely positioned to become the hub for SAF in the Global South. Its strategic location in the Asia–Pacific, with strong air connectivity to Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, makes it a natural node for SAF supply and distribution. The Ethanol Blending Programme, scaled from modest beginnings to 20 per cent, demonstrates India’s ability to mobilise feedstock, implement policy, and drive impact at scale—delivering foreign exchange savings and strengthening rural economies. The foundation is further strengthened by India’s unmatched feedstock diversity. Agricultural residues and sugarcane by-products offer abundant raw material streams for SAF production.” " Praj has established several Centers of Excellence in collaboration with leading research institutes, working across the entire biofuels value chain—right from feedstock and technology development to end-product and application development. At the heart of this ecosystem is Praj Matrix, our state-of-the-art R&D center, which serves as the innovation hub for developing and commercialising cutting-edge technologies for biofuels and SAF. This strong integration of research, policy, and industry not only accelerates breakthroughs but also reinforces India’s credentials as a frontrunner in the global SAF journey " --- Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Chairman, Praj Group Agricultural residues are the cornerstone. India generates 230–250 million tonnes annually, including rice straw, maize stalks, and sugarcane bagasse, much of which is wasted or burned. Rice straw alone contributes 80–85 million tonnes of emissions in northern states. Redirecting even 15–20 per cent into SAF via gasification, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, or cellulosic ethanol-to-jet could anchor a domestic industry while tackling severe winter air pollution. “SAF can be blended at different levels with limits between 10 per cent and 50 per cent, depending on the feedstock and how the fuel is produced. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), over 360,000 commercial flights have used SAF at 46 different airports largely concentrated in the United States and Europe. An estimated 1 billion dry tons of biomass can be collected sustainably each year in the United States, enough to produce 50–60 billion gallons of low-carbon biofuels, ” stated Dr. Marcus Griswold, Founder at Little Green Myths. “ Ethanol is another pillar. India’s fuel-blending programme has built over 5 billion litres of annual capacity, spanning 1G molasses and emerging 2G cellulosic plants. Existing infrastructure can pivot to alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) production, with Praj Industries piloting scalable ATJ technology alongside global partners. " Feedstock costs represent the largest component of biofuel production costs, typically accounting for 40-60 per cent of total production expenses depending on conversion pathway and feedstock type. Wood residues and sawmill by-products currently cost $40-80 per dry ton delivered to conversion facilities, while dedicated energy crops may cost $60-120 per dry ton depending on production systems and transportation distances. These feedstock costs translate to $0.80-2.40 per gallon of biofuel production cost, indicating the critical importance of feedstock procurement strategies and supply chain optimization for overall project economics" --- Dr. Nripanka Das, Author, Sustainability & Carbon Markets “Ethanol is no longer confined to being a road-fuel blend; it’s a low-cost, versatile building block for an extraordinary range of products, from sustainable aviation fuel via alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) technology to textiles, cleaning agents, and everyday household goods. With advances in carbon capture and utilization (CCU), we can now make ethanol from industrial emissions, municipal waste, and even biogenic CO₂, turning liabilities into valuable feedstock. The result is a molecule that sits at the crossroads of decarbonization and circular economy. This is ethanol’s reinvention story: from a single-purpose fuel additive to a platform chemical powering the next wave of sustainable manufacturing ,’’ mentioned Dr. Holmgren. Niche feedstocks and urban waste further broaden the portfolio. Used cooking oil (1.4–1.5 million tonnes/year) feeds HEFA pathways, while municipal solid waste (62 million tonnes/year, 30 per cent treated) can support gasification-FT SAF routes, aligning aviation decarbonisation with Swachh Bharat and Smart Cities initiatives. “Airlines are betting billions and billions on jet fuel made from yesterday’s French fries—but can cooking oil really power the future of aviation? SAF made from used cooking oil can cut emissions by up to 80 per cent compared to regular jet fuel, but right now they account for only about 1 per cent of the world’s jet fuel supply. It’s also important to remember that not all SAF is created equal—some are made from food crops that can raise other environmental concerns, while waste oils like used cooking oil are among the most effective and sustainable sources ,’’ advocated Justin Goldsberry; CEO and Founder of Goldsberry Management Group, LLC. " We are on the cusp of new scaling for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in both the United States and India. But unlike solar and wind energy, renewable fuels carry a significant premium vs conventional fuels. Covering SAF’s cost above conventional jet fuel is a key factor to grow the sector. There must be a way to cover both the infrastructure capital investments and the ongoing operational costs of producing SAF. In the recent past, the U.S. Department of Energy Loan Office oversaw a loan program that offered funding for SAF refineries at favorable rates. Today there are no government programs to provide low-cost debt. The U.S. still offers incentives to cover operations in the form of credits for agricultural products (the renewable fuel standard – RFS) and for producers combining the product with fossil-based fuel (the blenders tax credit, and 45Z clean fuel production credit). Individual states are also providing incentives for regional consumption such as California and Illinois. There is no U.S. SAF mandate" ---- Adam Klauber, Vice President Sustainability and Digital Supply Chain, World Energy Looking ahead, cheap green hydrogen and captured CO₂ enable a Power-to-Liquids future. India’s record-low solar tariffs ($0.025/kWh) and $2.4 billion Green Hydrogen Mission create early positioning for synthetic SAF, potentially a decade from commercial scale. In the words of Suzanne McKenzie, Sales Director, Lifecycle Oils, UK, “ The sustainability credentials of SAF depend heavily on what it is made from. Second-generation biofuels (derived from waste like UCO) offer substantial environmental advantages over first-generation biofuels made from virgin crops such as palm oil or rapeseed oil. First-generation biofuels are controversial from a sustainability perspective because they can compete with products that would end up in the food chain. This can drive up prices and expand agricultural land use. “ Suzanne further opined that considering the growing biofuel feedstock crops to be carbon-intensive, and is associated with deforestation, land conversion, biodiversity loss, and high water consumption. - repurposing a waste stream like UCO, could  completely sidestep the significant carbon emissions associated with agricultural production and land-use change. UCO-derived biofuels can slash lifecycle carbon footprints by an estimated 80 per cent  when benchmarked against conventional fuels, and 40 per cent when compared to first- generation biofuels. She further highlights the pressure to decarbonise aviation is translating directly into binding SAF mandates and targets worldwide, which is driving a substantial increase in demand for the fuel. “The UK mandate legally requires a 2 per cent blend of SAF in all jet fuel from 2025, rising to 10 per cent by 2030. Similarly, the EU's ReFuelEU Aviation regulation starts at a 2 per cent minimum blend in 2025 and increases to 6 per cent by 2030”, she opined. "Across the Asia-Pacific region, we're also seeing strong policy signals and emerging targets on SAF. Japan is exploring a 10 per cent SAF share by 2030 for departing flights, and Singapore is introducing a 1 per cent SAF target for 2026, which could rise to 3-5 per cent by 2030. South Korea and India are both considering a 1 per cent target for 2027. The trend is clear – countries worldwide see SAF as the best way to cut aviation emissions in the mid-term. Meeting this demand will require significant scaling of SAF production – and demand is already outstripping supply. Current forecasts predict that by 2030, global demand for SAF will be around 15 million Mt, and by 2035, this looks set to reach 40 million Mt. In 2024, global SAF production was around 1 million Mt, with current predictions suggesting global capacity will only grow to around 18 million Mt by 2035. " --- Suzanne McKenzie, Sales Director, Lifecycle Oils, UK “Venturing into Sustainable Aviation Fuel is not just about aligning India with the global targets under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation; it is about leading from the front,’’ mentioned Vijay Nirani, Managing Director, TruAlt Bioenergy. “Unlike countries such as Singapore or the UAE, where access to agricultural land is limited, India’s natural strengths in terms of vast agricultural base, give us the chance to turn this challenge into a defining advantage for our industry as well as environment,’’ he added. Compared with peers—Brazil’s sugarcane focus, Southeast Asia’s palm reliance, Africa’s residue abundance but limited infrastructure—India uniquely combines biomass density, refining and engineering capability, and growing aviation demand. The task now is acceleration: Converting latent feedstock abundance into a globally competitive SAF industry, bridging the supply gap for the Global South. " At TruAlt Bioenergy, we plan to establish a facility producing 10 crore litres of SAF annually, positioning us among the world’s largest ethanol-to-SAF producers. With CORSIA’s mandatory offsetting for international flights from 2027 and India’s 1 per cent SAF blending target, we are committed to scaling production capacity. Our ambition is to help India meet regulatory milestones while advancing sustainable aviation fuel adoption on a global scale.” --- Vijay Nirani, Managing Director, TruAlt Bioenergy Policy Architecture and Industrial Capability: Laying the SAF Foundations India’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) strategy exemplifies a rare convergence of policy precision and pragmatic precedent. Beginning with a 1 per cent blend in 2027 for international flights, rising to 2 per cent in 2028, these targets echo ethanol’s early E5 trajectory, signaling credibility to investors. With state-owned oil marketing companies—IOC, BPCL, and HPCL—underwriting demand, the sector gains sovereign-grade certainty in a capital-intensive space, translating policy intent into actionable investment confidence. " The good news is: the demand is definitely there; however, the biggest challenge for SAF adoption is scaling—waste oils are limited, production costs remain high, and infrastructure isn’t yet built to handle wider adoption. Furthermore, governments and policy support worldwide is helping, with U.S. incentives, European reporting rules, and efforts in some countries in Asia to expand SAF production and adoption. Still, the gap between ambition and availability is a major challenge because there’s only so much used cooking oil that can go around, and much of it is already accounted for in other industries. " --- Justin Goldsberry, CEO and Founder of Goldsberry Management Group, LLC Global compatibility forms the second pillar. By harmonizing BIS standards with ASTM International, HEFA, ATJ, and Fischer–Tropsch pathways gain immediate export legitimacy, while carbon accounting aligned with ICAO’s CORSIA ensures acceptance in Europe and the U.S. Without Western-style subsidies, India relies on engineering-led efficiency and procurement certainty—a model attractive to airlines wary of politically tethered supply chains. Catalytic finance, through NABARD credit, green bonds, or viability gap funding, remains essential to bridge upfront capital gaps. Industrial capability provides the third lever. TruAlt Bioenergy’s planned 10-crore-litre SAF facility positions India among the world’s largest ethanol-to-jet producers. Praj’s Centers of Excellence and R&D hub, Praj Matrix, integrate innovation across the biofuels value chain. India’s EPC sector delivers biofuel plants at 20–30 per cent lower capex than Western peers, while startups like GPS Renewables provide blockchain-based feedstock traceability. Together, these levers—demand certainty, global compatibility, and industrial depth—position India as the SAF systems integrator for the Global South, bridging domestic aviation growth with regional decarbonisation leadership. Strategic Leveraging for India’s SAF Ascension India’s ambition to become the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) hub for the Global South requires more than incremental moves. It demands flagship investments, diversified technologies, climate integration, and regional market creation. While blending mandates and pilot projects signal intent, the real inflection point lies in scaling multiple production pathways and leveraging India’s geopolitical position. "There must be a way to cover both the upfront infrastructure costs and the ongoing operational expenses of producing sustainable aviation fuel. Globally, countries like the U.S. rely on a mix of loan programs, tax credits, and state-level incentives, even without a federal SAF mandate ”, mentioned Adam Klauber, VP Sustainability and Digital Supply Chain, World Energy. “India is taking a similar approach, combining national SAF blending targets with regional incentives—land subsidies and fuel tax relief—to encourage investment. But mandates alone aren’t enough; without enforceable penalties for underperformance, the sector risks stagnation. To move SAF from promise to scale, India must marry financial scaffolding with policy teeth, ensuring both capital and operational viability for producers across the ecosystem," he added. "Producing enough Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to power planes is no small feat. The biomass requirements are immense, and land-use concerns—like corn cultivation in the U.S.—cannot be ignored. Beyond CO₂, we must also account for the full spectrum of emissions when the fuel is burned. Derived from renewable or recycled sources such as oilseeds, algae, fats, and agricultural residues, SAF can cut carbon emissions by up to 70 per cent compared to conventional jet fuel. Blends range from 10 per cent to 50 per cent, and over 360,000 commercial flights have already operated on SAF across 46 airports, mostly in the U.S. and Europe." --- Dr. Marcus Griswold, Founder, Little Green Myths India could produce 8–10 million tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) annually by 2040, positioning the country to meet domestic demand and become a key exporter. The ICAO ACT-SAF feasibility study evaluates India’s capacity to produce drop-in SAF, examining feedstock availability, production pathways, infrastructure readiness, and policy frameworks, providing a roadmap suited to India’s socio-economic and environmental context. With over 750 million tonnes of biomass, including 230 million tonnes of surplus agricultural residues, India aims for phased blending of 1 per cent by 2027, 2 per cent by 2028, and 5 per cent by 2030. The initiative is expected to cut 20–25 million tonnes of emissions annually and create new agricultural value chains.  Northern India alone burns over 50 million tonnes of crop residues annually, releasing 150 million tonnes of CO₂; redirecting even part of this into SAF creates a dual win for climate and energy security. A domestic SAF credit market aligned with ICAO’s CORSIA, coupled with EPC exports and technology licensing to Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, enhances South–South impact. Startups like GPS Renewables strengthen sustainability traceability. With the National Green Hydrogen Mission targeting 5 million tonnes annually by 2030 and ultra-low solar tariffs (~$0.03/kWh), India could become competitive in e-SAF. Anchored by double-digit aviation growth and policy credibility, India is poised to emerge as the SAF hub of the Global South. ----- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3324/swiss-based-ecorobotix-secures-150m-to-accelerate-ai-powered-plant-by-plant-care.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3324/swiss-based-ecorobotix-secures-150m-to-accelerate-ai-powered-plant-by-plant-care.html Mon, 13 Oct 2025 11:47:51 +0530  The funding aims to accelerate innovation, expand into new crop types, broaden company’s product range, and bring advanced crop algorithms to market faster.  Ecorobotix, the global leader in AI-powered Ultra-High Precision (UHP) spraying, is shaping the future of sustainable agriculture with innovations that enhance crop health and efficiency. Building on rapid growth, proven field results, and a strong financial foundation—with $150 million raised in Series C ($45m, 2024) and Series D ($105m, 2025)—the company will showcase its latest advancements at Agritechnica this November in Hanover. Ecorobotix is a Swiss B Corporation® certified company whose mission is to transform agriculture through artificial intelligence and its exclusive Plant-by-Plant™ technology.At the core of Ecorobotix’s momentum is its Plant-by-Plant™ AI technology, capable of distinguishing and treating each individual plant with unmatched precision, using a spray footprint of just a few centimetres. This approach reduces the use of pesticides and other crop protection products by up to 95 per cent while maintaining treatment effectiveness. For growers, the benefits include safe use of non-selective products, lower input costs, compliance with stricter regulations, and higher yields. These advances are made possible thanks to the company’s strong backing from global investors. The Series D round was led by Highland Europe, one of the continent’s top venture capital funds, with ECBF and McWin Capital Partners (via McWin Food Tech Fund) joining as new investors. "These latest investment rounds have allowed us to accelerate innovation, expand into new crop types, broaden our product range, and bring advanced crop algorithms to market faster,” said Ecorobotix CEO Dominique Mégret. “Thanks to the trust of our investors, we are scaling a proven solution to help deliver better-quality food for the world." Highland Europe invests in exceptional growth-stage technology and consumer companies. Formally launched in 2012, Highland Europe has raised over €2.75 billion. Highland’s collective history of investments across the US, Europe and China includes 45+ IPOs, 150+ M&A exits and 40 billion-dollar-plus companies. The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is the leading venture capital fund dedicated to accelerating Europe’s transition to a sustainable, circular bioeconomy. With €300 million under management, ECBF invests in growth-stage companies. As an Article 9 SFDR fund, ECBF combines rigorous ESG standards with deep industry expertise to scale impactful innovations. McWin Capital Partners (“McWin”) is a specialist private equity and venture capital firm, dedicated to the food ecosystem. With deep industry expertise across three business segments; Food Tech, Foodservice and Restaurants, McWin’s purpose is to lead the food industry through positive change and create value on behalf of investors and portfolio companies of the McWin Funds by leveraging its scale, network and experience to deliver outstanding returns. Ecorobotix also acknowledges the vital support of long-term partners such as 4FOX Ventures, AQTON, BASF Venture Capital, Capagro, Cibus Capital, Flexstone Partners, Fondation Domaine de Villette, Meritech, Stellar Impact, Swisscanto, Swisscom Ventures and Yara Growth Ventures. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3312/spotify-for-kitchens-daniel-baven-on-future-of-digital-food-hubs.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3312/spotify-for-kitchens-daniel-baven-on-future-of-digital-food-hubs.html Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:08:23 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum and NUFFOODS Spectrum Asia interview, Daniel Baven, CEO and Co-founder of Noahs, unveils how his company is turning everyday convenience stores into digital food hubs — the new crossroads of food, tech, and community. With its plug-and-play platform, Noahs lets retailers “stream” culinary brands like Spotify streams music, giving chefs global reach and consumers fresh, data-driven dining experiences on demand. The results speak volumes — Q8 stations powered by Noahs saw food sales surge 374 per cent and basket sizes climb 228 per cent. Unlike ghost kitchens or delivery aggregators, Noahs taps into existing retail kitchens, transforming them into profitable, AI-ready food networks overnight. Baven predicts that by 2030, food will replace fuel as the heartbeat of convenience retail — Noahs will be the invisible engine powering that revolution. Section I: Vision & Market Disruption Reimagining C-Stores: What inspired you to launch Noahs, and why is now the inflection point for reinventing convenience retail? The spark for Noahs came from watching how every major content industry—music, film, travel—has gone through its streaming revolution. Food hasn’t. Yet we have millions of kitchens sitting in prime retail locations, underutilized and disconnected from the digital economy. We saw an opportunity to turn those kitchens into digital food hubs. The real inflection point is convergence: consumers expect convenience, platforms demand supply, and retailers need new revenue streams to replace declining categories like tobacco and fuel. Convenience stores are sitting on the infrastructure of the future—they just need the operating system. That’s what Noahs provides. Digital-First Food Revolution: With the C-store market set to surpass $1T by 2029, how do you see technology reshaping the future of food retail? We’re standing on the edge of a complete reset. In five years, most people won’t cook at home the way they do today. It will simply make more sense to tap into a network of nearby retailers streaming great food, made fresh, faster, and cheaper than a home kitchen could ever compete with. Convenience stores and supermarkets are sitting on the most valuable real estate of the future — the crossroads of local communities. When those spaces go digital, they’ll stop being “shops” and start becoming marketplace hubs for food, experiences, and daily life. Technology is the enabler, but the change is cultural. It’s about food creators having a new stage, communities having new choices, and retailers becoming the backbone of the next food economy. Noahs was built exactly for that — to power this transformation and give retailers the tools to move from analogue to intelligent, from transactional to experiential. What’s coming is bigger than food tech. It’s a reinvention of how food exists in society. Section II: The Noahs Model – Technology + Brand + Kitchen Plug-and-Play Platform: Your tech platform can digitize a store with just a Wi-Fi connection. What makes this solution scalable across global chains with different IT maturity levels? The secret is simplicity. Most retailers are trapped in heavy legacy systems that make every new integration a nightmare. We flipped that logic. Noahs runs as a layer on top of existing infrastructure, connecting to what’s already there instead of trying to replace it. That means a store can go live in hours — not months — with zero capex and no new labor. The system plugs into delivery aggregators, POS systems, kitchen screens, and loyalty tools. The moment it connects to Wi-Fi, the store becomes part of a digital network that can sell, operate, and analyze in real time. It’s built for diversity. Whether it’s a gas station in Denmark, a supermarket in Belgium, or a convenience store in the Philippines, the platform automatically adapts to local tech setups and market conditions. That’s why it scales — because it doesn’t force uniformity, it enables it. Noahs is not just a tool; it’s a translator between the analogue world and the digital food economy. It’s what the retailers has been looking for, but it didn’t exist until now. Spotify for Kitchens: You’ve called Noahs’ Brand Platform a “Spotify for Kitchens,” letting retailers stream proven brands and menus directly into their stores. How do you curate the catalogue, and what data drives menu updates? We’re building a world where food moves like music. In the same way streaming opened a global stage for artists, we believe culinary creators will soon reach audiences anywhere — not through physical expansion, but through digital distribution. A chef in Copenhagen could see their tacos sold in Dubai the same week. That’s the future we’re shaping with Noahs. Our brand platform is the foundation for that future. It lets retailers activate proven food concepts directly into their stores, adapting to local tastes and neighborhoods instead of being locked into a single global brand deal. That flexibility is what the industry has been missing — agility, creativity, and cultural relevance. This shift also enables a complete rework of the food supply chain — simplifying how ingredients, inventory, and production flow through the system. It creates a feedback loop between real-time demand and supply, throttling production, reducing waste, and preparing the industry to fully harness AI. We’re still early in this journey, but the vision is clear: menus that evolve like playlists, brands that scale without borders, and a supply chain that finally moves as intelligently as the data behind it. For culinary entrepreneurs, it’s a new way to monetize creativity. For retailers, it’s the chance to become curators of food culture — not just sellers of products. That’s what “Spotify for Kitchens” really means: a living, breathing ecosystem where food, data, and creativity stream together. Modular Smart Kitchens: Your kitchens range from 1 to 20 m². How do you ensure operational efficiency, quality control, and food safety across distributed sites? The next decade will blur the line between retail and hospitality. We believe the world’s biggest food operators won’t be restaurant chains — they’ll be retailers. To make that leap, retailers will recruit from the culinary world, bringing in chefs, kitchen managers, and operational talent who can run hospitality at scale. What used to be a store will evolve into a network of kitchens, each designed for efficiency, consistency, and speed — powered by technology, not tradition. Noahs is the platform that enables this transformation. We don’t operate the kitchens — we power them. Our system acts as the operating layer that keeps every recipe, process, and temperature consistent across hundreds of locations. Retailers become the operators; Noahs becomes their digital backbone. On the hardware side, we’ve developed a full suite of modular kitchens — from compact 1 m² single-brand setups to 20 m² multi-brand environments for service stations, food courts, and supermarket delis. These units are engineered for throughput, safety, and profitability, with built-in monitoring and data loops that ensure every kitchen runs to the same standard. We also anticipate a wave of cross-company innovation in this space — robotics, automated production, drone delivery, and robotaxis changing the future states of the hardware component. Restaurant kitchens, as we know them today, simply can’t compete with that model. A Noahs-powered multi-brand kitchen can serve multiple food concepts with a fraction of the space, labor, and cost — while maintaining higher quality and consistency. That’s the future we see unfolding. Section III: Business Impact & Results Q8 Case Study: The Q8 transformation saw food sales jump 374 per cent and basket size rise 228 per cent. Which parts of the Noahs model (tech, brands, kitchens) drove the biggest lift? Those numbers from Q8 aren’t isolated results — they’re a preview of what happens when retail locations evolve through Noahs’ three-layer model. Every site that connects our technology platform, brand platform, and modular kitchens can experience a similar transformation. The tech layer creates instant digital access and operational visibility. The brand layer adds proven food concepts that attract new customers and expand sales channels. And the kitchen layer converts that demand into consistent, scalable output with an engine fit for the purpose. In the quoted Q8 case, all three layers came together at once — which is why the impact was so dramatic. But in most rollouts, we see a natural progression: first digitalize existing shop catalogues, then layer in easy-to-operate brands suited to the current store format, and finally scale through modular smart-kitchens and more advanced brand concepts. Each layer amplifies the next. What Q8 showed is that this isn’t theory — it’s the future playbook for every retailer. Service stations, supermarkets, and convenience stores can all become high-performing food hubs simply by activating the system step by step. The model works anywhere, because it’s built for the way people live now — connected, on-demand, and expecting quality food wherever they are. ROI & Adoption Curve: How quickly can retailers expect payback when adopting Noahs, and how do you help de-risk the investment decision? The short answer: fast. Because Noahs requires no upfront investment in new labor or capex, most retailers see positive returns within the first few months of activation. The payback curve depends on the depth of adoption — tech alone delivers immediate efficiency and access to new revenue channels, while layering in brands and kitchens compounds the effect. But beyond ROI, what really de-risks adoption is our model itself. We don’t ask retailers to change who they are — we enhance what’s already there. Noahs plugs into existing infrastructure and workflows, building value on top of current systems instead of replacing them. We also start small. A single pilot location can validate the impact before scaling to dozens or hundreds. The data from those first sites creates a clear business case — not projections, but proof. Retailers everywhere are under pressure to reinvent fast, but the risk tolerance is low. Our approach makes innovation incremental, measurable, and cash-positive from day one. That’s why Noahs scales — it rewards courage without demanding blind faith. Section IV: Competitive Landscape & Future of Food-Tech Standing Out in a Crowded Space: How does Noahs differentiate from ghost kitchens, Q-commerce players, and aggregator-led solutions? Ghost kitchens and Q-commerce were great experiments — but they’re built on isolated infrastructure. Each new location means new costs, new staff, and new risk. Aggregators, on the other hand, built digital demand but not digital supply — they own the customers, not the kitchens. Noahs connects the dots. We’re not building more kitchens; we’re activating the millions that already exist inside retailers. Instead of competing with delivery platforms, we empower retailers to integrate directly with them — turning stores into digital food hubs that can sell across every channel instantly. Where ghost kitchens chase scale through real estate, Noahs achieves it through connectivity. Where Q-commerce promises speed, we deliver sustainability — a model that actually works economically for both retailers and creators. Most importantly, we’re not just solving delivery — we’re reinventing food infrastructure. We give retailers the OS, brands, and hardware they need to own their role in the digital food economy. The future of food won’t belong to aggregators or ghost kitchens — it’ll belong to the platforms that make everyone else scalable. That’s where Noahs sits. 2025 Trends: What’s next for food-tech—robotic kitchens, AI menu personalization, functional food boom? Which of these will most affect the C-store ecosystem? The short answer? Noahs. Beyond that, it’s too early to expect any real leapfrogs in robotics. The robotics we see today are impressive, but they’re trapped between eras — built for a world that’s already shifting beneath them. The real step change will come when humanoid robots, like the ones Tesla and Figure are developing, can integrate naturally into existing operations. That’s a 2030 story, not 2025. The real 2025 trend in food will be the convergence of retailers into food — moving away from being simple convenience hubs to becoming food operators in their own right. That shift will ignite the most dramatic transformation the industry has seen in decades. AI will play a major role, but not yet in the way most imagine. Everyone’s talking about AI, but its real power depends on something far more fundamental: digitization. That’s what Noahs is building — the digital foundation that makes the intelligent food economy possible. Section V: Scaling & Strategy Geographic Expansion: Which regions outside Denmark and Thailand are next on your radar—and what makes a market “Noahs-ready”? Officially, we’re now expanding in 4 countries - Denmark, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Ireland. Within 2026, we expect to announce at least ten more countries across three continents joining the Noahs platform. We are currently preparing the best we can to meet the increasing demand for our solution. A market becomes “Noahs-ready” when retailers recognize that the old model no longer works — when rising costs, labor shortages, and changing customer behavior force a rethink of what retail really is. Europe is leading that shift. High operational costs and rapid transformation are pushing retailers to act faster than ever, and we’re positioned to help them do it in a scalable, low-risk way. Being Noahs-ready isn’t only about geography and necessity — it’s also about mindset. The retailers who will win this decade are the ones willing to reimagine themselves as food operators. That’s where our platform fits in: as the bridge between today’s analogue retail world and tomorrow’s fast paced food economy. Capital & Investors: Are you seeking growth capital, and if so, what kind of investors (VC, strategic, corporate) best align with your vision? We are currently finalizing our latest seed round and are well-capitalized for the current growth phase. Our next major raise — a Series A — is planned for 2026, and preparations are already underway. Right now, our focus is execution and scale. That said, we’re always open to conversations with investors who see what we see — those who understand that the future of food isn’t about building more restaurants, but about enabling the platforms that connect them. The best fit for us are partners who bring more than capital — those who share the vision of redefining food infrastructure globally and can accelerate that journey through strategic reach, technology, or market access. Vision 2030: Paint us a picture: what does a Noahs-enabled convenience store look like in 2030, and what share of its revenue will come from food vs. fuel? By 2030, the traditional service station will be unrecognizable. The era of fuel as the defining anchor is ending — what comes next will be built around food, experiences, and premium retail. We’re already seeing early signs of that leapfrog. Elon Musk’s new Tesla Diner is a perfect example — a glimpse of how technology, design, and hospitality can fuse into something people actually want to visit. That’s what excites me: not a finished blueprint, but the open canvas ahead. I prefer not to lock in a final vision. The real innovation will come from collaboration — from working with retailers, chefs, designers, and local communities to build places that fit their rhythm. Some will focus on food and digital ordering, others on community spaces or hybrid retail experiences. The beauty is that the platform allows for all of it. What I do know is that the transformation is imminent, and food will be the catalyst that starts it. Once retailers take that step, everything else follows — design, operations, social experiences, even how we define “convenience.” Over time, Noahs will simply become part of that ecosystem — the invisible layer powering whatever comes next. The real story won’t be about us. It’ll be about how retailers use this opportunity to reinvent what it means to serve their communities. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3304/banned-in-europe-essential-in-india-global-regulatory-dilemma-of-mancozeb.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3304/banned-in-europe-essential-in-india-global-regulatory-dilemma-of-mancozeb.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 18:09:00 +0530 Mancozeb, that ubiquitous arbiter of phytopathological destiny, continues to bestride the globe as an indispensable fungicidal panacea, even as the European Union has cast it into regulatory obsolescence on grounds of speculative toxicology. Its multisite mode of action, coupled with an enviable paucity of resistance development, renders it indispensable for high-value horticultural and agronomic commodities—from India’s grapes and potatoes to Latin America’s bananas and Brazil’s soybeans. Yet the global regulatory tableau is a patchwork of prudence and profligacy: while North America permits its judicious deployment, India confronts an incomplete evidentiary edifice and the concomitant peril to trade and farmer livelihoods. Empirical case studies elucidate the stark economic and agronomic ramifications of an abrupt excision—diminished yields, escalated input costs, and disrupted export flows—which may well outweigh the conjectural health risks if employed under Good Agricultural Practices. Mancozeb thus embodies the quintessential conundrum of contemporary agriculture: the delicate dialectic between human health, agronomic imperatives, and global food security in an era of climate volatility and international interdependence. Mancozeb, an ethylene-bis-dithiocarbamate (EBDC), stands as one of the globe’s most extensively employed fungicides, esteemed for its broad-spectrum efficacy and remarkable cost-efficiency. Its multisite mode of action allows it to inhibit diverse fungal metabolic pathways, rendering the emergence of resistance exceedingly improbable. In an era in which crop diseases are evolving at a pace that outstrips chemical interventions, Mancozeb has remained an unwavering ally of farmers across continents. Yet, paradoxically, while it is proscribed in the European Union, it remains indispensable in India, Latin America, and other burgeoning agricultural economies. This regulatory disjunction epitomises a global dilemma: the delicate reconciliation of human health imperatives with the exigencies of agricultural productivity and food security. Mancozeb: A Fungicide with Global Reach Across the globe, Mancozeb finds application on a vast array of crops, from the potato fields and vineyards of India and the United Kingdom, to the banana plantations of Latin America, and the sprawling soybean belts of Brazil. Its paramount advantage lies in its multisite mode of action, whereby it simultaneously impedes multiple fungal metabolic pathways. Unlike systemic fungicides, which assail a solitary enzyme or receptor and thus succumb readily to pathogen adaptation, Mancozeb would necessitate the improbable mutation of myriad genes for resistance to arise. It is this very characteristic that has enshrined it as a cornerstone of integrated disease management, frequently deployed in concert with systemic fungicides to combat recalcitrant pathogens such as Plasmopara viticola, the agent responsible for downy mildew in grapes. According to statistics furnished by the Indian government, India alone produces an estimated 500,000 million tonnes of Mancozeb annually, available in a spectrum of formulations including 35% SC, 75% WG, and 75% WP. Beyond Indian shores, Mancozeb retains pre-eminence in the control of potato diseases in the U.K., bananas across Central and South America, and soybeans in Brazil. Its exceptional versatility, coupled with an affordability—generally ranging between $5 and $10 per kilogram—renders it indispensable not only to smallholder farmers but also to large-scale agribusiness enterprises, bridging the imperatives of economic prudence and agricultural efficacy. To understand Mancozeb’s global position, it is important to compare it with alternative fungicides: Fungicide TypeMode of ActionResistance RiskEnvironmental ImpactCost (USD/kg)MancozebMultisite inhibitorLowLow5–10BiofungicidesBiological controlVery LowVery Low15–25Copper FungicidesContact protectantModerateModerate10–20SDHI FungicidesSpecific enzyme inhibitorHighLow20–30 Source: ACS Agricultural Science & Technology, 2022; FAO Pesticide Data Regulatory Landscape: A Global Patchwork Mancozeb’s regulatory status varies sharply across regions, reflecting differences in risk assessment, agricultural priorities, and market sensitivity. European Union On the 14th of December, 2020, the European Commission promulgated Regulation (EU) 2020/2087, thereby proscribing the use of mancozeb, predicated upon its classification as a potential endocrine disruptor. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), whilst acknowledging the lacunae inherent in compound-specific analytical methodologies, nonetheless proceeded with the prohibition, invoking the precautionary principle as the lodestar of its regulatory reasoning. Although the European Union has rescinded approval, mancozeb continues to enjoy provisional sanction within the United Kingdom until the 31st of January, 2024. This interdiction has reverberated across the corridors of global commerce, for EU residue thresholds now exert a determinative influence upon exporters in India, Latin America, and sundry other trading partners, thereby entwining scientific prudence with the imperatives of international agrarian trade. United States In contradistinction, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has undertaken successive and scrupulous evaluations of mancozeb, ultimately adjudging that the acute, chronic, and carcinogenic dietary risks remain comfortably beneath the threshold of concern, provided the compound is employed in strict accordance with label directives. The EPA’s re-registration exercise of 2005 reaffirmed mancozeb’s safety profile, highlighting its negligible acute toxicity and the acceptably circumscribed risk associated with ETU metabolites, which frequently feature in toxicological disputations. A consonant appraisal has been rendered by Canadian authorities, who have sanctioned its continued utilisation within a framework of regulated oversight. India India, as the preeminent global purveyor of Mancozeb, finds itself ensnared in a regulatory quagmire of considerable complexity. In 2020, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare embarked upon a comprehensive review of Mancozeb, alongside twenty-six other agrochemicals, contemplating a prospective proscription. Critics, however, have decried the preliminary assessments as lamentably partial, predicated solely upon thyroid profiles from a singular locus, devoid of the rigorous crop residue analyses requisite for an informed decision. A constellation of Indian stakeholders—including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), farmers’ collectives, and agrochemical enterprises—have championed a measured, evidence-driven approach. They underscore that an abrupt excision of Mancozeb could imperil the export viability of table grapes, potatoes, and other high-value horticultural commodities, with attendant repercussions on both agrarian livelihoods and the nation’s foreign exchange inflows. Economic and Trade Implications Globally, Mancozeb undergirds the livelihoods of millions of agrarians and contributes billions of dollars to agricultural export revenues. In India, for instance, table grapes and potatoes—both high-value export commodities—rely extensively upon Mancozeb for efficacious disease management. Downy mildew in grapes and early and late blight in potatoes can wreak havoc on yields if left unchecked, and projections indicate that the excision of Mancozeb could truncate output by 20 to 30 per cent per hectare. Such a diminution would reverberate through India’s export markets, particularly the European Union, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, potentially eroding the nation’s competitive advantage and diminishing foreign exchange inflows derived from horticultural exports. The scenario in Latin America is no less grave, especially in the context of banana cultivation. Black sigatoka, engendered by Mycosphaerella fijiensis, exhibits formidable resistance to many fungicidal interventions, rendering EBDCs such as Mancozeb the most efficacious recourse. Withdrawal of this fungicide would likely escalate production costs by up to 30 per cent, as cultivators would be compelled to substitute either costlier or less effective alternatives, while yields might concomitantly decline due to suboptimal disease control. Such perturbations could undermine the global competitiveness of Latin American bananas, imperiling both large-scale exporters and the smallholder farmers whose very sustenance is entwined with this crop. In the United Kingdom, Mancozeb plays an indispensable role in potato cultivation, with over 90 per cent of the crop area routinely treated to mitigate the twin threats of late and early blight. Bereft of Mancozeb, farmers would be compelled to deploy alternative fungicides, such as SDHIs or strobilurins, which are not only more costly but also prone to engendering resistance. This substitution could conceivably double per-hectare fungicide expenditures, compressing margins within an already fiercely competitive agricultural sector. Brazilian soybean cultivation further exemplifies the global ramifications. Soybeans, a strategic commodity in both domestic and international markets, are vulnerable to diseases such as Asian soybean rust, which can inflict severe yield losses. Mancozeb has demonstrably curtailed disease incidence by 60 to 70 per cent in field trials, preserving both output volume and quality. Its withdrawal would imperil yield stability, destabilise global supply chains, and amplify dependence upon costlier, single-target fungicides, thereby exacerbating resistance pressures over time. Collectively, these vignettes underscore Mancozeb’s remarkable economic efficacy. It furnishes broad-spectrum disease control at modest cost, with minimal risk of resistance evolution, rendering it indispensable for both high-value and staple crops alike. The prospective consequences of its removal extend beyond mere yield diminution: they encompass escalated input costs, heightened financial vulnerability for farmers, and potential disruption of international trade flows. When juxtaposed with the posited health risks—which, under judicious adherence to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), remain largely negligible—the economic and food security imperatives of sustaining Mancozeb arguably outweigh the speculative hazards, thereby accentuating the necessity for a nuanced, evidence-based regulatory paradigm. Conclusion Mancozeb occupies a singular and paradoxical nexus at the confluence of agriculture, public health, and international commerce—prohibited in Europe, yet indispensable across India, Latin America, and other emerging agrarian economies. Its multisite mode of action, combined with economic prudence and broad-spectrum disease control, renders it an essential instrument for safeguarding high-value crops such as grapes, bananas, potatoes, and soybeans. Global case studies consistently illuminate a salient truth: precipitous prohibitions risk imperilling both food security and economic resilience. While toxicological apprehensions warrant meticulous management and sustained scholarly inquiry, an indiscriminate withdrawal devoid of nuanced risk assessment could paradoxically engender greater detriment—manifesting as yield contractions, escalated market prices, and the erosion of farmer livelihoods. Confronted with the twin imperatives of climate change and the relentless emergence of phytopathogens, alongside the exacting demands of global trade standards, Mancozeb exemplifies the delicate equilibrium between scientific circumspection and pragmatic stewardship. Its narrative transcends the mere pharmacology of a fungicide; it epitomises the broader dialectic of global food security, responsible agrochemical governance, and harmonised regulatory praxis in an intricately interdependent world. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3297/oseleta-reborn-dr-katarina-andersson-on-soul-story-and-future-of-italian-wine.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3297/oseleta-reborn-dr-katarina-andersson-on-soul-story-and-future-of-italian-wine.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 12:20:21 +0530 In this exclusive conversation with Agrospectrum and NUFFOODS Spectrum, Dr. Katarina Andersson, Founder, WinesOfItaly, relives the transformative moment she first stood in an Oseleta vineyard near Lake Garda — a sunlit afternoon that changed how she saw Valpolicella forever. What began as curiosity about a forgotten grape turned into a revelation about Italy’s evolving wine identity — one rooted in authenticity, resilience, and a return to native traditions. With passion and precision, Dr. Andersson unpacks the renaissance of Oseleta, its role in redefining Valpolicella beyond Amarone, and the bold experiments of pioneers like Eleva Winery. From the new language of terroir storytelling to the reimagining of luxury as meaning and connection rather than price and prestige, she paints a vision of wine’s metamodern future — where rarity, culture, and conscience intertwine. By 2030, Dr. Andersson believes grapes like Oseleta could become the heartbeat of a new generation of wine lovers — making wine not just sophisticated again, but soulful and joyfully human. The Moment of Discovery Take us back to that autumn day near Lake Garda. What was it about standing in an Oseleta vineyard that made you feel “hooked on a feeling”? Was this the moment that reframed your view of Valpolicella beyond Amarone? It was on a beautiful and sunny autumn or winter afternoon back in 2017, that I visited the Bardolino Chiaretto area by Lake Garda as part of a press tour. We had a short walk through the small Oseleta vinyard plot at Villa Cordevigo before we entered the resort to taste through the Bardolino consortium's Chiaretto wines (Consorzio Vini Bardolino DOC). During that period, in 2017, when I visited the Oseleta vineyard, I had been hosting my weekly WinesOfItaly livestreams about smaller to mid-sized, more artisanal wine producers, lesser-known wine regions, and native grapes for a couple of years. I was always curious - I still am - to discover new things about grapes or wine areas. Back in 2017, there were not many writers and bloggers who travelled through Italy in search of a native grape or a lesser-known wine or wine area. Today, everybody is an influencer in search of 'unknown' grapes or wines. Anyway, I recall standing in the Oseleta vineyard with my fellow wine writers, taking photos and videos of the bare vines with their winter leaves, and I was eager to learn more about and taste a monovarietal Oseleta wine. I knew that there is usually a small percentage of Oseleta in the Valpolicella wines, but I had up until then never tasted a wine made with mainly Oseleta. I was hooked in that moment, standing in the winter beauty, with a hint of winter mystique in the late afternoon, thinking of this lesser-known grape so closely linked to Veneto wine history. Luckily, a fellow Canadian wine writer who loves tannic wines asked Franco Cristoforetti, the owner of Villa Cordevigo and the president of the Bardolino Consortium at that time, if it would be possible to taste their monovarietal Oseleta wine. It felt a bit luxurious, as it is a wine that has been aged for a long time, and they produce only a limited number of bottles. When I tasted it, I was even more hooked, because, yes, it is tannic, but it is a grape that gives wine with a great personality. Oseleta is very recognisable in a wine, with its trademark tannins, red and darker fruity notes, herbal, spicy, and floral (violet) characteristics, freshness, and length. A Grape’s Second Act Oseleta was nearly forgotten because of its small berries and low yields. Why do you think it is now re-emerging as a variety of interest? What does its revival say about where the Italian wine industry is heading? We are in a period when there is a big interest in native grapes, artisanal wineries, organic, biodynamic, natural viticulture and winemaking, sustainability, ethical winemaking, etc. I think it was in the late 1990s or the early 2000s, that revival of native grapes and starting to make more monovarietal wines started to get traction. We can take the examples of Nero di Troia in Puglia and Ciliegiolo in Umbria and Tuscany, which before were mainly used as a blending grapes. They are grapes with a strong character, just as Oseleta, that were used to give freshness. elegance, strength, structure, color, aromas, tannins, etc to wines such as Rosso di Canosa for Nero di Troia; Montecucco Doc in Tuscany or Orvietano Rosso Doc in Umbria for Ciliegiolo; and Valpolicella wines and Veronese IGT for Oseleta. I believe the rise of native grapes and monovarietal wines was partly a result of many smaller producers starting to bottle their own wines, mainly in the 1990s, after having mostly sold their wine in bulk or sold the grapes. This contributed to niche producers and niche productions, with a new generation seeking to produce more quality rather than quantity of wine. However, the market started to change, with a growing demand for authentic wines and a shift away from the usual brands, which were often made with international grapes such as Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This desire to explore local viticultural history, rare or forgotten grapes, and monovarietal wines would take off even more about 10-15 years ago. The focus on organic and sustainable viticulture has become increasingly important. The natural wine movement had its upswing in that period, too. It has been beautiful because it has drawn attention to the rich viticultural heritage that exists not only in Italy, but also in many countries, such as Eastern Europe, Moldova, Armenia, and Georgia, among others. The future appears uncertain for the moment, given the global turmoil. The big brands have more economic power, and to some extent, things are becoming more streamlined and commercial. On the other hand, there are numerous smaller to mid-sized wine producers who are doing great things, leveraging their local territories. Still, it is not easy for them to stand out in the noise of the wine production and marketing industry. I believe that there is significant potential in changing markets beyond the US, in trying to shift the narrative to reflect today's consumer habits and spending better. The wine world is still entrenched in an old-school mentality regarding how to view wine, how to drink it, and what wine to buy, among other things. It will also be essential to align with healthy habits and moderate drinking practices that are currently being preached. Wine is an alcoholic beverage, though much less so than spirits, RDTs, etc. Wine has a long and important history; in Europe and primarily in the Mediterranean, it has been considered an aliment and an essential part of the diet historically. Viticulture and winemaking are integral to the cultural heritage of many countries. Markets such as India, the Middle East, South America, and Africa will be the future. The geopolitical world view is changing before our eyes right now, and the wine world needs to shift, too. Beyond Amarone: Rewriting the Valpolicella Story Valpolicella is globally synonymous with Amarone. How can Oseleta — and blends like Cercastelle IGT Veronese — help tell a more diverse story of the region? I believe in native grapes and lesser-known wine areas and wines. I think shinig a light on grape varieties such as Oseleta, Raboso (in the Piave area in Veneto), Tai Rosso, Verdiso and Perera (used in Prosecco), etc. can contribute to narrate the history of Veneto and its traditions. It might be a way to help shift the narrative to better suit younger generations. The viticultural history could also be linked to farming, ethics, sustainability, etc. The future is surely to lift up these more rare or forgotten grapes that were always used in blends but never got much attention. Many of them will continue to be a part of blends, but it can be important to highlight their existence and their role in a blend. Their historical value. There is also a recent trend of returning to wines made with field blends, i.e., grape varieties that would have been naturally grown together in a vineyard plot in the past. The two or three varieties grown together would be harvested together and vinified together. Examples include Sangiovese grown alongside Canaiolo and Colorino. Amarone is evolving to some extent, adapting to better align with the changing tastes of consumers and the market, becoming slimmer, fresher, and more elegant. The Amarone wines of producers such as Eleva Winery, Antolini, Valentina Cubi, Massimago, Tedeschi, etc. have or have evolved into a more contemporary style. There is also an initiative in Veneto, I believe, by the Valpolicella Consortium, to raise the value of Valpolicella DOC and Valpolicella Superiore DOC wines as those that express the "true" Valpolicella and Veneto territory and tradition. The grapes are generally Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella, as in Amarone; however, the wines are made without appassimento, thus giving slimmer, fresher, and more fruit-forward wines with excellent drinkability. The Amarone, considered more prestigious, had somewhat overshadowed this category of wines. When, in reality, they are pleasant wines with a clear expression of the Valpolicella and Veneto terroir. Eleva Winery & the Cercastelle Experiment You’ve spoken highly of Davide Gaeta and Raffaela Veroli’s work at Eleva Winery. What makes their approach to blending Merlot with Oseleta so compelling? How do you see their experiment shaping the conversation about innovation in Valpolicella? I like Professor Davide Gaeta and oenologist Raffaela Veroli at Eleva because they are passionate and have invested their souls into the Eleva project. In the spirit of the founder of the winery, Franca Maculan, they have continued to be very invested in non-profit organizations such as AICCA (for people with congenital heart disease) and Orizzonti Sportizi (supports sport projects for the health of children in Camerun, for example, building basket and volleyball pitches). They are organic, they have built their winery building into an already existing rock on the property, making it like a winery where you almost enter into a cave-like structure. The barrel room is located in the far end of the winery, inside the rock itself thus having natural temperature regulation. They have leveraged what they have on the property and the legacy of Franca Maculan, which I believe is the strong point to make their narrative stand out. Regarding winemaking, they both believe in collaborating with younger consultant oenologists to teach and learn, enhancing the overall winemaking process. They conducted their own research and experiments to find a suitable grape to blend with the small plot of Merlot grapes they have. They discovered that Oseleta was an excellent option. The Cercastelle IGT Veronese wine has become a wine that distinguishes itself from the Valpolicella wines they produce; it has also become a key wine in telling the story of the local territory from a different perspective. As mentioned above, they can leverage their story as it fits what consumers and younger generations are looking for today. Like many wineries, they have to have the courage to take that step to be less safe and traditional, and more daring, or "audacious" and "weird," as American futurist, marketing thought leader, university educator, and author Mark W. Schaefer has said. This will be needed to cut through the noise and rise above mainstream content and AI-generated content. Wine-Making and Vinification Oseleta has unique characteristics — small berries, thick skins, and pronounced tannins. How do winemakers approach fermentation, maceration, and aging to highlight its qualities without overpowering the wine? How do blending decisions with Merlot or other Valpolicella grapes enhance or temper its profile? Are there innovative techniques being explored — such as amphora aging, natural yeasts, or extended lees contact — that you find particularly exciting? If blending the grape with, for example, Merlot or making it as a monovarietal wine, I think it largely depends on the winery's and winemaker's choices. It can also depend on how many Oseleta plants they have access to, if there is enough for a monovarietal wine. I cannot say much about this, though; one would need to look into each winery. Oseleta is still made as a monovarietal wine by very few producers. There are approximately 15 hectares in total planted with Oseleta in Veneto, so it is unlikely to be a significant producer of Oseleta wines. It can be a good niche wine to leverage as a part of the Veneto viticultural heritage. I prefer 100 per cent Oseleta wines to get the whole character and personality of Oseleta. I would like to see more ageing in big casks, or experimenting with maturation in ceramic vessels or amphora. I think barrique is too invasive for Oseleta; I think its varietal essence would come out better with big casks or amphora. I am sure we will see producers trying ageing in such vessels in the future. For now, Eleva is ageing in tonneaux. Villa Cordevigo is producing a 100 per cent Oseleta wine that undergoes appassimento and is aged in tonneaux for an extended period, while Zyme makes its Oz 100 per cent Oseleta, which is also aged in barrique for approximately 6 years. Native Grapes as Cultural Capital You often argue that native grapes are a way of communicating terroir and culture. Why do you believe Oseleta, in particular, carries cultural and emotional weight for the Valpolicella region? As mentioned above, I believe in native grapes and lesser-known wine areas and wines. I think native grapes are cultural capital and an essential part of the viticultural heritage. Together with other lesser-known and rare grapes, in this case in Veneto, I believe Oseleta and other grapes can help to deepen the narrative and go beyond Amarone and Prosecco in Veneto. Some research says that younger generation are looking for the history, the story behind the wines, the culture, ethics, etc. and then grapes as Oseleta can contribute to the storytelling. Other research says that consumers wants a more simple approach, they want to buy a wine without being lectured about the technical factors, the tasting notes, the ratings, they just want a simple story or anecdote about the wine that appeals to them. Then Oseleta and similar grapes can still be the future because they can add a different and fascinating story, it can also be a way to make consumers curious about trying something new. The future is surely to lift up these more rare or forgotten grapes that were always used in blends but never got much attention. Many of them will continue to be a part of blends, but it can be important to highlight their existence and their role in a blend. Their historical value. Terroir Storytelling How do Italian producers leverage micro-terroirs — from Veneto to Sicily — to differentiate wines in an increasingly competitive global market? How important is terroir authenticity in consumer perception today? There are those saying that consumers want simplicity and to buy wine, not to get the heavy info, tasting notes, tech sheets, soil info, etc that is often given by wineries, sommeliers, wine educators, etc. Others say that the younger genertations are interested in the people and its stories at the wineries, the terroir, the sustainability, ethics, etc. I think it might be a way of how you tell these stories. There is a need for a different focus in wine storytelling, different perspectives, formats, media, etc can be used to make the storytelling more interesting. I think that wineries themselves in Italy, so far, are not leveraging their history, tradition, farming perspectives, terroir, etc., enough in their wine communication. Setting up a strategy requires some effort. Not many wineries, not even larger ones, are using newsletters to share their story engagingly and as a means to nurture their subscribers, keeping them interested and excited about the winery. Most wineries send out a newsletter when they have an offer and want their subscribers to make a purchase. So, yes, terroir authenticity is essential today. I think it is vital to find new, fun ways to communicate about terroir, differences in terroir, and how it makes a specific winery, wine region, or area stand out. There is great potential for improvement for wineries and consortia. The New Luxury Code You wrote that “luxury in the metamodern era is more about unique and rare experiences than expensive wines.” How do niche grapes like Oseleta play into this shift? Are we seeing a democratization of luxury in wine? I think wine is in general democratic, at least in the Mediterrean part of Europe where wine has been a part of the cultural heritage since way back in history. It was, and is to a certain extent, a part of the everyday culture. Of course, there is also expensive wines like the hyped up brands sich as Sassicaia or Masseto, or Barolo and Brunello wines. There will always be people who look at wines more like an investment, and who are not really interested in the wine itself, but probably more for the hype/privilege it stands for, or the earnings you hope to make by investing in such wines. This is a small group of people though. I do not really see that as a definition of luxury anymore. There is a decline in global wine consumption revenue (about 3.3 per cent in 2024, compared to 2023, according to OIV; 9 per cent since 2019), as people are drinking less wine. Whether this is due to economic pressure resulting from higher living costs since the pandemic, geopolitical tensions with conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Gaza, or democratic instability in the US, for health reasons and temperance movements, or whether younger generations are drinking less wine or differently, remains to be seen. I am not sure. It is likely a combination of several factors. Rich people are getting richer, middle-class and lower-income people are getting poorer. There will always be people who want to spend a significant amount of money on expensive wine as a form of status symbol, similar to purchasing a Rolex or other luxury items. Still, I do not believe that it is considered true luxury anymore. In today's uncertain world, the pursuit of purpose and value becomes increasingly important, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. Luxury thus becomes something different; it becomes an experience that fulfils you, that is less common, takes more effort to find. Colleagues in the wine tourism sector have informed me that individuals with disposable income are seeking to experience and learn more about rare grape varieties, lesser-known wine regions, and unique experiences that combine wine with other local and authentic artisans, artisanal products, and specific cultural customs of an area. Travelling "slow" or in a "kinder" way, as a marketing friend of mine has coined it. Here she means "kind" in the sense of travelling with respect for the local territory, its inhabitants and daily life. This is the luxury of the future. "Mass" tourism and buying the usual wine brands, even the ones that are a bit more expensive, will in this sense not be luxury anymore, but more part of a mainstream idea of wine. I think the fact that many categories of people, not only Gen Z, are drinking less and are not interested in the "usual" status symbol wines, is a sign that things are changing and that professionals in the wine world need to change their perspective as well. A shift is underway. And, in this sense, I think lesser-known grapes, such as Oseleta, can play a role in the ongoing change. It can help to tell the story of a territory, its viticultural culture, history, and customs. It can also attract people who are willing to spend on unique or rare wine tourism experiences, helping smaller and more artisanal wineries to establish their profiles. Then, whether to define it as luxury or as "low" or "kind" wine tourism is for others to decide. Climate-Resilient Future With climate change impacting traditional regions, how do you see varieties like Oseleta — with their small, thick-skinned berries — contributing to the resilience of Italian vineyards? Oseleta is said to be resilient to climate change, thanks to its disease resistance, and also resistant to frost. So, it could for sure be a grape for the future. However, it is also true that only 15 hectares in total have been planted in Veneto so far. This grape variety produces tannic wines with character, which is true, but so far, it requires a lot of storytelling to sell. We will see if the future will highlight grapes such as Oseleta or focus more on hybrid grapes. I believe that in the Italian mindset, it is still easier to consider integrating resistant Vitis vinifera grapes, such as the crosses Manzoni Bianco, Müller-Thurgau, and Rebo, than Piwi grapes in DOC and DOCG denominations. Oseleta could perhaps also be an option for the future in this sense. However, in France, they have already begun to incorporate hybrid grapes into denominations such as Bordeaux and Champagne. Looking Ahead What is your dream scenario for Oseleta in 2030? How do you imagine its place in the global wine conversation — on restaurant lists, at tastings, or even in pop culture? In my ideal scenario, native grapes like Oseleta would take their place in the sun and be leveraged to change the narrative about wine. They could be used to tell the story of their original territory and in relation to their historical role in blending grapes. Such rare grapes would have their place on wine lists at restaurants and in wine bars, telling a different story about a territory and an appellation. Such grapes could be used in tastings to attract younger wine drinkers by perhaps shaping the wine tastings differently, not according to the usual tasting notes, but to put Oseleta in a larger regional context with other appellations or wines, other lesser-known grape varieties, or creating a tasting itinerary through local music, images, art, history, or other. For Gen Z, why not create a gaming experience around Oseleta and its history? Or perhaps a cartoon? Create hiking experiences - virtual and IRL - around the soil, climate, and overall terroir where Oseleta thrives. Since birds often like Oseleta, why not create an ornithology seminar about local birds in Veneto? It is just a thought, if there are people interested in that. There are many ways Italian wine could be presented by shifting the perspective and the way we tell stories, the formats we use, and how we approach wine tasting, among other approaches. The important thing is to make wine fun again, without losing depth, structure, and complexity in what we do. We need to go beyond wine scores and presentations where consumers and wine lovers are preached to by wine professionals on how or what they should drink. There is a world filled with fascinating grape varieties, wine regions, and wines to discover. There is no need to drink only wines from a few wine appellations and wineries. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3296/circular-carbon-at-scale-dr-jennifer-holmgren-on-policy-palm-oil-and-planes.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3296/circular-carbon-at-scale-dr-jennifer-holmgren-on-policy-palm-oil-and-planes.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:17:14 +0530 In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Dr Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech, outlines the company’s strategic pivot from carbon-to-fuels toward reshaping supply chains with innovations like a sustainable palm oil substitute. She emphasises how CO₂-derived solutions can succeed where past alternatives failed by combining scalability with functionality and cost-efficiency. On the aviation front, she highlights LanzaTech’s unique positioning across multiple Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) pathways, backed by regulatory momentum in the U.S., EU, India, and China. She underscores the role of policy levers—from carbon pricing to long-term offtake agreements—in accelerating carbon-based SAF to commercial parity with fossil jet fuel. Looking ahead, Dr Jennifer Holmgren envisions a 2035 where airlines fly on CO₂-derived fuels and supermarket shelves carry carbon-based palm oil substitutes, marking a decisive shift toward a circular carbon economy. LanzaTech has long been synonymous with carbon-to-fuels. With this palm oil alternative, you’re now reshaping supply chains beyond energy. How did this pivot emerge, and what does it signal about LanzaTech’s evolution ? The pivot from a focus strictly on carbon-to-fuels to reshaping broader supply chains emerged as LanzaTech identified the critical need and opportunity for sustainable alternatives in global markets dependent on high-impact raw materials like palm oil. We have previously worked on chemicals such as ethylene that play a key role in the textiles space. This strategic shift signals LanzaTech's evolution from a company focused solely on carbon recycling for energy purposes to a broader provider of sustainable solutions across various industries. It reflects a response to the need for systemic changes in supply networks that extend beyond energy.Palm oil is arguably one of the world’s most entrenched commodities. Why do you believe this innovation could succeed where decades of alternatives have struggled ? The unique aspect of this innovation lies in its ability to meet the functional needs of industries currently dependent on palm oil, coupled with a sustainable production method. Decades of alternatives have struggled due to scalability, cost-efficiency, or failing to meet functional requirements. LanzaTech's technology leverages carbon waste as a feedstock, which is abundantly available, from waste CO2 to agricultural and forestry residues, thereby potentially undercutting the economic and environmental costs of palm oil production while maintaining the needed chemical properties.The SAF market is projected to hit $250+ billion by 2050. Where does LanzaTech’s platform fit into that growth compared to legacy SAF technologies ? LanzaTech is exceptionally positioned to capitalise on the burgeoning $250+ billion SAF market by 2050, thanks to our ability to engage with all key SAF production pathways, including Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ), Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA), and Power-to-Liquid (PtL). Unlike legacy SAF technologies that often depend on specific feedstocks or face scalability limits, our versatile platform utilizes industrial off-gases and waste carbon, converting them into ethanol—a flexible and scalable intermediary for SAF production. This approach aligns perfectly with evolving global regulations that prioritize waste and residue-based fuels. By integrating into diverse markets and adapting to varied regulatory and raw material landscapes, we're not just participating in the SAF market growth; we are actively driving it forward and setting new standards for sustainable aviation fuels. Airlines are desperate for scalable, affordable SAF. What are the economics of CO₂-derived HEFA oils versus conventional feedstocks like palm, or soy ? The economics of CO₂-derived HEFA oils could prove advantageous compared to conventional feedstocks due to lower raw material costs (captured carbon versus agricultural products) and potentially lower processing costs. These factors, combined with increasing regulatory support for low-carbon alternatives, could make CO₂-derived oils a scalable, affordable option for the aviation sector. With the U.S. and EU offering billions in SAF subsidies and blending mandates, what policy levers are still missing to bring carbon-based SAF to parity with fossil jet fuel ? Price Stabilisation Mechanisms: Establishing floor prices or minimum subsidy guarantees can stabilize the market and attract sustained investments. Enhanced Tax Credits and Incentives: Increasing the value or duration of tax credits for carbon-based SAF could accelerate adoption and infrastructure investments. Carbon Pricing: Implementing a robust carbon pricing system for fossil fuels can make SAF more economically viable by reflecting the true cost of carbon emissions. Streamlined Regulatory Approvals: Simplifying the approval process for new SAF facilities can reduce the time and cost of market entry. Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaborative efforts between the public sector, private industry, and academia can share risks and facilitate technological exchange. Long-term Offtake Agreements: Government-led long-term agreements can provide SAF producers with market stability and financial predictability. Global Alignment on SAF Standards: Harmonizing international SAF standards can reduce compliance costs and facilitate global trade. These policy adjustments can create a more favorable environment for carbon-based SAF, helping bridge the gap to fossil jet fuels and supporting the aviation sector’s transition to sustainable practices. Europe is tightening deforestation-linked import bans; the U.S. is ramping up SAF credits. How do regulatory tailwinds in different geographies shape your commercialization roadmap ? The EU’s mandate of a 2 per cent blend of SAF escalating to 6 per cent by 2030 creates a sizable, stable demand for SAF, particularly beneficial for LanzaTech's recycled carbon fuels. Furthermore, the specific sub-mandate for e-SAF (PtL) channels LanzaTech into a niche but growing segment of the SAF market, especially as green hydrogen availability increases, allowing us to extend our offerings in the EU market. The UK’s increasing SAF mandates, expected to reach 10 per cent by 2030, combined with a specific cap on HEFA-feedstock SAF and a premium placed on advanced SAF solutions like ours, tailor a unique advantage for LanzaTech. India’s evolving SAF mandate, which anticipates a rise to 5 per cent by 2030, opens a new and burgeoning market for LanzaTech’s fuels derived from industrial off-gases and waste biomass. Our products qualify under the National Biofuels Policy, positioning us to be a key player in helping India achieve its SAF targets while supporting our expansion strategy in a highly populous and growing aviation market. By increasing the production of biofuels from waste carbon including agricultural residues, India can reduce its dependency on oil imports and promote energy sufficiency. This aligns with the Government of India's targets under the National Biofuel Policy, aiming to increase the blend of biofuels in the energy mix.  Each region's specific policy approach guides our focus and commercial exertions, enabling us to adapt and prioritize product lines and collaborations that align with regional SAF demand projections and policy incentives. This targeted approach enhances our ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities for growth and impact in the global SAF market. How close are we to a carbon circular economy ? With innovations like the palm oil substitute, we're moving closer to a carbon circular economy by displacing ecologically harmful commodities. Transforming wastes into valuable products aligns with rethinking carbon as a resource, and promoting utilization of recycled carbon. There are several ways India's unique agriculture sector can benefit from embracing these innovative technologies. India generates a substantial amount of agricultural residues, like straw from rice and wheat, which often get burnt, contributing to severe air pollution issues, especially in Northern India. LanzaTech's technology can convert these residues into valuable products such as ethanol, which can then be used to produce SAF or other biochemicals. This not only helps in reducing air pollution but also adds an economic value to what is otherwise considered waste. By setting up bio-refineries that leverage local agricultural residues, there can be significant job creation in rural areas and the use of ethanol and other byproducts from bio-refineries can incentivize sustainable agricultural practices.     Will fossil and deforestation-linked commodities still dominate by 2035 ? By 2035, I envision a world where airlines predominantly use CO₂-derived fuels and supermarket shelves are lined with sustainable, CO₂-based palm oil substitutes (and recycled carbon replaces virgin fossil carbon throughout!). This scenario is not just feasible; it's within our grasp with continuous technological advancements and favorable regulatory environments. We are pioneering a shift towards a circular carbon economy, turning carbon waste into a valuable resource. Our commitment to innovation and collaboration is paving the way for global transformations in both the aviation sector and consumer markets. Achieving this vision will depend on the scale of deployment, strong global partnerships, and maintaining an economic advantage over traditional commodities. Together, we are setting a legacy of sustainability, ensuring ecological responsibility and economic prosperity coexist, spearheading a sustainable era for generations to come.    ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3282/turning-climate-risk-into-opportunity-dr-godefroy-grosjean-and-ena-derenoncourt-on-ethiopias-green-finance-revolution.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3282/turning-climate-risk-into-opportunity-dr-godefroy-grosjean-and-ena-derenoncourt-on-ethiopias-green-finance-revolution.html Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:48:27 +0530 In this exclusive Agrospectrum interview, Dr. Godefroy Grosjean, Co-lead of CGIAR’s Hub for Sustainable Finance (ImpactSF), and Ena Derenoncourt, Senior Officer at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT and ACT-H Project Lead, share how climate-aligned finance is reshaping Ethiopia’s agricultural landscape. They highlight  how the ACT-H initiative, backed by the Gates Foundation, is piloting bundled green loans that combine credit with irrigation, insurance, and training to de-risk horticulture value chains and empower smallholder farmers. Dr. Grosjean and Ena highlight the ImpactSF Analyzer, an AI-enabled tool translating climate data into actionable credit and portfolio metrics for banks, allowing them to move from single-loan transactions to systemic portfolio design. They have discussed the alignment of these efforts with Ethiopia’s ESG regulations, NAFIR 2025–2030, and ACC models, positioning horticulture as a catalytic entry point for climate-smart investment. Ultimately, they envision a financial ecosystem where capital flows to resilient, inclusive, and nature-positive food systems—turning climate risk into a driver of opportunity. Section I: Setting the Context – Vision and Urgency Ethiopia’s agriculture is both the backbone of the economy and deeply vulnerable to climate volatility. What motivated CGIAR’s ImpactSF to engage directly with the country’s financial institutions through ACT-H? Agriculture is vital to Ethiopia’s economy but highly climate-vulnerable. By embedding science-based KPIs and blended finance tools, ImpactSF helps banks design inclusive, climate-smart loans for small-scale producers and agri-SMEs—strengthening resilience and driving systemic change toward inclusive, nature-positive food, land, and water systems. The Government of Ethiopia has built a strong agricultural extension system, complemented by the Agricultural Transformation Institute’s (ATI) flagship initiative—the Agricultural Commercialization Clusters (ACC). The ACC model organizes priority commodities and value chain actors into clusters, creating a platform for targeted support and systemic change. Through the ACT-H initiative, supported by the Gates Foundation and in collaboration with ATI and Precise, ImpactSF is introducing green finance products to scale solar-powered irrigation for horticulture. Financing these crops through climate-informed financing, de-risking approaches, and market partnerships strengthen farmer resilience and fosters sustainable growth. In addition, building the capacity of financial institutions to design and deliver climate-linked and gender-sensitive financial products is critical. Tailored solutions ensure that women, youth, and vulnerable households are meaningfully included, reinforcing Ethiopia’s efforts toward inclusive and resilient agricultural transformation. The ACT-H initiative is framed around climate-smart horticulture. Why horticulture, and why now? What makes it a catalytic entry point for climate-aligned finance in Ethiopia? Horticulture is high-value, labor-intensive, and central to many farmer’s livelihoods. Yet it is highly exposed to drought and rainfall shifts, making deployment of climate finance urgent. The ACT-H initiative focuses on solar-powered irrigation and other climate-smart inputs, equipping farmers while catalyzing broader agri-food transformation. Horticulture—particularly banana and avocado within ACCs—offers a catalytic entry point for climate-aligned finance: Horticulture offers significant economic and livelihood benefits, contributing to household incomes, nutrition, and exports, with target crops that are bankable and enjoy strong market demand. However, these crops are highly vulnerable to climate shocks, and without appropriate risk instruments, households often face distress sales and defaults. By combining loans with insurance, climate-smart inputs, and digital repayment options, smallholder farmers—many of whom are too large for microfinance but perceived as too risky by commercial banks—become ideal candidates for innovative climate-aligned investment. Strategically, this approach aligns with national priorities such as NAFIR 2025–2030, the National Agricultural Insurance Strategy, and Digital Ethiopia 2025, while Agricultural Commercialization Clusters (ACCs) provide a scalable platform for implementation. By targeting horticulture now, ACT-H can demonstrate how climate-aligned finance can de-risk agriculture, attract private capital, and deliver measurable adaptation and livelihood outcomes—setting the stage for replication across other value chains. What unique role does CGIAR—through ImpactSF—play in bridging scientific insights with financial decision-making in such high-stakes, low-margin sectors like smallholder farming? ImpactSF leverages decades of CGIAR science and expertise into practical tools for lenders, with an emphasis on local relevance. Through the AI-informed ImpactSF Analyzer and robust KPI frameworks, we make climate risk visible and financeable. This bridges research with day-to-day lending realities, which is especially important for smallholders and women farmers, who often face significant barriers and challenges to accessing finance. At ImpactSF and within the CGIAR, our work with farmers and farmer organizations gives us key insights into what is needed to create change from the bottom up. Through this role, ImpactSF ensures that financial products are not only bankable but also aligned with climate adaptation, mitigation, and resilience priorities, while advancing gender equity, youth inclusion, and environmental sustainability. Its ability to translate rigorous scientific evidence into actionable financial structures makes it uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between global climate finance standards (e.g., GCF, IFC, TCFD/IFRS S2) and the practical realities of Ethiopia’s smallholder systems. Section II: Climate Risk, Lending Challenges & Opportunity Framing Many Ethiopian banks reportedly have the liquidity but not the risk frameworks for agriculture. How is the ImpactSF Analyzer helping change that equation? This is a common challenge, banks across regions have liquidity but lack climate risk frameworks, limiting agri-lending. The ImpactSF Analyzer helps bridge this gap by identifying climate-smart investment opportunities, ensuring funding goes where it is needed. By integrating  scientific, financial and climate data, the Analyzer gives banks the confidence to design viable products that align with farmers’ realities and climate risk. By integrating scientific, financial, and climate data, the ImpactSF Analyzer enables comprehensive climate-smart lending. It supports risk-adjusted product design by aligning loans with seasonal cash flows, climate hazards, and insurance needs. It facilitates capital mobilization by producing risk metrics that attract concessional guarantees or additional liquidity. At the same time, it builds market confidence by tracking loan repayments, insurance uptake, and adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices, making agricultural finance more investable and resilient. The Analyzer ensures systematic, scalable expansion of climate-smart lending across Ethiopia. Could you explain how the tool translates climate data—like rainfall variability or drought hazards—into actionable metrics for credit scoring or portfolio design? The Analyzer takes climate data such as rainfall variability, drought frequency, or heat stress and links it directly to agricultural productivity risk at the crop and location level. Using CGIAR science, AI models and remote sensing, it projects yield impacts over the next 2–3 seasons, while also factoring in farmers’ adaptive capacity (e.g. irrigation, crop diversification). This produces forward-looking risk scores that can be integrated into credit scoring models or portfolio stress tests. For a lender, this means being able to differentiate between clients exposed to high vs. moderate climate risk, adjust loan conditions accordingly, and support anticipating default probabilities. At the portfolio level, the metrics allow banks to design more resilient sector exposures, set concentration limits, and steer capital toward climate-smart practices. Section III: Product Innovation, Tools & Bundled Finance The concept of bundled green finance—credit paired with irrigation, insurance, and training—was a major workshop highlight. What makes this model so promising for both lenders and farmers? Bundled finance reduces risk for both farmers and lenders. Pairing credit with irrigation, insurance, and training ensures farmers can repay loans while banks protect their portfolios. It’s a win-win model for resilience and growth. How are tools like the ImpactSF Analyzer enabling Ethiopian banks to go from a single-loan mindset to systems thinking—where value chains, repayment behavior, and environmental triggers are all interconnected? The Analyzer helps banks see farming systems, not just single loans. It links climate triggers, and value chain dynamics. This shifts lenders toward systemic, climate-smart portfolio design. Section IV: Systems Change, Policy & Inclusion Ethiopia’s regulators are rolling out new ESG reporting requirements. How is ImpactSF helping financial institutions align with this regulatory shift while strengthening climate-smart investment pipelines? The ESG rules present both challenges and opportunities. ImpactSF helps banks comply while building climate-smart pipelines through: ImpactSF supports financial institutions through a combination of capacity building, tools, and pipeline strengthening. It trains banks, MFIs, and insurers to design green finance products, including bundled credit, insurance, and solar-powered irrigation solutions. The ImpactSF Analyzer provides the data and insights needed to meet new ESG reporting requirements while designing stronger, more credible green finance products. Additionally, by applying a value chain lens, ImpactSF helps target priority sectors such as horticulture and livestock, scaling climate-smart products while ensuring measurable outcomes in gender inclusion, resilience, and productivity. ImpactSF turns new reporting requirements into an opportunity: building bankable, climate-smart products that attract concessional capital, reduce risk, and deliver real impact for farmers. What’s CGIAR’s broader vision for inclusive agri-finance in Ethiopia? Are you working to influence national policy, support rural banks, or scale models across other value chains? We work with banks, policymakers, and partners to shape national models. The aim is scalable finance across value chains and regions. This aligns with the CGIAR’s broader work in the region with the Ministry of Agriculture, National and Regional Agricultural Research Institutes, Ethiopian universities and both international and national development partners. There are the greatest number of CGIAR projects, initiatives, and funding in the East and Southern Africa (ESA) region, so it is a key area of our work. Section V: Scaling Impact & the Path Forward What’s next for ImpactSF and ACT-H in Ethiopia? Are there plans to pilot bundled loan products with partner institutions or integrate Analyzer insights into real-time lending decisions? Next, Act-H will co-develop bundled green loan products with partner banks and pilot innovative financing solutions in high-priority value chains. Insights from the ImpactSF Analyzer will feed into real-time lending, helping institutions actively manage climate risks. These pilots will lay the foundation for scale. How will success be measured—by hectares transformed, emissions reduced, capital deployed, or increased farmer incomes? Or is it something more systemic? Success means systemic change: capital flowing, risks reduced, and farmers empowered. It will be measured in farmer incomes, women’s access to finance, hectares under irrigation, and resilient lending portfolios. Above all, success means driving transformation toward a climate-smart financial ecosystem—one that helps turn Ethiopia’s climate challenges into investment opportunities. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3214/under-eu-deforestation-rules-malaysia-makes-contingency-plans-for-agriculture-exports.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3214/under-eu-deforestation-rules-malaysia-makes-contingency-plans-for-agriculture-exports.html Fri, 29 Aug 2025 09:31:00 +0530 Malaysia takes steps to avoid EU deforestation regulation downgrade Malaysia is implementing contingency plans to maintain its competitiveness in European markets and avoid being classified as a "standard risk" country under the European Union's new Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The commodities ministry announced in a parliamentary reply that it is working to ensure industries exporting agricommodity products to Europe comply with EU requirements. Currently, Malaysia is categorized as a "standard risk" country under the EUDR, alongside Indonesia and Brazil. Under these regulations, 3% of shipments from "standard risk" countries are subject to inspection, while "low risk" countries face less stringent due diligence. The four "high risk" nations—Belarus, Myanmar, Russia, and North Korea—face the strictest compliance checks. The EU law, set to take effect in December, applies to commodities like soy, palm oil, wood, cocoa, and coffee, as well as downstream products such as leather, chocolate, and furniture. The Malaysian government has expressed concerns over its "standard risk" classification, arguing that it is based on outdated data. To address this, the ministry is taking steps to meet the qualitative assessment criteria for the EU's country benchmarking system. Through the Special Committee for EUDR Implementation, the government will propose solutions to address cross-jurisdictional issues involving various ministries and agencies. If Malaysia fails to secure "low risk" status, the ministry plans to engage with industries exporting agricommodity products to Europe to ensure compliance with EU requirements. This proactive approach aims to mitigate the impact of the EUDR on Malaysian exports and maintain the country's position in European markets. The EUDR, which focuses on preventing deforestation linked to agricultural commodities, is part of the EU's broader efforts to promote sustainable trade. Malaysia's efforts to comply with the new regulations highlight its commitment to sustainable practices and maintaining access to key international markets. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3206/sipping-dragons-vintage-margot-van-lieshout-koopmans-on-marselan-and-chinas-global-wine-play.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3206/sipping-dragons-vintage-margot-van-lieshout-koopmans-on-marselan-and-chinas-global-wine-play.html Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:01:56 +0530 Image Source: AI In this exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum and NuFFooDS Spectrum, Wine Brand Strategist and Digital Communications Specialist Margot van Lieshout-Koopmans, DipWSET, shares her reflections on the rapid evolution of Chinese wine. She explores how Marselan has become China’s signature grape, adapting across terroirs from Ningxia to Xinjiang and offering a storytelling opportunity through regional diversity. Margot highlights the emerging sensory identity of boutique Chinese wines—ripe yet fresh, textural, and increasingly expressive of place rather than Bordeaux mimicry. She emphasizes the power of visual storytelling and culturally rooted label design in elevating authenticity and overcoming global scepticism. On commercial strategy, she notes rising curiosity in export markets like France and Switzerland, but stresses that sustained growth will hinge on consistency, identity, and immersive wine tourism. Ultimately, she positions Chinese wine not as an imitator, but as a new voice in the global wine chorus—confident, distinctive, and ready for discovery. Section 1: Sensory Identity & Terroir To what extent does Marselan express regional typicity across China’s diverse terroirs—e.g., Ningxia vs Shandong vs Xinjiang—and how can sommeliers communicate these differences effectively on a wine list? China gave Marselan its own sense of identity. And let me tell you, it’s not just a single identity—it’s a whole passport full of terroir stamps. When you travel through China’s wine map (and believe me, it’s a journey), Marselan starts to behave like that friend who picks up the accent of wherever they visit. Put it in Ningxia, and it becomes elegant and structured, with a mineral backbone and just the right whisper of age-worthiness. Shift it to Xinjiang, and suddenly it’s laid-back, sun-drenched, and fruit-forward—think plush dark cherries and a velvety texture, like it’s been soaking up the sun on a desert rooftop. Then move over to Shandong, and you’ll get more herbal notes, maybe even a hint of coastal brine—thanks to the humidity and maritime influence. Even Yunnan is joining the chat with its high-altitude finesse and lifted acidity—light, bright, and almost ‘Pinot-esque’ in delicacy. So, how do sommeliers capture this symphony of styles without turning their wine list into a dissertation? Easy: turn regionality into storytelling. Instead of listing “Marselan, China,” on the winelist – just be bold and granular. For example, try something like: “Marselan – Ningxia: Structured, Mineral, Elegant” “Marselan – Xinjiang: Plush, Ripe, Fruit-Forward” “Marselan – Shandong: Earthy, Herbaceous, Coastal” This isn’t just about flavours—it’s about narrative. Sommeliers have an incredible opportunity here: to frame Chinese Marselan not as a one-size-fits-all variety, but as a landscape in a glass. Imagine offering a flight of Marselan’ from three provinces—it’s like a fast-track Masterclass on Chinese terroir for your guests. One tip? Skip the Bordeaux comparisons. I know it might be tempting, especially given Marselan’s parentage and how influential Bordeaux has been in shaping China’s initial winemaking ambitions. But the new Chinese generation is here to carve out their own groove. And this grape, more than any other, is allowing that expression to sing. Think of Marselan as China’s acoustic set—stripped back, emotionally honest, and regionally fluent. In the end, sommeliers who can translate Marselan’s regional dialects into compelling wine list language—and maybe offer a few playful flights—will not only invite adventurous drinkers but also contribute to demystifying Chinese wine altogether. Because let’s be honest: Marselan might just be China’s answer to Pinot in Burgundy or Syrah in the Northern Rhône. Only this time, it’s not France—it’s Marselan on the New Silk Road. And it tastes like a journey worth taking. What organoleptic traits consistently define boutique Chinese wines that seek to reflect their origin rather than imitate Bordeaux? Are we beginning to see a Chinese ‘palate signature’ emerge? Before setting foot in Yinchuan, I genuinely had no clue what a “truly Chinese” wine tasted like—let alone what it might feel like in the glass. I wasn’t chasing Bordeaux comparisons; I simply didn’t know what to expect. But after swirling and sipping my way through a whirlwind of (boutique) producers, I can confidently say: something is taking shape. Something deliberately Chinese. Let’s talk organoleptic traits—yes, the sensory stuff. These boutique wines aren’t just technically sound—they’re elegant, textural, and expressive. You get ripe, vivid fruit—think black cherry, plum, even hints of goji berries or dates—but with freshness, not jamminess what you might expect. There’s a velvety mouthfeel, with tannins that are structured but silky, like a firm handshake that doesn’t try to crush your fingers. Acidity? Present and well-integrated, especially in high-altitude wines from Ningxia and Yunnan. Minerality shows up often, whispering through the finish like a dusting of chalk or wet stone. And oak? Understated. You’ll find subtle spice from seasoned barrels, but no vanilla bombs here. The emphasis is clearly on purity and place, rather than too much of everything. Now—are we seeing a Chinese palate signature emerge? Yes, if you ask me, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. It’s regionally textured, youth-driven, and intentionally expressive. These wines aren’t trying to be Bordeaux or Barossa. They’re leaning into their own identity, not imitation. I know I’ve only have tasted the tip of the iceberg, and if this is just the start? Then I’d say the Chinese wine signature is still being written—but the handwriting is already showing. How do cultural taste preferences—e.g., tolerance for high tannins or low acidity—shape Chinese winemaking styles, and how should international sommeliers adjust expectations when tasting? If you’ve ever sipped a young Chinese Cabernet with a local winemaker beside you and winced at the tannins, only to watch them nod in serene approval… welcome to China. There’s a distinct cultural palate at work here—one that still favours structure, power, and presence in red wines. High tannins? Often seen as a marker of seriousness. Low acidity? Preferred in many circles, especially when wine is consumed without food or at banquets where softer textures go down easier. The local market evolved with Bordeaux-style reds for a reason—it matched the idea of luxury, gifting, and “drinking prestige.” But the tide is turning. Younger Chinese drinkers—especially urban millennials and Gen Z—are asking for more freshness, fun, and fruit. That’s where boutique winemakers are tuning their styles: dialing back extraction, embracing shorter maceration, exploring pet-nats, and even producing Blanc de Noirs from Malbec. Styles are getting softer, brighter, and more playful. Which is a good thing, they are on a discovery journey themselves. For international sommeliers, this means one thing: reset your tasting lens. If you’re used to the polished acidity of a Barolo or the delicate tannin of a Burgundy Pinot, don’t expect the same here—yet. Understand that Marselan with 14.5 per cent alcohol, velvet tannins, and a soft acidity might be what resonates locally. So how should you approach Chinese wine? Keep an open mind. Drop the Bordeaux comparisons, it’s long gone. Let it speak its own dialect. Ask about context—Is this meant for gifting? Hotpot pairing? Nightlife? Celebrate the boldness. These wines often aim to make a statement, not whisper in the corner. And in China they sure know how to put the emphasis on that. In short, Chinese winemaking is balancing old-world tannic punch with a new-world smile. And sommeliers who learn to navigate both will find themselves ahead of the curve—and sipping something delightfully different. Section 2: Label Design, Authenticity & Storytelling How important is visual storytelling in Chinese wine for international markets? Can culturally inspired label designs help overcome the “copycat” stigma and elevate perceived authenticity? Visual storytelling in Chinese wine? It’s not just important—it’s all or nothing if you ask me. Personally, I love a good wine label that reflects the cultural aspect, without giving me boredom of authentic names and clean labels. Let’s face it: I think the global wine world still views Chinese bottles with a sceptical eye, especially those that haven’t been proven otherwise. There’s this lingering “copycat” cloud—faux châteaux, Bordeaux-lookalikes, and gold-embossed dragons on labels that scream export cliché. But here’s the twist: the most compelling Chinese wines today aren’t trying to look French—they’re trying to look Chinese. And that shift is winning attention. I like to believe that I am openminded, but even me, I had to taste quite a few wines, to change my point of view, and it did significantly. At the Yinchuan Wine Expo, I saw it firsthand. Side by side on the tasting tables were two Marselans: one with a minimalist black-and-gold label in faux Napa chic, and the other with brushstroke calligraphy, soft crimson tones, and a backstory about harvest rituals in Ningxia. Guess which one we couldn’t stop talking about? Cultural label design isn’t kitsch—it’s credibility if you ask me. It signals that the wine is made not just in China, but of China. International buyers are ready to be intrigued—but they need something authentic to latch onto. Symbolism, regional artwork, poetic names—these don’t alienate; they differentiate. And it goes beyond the shelf. A wine with a visual story gives sommeliers something to talk about, Instagrammers something to post, and drinkers something to remember. In a crowded global market, that’s the difference between being a curiosity and being collected. So yes, label design matters. But only when it stops trying to mimic and starts trying to matter. Because if a picture is worth a thousand words, a great Chinese wine label should whisper: “This is who we are.” Section 3: Commercial Strategy & Trade Readiness China exported $33.2M in wine in 2024, with France, Switzerland, and the U.S. among its fastest-growing markets. What do you believe is driving this international curiosity—and is it sustainable? Let’s be honest—when you hear that France is one of China’s fastest-growing wine export markets, your first reaction is probably: “Wait, what?” Just like I did. But yes, it’s happening. And no, it’s not just a novelty moment. Something deeper is brewing—or should I say, fermenting. This surge in international curiosity comes down to three things: narrative shift, rising quality, and strategic identity. First, the story’s changed. China isn’t pitching itself as the next Bordeaux anymore. It’s leaning into Marselan, regional expression, and boutique flair. Wines from Ningxia or Xinjiang aren’t mimicking—they’re making statements. That differentiation is finally resonating, especially with importers hungry for new origin stories and sommeliers building adventurous wine lists. Second, quality is catching up fast. I’ve tasted Marselans that could hold their own next to top-tier Rhône reds. Yes, quality is still inconsistent—but at the high end, it’s getting really interesting. International competitions like CMB (Concours Mondial de Bruxelles) and Decanter Asia are noticing—and awarding. And third, China’s wine exporters are getting smart. They’re not just pushing volume—they’re targeting niche, prestige-driven markets like Switzerland, boutique retailers in France, and curious younger buyers in U.S. cities who want to try something no one else is drinking yet. Now, is it sustainable? I’d say yes—only if China keeps focusing on distinctiveness over duplication. Export growth won’t come from trying to out-Bordeaux. It’ll come from leaning into terroir, crafting a strong Marselan narrative, and embracing cultural authenticity in packaging and messaging. The real question isn’t whether the curiosity will fade—it’s whether the industry will keep feeding it with substance. Because the world is finally asking: “What does China taste like?” And for the first time, there’s a real answer in the glass. What would be your key considerations before listing a Chinese wine in your restaurant/store portfolio—price-quality ratio, cultural novelty, sustainability credentials, or consumer curiosity? Ah, the age-old question: do I list this wine because it’s good, because it’s different, or because it tells a story? When it comes to Chinese wine, the answer is: all of the above—but not in equal measure. First up, price-quality ratio is essential—but with a caveat. Chinese wines are often priced at a premium (€20–€60 is common in export markets), and that doesn’t always match perceived quality. So, I’m not just looking for “value”—I’m looking for wines that overdeliver relative to their story. If it’s a Marselan from Ningxia with a compelling backstory, solid structure, and for example has a gold medal from CMB? That gets my attention, even at €40. Next, cultural novelty matters. Let’s be honest: for many consumers, Chinese wine is still a curiosity. But if that curiosity is paired with authenticity—calligraphy on the label, “local” grape identity, a winery narrative rooted in region—it shifts from gimmick to conversation piece. And that’s gold on a wine list or shelf. Sustainability credentials are a nice bonus—but not a deal-breaker. The narrative is just beginning to form here, and transparency is still evolving. I do look for minimal intervention practices, lighter packaging, or clear water-use strategies in regions like Ningxia, but it’s not yet the tipping point. And finally, yes—consumer curiosity is real. Especially with younger, globally minded drinkers. If I can offer a Chinese pét-nat at a rooftop wine bar or a Marselan flight in a trendy bistro, I know I’ll spark interest. And repeat orders often follow. So, what’s the bottom line? I’ll list a Chinese wine if it tells a story worth sipping, drinks well, and sparks curiosity—because that’s what modern wine drinkers are really buying. Section 4: Wine Tourism & Experience Economy In what ways could the rise of Chinese domestic wine tourism (festival streets, wine-themed architecture, etc.) help shape global perceptions of Chinese wine culture? Let me tell you—if you think wine tourism in China is all dusty tasting rooms and copycat châteaux, you’re missing the revolution. Wine tourism in China is evolving into something bold, immersive, and unapologetically Chinese. From the festival street in the old town part of Yinchuan, complete with neon-lit wine slogans and giant wooden goblets, to wine-themed villages and cellar doors carved into desert cliffs, China is turning wine into a cultural spectacle—and it’s working. I have witnessed it myself. This matters because for global wine perception, experience shapes credibility. The moment you walk through a winery that blends modern design with traditional Chinese motifs, sip a Marselan under the Helan Mountains, or attend a wine and dumpling pairing at a lantern-lit courtyard—it rewires your expectations. Chinese wine stops being “a knockoff” and becomes something rooted, local, and alive. It’s not just about showcasing terroir. It’s about showing culture: calligraphy on labels, tea ceremony-inspired tastings, architecture that draws from dynastic history. These immersive cues tell the world, “We’re not just making wine—we’re making it ours.” And tourists—both domestic and international—become brand storytellers. They Instagram the wine walls, they post videos from underground cellars, they write reviews comparing Yinchuan to Mendoza. That ripple effect is priceless. So, can wine tourism reshape China’s global wine identity? Absolutely. Because nothing says authenticity like being there—and China is curating experiences that are not just visit-worthy, but worldview-shifting. Wine in China is no longer just something you sip. It’s something you see, feel, and share. And that emotional resonance? That’s what changes perception—and builds markets. How much does immersive tourism—cellar tastings, on-site storytelling, DTC experiences—influence your opinion of a wine’s provenance and place? Could Yinchuan or Ningxia become Asia’s answer to Mendoza or Douro? Immersive wine tourism doesn’t just shape my opinion of a wine—it anchors it somehow. Walking through a dusty vineyard in Ningxia, feeling the dry Gobi wind against my face, and then sipping that same vineyard’s Marselan in a cellar built into the rock? Suddenly, that wine isn’t just fruit and oak—it’s context, story, and soil in a glass. This kind of connection matters. It changes how I assess quality, how I talk about the wine to others, and yes—whether I’d put it on a wine list, if I would be responsible for one. When you’ve been there, you carry the story into every glass you pour. As for Yinchuan or Ningxia becoming Asia’s Mendoza or Douro? It’s not just possible—it’s already in motion. Like Mendoza, Ningxia offers dramatic landscapes, extreme terroir, and a sense of frontier spirit. Like the Douro, it pairs history with innovation and draws in visitors with a deep sense of place. But what sets Ningxia apart is its potential to merge traditional Chinese hospitality with contemporary wine culture. We’re talking rooftop tastings under moonlight, calligraphy-inspired labels, and direct-to-consumer platforms that let you buy the wine on your phone before you leave the cellar. That fusion of heritage and innovation is uniquely Chinese—and incredibly marketable. So yes, immersive tourism is not a sideshow—it’s the main act. It builds emotional equity, brand loyalty, and cultural trust. And if Ningxia keeps investing in visitor experience with the same ambition it’s shown in the vineyard, don’t be surprised if it becomes the next must-visit wine region on every sommelier’s bucket list. Section 5: Market Trends & Sommelier Forecasting What emerging Chinese wine styles (e.g., Blanc de Noir from Malbec, Pet-Nats, Marselan rosé) show the greatest promise for global sommeliers curating fresh, adventurous lists? Pfoe! Good question, I think the ‘new wave’ in Chinese wine is having its glow-up on its own — and it’s not just about bold reds anymore. At the Yinchuan Expo, between the structured Marselans and the Bordeaux look-a-likes, I stumbled on wines that made me pause, raise an eyebrow, and grin. Why? Because they weren’t just good—they were playful. And playfulness is exactly what I believe sommeliers (and winelovers) crave when curating dynamic, trend-forward lists. Let’s start with the Blanc de Noir from Malbec. Yes, you read that right. It’s juicy, crisp, and totally unexpected. Think white stone fruit meets a gentle red berry kiss. Serve it chilled with summer dumplings or grilled seafood, and you’ve got a conversation starter. These wines take a familiar grape and flip the script. Then there’s Marselan rosé—arguably China’s freshest flex. With its pale pink hue and surprisingly savory edge, it bridges the gap between Provence chic and local identity. Add some good acidity, and it’s a dream pairing for spicy Sichuan or cold sesame noodles. But here’s one sommeliers need to watch: a slightly chilled Marselan red. Forget the heavy oak bombs—these are mid-weight, fruit-forward, with smooth tannins and a whisper of spice. Cool it down just a touch, and suddenly it’s a red that works on rooftops, with barbecue skewers or late-night bao. It’s vibrant, chillable, and distinctly modern. And don’t overlook China’s growing flirtation with German Riesling that they have a growing interest in importing, since it pairs well with their own cuisine. But now they are growing their own Riesling and Riesling Italico—particularly from higher-altitude vineyards. They’re amazingly refreshing, aromatic, and often bone dry, with a crisp green apple snap and a jasmine lift. Mindblowing amazing if you ask me. Fantastic with seafood, or simply on their own with a view. The common thread? Identity without rigidity. These wines are confident, culinary, and built for curiosity. If you’re building a list for Gen Z sippers, globe-trotting foodies, or just tired palates looking for what’s next—Chinese wines like these are your secret weapon. Trust me: your guests will thank you for that bottle of Marselan rosé once it hits their glass. And you’ll be the one who saw China coming—before it went global. How do you interpret the rise of Marselan as a ‘signature variety’? Could Marselan-based wines become a calling card for Chinese terroir similar to how Carmenère defines Chile or Malbec defines Argentina? Let me put it this way: if Malbec is Argentina’s party trick and Carmenère is Chile’s comeback kid, Marselan is China’s quiet power move. Originally a French crossing of Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, Marselan has gone from afterthought to headliner—especially in China, where it’s thriving across terroirs like Ningxia, Xinjiang, Yunnan, and even coastal Shandong. And no, it’s not just surviving—it’s adapting, performing, and even winning medals. What makes Marselan such a strong candidate for “signature variety” status? Simple: it’s expressive, consistent, and distinctively local. In Ningxia, it’s all minerality and structure. In Xinjiang, it bursts with ripe, round fruit. In Yunnan, you get brightness and lifted aromatics. That regional versatility means Marselan doesn’t just tolerate China’s diverse terroirs—it sings in them. But here’s what seals it: Marselan isn’t trying to be anything. It’s becoming a wine that feels genuinely Chinese—deep in colour, smooth in tannins, high in perfume, and ready to evolve. It aligns with the local palate (silky, bold, approachable) but also intrigues international drinkers looking for something new. And just like Malbec helped Argentina step into its own, Marselan gives China a clear identity on the global stage. The CMB even has a Marselan-specific category now—how’s that for confidence? For importers, it’s a no-brainer gateway grape. For sommeliers, it’s a narrative-rich bottle that makes people lean in. And for Chinese winemakers? It’s a blank canvas they’re just beginning to paint. So yes—Marselan is more than a trend. It’s a flag in the ground. If China is defining its own vinous identity, Marselan is the signature at the bottom of the page. Do you foresee a space for low-alcohol, female-oriented, health-positioned Chinese wine products in Western urban markets, particularly for Gen Z and Millennial drinkers? Absolutely. And not just a space—an opportunity waiting to be uncorked. In the West, we’re watching a generational pivot in real time: Gen Z and Millennials are drinking less wine, when they drink wine, they are simply choosing better, and prioritizing wellness without sacrificing pleasure. They want low-alcohol options that still feel stylish, social, and sensorial. Cue China’s emerging “Fit Girl Routine” wines—yes, that’s seems to be a thing—and then you’ve got a match made in market heaven. What’s brilliant is how these products are being tailored for modern lifestyles: Lower ABV, sometimes subtly sweet, often attractively packaged, and framed as part of a holistic, feel-good ritual. Think rosé spritz in a slim can, or a tea-infused light red designed for chilling. They’re positioned not just as beverages, but as lifestyle companions—and that’s exactly how Gen Z wants to drink. Even better? These wines bring cultural intrigue. A light Chinese rosé with osmanthus notes or a gently sparkling rice-blend hybrid (yes, some are experimenting) offers Western drinkers’ novelty plus narrative. It’s different but not intimidating. And let’s not ignore the “she-economy”. In urban centres from LA to London, women are driving health-conscious consumption trends—and they’re looking for products that align with both their values and aesthetics. Beautiful design, clear messaging, and a “drink without guilt” vibe? That’s winning territory. Of course, it’ll take smart branding and the right distribution partners. But the appetite is there—and growing. So yes, Western markets are ready. The question is whether Chinese producers will own this niche or let others capitalize on the concept first. Because trust me, wellness wine with a Chinese twist could be the next cult category. And I, for one, am here for it. Section 6: Cultural Resonance & Wine Diplomacy Would you consider Chinese wine a future competitor, collaborator, or curiosity in your current market strategy? What would it take to shift that perspective? Right now? Chinese wine still sits in the curiosity box for most international markets. But give it five years—and a few smart moves—and it could very well become a collaborator… and eventually, a competitor. Let’s unpack that. As a wine brand strategist, I don’t see Chinese wine as a threat to Burgundy or Rioja. Yet. But I absolutely see it as an emerging partner in the global wine conversation—especially when it leans into what makes it different, not what makes it “almost Bordeaux.” The wines I tasted in Ningxia weren’t trying to out-French the French. They were expressive, terroir-driven, and emotionally resonant. That’s a foundation for collaboration—through wine tourism, joint ventures, or even cross-border wine flights on curated lists. Imagine a Marselan from Ningxia alongside a Carmenère from Chile. That’s not competition—that’s contextual storytelling. Now, what would it take to move from curiosity to mainstay? I say these three things: Consistency in quality. Right now, it’s a mixed bag. To win global trust, Chinese wine needs to tighten up its technical execution—especially at higher price points. So, quality can be seen as face value with its price, now there is no way in identifying quality based on price, you truly must know your Chinese wines to be able to navigate the offering. Brand clarity. Too many labels still feel lost between two worlds. Own the origin story. To me, ditch faux château aesthetics. Be Chinese—and proud. On-the-ground education. Importers, sommeliers, even curious consumers need access to context. Tastings, pop-ups, immersive content—it all helps shift perception from novelty to necessity. So yes ! I see Chinese wine moving from curiosity to collaborator. And if the stars align—better storytelling, better distribution, and better consistency—it might just become your favourite new rival on the shelf. In a market increasingly shaped by identity rather than imitation, what lessons should global winemakers take from China’s shift from Bordeaux mimicry to self-expression? If there’s one thing China’s wine industry is teaching the world right now, it’s this: imitation might open doors, but identity builds homes. For years, Chinese wineries tried to win prestige by copying Bordeaux—châteaux-style estates, Cabernet-led blends, heavy bottles, and gold-foil everything. It got them attention, but not necessarily the affection. Because imitation, while flattering, rarely builds loyalty. Now? We’re watching a pivot—and it’s electric. Wineries are leaning into Marselan as a local hero, crafting labels with traditional calligraphy and lunar symbolism, dragons, temples and creating wines that taste like where they come from. It’s not just a branding shift—it’s a mindset reset. So, what can global winemakers learn from this evolution? Stop chasing prestige. Start chasing personality. The modern consumer doesn’t care where your grapes rank in Parker points—they care what your wine means. Is it personal? Is it place-specific? Is it different? Trust your terroir—even if no one’s heard of it yet. China believed in Ningxia before anyone else did. That belief created an identity, which is now becoming a brand. You don’t need a legacy—you need conviction. Design with culture, not convention. A sleek label in Helvetica doesn’t say “authentic”—it says “template.” Chinese winemakers who embraced cultural cues—symbols, stories, heritage—built more memorable bottles. That works everywhere. In short, the world doesn’t need more regional wannabes. It needs wines that reflect their roots, their people, their point of view. China’s lesson? Be more yourself. Because the boldest move in wine today isn’t making what sells—it’s making what matters. Final Open-Ended Thought What would be your ideal introduction to Chinese wine? A flight of Marselans from different provinces? A blind tasting of Bordeaux vs Ningxia reds? Or a deep-dive into boutique producers with cultural design narratives? Honestly? I want all three—with a side of dumplings and a good story and I am hooked! But if I had to choose one introduction that captures the soul of Chinese wine today, I’d go with a deep dive into boutique producers with cultural design narratives. Why? Because that’s where the real heartbeat is. A Marselan flight is fantastic for terroir nerds (guilty), and a Bordeaux vs. Ningxia blind tasting is great for busting preconceptions. But it’s the boutique stories—the ones where the winemaker’s grandmother inspired the label, or where the wine is named after a Taoist poem—that linger with you long after the last sip. These wines don’t just say, “Made in China.” They say, “This is what it means to be a winemaker in Ningxia, or Yunnan, or Hebei, right now.” They’re small-scale, soulful, and bursting with identity. And when you pair that with thoughtful design—calligraphy, folklore, symbolism—you’re not just drinking wine. You’re experiencing culture. It’s the perfect intro because it breaks every outdated stereotype. It’s not Bordeaux with chopsticks. It’s a new voice in the global wine chorus—clear, confident, and creatively composed. So yes, give me the Marselan. Give me the terroir contrasts. But start me with a walk through China’s boutique wine scene—labels that make you curious, winemakers who speak from the heart, and bottles that proudly wear their origin on their sleeve. Because that, to me, is the real China: not imitating the world—but inviting it in. —– Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com ) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3196/new-biomethane-plants-to-be-constructed-in-spain-by-anaergia-s-r-l-technical-support.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3196/new-biomethane-plants-to-be-constructed-in-spain-by-anaergia-s-r-l-technical-support.html Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:58:23 +0530 By leveraging infrastructure and equipment, Anaergia anticipates revenue of C$184 million Anaergia Inc., through its subsidiary Anaergia S.r.l., has signed a Binding Agreement with a leading Spanish company specializing in renewable gas infrastructure projects. Under the terms of the Agreement, Anaergia will provide a range of services as well as its cutting-edge technology and equipment for over 15 new biomethane production plants across Spain. Anaergia will be responsible for the supply and construction of concrete tanks with Triton™ digesters, a proprietary technology featuring a patented configuration that significantly enhances process efficiency. In addition, the company will supply advanced mixing systems, also part of its proprietary technology, along with other critical components to facilitate the seamless operations of the plants. Anaergia is to commence activities on the first project this month, with all the projects in the development plan expected to be fully operational and integrated into Spain’s gas pipeline network within forty-eight months. Anaergia anticipates total revenue of C$184 million from this Agreement, making it the Company’s largest capital sale to date. “This agreement marks a significant milestone in advancing Spain’s renewable energy sector, fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability. The scale of this historic Agreement for Anaergia highlights the advantages of our strategic focus on leveraging proprietary technologies for the benefit of our customers, and underscores our growing presence and activities in Europe. This opportunity to demonstrate the value of our innovative solutions and to support the global transition to renewable energy.” said Assaf Onn, CEO of Anaergia. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3154/fmc-corporation-expands-footprint-in-europe-with-a-novel-herbicide-for-winter-wheat-and-barley.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3154/fmc-corporation-expands-footprint-in-europe-with-a-novel-herbicide-for-winter-wheat-and-barley.html Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:15:03 +0530 Secures registration in Great Britain for Fundatis® herbicide powered by Isoflex® active FMC Corporation, a leading global agricultural sciences company, announced it has received registration for Fundatis® herbicide powered by Isoflex® active in Great Britain for use in winter wheat and winter barley. Isoflex® active is a novel herbicide used on cereals and is classified by the Herbicide Resistance Action Committee (HRAC) as a Group 13 herbicide. Fundatis® herbicide provides growers with a new tool to help manage herbicide resistance across a wide range of agronomic practices. "Fundatis® herbicide introduces a new solution featuring two active ingredients previously unavailable in Great Britain," said Sebastià Pons, vice president, president FMC EMEA. "This registration underscores FMC's commitment and dedication to bringing innovative crop protection technologies to growers. By providing growers with solutions to overcome resistance challenges, they are empowered to enhance their farming practices and achieve greater success."  Fundatis® herbicide combines FMC's innovative molecule Isoflex® active with beflubutamid, providing growers with a new tool for resistance management. Fundatis® herbicide provides a strong foundation as part of an integrated weed management program, effectively contributing to the control of key annual grass weeds, including Blackgrass (Alopecurus myosuroides) and Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum). It also offers control of key broadleaf weeds such as Groundsel (Senecio vulgaris) and Speedwell (Veronica spp.). Fundatis® herbicide will be available to growers during the fall growing season in Great Britain. The registration in Great Britain marks another significant regulatory approval for FMC and Isoflex® active, which has already been registered and commercialized in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Pakistan, Uruguay and India. FMC has also submitted a regulatory application for Isoflex® active in the European Union. Products containing Isoflex® active have exhibited pre-plant, pre-emergence and early post-emergence selectivity in major crops across the globe, including canola, cereals, oilseed rape and pulses. Research on the use of Isoflex® active in additional crops and segments is ongoing. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3103/carbon-nanadot-technology-set-to-revolutionise-crop-protection-with-sustainable-pesticides.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3103/carbon-nanadot-technology-set-to-revolutionise-crop-protection-with-sustainable-pesticides.html Mon, 14 Jul 2025 11:19:31 +0530 University of Bristol, spin-out CDotBio wins prestigious Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize A pioneering carbon nanodot technology, originally developed for healthcare, is now poised to transform global agriculture through the development of next-generation, RNA-based biopesticides. Developed by CDotBio, a biotechnology spin-out from the University of Bristol, UK, this breakthrough promises to reduce reliance on traditional chemical pesticides and significantly lower the environmental impact of crop protection. CDotBio has been awarded the £25,000 Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize, which recognises excellence in materials science innovation with high commercial potential. Carbon nanodots are ultra-small, biodegradable particles that enable precise, species-specific targeting in plants. Traditionally used in medical and biotech applications, these nanodots are now being repurposed to overcome key challenges in RNA-based biopesticides—such as poor stability, delivery, and cellular uptake. “Carbon nanodots enhance the stability and delivery of RNA, allowing biopesticides to reach pests or weeds more effectively,” said Teo Garcia-Millan, co-founder and CEO of CDotBio. “They prevent RNA from degrading too quickly, enabling more precise and reliable pest control.” Unlike conventional broad-spectrum chemical pesticides, which often persist in the environment and harm non-target organisms, RNA-based biopesticides offer targeted, biodegradable control—and can even contribute to improved soil health. CDotBio’s nanodots are manufactured from renewable organic materials and are cost-effective to scale, making the solution both sustainable and commercially viable. “Eighty percent of global food production depends on plants, yet we’re losing up to 40 percent of crop yields to pests and disease,” added Garcia-Millan. “The agricultural sector urgently needs better tools. Our technology unlocks the full potential of RNA-based crop protection.” From Lab to Field: A Commercial Platform for RNA Biopesticides CDotBio’s business model is built on strategic partnerships with agribusinesses, RNA manufacturers, and crop protection firms. The company co-develops targeted biopesticides and generates revenue through licensing, joint development agreements, and royalties. The platform is protected by two patents covering the synthesis and RNA conjugation of carbon nanodots. The initial target is blackgrass, an herbicide-resistant weed that causes over £400 million in losses annually to UK wheat farmers. CDotBio is also developing nanodot-enabled RNA solutions for major crop threats such as wheat rust, downy mildew, aphids, and other insect pests. Preliminary modelling indicates that nanodot-enabled RNA sprays could reduce synthetic pesticide use by up to 70% in targeted applications—delivering significant environmental and economic benefits to farmers. Strong Scientific and Entrepreneurial Foundation Founded by researchers from the University of Bristol’s School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences, CDotBio combines cutting-edge nanotechnology and plant science expertise. The company’s leadership includes Dr. Teo Garcia-Millan, a materials chemist with a PhD in functional nanomaterials ; Dr. Veronica Greco, an engineering biologist with a background in genetic circuit design; and Dr. Fran Robson, a plant molecular geneticist with decades of expertise in plant biology and pathology. The £25,000 prize will fund crucial validation studies and field trials ahead of regulatory submission. Field trials are anticipated to begin in 2026, with market launch targeted for 2028, pending regulatory approvals. “CDotBio is an excellent example of how UK scientific innovation can drive environmentally friendly solutions in agriculture,” said Julian Beare, Chairman of the Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize judging panel. “Our mission is to foster scientific entrepreneurship and help promising ventures achieve real-world impact.” Global Vision and Call for Partnerships With the global pesticide market valued at over $104 billion, CDotBio’s platform offers a scalable solution for crop protection across geographies. The company is actively seeking collaboration opportunities with international partners in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. “We welcome discussions with agri-tech partners, RNA manufacturers, and investors who share our vision for transforming crop protection,” said Garcia-Millan. “CDotBio’s nanodot technology is not only an innovation in materials science, it represents a critical leap toward more sustainable, precise, and resilient agriculture.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3084/korea-stives-to-bolsters-global-expansion-through-national-agricultural-cooperative-federation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3084/korea-stives-to-bolsters-global-expansion-through-national-agricultural-cooperative-federation.html Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:29:34 +0530 NACF France play a pivotal role in advancing Korean agro-food output into the European market Korea’s National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF) Chairman Kang Ho-dong shared his global expansion strategy with employees in Europe, the cooperative organization for farmers. He urged that NACF France needs to play a pivotal role in Korean agro-food’s successful advance into the European market. National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF) is also known as NongHyup, exists with its three financial subsidiaries — NACF in France, NH NongHyup Bank London branch and NH Investment & Securities in London — reported their latest operations to the chairman during his visit to the bank’s London branch. On the occasion of his visit to NH NongHyup Bank's London office, Kang encouraged the company's employees and discussed its global presence. Opened in 2021, NH NongHyup Bank’s London office was the bank’s first overseas branch in Europe, marking a milestone for a major Korean bank entering the U.K. financial market. “The London offices should serve not only as the core of NongHyup financial services in Europe, but also as a strategic outpost for NongHyup’s overall global expansion. It needs to establish a close relationship with Korean companies seeking to enter into the European market. They need money, and we can support them” explains Chairman Kang Ho-dong. Kang reviewed market trends in the European agri-food sector, local business performance and partnership networks at Nonghyup's France branch. He emphasized the office's role as a control tower for expanding Korean agricultural exports to Europe. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3068/kws-and-limagrain-to-divest-north-american-joint-venture-agreliant-genetics-to-gdm.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3068/kws-and-limagrain-to-divest-north-american-joint-venture-agreliant-genetics-to-gdm.html Mon, 30 Jun 2025 11:02:24 +0530 This transaction marks an important milestone for Vilmorin & Cie, enabling to further focus on its strategic priorities and to reinforce its other territories as it continues advancing on its Ambition 2030 roadmap. The seed companies KWS and Limagrain announced the sale of their North American Joint Venture (JV) AgReliant Genetics to GDM, a global leader in plant genetics. The three companies signed a binding agreement. The AgReliant Genetics Joint Venture (50/50) was established in 2000 between Limagrain and KWS. AgReliant specializes in research, production, and sale of seeds and offers high-performance varieties for corn, soybeans and other seeds across North America. “We are proud of what AgReliant has accomplished over the past 25 years. It has successfully built a business serving North American farmers with high-performing germplasm”, explains Nicolás Wielandt, KWS Executive Board member responsible for the corn business. “Capitalizing on the strength and experience of GDM as the world leader in soybean genetics and future owner, I am convinced that AgReliant will become a stronger player to the benefit of its clients and employees.” With this step, KWS is consistently pursuing its strategy of long-term profitable growth and independent decision-making to support the future needs of farming. This includes the further strengthening of KWS’ leading position in key crops throughout innovations, the development of a strong footprint in the vegetable seed market, the supply for an increasing demand of plant-based protein and driving the hybridization of different crops forward. Regarding the corn business, KWS is realigning its portfolio, focusing more strongly on the European market, where it holds a profitable leading position. In addition, geographically, KWS will expand its existing successful product portfolio of sugarbeet, cereals, and vegetable varieties in North America. The total transaction amount for the KWS shares in AgReliant and related germplasm is in the low three-digit million range (USD). Further details remain confidential. The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions. The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2025. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3059/nouryon-commissions-onsite-solar-projects-at-singapore-sites.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/3059/nouryon-commissions-onsite-solar-projects-at-singapore-sites.html Thu, 26 Jun 2025 11:55:49 +0530 The renewable energy project in Singapore supports Nouryon’s broader climate goals to reduce its absolute Scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 40 per cent by 2030 compared to 2019. Nouryon, a global specialty chemicals leader, announced a long-term agreement and the successful commissioning of rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at its two production facilities on Jurong Island, in Singapore. Developed and installed by EDP Renewables APAC (EDP), this project marks the completion of Nouryon’s first power purchase agreement and onsite solar project in Singapore, representing a milestone in the Company’s global sustainability journey. The new solar PV systems have a capacity of 250 kWp and will power Nouryon’s quaternary ammonium compound and alkoxylation production units, reducing the Company’s Scope 2 emissions. The installation follows the signing of a 14-year solar power purchase agreement (PPA) with EDP in July 2024, underscoring Nouryon’s long-term commitment to renewable energy and industrial decarbonization. “At Nouryon, we are committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions throughout our value chain as a pillar of our Carbon Business Strategy,” said Eduardo Nardinelli, Senior Vice President, South America & Global Carbon Business Strategy at Nouryon. “Today’s announcement highlights another milestone in our global effort to reduce our environmental impact while continuing to enhance our customers’ ability to achieve their sustainability goals by delivering products with a lower carbon footprint.” Nouryon’s Carbon Business Strategy is designed with a long-term horizon, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while fostering company growth. The strategy is guided by carbon operational excellence in company operations, transitioning sites to renewable energy, fostering innovation, and collaborating across the value chain with a focus on reducing indirect GHG emissions. “This commissioning marks a milestone for our team in Singapore and the broader region,” said Sobers Sethi, Senior Vice President, Emerging Markets and China at Nouryon. “By harnessing renewable energy, we continue to strengthen our regional presence and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to providing sustainable solutions that benefit both our customers and the environment.” The renewable energy project in Singapore supports Nouryon’s broader climate goals to reduce its absolute Scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 40 per cent by 2030 compared to 2019. Nouryon aspires to be a net-zero organization by 2050. More information on Nouryon’s sustainability progress can be found in the Company’s 2024 Sustainability Report, Sustainability Fact Sheet, and the dedicated Sustainability section of the Nouryon website. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2906/vietnam-uk-boost-agricultural-trade-ties.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2906/vietnam-uk-boost-agricultural-trade-ties.html Wed, 14 May 2025 11:33:23 +0530 Facilitates agricultural cooperation and improve market access for key export products from both countries A roundtable discussion held in London on May 13 brought together government officials, industry leaders, and businesses from both Vietnam and the UK to explore the current state, demand, and growth potential of bilateral agricultural trade. Around 40 agricultural producers, processors, logisticians, and traders attended the event, along with representatives from UK agricultural associations. Vietnam's poultry industry potential, consumer preferences, import-export regulations, and strategies for distributing Vietnamese food and produce in UK supermarket chains were discussed during the meetings. Agri-food imports from the UK total $67 billion a year, making it a high-potential market. Vietnam's agri-export turnover to the UK reached nearly $883 million in 2024, up 15.4% from the previous year. A number of Vietnamese exports, such as seafood, wood products, coffee, cashews, fruits, pepper, and handicrafts, match UK import demand. In the meantime, Vietnam imports seafood, pesticides, feed ingredients, and rubber from the United Kingdom. With both markets complementing rather than competing, there is plenty of room for expansion. Agricultural cooperation and market access for key export products from both countries were also recommended by participants. Tran Thanh Nam, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment, highlighted the UK's market potential and called for regular business-matching events, the establishment of supply chain-linked business clusters, and enhanced trade promotion. Both sides must ensure compliance with regulatory requirements in import-export activities, he said. Phuong Hoang, President of the Vietnamese Business Association in the UK (VBUK), noted growing interest among UK firms in reliable, high-quality, and sustainable agricultural supply chains. He highlighted Vietnam's strengths in fruit, seafood, and processed food exports, which are increasingly popular in global and British markets. Executive Director of the British Coffee Association Paul Rooke praised the quality of Vietnamese coffee, especially robusta, and said it holds strong potential in the UK’s diverse and high-demand market. He stressed the importance of understanding UK import requirements, not just in terms of quality, but also environmental standards, anti-deforestation rules, and fair trade practices. Nguyen Thi Minh Phuong, Product Development Manager at Longdan Group, one of the UK’s largest importers of Vietnamese goods, shared insights on marketing strategies, such as retaining local product names for better brand recognition. She emphasised combining digital marketing with in-store sampling to introduce Vietnamese specialty fruits to British consumers. Thai Tran, CEO of TT Meridian Ltd, a leading importer of Vietnamese fresh produce, said Vietnamese brands and products like pomelo, coconut, dragon fruit, and passion fruit are now featured in major UK supermarket chains, including Waitrose, M&S, and Tesco. He credited the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) for giving Vietnamese agriculture a competitive edge but warned that this advantage could diminish as the UK signs more bilateral trade deals, such as the recent agreement with India. To maintain market share, Thai advised Vietnamese exporters to ensure consistent quality, upgrade technology, and manage costs to keep prices competitive. He also encouraged a focus on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and brand development, factors increasingly valued in the UK. Thai proposed that trade promotion agencies collaborate with major UK distributors to organise nationwide Vietnamese Product Weeks, extending from metropolitan hubs to rural areas, to enhance brand visibility and consumer familiarity. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2864/spain-and-china-sign-cherry-export-protocols-to-boost-trade-with-asia.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2864/spain-and-china-sign-cherry-export-protocols-to-boost-trade-with-asia.html Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:56:49 +0530 In 2024, agricultural products worth 1.864 billion euros were exported to the Asian country. Spain Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, and the Minister of the General Administration of Customs of China, Sun Meijun, have signed new protocols for the export of cherries to the Asian country, China. The agreement, signed by the Spanish and Chinese governments, increase the export capacity of cherry in Spanish sectors. Since 2018, both countries have signed 10 protocols—both signed today—on sanitary and phytosanitary requirements for the export of agricultural and food products from Spain to China, which also include olive paste, pet food, feed oats, almonds, and persimmons. The new agreement for cherry exports opens up this product to the Asian country. The processing, packaging, storage, and transportation of cherries destined for export will be carried out under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. It will also be responsible for ensuring that only cherries from registered orchards can enter the packaging warehouse for selection and processing. This protocol will be valid for three years from today, the date of signing. In total, Spanish sales to the Asian country account for 2.5% of agri-food exports. China is undoubtedly a strategic market for numerous Spanish companies and represents significant potential for this country's exports. In fact, it is Spain's ninth largest market in value and the third largest outside the EU after the United Kingdom and the United States. In 2024, agricultural products worth €1.864 billion were exported to the Asian country. This data shows a positive balance of €253 million in the agricultural trade balance with China. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2858/beneo-inaugurates-new-plant-to-advance-plant-based-nutrition-in-germany.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2858/beneo-inaugurates-new-plant-to-advance-plant-based-nutrition-in-germany.html Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:26:06 +0530 The site is built with the €50 million investment to processes local pulses into high-quality food and feed ingredients occupying a 4,000 square meters area BENEO, a leading manufacturer of functional ingredients for food, feed and pharma and member of the Südzucker Group, has officially inaugurated its first pulse-processing plant after a construction period of just one and a half years. Südzucker Group invested around €50 million in its site in Obrigheim, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany for the opening. A local pulse called faba bean is processed into food and feed ingredients in this plant. The faba bean itself also plays a key role in sustainable agriculture, as pulses require no nitrogen fertiliser and enhance the soil quality for future crops. BENEO’s faba beans are grown in Germany, in close proximity to the production plant, and are REDCert2 certified, which is equivalent to the Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) from SAI at the highest “Gold” level. This new plant was built next to the existing BENEO site where its sugar replacer Isomalt and smart carbohydrate Palatinose TM (isomaltulose) are produced. The plant covers an area of approximately 4,000 square meters. On 11th April, a special inauguration ceremony was attended by Daniela Schmitt (Minister of Economic Affairs of Rhineland-Palatinate), Johannes Steiniger (Member of the German Bundestag), Nicole Eicher (Mayor of Obrigheim), Dr Niels Pörksen (CEO of the Südzucker Group), Olivier Roques (CEO of BENEO GmbH), Niels E. Hower (Member of the Executive Board of BENEO GmbH) and Dirk Dinger (Chairman of the Works Council of the Obrigheim plant).   “BENEO's new plant represents a strong commitment to Rhineland-Palatinate as a business hub. At the same time, the investment is driving innovation in the food industry and strengthening regional value creation. Future-oriented projects like this secure jobs, promote sustainable economic activity and strengthen rural areas,” said Daniela Schmitt, Minister of Economic Affairs for Rhineland-Palatinate. Sustainability has been a key focus for the new development, with the plant production running entirely on electricity from renewable energy sources. Additional power is generated by a rooftop photovoltaic system and waste heat from production is used to heat the building, while the pulse processing requires no water. The site’s sustainability credentials are further reinforced by a zero-waste approach, ensuring that all raw materials are fully utilised as ingredients for the food and animal feed industries. Niels E. Hower, Member of BENEO’s Executive Board, stated “What began more than 30 years ago with the processing of beet sugar into ingredients with added health benefits is now being continued at the new plant. The faba bean is a legume with a long history. Here in Obrigheim, we will process it into high-quality, plant-based ingredients that will contribute to future-proofed nutrition.” With the expansion of the site, BENEO is addressing these evolving consumer trends and catering for rising customer demand. Pulse-derived proteins, such as those from faba beans which are used for meat or dairy alternatives and egg replacement, are increasingly sought after in the food industry as alternatives to animal protein, playing a key role in the development of plant-based products.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2842/agricultural-robotics-to-advance-farm-robotics-in-europe-and-field-test-six-state-of-the-art-robotic-systems.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2842/agricultural-robotics-to-advance-farm-robotics-in-europe-and-field-test-six-state-of-the-art-robotic-systems.html Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:26:36 +0530 The European Commission has funded the project Harnessing Robotics, XR/AR, and 5G for Safe, Sustainable, and Smart Agriculture - $4.97M AgriRobot, a pioneering agritech company developing safety software for autonomous agricultural robots, has joined the AgRibot project as an official partner. The project, which received a €4.97 million grant from the European Commission, is strategically designed to address some of the most pressing challenges in European agriculture, including labour shortages, unsafe working conditions, and the pressing demands for both enhanced productivity and greater sustainability. Over the next four years, the AgRibot project will develop and field-test six state-of-the-art robotic systems throughout Europe, demonstrating their adaptability to a variety of agricultural operations, including weed management, precision spraying, harvesting, and pruning. More than just automating tasks, AgRibot integrates AR/XR technologies to improve farmer training, support operations in real-time, and foster better interaction between humans and machines. The agricultural sector faces several challenges, including a fatality rate 233% higher than other industries and a rapidly declining workforce, projected to drop from over 10 million in 2010 to just 7.9 million by 2030. This labour shortage leads to unharvested crops, rising labour costs, and reduced food availability, driving sharp price increases. The AgRibot project addresses these issues by automating labour-intensive tasks, improving safety, and enhancing working conditions, making agriculture more attractive to younger generations.By enhancing machine autonomy and safety protocols, AgriRobot’s technology will help accelerate the adoption of robotic solutions across Europe. The project is also developing an Impact Assessment Tool (IAT) to help farmers measure the economic, environmental, social costs and benefits of these innovations, promote beneficial adoption of smart farming technologies and showcase potential positive impacts on resource efficiency, pesticide reduction, and labour savings. “AgRibot is a transformative project for European agriculture, combining robotics, artificial intelligence, and augmented/extended reality to revolutionise farming practices. By leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, we are tackling today’s challenges while shaping a future of smarter, safer, and more sustainable agriculture.” says Gregory Mygdakos, AgRibot’s project coordinator. Led by AgroApps, the consortium brings together 18 leading organizations in robotics, AI, AR/XR, social science and agricultural sciences. These include Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Politecnico di Bari, Fundacio Eurecat, Geoponiko Panepistimion Athinon, CYENS Centre of Excellence, University of Macedonia, Digyone GmbH, Erevnitiko Panepistimiako Institouto Systimaton Epikoinonion kai Ypologiston, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Nova Telecommunications, Teknologisk Institut, Københavns Universitet, bSpoke Solutions, InoSens and Ecorobotix SA, alongside AgriRobot. This multidisciplinary consortium ensures that the project delivers innovative solutions that are technologically advanced and practically viable, benefiting farmers across Europe. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2768/syngenta-acquires-novartis-assets-to-strengthen-global-leadership-in-agricultural-biologicals.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2768/syngenta-acquires-novartis-assets-to-strengthen-global-leadership-in-agricultural-biologicals.html Wed, 05 Mar 2025 13:13:58 +0530 Syngenta will lease Novartis' fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories in Basel, Switzerland As a leading developer of next-generation biologicals products for agricultural use, Syngenta is expanding its biologicals research efforts and development capabilities significantly.  Syngenta has acquired Novartis' repository of natural compounds and genetic strains for use in agriculture, while Novartis retains exclusive rights in the pharmaceutical repository. Novartis' Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team will also be transferred to Syngenta as part of the transaction.  Syngenta gains access to an important source of new agricultural leads due to this move, as well as integrated capabilities in bioengineering, data science, fermentation, downstream processing, and analytics. Syngenta will also lease Novartis' fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories in Basel, Switzerland, as part of the agreement, which is expected to close on June 1st this year. Since 2019, Syngenta and Novartis have collaborated successfully on research projects. This acquisition follows Syngenta's opening of a biologicals production facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The facility is Syngenta’s first world-scale production facility for agricultural biologicals in the US and will support growing demand for science-based and novel biological solutions in both the North and Latin American markets.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2743/china-and-berlin-exchanged-views-on-deepening-sino-german-agricultural-cooperation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2743/china-and-berlin-exchanged-views-on-deepening-sino-german-agricultural-cooperation.html Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:46:37 +0530 A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed by leaders to promote ecological agriculture and agricultural technology development through pragmatic cooperative projects The Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hang Zhili, met with Ophelia Nick, Parliamentary State Secretary to the German Federal Minister of Agriculture and Food, in Berlin to discuss the possibility of further intensifying Sino-German agricultural cooperation.  Deputy Minister Zhang noted that China and Germany's agricultural cooperation enjoys a long history, stable mechanisms, and many different activities. Sino-German agricultural relations have always been characterized by pragmatic cooperation. Upon signing the Joint Declaration of Intent, he said, the two sides must develop pragmatic cooperative projects aimed at ecological agriculture and take action to develop rural areas, exchange young agricultural talent, and develop agricultural technology in an effective manner.  German State Secretary Nick and Vice Minister Zhang emphasized that Germany is pursuing deepening pragmatic agricultural cooperation between China and Germany, as well as conducting close exchanges with China on topics such as agro-trade and animal disease prevention and control. A Joint Declaration of Intent between the Ministries of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Federal Republic of Germany: A Joint Plan for Creating a Sustainable Future for the Sino-German Innovation Partnership on Agricultural Ecology was signed between the two parties.  During the 17th Berlin Agriculture Ministers' Conference, Vice Minister Zhang attended. China has been focusing on green development and has increased the use of agricultural waste resources as well as biomass energy. Through collaboration with all parties, China hopes to strengthen policy dialogue, facilitate technology exchange, foster industrial cooperation, and promote biological agriculture, thereby contributing to the protection of global food security and the building of a community that shares a future. Nearly 80 agriculture ministers and deputy ministers, as well as senior representatives of international organizations, attended the conference Recently, a China-Spanish meeting was held to discuss the Working Group on Agricultural Cooperation in Madrid, Spain, co-chaired by Vice Minister Zhang Zhili and Isabel Artime, both Secretaries General of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food of Spain. According to Vice Minister Zhang, China and Spain each have distinct agricultural sectors with complementary strengths, creating significant opportunities for bilateral cooperation in agriculture, technology, and fisheries. As part of advancing friendly agricultural relations between China and Spain, he emphasized that both countries should implement the consensus reached by their leaders, strengthen existing cooperation, and tap cooperation potential in rural development, smart agriculture, and feature industries.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2741/eu-commission-presents-its-roadmap-for-a-thriving-farming-and-agri-food-sector.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2741/eu-commission-presents-its-roadmap-for-a-thriving-farming-and-agri-food-sector.html Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:30:21 +0530 Attractive, competitive, resilient, future-oriented and fair agri-food system EU Commission is presenting its Vision for Agriculture and Food, an ambitious roadmap on the future of farming and food in Europe. This roadmap sets the stage for an attractive, competitive, resilient, future-oriented and fair agri-food system for current and future generations of farmers and agri-food operators. All actions outlined in the Vision are predicated on simplifying EU policies and utilizing innovation and digitalization more effectively. To support the transition to digital-ready agriculture, the Commission will propose a comprehensive simplification package for the current agricultural legislative framework in 2025. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: “Our farmers take centre stage in the EU's food production system. Our farmers face the growing challenges of global competition and climate change. Hence, we are offering a comprehensive strategy that makes farming more attractive, more resilient and more sustainable.” The Vision outlines four priority areas: An attractive sector: Farming must have the necessary stability to encourage young people to enter the profession, including through fair incomes and better-targeted public support. They also need to be actively supported to reap the benefits of innovation and evolving business models, including carbon and nature credits, as complementary sources of income. The Commission is committed to ensuring that farmers are not forced to systematically sell their products below production costs, and will take concrete action to that end, including through the review of the Unfair Trading Practices Directive. The Commission will also present a Generational Renewal Strategy in 2025, with recommendations on measures needed both at the EU and national/regional level to address the barriers to young and new people entering the profession. A competitive and resilient sector: The EU will continue to prioritise food security and sovereignty in various ways. Trade negotiations and agreements will be used to their full extent, while protecting the interests of European farmers. The Vision also responds to the requests of farmers, citizens and society at large for a stronger alignment of production standards for imported products to guarantee that the EU's ambitious standards do not lead to competitive disadvantage, while in line with international rules. For this reason, the Commission will start taking steps in 2025 to assess the impact of greatercoherences in standards when it comes to the hazardous pesticides banned in the EU and on animal welfare. Additionally, the rigorous enforcement and controls of food safety standards remains a non-negotiable priority. The Commission will reinforce its focus on livestock to foster the long-term future of the sector.   A future-proof sector: Europe's agricultural sector plays an important role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. The vision recognises the need to reconcile climate action with food security and the specific challenges faced by the sector.  Farmers should be rewarded for adopting nature-friendly practices. In this context, the Commission will carefully consider any further ban on the use of pesticides if alternatives are not available in a reasonable time and will streamline access to biopesticides in the EU market. The Commission will also develop a voluntary benchmarking system, the ‘on-farm sustainability compass', to help farmers measure and improve their farm-level performance. A Water Resilience Strategy will also be prepared to address the pressing need for more efficient water uses. Fair living and working conditions in rural areas: The Commission will come forward with an updated Rural Action Plan to ensure that rural areas remain vibrant, functional, and deeply linked to the EU's cultural and natural heritage.  An annual Food Dialogue will also be launched with a broad range of actors, including consumers, farmers, industry and public authorities to find solutions for issues such as food affordability and innovation. Reducing food waste and addressing societal concerns for animal welfare will also be closely looked at by the Commission going forward. Looking ahead, the future common agricultural policy (CAP), as part of the upcoming MFF proposal, will be simpler and more targeted, with support more directed towards farmers who actively engage in food production, with a particular focus on young farmers and those farming in areas of natural constraints. Incentives, rather than conditions, will be favoured. The Vision for Agriculture and Food was proposed as a priority initiative for the first 100 days of this Commission's mandate, led by Executive Vice-President Fitto and Commissioner Hansen, under the guidance of President von der Leyen. Building on the report of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture, and in consultation with the European Board for Agriculture and Food, the Vision aims to secure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the EU's farming and food sector. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2699/bayer-and-ecospray-sign-a-distribution-agreement-to-distribute-novel-liquid-nematicides-across-europe-the-middle-east-and-africa-by-2026.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2699/bayer-and-ecospray-sign-a-distribution-agreement-to-distribute-novel-liquid-nematicides-across-europe-the-middle-east-and-africa-by-2026.html Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:01:38 +0530 A garlic-derived Biological Crop Protection Product provides an alternative to synthetic chemical nematicides used in vegetable and potato crops Bayer announced that the company has signed a new exclusive distribution agreement with UK-based Ecospray to market a biological liquid nematicide sourced from garlic. The product presents a biological alternative to traditional synthetic chemical nematicides in vegetable and potato crops, and will be marketed in the European Union under the new name Velsinum™. “Farmers in the EU are in desperate need of new, effective solutions against pests for their high-value vegetable crops,” said Jens Hartmann, Regional Head for Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Velsinum will be a welcome addition into Bayer’s trusted portfolio of biological solutions and technologies supported by innovations like Velum, BioAct, Nematool and Terra MG.” Nematodes cause over 75 billion euros worth of damage to crops globally each year with all crops facing at least one nematode pest threat. Velsinum will offer growers a new tool against nematode root damage with complementary benefits for both plant and soil health. Plants which can avoid root damage are better able to absorb available nutrients and also can withstand disease and pest pressure overall, all while safekeeping beneficial earthworm populations to maintain soil quality. Ecospray’s knowledge and expertise of the naturally occurring bioactive compounds contained within garlic has allowed the company to develop effective plant protection products which take advantage of the natural nematicidal properties of garlic extract in order to create safe, effective and zero-residue solutions. “We are excited to collaborate with Bayer on Velsinum, which is fully compatible with Bayer’s existing biological portfolio,” said Peter McDonald, CEO of Ecospray. “This partnership is a strong endorsement of Ecospray and its R&D capabilities developed over many years. We also greatly appreciate the ongoing support from our existing distributors in Europe Certis Belchim BV and CBC (Europe) SRL., who remain vital to our market development with our legacy product Nemguard.” Bayer’s partnership with Ecospray continues Bayer’s work to bring new botanical and biological solutions from the open innovation ecosystem to growers, while encouraging diversity in modern agricultural practices and enabling additional regenerative agricultural practices. With Bayer’s trusted brand, global commercialization capabilities, and unparalleled agricultural systems expertise Bayer helps to bring effective biological products to market more quickly. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2642/azotic-technologies-limited-expands-its-technology-to-the-japanese-market.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2642/azotic-technologies-limited-expands-its-technology-to-the-japanese-market.html Fri, 20 Dec 2024 14:35:24 +0530 Sustainable nitrogen-fixing technology to farmers around the globe. Azotic Technologies Limited (Azotic®) is now selling its flagship product in Japan through Phytochrome Inc. Azotic’s unique nitrogen-fixing products began commercialization in 2018 within the North American market. Since then, the company has heavily pursued multiple patents globally. Partnering with Phytochrome to market N-Catch in the Japanese market gives farmers access to an environmentally friendly product, allowing them to meet their production goals. Based in Tokyo, Phytochrome “provides comprehensive support for sustainable agriculture through “bio-stimulant” technology.” N-Catch is a unique nitrogen-fixing biological based on the microbe Gd (Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus). It creates a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, stems, and leaves, fixing nitrogen inside plant cells and making Gd one of the most efficient N-fixing microbes available in agricultural applications. Keisuke Uchida, President & CEO of Phytochrome, explains, “We are concerned about environmental impacts, so we source products that benefit farmers and the environment. N-Catch is an extremely effective bio-stimulant that gives our farmers an excellent option for supporting plant nutrition.” Phil Bernardin, Global Business Development, Azotic Technologies Limited, adds, “We are excited about the opportunities that come with providing our technology to various markets. We have worked hard to establish our presence in Japan, through the commercialization of N-Catch. We aim to work with partners like Phytochrome to bring Gd technology to farmers.” Farmers can apply N-Catch to rice (transplanted and direct-seeded), corn, cereals, vegetables and fruits. The product is available as a wettable granule (WG). ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2497/germanys-saxony-anhalt-presents-current-and-future-investment-opportunities.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2497/germanys-saxony-anhalt-presents-current-and-future-investment-opportunities.html Mon, 07 Oct 2024 11:17:12 +0530 Central German federal state offers Europe's largest investment opportunity with 700 hectares of space at the High-Tech Park Germany's Saxony-Anhalt mentioned that there is plenty of space for big plans in Germany as the Central German federal state offers Europe's largest investment opportunity with 700 hectares of space at the High-Tech Park on the outskirts of its capital, Magdeburg. In addition, there are currently 19 more attractive commercial and industrial sites, each offering at least ten hectares of contiguous space, which will be showcased at the joint booth of the European Metropolitan Region of Central Germany at Europe's largest B2B trade fair for real estate and investment, Expo Real in Munich. "Saxony-Anhalt is currently experiencing remarkable investment momentum. Numerous innovative companies from various sectors have deliberately chosen our location – a testament to the attractiveness of our region. In addition to excellent location advantages, such as our central location and well-developed infrastructure, we offer attractive spaces for new projects. We will be highlighting these strengths at Expo Real to attract further investors to Saxony-Anhalt and fully leverage our region's growth potential," emphasized Dr. Robert Franke, Managing Director of IMG. Sven Schulze, Minister for Economic Affairs, Tourism, Agriculture, and Forestry of Saxony-Anhalt is convinced: "The economy in the eastern German states has become a driving force for Germany. Saxony-Anhalt plays a special role in this, especially with recent settlements from Daimler Truck, Avnet, Wacker, and others. We want to continue this development and are working to attract more companies to the business location of Saxony-Anhalt." Saxony-Anhalt also offers strategic sites for near-term development in places such as Leuna, Köthen, Sangerhausen, Barleben, Stendal, Quedlinburg-Quarmbeck, and Sandersdorf-Brehna. Making its debut at Expo Real are also tourism-related investment opportunities in the emerging travel destination of Saxony-Anhalt, which impresses its visitors from home and abroad with spectacular attractions like UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque small towns, and unspoiled nature, resulting in continuously increasing numbers of guests and overnight stays. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2489/syngenta-group-adds-cutting-edge-generative-artificial-intelligence-genai-to-cropwise.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2489/syngenta-group-adds-cutting-edge-generative-artificial-intelligence-genai-to-cropwise.html Wed, 02 Oct 2024 11:24:23 +0530 Cropwise AI is a cutting-edge GenAI system designed to increase the efficiency of agronomic advisors and growers to determine the best crop management practices. Syngenta Group, a global leader in agricultural innovation, announced the launch of Cropwise AI at the World AgriTech Innovation Summit in London Cropwise AI is a cutting-edge GenAI system designed to increase the efficiency of agronomic advisors and growers to determine the best crop management practices. Leveraging advanced machine learning algorithms and data analytics, Cropwise AI empowers growers with deep insights and enhanced decision-making capabilities to optimize crop yields, improve sustainability, and drive profitability. Cropwise AI leverages the deep library of Agronomic Models housed within Cropwise Insight Engine, including over 20 years of weather history, soil conditions, more than 80,000 observations on crop growth stages, and historical yield data from R&D and on-farm trials. This information is then integrated with Syngenta’s extensive agronomic expertise. Combined with a multi-lingual conversational LLM, the system provides growers with tailored recommendations for precise input applications, product placement, and strategies for pest and disease control in easy-to-understand natural language. The unique combination of data and models helps farmers make better decisions. Utilizing Syngenta’s seed recommendation models, Cropwise AI helps growers increase yields by up to 5 percent. "Cropwise AI represents a significant milestone in our digital transformation journey," said Feroz Sheikh, Chief Information and Digital Officer at Syngenta Group. "By combining our deep agronomic knowledge with cutting-edge AI capabilities, we are bringing the power of GenAI to agriculture and empowering growers to make data-driven decisions." Earlier this year, the launch of GHX 2.0 with Cropwise AI integration brought the full potential of farmer data to life. The updated GHX 2.0 app allows users to ask questions and get answers on products and agronomic challenges, to high-impacting diseases like Tar Spot. Key features of Cropwise AI include: Seeds recommendation and placement: providing insights on seed products and utilizing advanced predictive machine learning algorithms to deliver tailored seed recommendations. Predictive Modeling: Leveraging machine learning algorithms to forecast crop growth, yield potential, and risk factors based on real-time and historical data. Precision Agriculture: Providing site-specific recommendations for optimized input application, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. Looking ahead, Syngenta plans to expand Cropwise AI’s capabilities with innovative features that will further revolutionize agricultural practices: Advanced Disease and Pest Management: Future iterations will leverage computer vision and image recognition to detect and identify pests and diseases early, for proactive and precise management strategies. Sustainability Analytics: Syngenta will integrate sustainability analytics to quantify the environmental impact of farming practices and provide suggestions for reducing carbon footprint. “Cropwise AI is an industry-leading example of how GenAI can address critical agricultural issues”, said Elizabeth Fastiggi, Global Head of Agriculture, AWS. “Syngenta has revolutionized decision support, giving farmers easy access to expert advice. We're excited to partner with them to boost yields and optimize productivity across the agri-food system.” Cropwise AI is currently available to selected groups of customers in the United States and Brazil, with plans to expand to Europe in the near future. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2464/livegrow-bio-and-sudzucker-to-combat-sbr-disease-in-sugar-beets-with-advanced-microbial-formulation-technology.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2464/livegrow-bio-and-sudzucker-to-combat-sbr-disease-in-sugar-beets-with-advanced-microbial-formulation-technology.html Tue, 24 Sep 2024 10:03:51 +0530 Accelerate microbial product development and Future Manufacturing Capabilities for developing novel microbial products LiveGrow Bio, a leader in microbial formulation and manufacturing solutions, has collaborated with Südzucker, Europe’s largest sugar producer, to test microbial strains aimed at suppressing the bacteria responsible for Syndrome Basses Richesses (SBR) in sugar beets. LiveGrow Bio’s patented microbial formulation technology allows Südzucker to use microbes already formulated into a product for their upcoming greenhouse trials this fall. This ensures the data generated will match the final product’s performance capability, significantly shortening the R&D process by bypassing the need for post-trial formulation development. If the greenhouse results are positive, field trials are planned for 2025, moving Südzucker closer to commercialization faster than traditional product development methods. “Our goal is to save companies years of re-formulation work by providing them with ready-to-use microbial products that are tailored for trials and commercialization from the start,” said Andrey Pinchuk, CEO of LiveGrow Bio. “This collaboration with Südzucker highlights how we can accelerate R&D while positioning ourselves as a long-term manufacturing partner. Once a microbial product is ready for market, we can provide cost-effective manufacturing solutions, saving companies up to 95% compared to what it would cost them to produce non-spore-forming microbes using existing fermentation and formulation methods.” Additionally, LiveGrow Bio's technology can produce superior shelf life of over two years at room temperature, with microbial concentrations of no less than 10^7 cfu/g. By doing so, products can be distributed through existing crop protection sales channels, which typically require products to be stable at room temperature for two years. By offering a full range of services, LiveGrow Bio aims to become the go-to manufacturing partner for microbial R&D companies - from accelerating initial R&D with robust formulations to cost-effective toll manufacturing. By partnering with us, R&D companies can focus on innovation while we handle formulation and manufacturing, making their products reach market faster and more efficiently. Sugar beet growers could benefit from Südzucker Agricultural Research through collaboration. Innovative, cost-effective microbial solutions would be provided through the partnership success. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2437/coirnutri-a-first-of-its-kind-peat-free-coir-compost-to-revolutionise-plant-growth.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2437/coirnutri-a-first-of-its-kind-peat-free-coir-compost-to-revolutionise-plant-growth.html Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:26:13 +0530 CoirProducts of Salike is excited to introduce CoirNutri®, a first-of-its-kind peat-free coir compost. Crafted with de-composted coir and enriched with NPK, this game-changing compost is designed to revolutionise plant growth both indoors and out. Unlike other types of coir compost or potting mixes, CoirNutri functions as a compost, having gone through natural microbial activity and decomposition. With this latest addition, UK’s largest coir portfolio, CoirProducts.co.uk, a grower’s choice, continues to bring never-before-seen coir product varieties to growers and gardeners across the UK. The launch of CoirNutri also means that, for the first time, garden centres, plant centres, DYI shops, and others, have the opportunity to offer customers de-composted coir-based compost enriched with NPK in 50L bags. Powered by natural coir: CoirNutri is made using de-composted coir, a renewable resource derived from coconut husks. Unlike peat-based substrates that deplete precious ecosystems, coir is abundant and eco-friendly. Coir has high water-holding capacity, excellent air porosity, and facilities drainage, which help plants develop stronger and healthier root systems. Compost functionality: What sets CoirNutri apart is its dual functionality. Not only does it serve as a growth substrate, but it also functions as a compost. Through natural microbial activity and decomposition, CoirNutri transforms into a nutrient-rich soil amendment, further enhancing plant health and vitality.Enriched with NPK: As plants need more than just water and sunlight to thrive, CoirNutri is enriched with essential nutrients—nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). These vital elements provide plants with the balanced diet they need for robust growth, vibrant foliage, and bountiful blooms. Carbon neutral: Since its inception CoirProducts of Salike has been committed to environmental stewardship. That's why CoirNutri is carbon neutral. Harnessing the power of natural coir, this is a product that not only benefits plants but also minimises harm to the environment. Perfect for indoor and outdoor plants: The versatile nature of CoirNutri makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from potted houseplants to outdoor flower beds and vegetable gardens. Crafted with innovation: Innovation lies at the heart of CoirNutri. The team of experts at Salike has combined age-old traditions with cutting-edge technology to develop a product that meets the needs of modern gardeners. Whether it's nurturing a thriving indoor jungle or cultivating a flourishing garden, CoirNutri is ideal to use with a variety of plants and crops. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2390/vietnams-wood-and-forestry-sector-reports-export-revenue-9-36-b-in-q2-2024.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2390/vietnams-wood-and-forestry-sector-reports-export-revenue-9-36-b-in-q2-2024.html Mon, 19 Aug 2024 11:31:05 +0530 Over 54% of Vietnam's wood export value comes from the US market, alongside major export partners such as Korea and Japan, but recent amendments in trade policies are creating challenging situations Tran Quang Bao, director of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Department of Forestry, reported that Vietnam's wood and forestry sector achieved a positive outcome between January and July, with export revenue reaching $9.36 billion, accounting for 61.5% of the yearly target. Notably, the value of wood chip and woodwork product exports surged nearly 38% and over 20% compared to the same period last year. However, the export goal of $15.2 billion for the year remains challenging due to global economic fluctuations and escalating political conflicts, he said. Additionally, rising shipping costs and delayed tax refunds are adding pressure to the industry. Do Xuan Lap, chairman of the Vietnam Timber & Forest Products Association (VIFORES), gave insights into difficulties facing the sector in its major markets. The US, which represents over 54% of Vietnam's wood export value, has experienced several changes in trade policies. Vietnamese exporters are having to cope with multiple anti-dumping lawsuits, with the US initiating three cases related to the wood industry. Furthermore, it has yet to recognise Vietnam as a market economy, leading to continued discrimination in anti-dumping investigations, thereby adversely impacting costs and profit margins. Concerning the European Union (EU) market, the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is expected to take effect in December this year, posing significant challenges for exporters who must comply with strict regulations on product origin and environmental factors. Similarly, Northeast Asian markets, including the Republic of Korea (RoK) and Japan, have introduced new measures that increase costs and risks for Vietnamese exporters. The RoK has decided to continue imposing anti-dumping duties on Vietnamese plywood, while Japan is implementing a carbon credit trading system that requires strict compliance with emission regulations for wood products. To weather these challenges, Lap suggested the industry focus on enhancing competitiveness through the five main pillars of technical skills, production technology, emission reduction, management, and trade promotion and internal monitoring standards. Trieu Van Luc, deputy director of the Department of Forestry, outlined key tasks and solutions for the remainder of 2024. These include refining and effectively implementing existing policies, as well as spurring various economic sectors into engagement in the development of plantations, wood processing, and forestry. Additionally, increasing promotional activities such as trade fairs and investment promotions to showcase products and expand market opportunities is crucial. The official also stressed the importance of combating trade frauds by several exporters. He said the replication of successful partnerships between wood processors and plantation households not only ensures the legality of wood sources but also adds value, reduces production costs, and enhances the competitiveness of the sector. Vietnam's wood industry has firmly established itself on the international market, with an annual export value exceeding $10 billion. This positions Vietnam as the fifth-largest exporter of wood and wooden products in the world, second in Asia, and first in Southeast Asia. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2332/council-of-the-eu-adopts-legislation-on-fertilisers-labelling.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2332/council-of-the-eu-adopts-legislation-on-fertilisers-labelling.html Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:11:00 +0530 Promotes the use of digital labelling to reduce the costs, bureaucracy, and environmental footprint for producers The European Union Council has adopted a regulation for digital labelling of fertilising products. This is the last step in the decision-making procedure. The regulation approved promotes the use of digital labels on EU fertilising products while keeping physical labels where they are necessary. It also improves the readability of labels and simplifies the labelling obligations of suppliers.  Following the Council’s approval of the European Parliament's position, the legislative act has been adopted. The regulation updates the existing regulation about fertilizers’ labels. It promotes the use of digital labelling to reduce the costs, bureaucracy, and environmental footprint for producers. Digital labels will have a life-time of at least 10 years since a product is placed on the market. The regulation also ensures the availability of information by physical means to protect vulnerable consumers or people with limited digital competences. Digital labels will also be proposed for products sold in bulk, provided that the necessary information is also displayed in physical format in a visible place at the point of sale. The Commission will be empowered to update the general digital labelling requirements through delegated acts. Digital labels are QR or bar codes that redirect the user to a web page where the information of the label is stored. Digital solutions reduce substantially the cost of labelling and at the same time make it easy to update its content. Furthermore, the quantity and quality of the information that can be stored in a digital label are much higher compared with a physical label, whose readability can prove difficult, especially small packages. However, the level of digital literacy varies among social groups and ages, and some vulnerable groups may have difficulties to understand the functioning of digital labels or smart devices. In the EU, digital labelling is already used for some products containing chemicals, for instance batteries, and rules for digital labelling are under consideration for other products (i.e. detergents, cosmetics and other chemicals). The simplification of labelling obligations is expected to reduce annual costs by, on average, €57 000 for a large company and €4 500 for an SME. Up until now, regulation (EU) 2019/1009 stablished the requirements for the labelling of fertilisers. The Commission’s proposal was published on 27 February 2023. Co-legislators reached a provisional agreement on 22 January 2024. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2317/pepsico-europe-and-yara-partner-to-decarbonize-crop-production.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2317/pepsico-europe-and-yara-partner-to-decarbonize-crop-production.html Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:25:00 +0530 Partnership, which spans multiple countries, participating PepsiCo Europe farmers will be equipped with best-in-class crop nutrition products and advice as well as precision farming digital tools. PepsiCo Europe and Yara announced a long-term partnership in Europe aimed at providing farmers with crop nutrition programs to help decarbonize the food value chain. As part of the partnership, which spans multiple countries, participating PepsiCo Europe farmers will be equipped with best-in-class crop nutrition products and advice as well as precision farming digital tools. This will allow them to increase nutrient use efficiency (NUE), boost yields and reduce the carbon footprint of their crops. Yara, the leading crop nutrition company in Europe, will supply PepsiCo with the products and services. Yara will deliver up to 165,000 tons of fertilizer per year to PepsiCo, covering around 25% of their crop fertilizer needs in Europe by 2030. These fertilizers will be mostly Yara Climate Choice fertilizers, which include low-carbon footprint fertilizers produced from either renewable ammonia or low-carbon ammonia via carbon capture and storage (CCS), currently under construction in Yara Sluiskil. The mix will also include Yara’s standard premium nitrate-based mineral fertilizers produced using natural gas, which have a carbon footprint that is around 50% lower than most non-EU fertilizers thanks to the use of catalyst technology. The aim of the partnership is to upgrade to Yara Climate Choice fertilizers over time as production scales up and technologies mature so that all of the 165,000 p.a. tons are Yara Climate Choice fertilizers by 2030. Fertilizers are the biggest opportunity to reduce emissions as fertilizer production and in-field emissions account for half of PepsiCo’s average potato carbon footprint in Europe. The collaboration underlines the companies’ shared commitment to building a more sustainable food system in line with the European Union’s climate targets. At the same time, it will support farmers through transition costs to ensure their livelihoods are not adversely impacted. “This partnership with Yara aligns with our end-to-end transformation known as PepsiCo Positive (pep+) and will be critical as we transition towards the net-zero food system of the future. Targeting Scope 3 emissions is central to our pep+ agenda, but it can be one of the most challenging areas to directly influence. Providing our farmers with fertilizers that have a lower carbon footprint and supporting them to improve crop nutrition end-to-end will allow us to make a significant step towards our target of achieving net zero by 2040,” said Archana Jagannathan, Chief Sustainability Officer at PepsiCo Europe. The collaboration is also in line with Yara’s mission to responsibly feed the world and protect the planet. “To grow a nature-positive food future and transform our food system, we need to collaborate across the food value chain. We’re excited to work with first movers like PepsiCo to help make this a reality. Decarbonizing food production will be critical to delivering on the Paris Agreement – and farmers will play a key role in helping us get there,” said Mónica Andrés Enríquez, Executive Vice President for Europe at Yara. The partnership, which will help drive the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices, will include approximately 1,000 farms, covering a total of around 128,000 hectares across the European Union and the UK. Efforts will initially focus on potatoes, a key crop for PepsiCo, and then expand to other crops such as oats and corn. This partnership will also further scale up sustainable nutrient management practices across the PepsiCo farmer groups. This will include full season crop and soil data capture and monitoring using PepsiCo’s CropTrak and ML Analytics tool, and will be complemented by Yara's digital solutions offering, for example digital satellite imagery via the AtFarm platform and the MegaLab soil analysis. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2302/innovafeed-completes-third-expansion-phase-at-nesle-industrial-site.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2302/innovafeed-completes-third-expansion-phase-at-nesle-industrial-site.html Wed, 17 Jul 2024 08:26:00 +0530 With this expansion, Nesle becomes the largest insect production site in the world Innovafeed (Next 40, B Corp™) announced the completion of the third phase of expansion of its production site in Nesle . This is a crucial step that marks the ramp-up of its production capacities, as announced in September 2022, on the occasion of its last record fundraising of €250M (Series D) . This new extension brings the total floor area to 55,000m² . In doing so, it multiplies the larval production capacity by five and improves breeding conditions thanks to automated and optimized management of production flows. Through this extension, Nesle now becomes the largest insect production site in the world .This success demonstrates not only the viability of Innovafeed's disruptive technology but also its ability to evolve towards large-scale, profitable and sustainable production . Innovafeed thus demonstrates the strength of its innovative industrial model. A new industrial phase enabling the mastery of innovative technology and ensuring volume growth The construction of this latest extension in Nesle is the result of an industrial development designed in three phases to control and de-risk the development of its model. The first two phases, inaugurated in 2020 and 2023 respectively , made it possible to address the technological risks inherent in the creation of a new innovative industrial sector based on living organisms. After having carried out the ramp-up, stabilized the technology and demonstrated the economic performance of the site during these first 2 phases, this 3rd phase will make it possible to achieve the target production capacity and profitability. Innovafeed, a pioneer among industrial start-ups Innovafeed is one of the pioneers of a dynamic of creation of industrial start-ups in France. This movement within French Tech affects many impact sectors such as mobility, energy production or agro-industry. It allows the emergence of new technologies and new industrial sectors contributing to the industrial sovereignty of France as well as the decarbonization of strategic sectors . This process of emergence of industrial start-ups goes through several successive stages: the laboratory stage aimed at confirming technical feasibility, the demonstration pilot stage on a semi-industrial scale and finally the “head of series” stage of demonstration on an industrial scale. This last stage is a pivotal phase of transition between design and industrial maturity. The success of Innovafeed on Nesle is thus a very strong symbol for the ecosystem of industrial start-ups in France. A Sustainable and Efficient Model Through this extension, Innovafeed also demonstrates the acceleration of the development of the Insect Sector and the success of its industrial symbiosis model . This model guarantees the production of proteins intended for animal feed while ensuring a low carbon impact (80% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to other models without industrial symbiosis) and respect for biodiversity. This low-carbon food alternative is widely acclaimed by agribusiness leaders including ADM and Cargill , who are among Innovafeed's main customers and investors. Innovafeed has more than 1 billion signed contracts over 10 years , underlining the trust of its partners. Commitment to the Future The completion of this phase will strengthen the 170 existing positions by creating 40 jobs . These jobs include production operators, maintenance technicians and team coordinators, all from the Hauts-de-France region . Some of these positions have already been filled, and a majority of the remaining positions will be filled through internal mobility, thus continuing our commitment to developing our teams.Labeled B Corp since 2022 , winner of the Impact 40 since 2024 and listed in the Next 40 for the second consecutive year, Innovafeed aims to contribute to the growth of a new innovative industrial sector with a global impact.This new expansion marks a major milestone for Innovafeed, consolidating its  technological know-how and its local socio-economic impact . With this crucial step, Innovafeed demonstrates the innovation, sustainability and profitability projection of its industrial model, while anticipating the challenges of the industry and reaffirming its commitment to French green reindustrialization. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2269/syngenta-to-invest-9-6-m-euros-to-build-new-innovation-center-in-el-ejido-spain.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2269/syngenta-to-invest-9-6-m-euros-to-build-new-innovation-center-in-el-ejido-spain.html Fri, 05 Jul 2024 11:07:35 +0530 With the expansion of vegetable seed research and development centres in El Ejido (Almería) and Murcia (La Puebla), the new technological facilities to be build in Almería Syngenta has announced today a new investment of 9.6 million euros to expand and equip its R&D facilities in El Ejido with the latest technology. The announcement was made at a meeting held with the Department of Urban Development and the Mayor of the town hall of El Ejido and the managers of the Syngenta centre in the town. In the words of José Manuel Zapata, director of Syngenta's research centres in Almería and Murcia: " This new investment will revitalise the rural environment in the province of Almería and strengthen the already recognised international leadership of this province in the development of cutting-edge technologies in plant improvement and protection ".  Last year, the company announced an investment of 2.4 million euros in the expansion of its R&D centres in Almería and Murcia. Now, with this new commitment by Syngenta to Spain, the company is reaffirming its strategy of accelerating innovation in new technologies aimed at boosting the productivity and sustainable profitability of farmers. This large investment is intended to provide the centre with new facilities that will expand the existing lines of research. To this end, a new Plant Innovation Centre will be built. In this new facility, research activities will be carried out on different crops, both in greenhouses and outdoors. The aim is to make this R&D centre a global reference in leafy vegetable crops, tomato, pepper, cucumber, courgette and melon. The announcement took place at the headquarters of the El Ejido City Council, where company representatives shared all the details of the investment with the mayor, Francisco Góngora, who said that " it is wonderful news that an internationally renowned company has decided to build this innovation centre in Spain and to do so specifically in El Ejido ." Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies dedicated to the development and improvement of plant varieties for more than 150 years. Today it is the most global organization in the sector, with research teams operating in more than 60 countries that bring its innovation to the rest of the world.     ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2265/syngenta-biologicals-and-lithos-crop-protect-collaborate-to-fight-major-corn-pest-in-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2265/syngenta-biologicals-and-lithos-crop-protect-collaborate-to-fight-major-corn-pest-in-europe.html Wed, 03 Jul 2024 09:17:00 +0530 First sprayable pheromone disrupts mating of the Western Corn Rootworm, which poses an increasing threat to European agriculture as an impact of climate change. Syngenta and Lithos Crop Protect have signed a distribution agreement to supply a sprayable pheromone formulation for mating disruption to control a key pest in corn, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Western Corn Rootworm). This innovative solution features Lithos' patented lithos micro dispenser® technology, which utilizes a natural carrier material with pherolit®-d (the pheromone of Diabrotica v.v. L.), a naturally derived female pheromone that causes mating disruption in corn crops for large-scale use. The companies have now entered into the next phase of their collaboration to optimize the features and benefits of this innovation and rigorously test for safety and efficacy. The Western Corn Rootworm poses a significant threat to European agriculture, particularly in regions with continuous maize cultivation and insecticide resistance. It’s increased prevalence poses a significant threat to the industry, with climate change also intensifying its invasion into new territories. Targeting corn crops, its larvae feeds on roots, stunting plant growth and causing economic losses. Growing insecticide resistance and environmental concerns have increased the need for new, sustainable control methods with a lower environmental footprint. “This partnership between Syngenta Biologicals and Lithos Crop Protect represents another significant stride in expanding our biological portfolio with forward-thinking and disruptive solutions, while filling gaps in pest control due to the current EU regulatory landscape,” said Matthew Pickard, Head of Europe Biologicals and Seedcare, Syngenta. “The introduction of this solution will add a new tool to the current integrated pest management (IPM) strategies employed by the growers to safeguard crops and curb the advance of pests.” “We are actively seeking innovative and sustainable solutions to combat pests such as the Western Corn Rootworm,’’ said Lithos Crop Protect Managing Director and Founder Dr. Franz Reitbauer. ‘‘With the active ingredient pherolit®-d, we have the means to naturally disrupt pest mating behaviors, thus maintaining pest populations below the economically damaging threshold, without any negative effects on other organisms or the environment.” The introduction of pherolit®-d for European farmers will be the third pheromone technology in Syngenta’s portfolio. Registration in key European markets is expected for 2026. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2201/nz-onion-growers-gets-an-extra-3m-for-exports-to-the-european-union.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2201/nz-onion-growers-gets-an-extra-3m-for-exports-to-the-european-union.html Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:08:26 +0530 Early ratification of a free trade agreement (FTA) The European Union FTA Legislation Amendment Bill received Royal Assent, completing the process for New Zealand’s ratification of the deal with the largest trading bloc in the world. Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says all parties involved in the committee process agreed to complete the legislative process by the end of March. An earlier entry into force will also see tariff savings of $43 million for NZ kiwifruit exporters, on top of the $3 million for onion exporters this season. Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says all parties involved in the committee process agreed to complete the legislative process by the end of March. Onions NZ chief executive James Kuperus says it is great news for New Zealand onion growers, coming in time for the last half of the export season. He points out that New Zealand onion growers are having a better season this year. “The EU is New Zealand’s largest export onion market. We estimate that about 35,000 tonnes would be exported to the EU, tariff free, post 1 May. This volume would be worth an extra $3m or so, thanks to the early removal of the 9.6% tariff. Quality is exceptionally good. This season’s onions will keep well and maintain their great taste” Kuperus says. Most of the 2024 crop has now been harvested and stored with exceptional quality. Favourable weather conditions throughout the growth and harvesting stages have instilled confidence among growers regarding the quality, quantity, and storage capabilities of this year’s crop, notes Kuperus. Export operations have already commenced, with shipments bound for European and North Asian markets, and plans in place for exports to Indonesia soon. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2156/u-s-sustainability-alliance-amplifies-value-of-sustainable-u-s-soy-to-european-stakeholders.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2156/u-s-sustainability-alliance-amplifies-value-of-sustainable-u-s-soy-to-european-stakeholders.html Tue, 21 May 2024 19:09:41 +0530 As a member of the U.S Sustainability Alliance (USSA), the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) collaborates with other agricultural and export-focused organizations to highlight the sustainability of U.S. production practices. This partnership creates more opportunities to highlight the low carbon footprint of U.S. Soy. “USSA plays a crucial role in promoting and supporting sustainable agricultural practices,” says Abby Rinne, USSEC Director of Sustainability. “Through its work, USSA fosters innovation, knowledge sharing and awareness of our farmers’ and producers’ commitment to sustainability with key industry stakeholders in the UK and Europe.” As a leader in USSA, USSEC takes advantage of opportunities to deepen connections with key European stakeholders, while amplifying the value that the sustainability of U.S. Soy offers. “Essentially all the U.S. Soy products exported to Europe are verified sustainable through the U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP), and those certificates were transferred through the supply chain more than any other part of the world in 2023,” Rinne reports. “Stakeholders in the region want to understand what such sustainability verification means.” Two key USSA efforts provided opportunities to share those messages. Media Tour Highlights Commitment to SustainabilityThe USSA Media Tour during the 2023 growing season included a diverse group of journalists from the Czech Republic, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. It aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Nebraska's agricultural landscape, including U.S. Soy production. “Showcasing Nebraska agriculture provided the opportunity to address key sustainability issues, including soil health, water use and climate change,” Rinne explains. Tour stops included farms and ranches, an irrigation company, a popcorn manufacturer, a feedyard, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Key takeaways for the journalists emphasized the sustainability of U.S. agriculture. Participants gained insights into sustainable farming practices, including the integration ofcrop and livestock systems. Farmers showcased the use of conservation tillage, cover cropping, rotational grazing, and croprotation to mitigate soil erosion and preserve soil health. Visitors received a deeper understanding of agricultural irrigation and its role in efficientwater usage as they learned about the adoption and use of pivot irrigation systems. A visit to Loseke Feedyards highlighted animal welfare best practices, showing themeasures taken to ensure healthy livestock. The Tractor Test Laboratory at the University of Nebraska provided an overview of the work ofthis global leader in tractor performance and safety testing. Outreach Mission Cultivates Critical RelationshipsUSSA’s European Union Outreach Mission to Spain and Belgium the following fall aimed to communicate the United States' dedication to sustainable agriculture and to cultivate relationships with key stakeholders. Primary goals included expressing U.S. commitment to sustainable agriculture, dispelling misconceptions about American farming practices and engaging in meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities within the industry. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2155/basf-expands-its-biomass-balance-portfolio-for-selected-chemical-intermediates.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2155/basf-expands-its-biomass-balance-portfolio-for-selected-chemical-intermediates.html Tue, 21 May 2024 18:45:32 +0530 Manufactured at sites in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific, the new range of products contribute to the replacement of fossil resources with renewable raw materials  BASF will expand its biomass balance offering to include BMBCertTM 1,4-butanediol (BDO), tetrahydrofuran (THF), polytetrahydrofuran (PolyTHF®) and 3-(dimethylamino)propylamine (DMAPA). In addition to the production site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, the site in Geismar, Louisiana, has also achieved certifications for all these products. The Ulsan site in South Korea has obtained certification for PolyTHF. With these certifications, BASF can now offer its customers regionally produced ISCC PLUS and REDcert2-certified products for which renewable resources replace fossil feedstock and additionally reduce the cradle-to-gate product carbon footprint (PCF). “The new certifications for key products in our portfolio demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and our vision to be the preferred partner for sustainable intermediates. With our biomass balance portfolio, we are helping our customers achieve their sustainability goals by replacing fossil-based raw materials and reducing the cradle-to-gate carbon footprint. We are committed to driving the sustainability transformation of the chemical industry and we are proud to offer more products that contribute to our customers' sustainability goals,” said Ketan Joshi, President of BASF’s operating division Intermediates. The BMBcert*** offerings contribute to a reduction in fossil feedstock demand. At the beginning of the value chain, fossil-based raw materials are replaced by certified renewable resources, and a corresponding amount of renewable content is attributed to the product according to a mass balance approach. The resulting BMBCert product will have a lower product carbon footprint compared to the conventional BASF product. For example, according to Asahi Kasei Corporation, using BASF’s THF BMB to produce its mass balance grade premium sustainable stretch fiber under its ROICA™ brand could lead to an approximate 25 percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to its existing products. Essential raw materials in many value chains BDO is for example used for the production of PolyTHF. BASF’s customers use PolyTHF for example to produce elastic spandex and elastane fibers that are used for a wide range of textiles such as swimsuits, sportswear and underwear, but also outerwear such as shirts and stretch jeans. The elastic fibers ensure wearing comfort in the long run, and they are resistant to moisture and microbes. PolyTHF also serves as a chemical building block for the production of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), which BASF customers use to make highly abrasion-resistant and elastic hoses, films and cable sheathing, primarily for the automotive industry. Other applications include thermoplastic polyetheresters, polyetheramides and cast elastomers, which can be used in the manufacturing of various products such as wheels for skateboards and industrial rollers. With production plants for PolyTHF in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific, BASF is one of the world’s leading suppliers of this versatile intermediate product. BDO is a starting material for polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), an engineering plastic that is used successfully – for instance under the BASF brand Ultradur® –in the automotive, electrical and electronics industries. BDO also is used as an intermediate for the production of tetrahydrofuran (THF) and N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP), whose main applications are as essential solvents in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and for lithium-ion battery cathodes, such as those used in electrical vehicles. With production plants for BDO in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific, BASF is one of the world’s leading suppliers of this versatile intermediate product. DMAPA is an important building block for betaines, which are used in the production of gentle liquid soaps, shampoos and dishwashing detergents. DMAPA is also used in water treatment as well as in the production of plant protection products, lubricant additives, polyurethane foams and epoxy resin hardeners. BASF is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of DMAPA with production sites in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2048/basf-and-nunhems-opens-tomato-experience-center-in-the-netherlands.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2048/basf-and-nunhems-opens-tomato-experience-center-in-the-netherlands.html Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:53:47 +0530 Experience center features over 150 tomato varieties BASF | Nunhems has officially opened its Tomato Experience Center in Kwintsheul, near The Hague. The greenhouse features over 150 ToBRFV- resistant varieties. It is complemented by modern meeting facilities to showcase the company’s ToBRFV-resistant tomato varieties and exchange with customers on their needs, BASF’s innovations and trends in tomato breeding.  Customers and growers from around the world can explore the greenhouse and displays filled with different tomato varieties, offering opportunities to taste, touch, smell and slice the diverse range firsthand. Visitor groups may also include retail partners, industry experts, crop advisors and investors.  “Tomato breeding holds immense significance in the agricultural sector, as tomatoes have become one of the most important crops globally. From the moment ToBRFV erupted, BASF | Nunhems has been at the forefront in finding solutions to win the battle against this virus. Until now more than 25 ToBRFV-resistant varieties are providing solutions to tomato growers world-wide,” says Silvia Cifre, Vice President M&S at BASF | Nunhems. “We are proud to open the doors today of our Tomato Experience Center. BASF has been in the tomato seed business for over 50 years and with this innovative facility we can show how much our portfolio and cultivation technology have evolved. In this inspiring environment, we will be able to take our collaborations with all players along the value chain to the next level.“ Besides greenhouses and meeting opportunities, a comprehensive data collection on cultivation facts, production statistics, shelf life, weight and more is also on display at the center to provide customers with valuable insights for informed decision making. The BASF | Nunhems Tomato Experience Center is located on the premises of our partner De Bakker Westland, a tomato producer in the region and member of the Growers United Association. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2039/the-eu-is-ready-to-support-vietnam-in-developing-green-agriculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2039/the-eu-is-ready-to-support-vietnam-in-developing-green-agriculture.html Mon, 08 Apr 2024 09:33:00 +0530 Extends bilateral cooperation's Vietnam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Minister Le Minh Hoan discussed with Julien Guerrier, Ambassador - Head of the European Union (EU) on strengthening bilateral cooperative relationship between Vietnam and the EU including cooperation in the field of agriculture. In the Agricultural and Rural Development Strategy issued by the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Vietnam has also consulted a lot of experience from the European Community (EC) as well as member countries with technical advice. Enthusiastic techniques so that Vietnam can move towards developing a green and sustainable agriculture in the face of many global challenges such as climate change, poverty, desertification... Vietnam is not only interested in exporting agricultural products to the large EU market, but also wants to share and learn from the experiences of member countries around agricultural development, science and technology, innovation, digital transformation, green transformation, as well as support from you in terms of resources and technical advice. A lot of support is given to Vietnam in the fields of forestry and fisheries, in particular through the implementation of the European Union Anti-Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the journey to remove the yellow card on the EU side of IUU. In the future, the Minister Le Minh Hoan hopes that the EU will continue to cooperate with Vietnam and support its green agriculture development.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2025/certis-biologicals-certis-belchim-introduce-new-seed-treatment-biofungicide-for-cereal-growers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2025/certis-biologicals-certis-belchim-introduce-new-seed-treatment-biofungicide-for-cereal-growers.html Thu, 04 Apr 2024 12:01:34 +0530 Certis Biologicals and Certis Belchim have announced their first biofungicide formulation for cereals seed treatment: TOLTEK. TOLTEK is the first biological fungicide for Take-All disease in cereals registered in Europe and it will be distributed by Certis Belchim. The co-development project between Certis Biologicals and Certis Belchim (registered as TOLTEK FS) started five years ago. The first authorization for the product has been granted in France for use on Wheat, Barley, Spelt and Triticale, with more authorizations for TOLTEK still pending in Germany, Belgium, Czechia, Ireland and the UK. TOLTEK contains the microorganism Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D747, a proven bio-fungicide strain, that has demonstrated effective protection against Take-All disease (Gaeumannomyces tritici) in cereals when used as a seed treatment, in GEP efficacy trials conducted by Certis-Belchim. Take-All pressure has been increasing gradually over the last 20 years and is expected to continue to increase under the effects of global warming. Significant yield damage traditionally observed on short cereal rotations is now being seen in a larger range of agricultural practices. Toltek will be the third solution offered by CERTIS Belchim to control Take-All since 2017: Latitude XL, the seed treatment of reference to control Take-All under high disease pressure and maximize seed sowability. Bon Attitude, the only Take-All decision-making tool available and designed on the basis of the largest existing Take-All field trials database built over the last 25 years. Toltek, the first and only biocontrol seed treatment ever developed for cereal growers fully compatible with industrial requirements of our seed treater partners. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2000/eu-nz-fta-ratification-boost-for-new-zealands-horticulture-sector.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/2000/eu-nz-fta-ratification-boost-for-new-zealands-horticulture-sector.html Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:39:13 +0530 Kiwifruit growers stand to benefit from tariff savings The New Zealand-European Union Free Trade Agreement will deliver a major boost to the horticulture sector when it comes into force later this year. Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Nadine Tunley says onion and kiwifruit growers stand to benefit from tariff savings. “Based on last year’s export figures, around $60 million in tariffs per year will be slashed from day one, including nearly $52 million on kiwifruit alone. “The FTA will level the playing field by ensuring New Zealand’s horticulture exports are more competitive on the shelf, which is great news for our growers and regional communities across the country. “The agreement will also strengthen the sector’s resilience and build prosperity at a time of significant supply chain volatility.” New Zealand kiwifruit and onion exporters have been facing EU tariffs of between 8.8 and 9.6 per cent. Other New Zealand fresh, frozen and processed horticulture products face even higher EU tariffs – in some cases, up to 33 per cent. New Zealand horticulture’s overall export earnings (FOB) from EU trade reached almost $614 million in the year ending November 2023. “The horticulture sector will be looking for further progress on the removal of the EU’s agricultural subsidies in the future, says Ms Tunley. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1974/basf-unveils-new-fermentation-plant-for-crop-protection-products-in-germany.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1974/basf-unveils-new-fermentation-plant-for-crop-protection-products-in-germany.html Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:58:52 +0530 Strengthening the portfolio of biological and biotechnology-based crop protection products with new site in Ludwigshafen BASF invests massively in a new fermentation plant for biological and biotechnology-based crop protection products at its Ludwigshafen site. The plant will manufacture products that bring value to farmers including biological fungicides and biological seed treatment. BASF also plans to utilize the plant to produce the main building block of Inscalis®, a novel insecticide derived from a fungal strain. The plant is expected to go into operation in the second half of 2025 and will manufacture biological fungicides and biological seed treatment products. BASF also plans to produce the main building block of Inscalis®, a novel insecticide derived from a fungal strain. In the production microorganisms are used to convert renewable raw materials such as glucose into the desired products – a process known as fermentation. The plant will employ 30 people in production, logistics, engineering and maintenance. The plant will use microorganisms to convert renewable raw materials such as glucose into the desired products – a process known as fermentation. “We see a growing demand for biological crop protection products. This investment is an important step in building an even stronger and more competitive portfolio in this area,” said Marko Grozdanovic, Senior Vice President, Global Strategic Marketing at BASF Agricultural Solutions. “In addition, fermentation is a very flexible technology that will allow us to bring more innovative biotechnology-derived products to the market in the future.” “For production at our Ludwigshafen site, this development is another step in the transition to innovative manufacturing processes with lower energy intensity based on renewable raw materials,” said Christian Aucoin, Senior Vice President, Global Operations at BASF Agricultural Solutions. “The site offers excellent synergies due to its good infrastructure, the integration into an existing high-performance production organization and the proximity of research units such as White Biotechnology.” Delegates the buried a time capsule, commemorating the groundbreaking day of the plant. It included a photo of the project team, a daily newspaper, the canteen menu of the day and a panda bear as a sign of the bond with Chengdu in China, where a significant part of the detailed engineering for the plant took place.  Image Caption (left to right): Dr. Uwe Liebelt, (President European Site and Verbund Management), Heather Remley (President, Engineering & Technical Expertise, Ludwigshafen) and Christian Aucoin (Senior Vice President, Global Operations at BASF Agricultural Solutions) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1963/moa-to-develop-next-gen-bioherbicides-in-new-10-year-commercial-partnership-with-croda.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1963/moa-to-develop-next-gen-bioherbicides-in-new-10-year-commercial-partnership-with-croda.html Mon, 18 Mar 2024 08:42:20 +0530 Moa’s next-generation bioherbicides, designed to tackle the global threat to food production from increasing weed resistance Moa Technology, the leading agricultural biotech company, and Croda International plc, the global life sciences and consumer care company, have formed a strategic partnership to tackle the global problem of declining food crop yields by using marine science. The partnership aims to develop next-generation bioherbicides for land-based farms by combining Croda’s extensive research into the marine microbiome – developed by its Nautilus Biosciences subsidiary in Canada – with Moa’s own unique herbicide discovery engine. Croda’s advanced manufacturing capabilities will help bring to the field new products identified from the collaboration. The $5 billion biopesticide market is growing at around 8% a year, according to Croda estimates, as farmers urgently seek better ways to tackle weeds and pests which have become resistant to conventional methods. Fast-growing herbicide-resistant weeds, such as pigweed, mare’s tail and water hemp, can reduce crop yields by over 50%, threatening food security for millions of people around the world. Spun out of the University of Oxford in 2017 to develop new and more sustainable ways to help ensure global food security, Moa today employs over 70 people and is backed by leading agritech and life sciences venture capital firms. Alongside its proprietary biotechnology platforms which work to identify herbicides with novel modes of action (MOAs), Moa deploys state-of-the-art AI/machine learning and operates its own world-class glasshouse testing facilities. Moa already has a diverse pipeline of new herbicides – both biological and synthetic – some of which it is developing on its own, and some with industry partners. Virginia Corless, Chief Executive Officer of Moa Technology, says “We are using the wealth of data in Croda’s marine library to create the biopesticides of the future. That Croda have chosen to partner with us for this 10-year exclusive agreement is an endorsement of Moa’s cutting-edge research and development capabilities and the great progress we have made in finding diverse new ways to tackle the huge global problem of food security.”   Dave Cherry, VP Strategy Life Sciences at Croda, says “The partnership will allow Croda to explore new approaches to sustainable agriculture by working with Moa and using their biotechnology platforms to screen our extensive library of natural marine compounds. Together we can unlock potential commercial solutions as we work towards a mutually beneficial relationship between Croda and nature for a thriving planet and society.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1870/agriloops-invests-13m-euros-to-build-commercial-scale-shrimp-and-greenhouse-farm-in-france.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1870/agriloops-invests-13m-euros-to-build-commercial-scale-shrimp-and-greenhouse-farm-in-france.html Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:20:00 +0530 Mangrove #1 is a key milestone demonstrating the scalability and profitability of first commercial-scale farm Agriloops, a French company combining shrimp and vegetable farming, has successfully concluded a fundraising round of 13 million euros to finance the construction of its first commercial-scale farm, Mangrove #1. Agriloops has adopted the advanced technique of saltwater aquaponics, combining aquaculture and greenhouse growing to offer local, premium shrimp production. “Mangrove #1 is a key milestone to demonstrate the scalability and profitability of our technology. We are eager to demonstrate our unique approach that offers significant environmental benefits while meeting the growing needs of our industry,” said Jérémie Cognard and Romain Vandame, who founded Agriloops in 2016, adding the fundraising marks a milestone for the company, which has been supported since its inception by companies like Ÿnsect’s co-founders Alexis Angot and Antoine Hubert. After an initial round of funding that financed the R&D phase and a pilot farm in Rennes, this second round of 13 million euros marks a new turning point for Agriloops. It allows the Breton company to begin construction of its commercial facility Mangrove #1, which will cover over 1 hectare in Brittany, France, and boast a production capacity exceeding 100 tons of shrimp and fruits and vegetables annually. It consists of an aquaculture building of 2,000 m² and an adjoining vegetable greenhouse of 5,000 m². According to the founders, this aquaponic farm will become one of Europe’s largest, showcasing Agriloops’ approach to sustainable food production. The water from the shrimp basins, loaded with effluents, is recycled and converted into water loaded with fertilizers to feed fruits and vegetables. This aquaponic loop saves a significant amount of fertilizers and up to 90% of water, explain the two leaders. This approach has garnered support from various stakeholders, including government programs like France Relance and BPI France’s DeepTech Development Aid. Furthermore, Agriloops has attracted investment from a diverse range of backers, including banking institutions, historical investors like BNP Paribas Développement and OGHI, as well as new investors such as SPV Aqua Invest, Breizh Up, Transitions First, and Good Only Ventures. The company’s approach has also been recognized internationally, with support from organizations like the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA). ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1861/swedens-first-fossil-free-mineral-fertilizer-factory-to-reduced-climate-impact-and-strengthen-food-supply-by-2028.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1861/swedens-first-fossil-free-mineral-fertilizer-factory-to-reduced-climate-impact-and-strengthen-food-supply-by-2028.html Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:35:07 +0530 Nordics, Fertiberia, Lantmännen and Nordion Energi partners with total investment estimated to amount to around 2 billion euros In the largest investment of its kind in the Nordics, Fertiberia, Lantmännen and Nordion Energi announce a partnership that aims to establish Sweden's first fossil-free mineral fertilizer production, through the joint initiative Power2Earth. Through its hydrogen-based production process based on fossil-free energy, Power2Earth has the potential to greatly reduce the climate impact of food production. The investment is also an important step in enabling robust Swedish food preparedness. The start of production is planned for the end of 2028 and the total investment is estimated to amount to around 2 billion euros, with the partners in the final investment phase planning to enter with different stakes. The establishment means a big step in Sweden's green transition and a strengthened food preparedness. Power2Earth builds on a technology developed by Fertiberia, a leading producer of fossil-free mineral fertilizers. The collaboration is based on a shared vision of a sustainable and robust agricultural and food production and combines the respective partners' strengths, expertise and experience. By using an electrolysis technology based on fossil-free energy, Power2Earth strives for the lowest possible emissions in the production process. The project began in 2021, since then a number of preliminary studies have been completed in combination with securing land for the factory establishment in Luleå. Preparations are currently underway for an environmental permit application which, according to the schedule, is to be submitted during the second quarter of 2024. Javier Goñi, Fertiberia's CEO says: “Fertiberia brings over five decades of experience in the manufacturing, operation and logistics of mineral fertilizers and ammonia. We are reducing agriculture's carbon dioxide emissions through the transition to the production of fossil-free mineral fertilizers with the help of hydrogen gas". Through Power2Earth's production of fossil-free mineral fertilizer in Luleå, there is a potential to reduce emissions by around 1.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, which corresponds to around 25% of the emissions from Swedish agriculture. The innovative technology based on fossil-free hydrogen positions Power2Earth as a key player in the green transformation of food production. With a production capacity of one million tons of mineral fertilizer annually, Power2Earth also has great potential to increase the robustness of Swedish food production, in line with Sweden's national food strategy and ambitions regarding enhanced preparedness. This by reducing dependence on imports and improving the conditions for domestic food production and increased Swedish self-sufficiency. Per Arfvidsson, vice president and CTO at Lantmännen says: "Power2Earth is revolutionary for the Swedish agricultural and food industry as fossil-free mineral fertilizers are crucial for creating a sustainable, efficient and future-proof food value chain. A domestic production of mineral fertilizer reduces Sweden's complete dependence on fertilizer imports and is absolutely necessary for the development of a robust food security. We are happy to now be able to take the next step and establish Power2Earth together with Fertiberia and Nordion Energi". Power2Earth will also be a positive addition to Norrbotten's industrial landscape. By introducing the production of fossil-free mineral fertilizers and access to renewable hydrogen in the region, Norrbotten is positioned as a center for hydrogen's continued expansion. The establishment also strengthens regional growth and diversifies the region's industry. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1810/3rd-edition-of-eu-japan-green-transition-matchmaking-event-to-stage-on-15-22-feb-2024.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1810/3rd-edition-of-eu-japan-green-transition-matchmaking-event-to-stage-on-15-22-feb-2024.html Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:01:00 +0530 Ideal B2B platform for enterprises, research and educational institutions and other related organisations The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is organising an EU-Japan Green Transition Business Matching Platform, that aims at bringing together companies, startups and research organisations from Japan and Europe for partnerships that contribute to a low-carbon society. The platform was launched on 3 January 2024. The matchmaking event is stage on 15-22 Feb 2024. The Centre partners with various stakeholders in Japan to mobilise Japanese corporations. In partnership with many stakeholders in Europe and Japan, the EU-Japan Centre organises an “EU-Japan Green Transition" matchmaking event for the third year in a row. The event is for companies as well as research organisations from Japan and EU interested in building business partnerships that contribute to a low-carbon society. EIC beneficiaries have a great chance to promote their Green Transition solutions on this platform. The EU-Japan Green Transition platform offers opportunities for online meetings on 15-22 February 2024 and onsite meetings in Tokyo during the Smart Energy Week/ Green Transformation Week on 28 Feb - 1 March.  Online pitching and other webinars are part of the agenda. The platform will also be open to hosting webinars related to the Green Transition topic.The main target areas are:- Electrolysers and fuel cells- Battery/storage technologies- Solar photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies- Grid technologies- Onshore wind and offshore renewable technologies- Sustainable biogas/biomethane technologies- Carbon Capture and storage (CCS) technologies- Heat pumps and geothermal energy technologies- Low-carbon construction and manufacturing/ green materials- Product lifecycle management (PLM) and Recycling Access to this platform is reserved for representatives of enterprises, research and educational institutions and other related organisations, that are active in the above target fields and based in Japan, the European Union or Single Market Programme (SMP) countries. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1800/china-and-austria-deepens-bilateral-cooperation-via-agricultural-trade-investment-food-processing.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1800/china-and-austria-deepens-bilateral-cooperation-via-agricultural-trade-investment-food-processing.html Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:50:00 +0530 Vice Minister Ma Youxiang meets with Austrian Director General of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Regions and Water Management Vice Minister Ma Youxiang met with Johannes Fankhauser, Director General for agriculture and rural development of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Regions and Water Management of The Republic of Austria, in Vienna. They exchanged views on deepening agricultural cooperation between China and Austria.   Vice Minister Ma said that under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, China–Austria agricultural cooperation is stable and improving. The cooperation mechanisms have been continuously refined, agricultural trade has continued growing, and S&T cooperation has achieved fruitful results. The two countries have carried out a series of pioneering projects in organic agriculture. He noted that China stands ready to work with Austria to fully tap the potential in areas such as agricultural investment, processing of agricultural food products, and rural development to improve bilateral agricultural cooperation pragmatically.    Director General Fankhauser acknowledged the achievements of China–Austria cooperation in agriculture and rural development and agreed with Vice Minister Ma. He said Austria stands ready to advance pragmatic exchanges on issues of common concern to take bilateral agricultural cooperation to a new high.    ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1806/china-hungary-extends-bilateral-cooperation-in-agriculture-and-rural-affairs.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1806/china-hungary-extends-bilateral-cooperation-in-agriculture-and-rural-affairs.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 10:20:58 +0530 The partner countries have strengthened economic and trade investment and enhanced S&T exchange  Ma Youxiang, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, met with Istvan Nagy, Minister of Agriculture of Hungary, in Budapest on Jan. 24. They exchanged views on deepening China–Hungary cooperation in agriculture and rural affairs.  Vice Minister Ma said that through the joint efforts of both countries, the agricultural cooperation mechanism has been operated smoothly, as the economic and trade investment has steadily increased, and S&T exchange has achieved fruitful results. Bilateral agricultural cooperation has provided impetus for improving China–Hungary relations. Vice Minister Ma made three proposals to strengthen China–Hungary agricultural cooperation: 1) Continue to leverage the China–Hungary Promotion Center for Agricultural Science and Technology Cooperation, and enhance the exchange of animal and plant germplasm resources and collaborative R&D in deep processing technology for agricultural products; 2) Plan and implement more “small yet smart” projects, tap the cooperative potential in areas such as beekeeping, and improve the sense of achievement of the two peoples; and 3) Boost economic and trade investment and cooperation in agriculture, and establish platforms for exchange between the companies of both countries.  Minister Nagy spoke positively of the agricultural cooperation between Hungary and China. He said Hungary stands ready to work with China to strengthen and advance economic, trade and S&T exchange in agriculture between the two countries, and achieve more tangible results through bilateral agricultural cooperation. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1735/adm-to-expand-traceable-soybean-pilot-after-first-deliveries-to-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1735/adm-to-expand-traceable-soybean-pilot-after-first-deliveries-to-europe.html Thu, 18 Jan 2024 09:31:14 +0530 Successful pilot has resulted in 2.4 million bushels (64,000 metric tons) of verified, fully traceable U.S. soybeans shipped from U.S. to Europe ADM, a global leader in sustainably sourced solutions from nature, has loaded and shipped its first vessels of verified, fully traceable soybeans from the U.S. to Europe. With the completion of the initial phases of the program, and in anticipation of the new EU deforestation regulations becoming effective at the end of the year, ADM now intends to expand these capabilities to other key locations across North America in the 2024 growing season. Matt Hopkins, ADM’s vice president, North America River and Export said “This program – along with our comprehensive plan to achieve 100% deforestation-free supply chains by 2025 – demonstrate the value of ADM’s irreplaceable global footprint and our investments in climate-smart and regenerative agriculture.” “While there are still issues – including how full compliance will be defined, measured and enforced – to work through in advance the EU’s deforestation regulations, we are confident in our ability to continue to deliver to customers in Europe,” said Jon Turney, ADM’s vice president, EMEA Crush. “We will continue to work with stakeholders – including farmers, government and industry – across our supply chains in the U.S. and other key regions in between now and the new regulations coming into effect on December 31.” ADM’s traceable soybean program is an outgrowth of its International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) certified bean program, and utilizes cutting-edge technology – such as FBN’s Gradable digital platform – as well as ADM’s origination and transportation capabilities to verify, trace and segregate participating beans from farms to their final destination. In the wake of the successful pilot, which delivered 2.4 million bushels (64,000 metric tons) of fully traceable soybeans to European customers in 2023, ADM intends to broaden the program to additional North American locations in 2024, providing the opportunity for interested farmers to continue to participate in current and new global markets that generate greater value and preference for their crops. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1730/adama-launches-5-innovative-formulation-cereal-fungicides-in-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1730/adama-launches-5-innovative-formulation-cereal-fungicides-in-europe.html Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:42:58 +0530 Deliver Excellent Results and Respond to Diverse Farmer Needs ADAMA Ltd. , a leading crop protection company, has announced the launch of five new cereal fungicide products across Europe to tackle the most serious diseases impacting farmer yields at each stage of the crop's reproductive phase. Together, these products offer ADAMA's customers a comprehensive portfolio of innovative solutions designed to deliver excellent results in the field and address different application stages (T1, T2, and T3) and various value segments.  With the launch of these new products ADAMA will have one of the most robust portfolios in the industry for cereal disease control in Europe. The five products are based on a leading DMI molecule, cementing them as the foundation for treatment of cereal diseases after the regulatory phase-out of other key active ingredients in the market.  The company also introduced its novel and proprietary Asorbital® Formulation Technology to enhance the activity of its products, delivering improved penetration, excellent systemic movement in the leaf tissue, improved and long-lasting disease control, and excellent rainfastness. "Our new, enhanced cereal fungicide portfolio is a powerful demonstration of our ability to deliver value and innovation through enhancing the performance of existing molecules with proprietary formulation technologies and delivering products to our customers that provide excellent disease control, keep the crop safe and address the different value segments in the market." said Alex Mills, Head of Global Fungicides at ADAMA. ADAMA's European cereal fungicide portfolio includes: Soratel®, a versatile and broad-spectrum solution powered by ADAMA's proprietary Asorbital® Formulation Technology, which can be used in various segments alone or in a mixture. Maxentis®, is a broad-spectrum, multi-crop, convenient and easy to use fungicide with flexible timing that can easily be plugged into any wheat spray program as a T1 or T2 application. Forapro®, is a broad-spectrum fungicide powered by Asorbital® Formulation Technology that controls all the major T1 diseases in wheat such as Septoria, Rust and Powdery Mildew. Maganic®, powered by Asorbital® Formulation Technology, is a T3 fungicide that protects wheat against all ear diseases including Fusarium spp. resulting in lower mycotoxin levels and higher quality grain. Avastel®, is ADAMA`s premium T2 broad-spectrum fungicide with both curative and preventative disease control, powered by Asorbital® Formulation Technology delivering a new standard of efficacy and long-lasting protection. "We set a strategy 10 years ago to invest in Europe's cereal growers given the anticipation of the regulatory phase-out of key active ingredients in this market. We devised a plan to ensure farmers have the products they need today to address rising disease pressure, new agronomic challenges, and an increased focus on sustainability. Our enhanced portfolio with five new products ticks all of these boxes," said Sergio Dedominici Paz, EVP EAME at ADAMA. ADAMA began rolling out its new cereal fungicide portfolio in 2023 with the introduction of Soratel® in the UK, and the launches will continue across the continent, UK, and Ireland throughout 2024. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1690/croplife-europe-commits-e10b-into-innovation-in-precision-and-digital-technologies-by-2030.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1690/croplife-europe-commits-e10b-into-innovation-in-precision-and-digital-technologies-by-2030.html Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:48:41 +0530 Also commits €4 billion into innovation in biopesticides by 2030 "We have established six commitments by 2030 focused on three areas, which are innovation and investment, the circular economy, and protecting people and the environment. Olivier de Matos, Director-General of CropLife Europe, said that the organization is planning to invest €4 billion in "plant bioprotection." " said de Matos. In the are of innovation and investment, the idea is to accelerate farmers' capacities to combat pests and diseases while protecting the environment, he added, noting that another €10 billion will be allocated to "digital agronomy," bringing the total estimated investment to €14 billion for the coming years. Regarding the circular economy, de Matos stressed that a significant challenge lies in plastic waste from pesticide products, as packaging must be collected and treated. "Currently, the rate of recovery of packaging waste from agrochemical products in the European Union (EU) is 66%, and we aim to reach 75% by 2025. We also want to develop and implement a system for collecting plastic waste because not all EU countries have it," he explained. In terms of protecting people and the environment, he highlighted the objective of facilitating access to new technologies. "We are committed to training one million farmers and consultants in good health practices, the use of water and environmental protection," de Matos said, noting the use of Closed Transfer Systems (CTS) technology to further reduce operators' exposure to chemicals. According to de Matos, CropLife Europe is committed to actively encouraging research and innovation to equip European farmers for more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive agriculture. To achieve this, the organization will establish six commitments by 2030 focused on three areas, which are innovation and investment, circular economy, and protecting people and the environment. CropLife Europe is a European association composed of 23 companies, both multinationals and SMEs, and 31 national associations, including ANIPLA. It is based in Brussels. CropLife Europe's members support European farmers in protecting their crops through conventional chemical protection, biological control, plant biotechnology and digital agronomy. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1644/fowler-westrup-india-acquires-netherland-based-seed-processing-holland.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1644/fowler-westrup-india-acquires-netherland-based-seed-processing-holland.html Thu, 21 Dec 2023 07:59:52 +0530 With this acquisition, Fowler Westrup becomes the world’s leading seed and grain processing company Fowler Westrup India Pvt Ltd, a leading company in providing one-stop solutions for seed & grain processing with its range of equipment and machinery, announced the acquisition of Netherland-based Seed Processing Holland (SPH), a global leading producer of advanced seed processing equipment from H2 Equity Partners. With this strategic acquisition, Fowler Westrup becomes the world's leading seed and grain processing company and will serve its customers in the vegetable and field crop seed processing segments in different parts of the world with an extended product portfolio and innovative solutions. Additionally, the group can leverage Fowler Westrup’s global sales and service network, manufacturing footprint and engineering capabilities. Together, the combination will be at the forefront of modernising the seed processing industry, to further develop sustainability and improve automation in the sector. Shardul Kshirsagar, CEO, of Fowler Westrup India, said, “We are pleased to announce the acquisition of SPH; after the acquisition of Premium Seed Machines in the Netherlands, this is a logical step for us. With this acquisition, Fowler Westrup India, with its “String of Pearls” strategy, takes up a leading position in the industry to provide complete solutions to global seed companies. The high quality of SPH’s solutions reflects the company’s 57 years of dedication to seed processing. With our combined efforts and continued focus on innovation, we will be in a stronger position to transform the seed processing industry in partnership with our customers.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1621/leeds-university-and-entocycle-reveal-research-program-for-commercialisation-of-uk-insect-farming.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1621/leeds-university-and-entocycle-reveal-research-program-for-commercialisation-of-uk-insect-farming.html Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:20:17 +0530 The UK insect farming industry is currently constrained by strict legislation on the use of insect protein in animal feed and a lack of protocols and standards for insect-rearing facilities University of Leeds and Entocycle unveiled a program dedicated to developing the protocols and codes of practice to unlock the growth of the UK insect farming industry. The project, named InSAFE, is funded by Innovate UK and BBSRC as part of the Novel Low Emission Food Production Systems competition and will evaluate the use of nonpermissive feedstocks, including pig slurry, chicken manure and sewage sludge, to raise black soldier fly (BSF). The UK insect farming industry is currently constrained by strict legislation on the use of insect protein in animal feed and a lack of protocols and standards for insect-rearing facilities. Insects are still an emerging opportunity for farmers, and developing codes of practice and industry standards, in particular those on Food Safety, will help to align insect farming with other farming systems in the UK. The InSAFE project will help us accelerate our efforts to address some of the barriers facing the industry, in particular those related to food safety. Current UK and EU legislation prohibits the use of livestock manure and slurry as a feedstock for insects, restricting its potential to reduce the growing problem of agricultural waste and the associated environmental pollution. Currently, feedstocks allowed to breed and feed insects are primarily of vegetal origin. Examples include vegetables not meeting specific supermarket standards, byproducts from vegetable processing such as potato or carrot peelings, or spent grains from beer or spirits production. Animal products are not permitted, except dairy products and eggs. Protocols, codes of practice and Food Safety and Quality standards will also be developed for a range of production scales, from small lab-scale units to commercial farms. A new, state-of-the-art insect-rearing demonstrator facility, developed and installed by the UK’s leading insect technology company Entocycle, will house the research and is situated at The National Pig Centre on the University of Leeds’ research farm in Yorkshire. The 40ft walk-in unit – named ‘Entoexplore’, is the only commercial demonstrator to utilise non-permissive feedstocks in the UK, and it has been specifically designed and built to withstand the industrial requirements of handling these inputs. The unit mirrors commercial rearing environments with an environmental control system and Wi-Fi data monitoring. Samples will be collected from the unit, in addition to Entocycle's R&D facility in London for permissive feedstocks, including segregated food waste. The research will analyse the bacterial microbiome, pathogen loads, presence of AMR genes, and heavy metal content of permissive and non-permissive feedstocks before and after insect bioconversion (the natural process of insects eating and upcycling waste matter into higher-value products such as protein and fertiliser), alongside analysis of the BSF larvae and by-products such as frass. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1620/al-dahra-and-agreena-announce-carbon-farming-project-in-romania.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1620/al-dahra-and-agreena-announce-carbon-farming-project-in-romania.html Fri, 15 Dec 2023 07:24:50 +0530 The 55,000-hectare project will take place on the largest consolidated arable farm in the European Union, operated by Al Dahra-owned Agricost A partnership between UAE agribusiness, Al Dahra, and Danish climate agtech company, Agreena, will see the largest consolidated arable farm in the European Union transition to regenerative agriculture. More than 55,000 hectares of arable land on the Al Dahra-owned Agricost farm on Great Braila Island in Romania will enter Agreena’s soil carbon programme. The two global players signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at COP28, signifying a pivotal partnership between Al Dahra and Agreena that will unite their strengths and expertise to collaborate globally.  The agricultural industry is in a unique position to play a critical role in sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. The agrifood system accounts for approximately one-third of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but the agricultural industry also provides a significant opportunity to be a part of the climate solution. By incentivising farmers to transition from conventional to regenerative farming practices, Agreena supports farmers in turning their soils into carbon sinks, removing and storing CO2 from the atmosphere. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1609/mustgrow-biologics-and-bayer-collaborate-for-biocontrol-technologies.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1609/mustgrow-biologics-and-bayer-collaborate-for-biocontrol-technologies.html Wed, 13 Dec 2023 11:30:39 +0530 MustGrow to receive upfront license fees and milestone payments, royalties and manufacturing sales linked to development and commercial achievements MustGrow Biologics Corp announced the signing of a collaboration agreement with Bayer AG covering soil applications of MustGrow’s mustard-based biocontrol technologies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, excluding home and garden, turf and ornamental applications. Under the terms of the Agreement, MustGrow will receive an initial upfront payment as well as additional payments linked to the achievement of certain business milestones. Upon the commencement of commercial sales, MustGrow will also be entitled to fees from royalties and manufacturing sales. Additionally, Bayer will be responsible for regulatory and market development work in the respective field of use necessary to commercialize MustGrow’s mustard-based biocontrol technologies, including the development of the formulated product, conducting relevant regulatory data studies for regulatory submissions, filing regulatory submissions, registration with relevant regulatory authorities, and support, marketing, and commercial sales activities. MustGrow anticipates that the value of the upfront, milestone payments and Development Work could approximate $35 to $40 million over the next several years (not including additional fees from royalties and manufacturing sales). “Biologicals are part of an exciting frontier that offers new solutions for the challenges that growers face across the world,” said Benoit Hartmann, Head of Biologics for Bayer. “We’re committed to working with leading innovators like MustGrow to accelerate the development of innovative biological solutions that provide safe, sustainable options for farmers and are looking forward to continuing our work together.” Under the Agreement, Bayer has also been granted a right-of-first-negotiation for a license to use MustGrow’s mustard-based biocontrol technologies for use in bananas in particular applications, excluding postharvest applications. MustGrow expects to continue collaborating with Bayer to consider other potential applications of MustGrow’s mustard-based biocontrol technologies, including potential testing in regions not currently covered by the Agreement. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1608/fao-and-norway-launch-new-phase-of-the-eaf-nansen-programme.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1608/fao-and-norway-launch-new-phase-of-the-eaf-nansen-programme.html Wed, 13 Dec 2023 11:22:50 +0530 From 2024 to 2028, the EAF-Nansen Programme will intensify efforts to improve food and nutrition security in partner countries The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the government of Norway announced a new five-year phase of the EAF-Nansen Programme at the UN Climate Change Conference COP28 in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The Programme is a partnership between FAO, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), the Institute of Marine Research (IMR) in Norway, regional fisheries organizations and 32 partner countries in Africa and the Bay of Bengal, dating back to 1975. Norway will fund a budget of 1 billion NOK ($94 million) for the new period. From 2024 to 2028, the EAF-Nansen Programme will intensify efforts to improve food and nutrition security in partner countries, placing a stronger focus on strengthening fisheries management in response to the impacts of climate change. “A large number of the global population live by and off the ocean. For people to continue to do so, we need to manage the marine environment and life sustainably. The Nansen Programme plays a key role in collecting and sharing ocean knowledge. This effort is crucial in fighting climate change and ensuring food security also for future generations,” said Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, the Norwegian Minister of International Development. “This unique Programme generates essential data, research and science needed for countries to make informed decisions that support sustainable fisheries management. FAO welcomes the announcement for this new phrase to build a sustainable and resilient future for our oceans, working together to promote responsible fishing practices, combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and address the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems,” said Maria Helena Semedo, FAO Deputy Director-General. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1530/greece-engages-bl-agro-to-strengthen-indo-greece-partnership-in-agri-trade-agri-tech-and-animal-sciences-sectors.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1530/greece-engages-bl-agro-to-strengthen-indo-greece-partnership-in-agri-trade-agri-tech-and-animal-sciences-sectors.html Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:14:43 +0530 Explores adoption of agriculture technology, exchange of skilled manpower, promote agri trade, animal science, and steps to mitigating climate change The Government of Greece is in talks with India’s leading FMCG company BL Agro to explore strategic partnership in adoption of agriculture technology, exchange of skilled manpower, promote agri trade, animal science, and steps to mitigating climate change. Honourable Minister of Rural Development & Food of the Hellenic Republic Eleftherious Avgenakis and Dimitrios Loannou, Ambassador of Greece to India met Ashish Khandelwal, MD, BL Agro FMCG Co. and Navneet Ravikar, Chairman & Managing Director, Leads Connect Services, recently during a reception held at the Embassy of Greece. The reception organised by BL Agro Group was held in the honour of the Minister to highlight India - Greece relations in agriculture, Animal Husbandry Fisheries, and Food Processing Sectors. Manoj Kumar, Director, BL Agro felicitated both, the Minister and Ambassador of Greece, by honouring them with traditional shawl as a sign of respect. This was the first visit by a high ranking Greek official to the country after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Athens in August 2023 with an aim to strengthen bilateral ties. “We want to deepen trade ties with India. We also want to have deeper interactions with India in the field of agriculture and animal sciences. The entire value chain of farmers in India and Greece should benefit from this strategic partnership,” said Eleftherious Avgenakis, Minister of Rural Development & Food of the Hellenic Republic. On the sidelines of the event, Navneet Ravikar, Chairman & Managing Director, Leads Connect Services (a group company of BL Agro) said that they had fruitful talks with the Greek Minister and explored opportunities of collaboration in different sectors of agriculture. “The discussion that we had today was essentially on using our technology in Greece. The Honourable Minister is very keen on understanding how we can provide better skilled manpower to Greece, better agriculture technology and methods in mitigating climate change. Secondly, it was also about how India can help Greece build better agriculture and veterinary institutions,” said Ravikar. Ravikar also added that they are exploring options to import feta cheese, olive oil, and wine from Greece and export high quality millets, basmati rice, spices and other agriculture products from India. Recently, BL Agro has formed a JV with Greece-based Salas International Group, one of the largest aid providing firms in Europe, to provide food kits in disaster-struck areas. Ravikar also said Leads Connect has tied up with JOIST Innovation Park, a Greek start-up incubator firm, to bring funds into India for tech startups. “We want to bring them to India and specifically use their expertise in the field of agri-tech. We are soon signing an agreement on this,” he said. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1343/bionema-launches-new-range-of-biofertilisers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1343/bionema-launches-new-range-of-biofertilisers.html Tue, 29 Aug 2023 12:34:48 +0530 Bionema Group Ltd, a leading UK-based biocontrol technology developer and manufacturer of biocontrol, biostimulants and biofertilisers, has announced the launch of a new range of biofertiliser products in the UK for use in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, sport turf and amenities.Bionema Group Ltd is launching four biofertilisers comprising living microbes that enhance plant nutrition by mobilising or increasing nutrient availability in soils and substrates. The BioNFix™ range and Rhizosafe™ include Paenibacillus azotofixans BNL1913, Azospirillum lipoferum BNL714, Bradyrhizobium japonicum BNL1061, and Rhizophagus irregularis BNL2414 encapsulated in a novel Incapsulex™ technology platform. This technology effectively encapsulates naturally derived microorganisms and delivers them on target, safely and effectively.  These biofertilisers restore the soil’s natural nutrient cycle and build soil organic matter, enhancing plant growth while avoiding the use of synthetic fertilisers that can pollute the world’s waters and its atmosphere. Field trials conducted by Bionema in different parts of world demonstrated significantly enhanced growth in agricultural crops grown with biofertilisers, and positive changes in soil organic matter content and pH, soil type and agroecological condition. These effects resulted in yield improvements as well a 40–50% reduction in synthetic fertiliser use. As the benefits of these products have become more recognised, and consumer preference for organic foods has intensified, there has been growing interest in biofertilisers. The biofertilisers market was valued at $2.6 billion in 2021 and projected to reach $4.5 billion by 2026 at 11.9% CGAR (Markets and Markets, 2022). In particular, the mycorrhizae-based biofertilisers market is projected to reach $1.087 billion by 2027, and the use of mycorrhizal biofertilizers (especially arbuscular mycorrhizae species for agriculture crops) is expanding thanks to their numerous benefits: (i) increased nutrient intake and water; (ii) reduced soil erosion; (iii) reduced need for phosphorus application; (iv) better tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1309/eu-and-new-zealands-free-trade-agreement-fta-to-build-robust-sustainable-agri-business.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1309/eu-and-new-zealands-free-trade-agreement-fta-to-build-robust-sustainable-agri-business.html Fri, 18 Aug 2023 10:33:05 +0530 Key to reducing agricultural emissions by building efficiency; New Zealand's blue print to foster Horticulture sector New Zealand’s government has an ambitious plan for its agricultural sector to be “the world’s most sustainable provider of high-value food and fiber products.” The roadmap for the sector includes targets such as adding $44 billion to food and fiber exports by 2030 while slashing sector emissions by 10 %.  New Zealand’s sustainability commitments also provided the basis for a robust free trade agreement with the European Union that aims to improve the sustainability of both New Zealand and EU food systems.  The deal was signed in July 2023 and includes standards for climate impact, labor and gender equity, as well as subsidy provisions for sustainable fisheries.  Trade between the EU and New Zealand is projected to grow by 30% as a result of the agreement, according to the European Commission.  EU and New Zealand free trade agreement (FTA), will deliver significant gains for the EU. The deal will cut some €140 million a year in duties for EU companies from the first year of application. As a result, bilateral trade is expected to grow by up to 30% within a decade, with EU annual exports potentially growing by up to €4.5 billion. EU investment into New Zealand has a potential to grow by up to 80%. This landmark agreement also includes unprecedented sustainability commitments. The agreement is now sent to the European Parliament for its consent. Following the completion of the ratification process in both the EU and New Zealand, the deal enters into force. The EU-New Zealand FTA will provide new opportunities for businesses by: eliminating all tariffs on EU exports to New Zealand ensuring non-discriminatory treatment to EU investors in New Zealand and vice versa improving access for EU companies to New Zealand government procurement contracts for goods, services, works and works concessions facilitating data flows, predictable and transparent rules for digital trade and secure online environment for consumers; preventing unjustified data localisation requirements and maintaining high standards of personal data protection; dedicating chapter to assist Small and medium businesses to export more  significantly reducing compliance requirements and procedures to allow for quicker flow of goods significant commitments by New Zealand to protect and enforce intellectual property rights, aligned with EU standards Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, says: “New Zealand is a key partner for us in the Indo-Pacific region, and this free trade agreement will bring us even closer together. With today's signature, we have taken an important step in making the agreement a reality. This modern free trade agreement brings major opportunities for our companies, our farmers and our consumers, on both sides. With unprecedented social and climate commitments, it drives just and green growth while reinforcing Europe's economic security". The EU-New Zealand FTA is the first one to integrate the EU's new approach to trade and sustainable development announced in the Communication “The power of trade partnerships: together for green and just economic growth”, For the first time ever in an EU free trade agreement, the deal has a dedicated sustainable food systems chapter. Stimulating agri-food exports by EU trade EU farmers will have much better opportunities to sell their produce in New Zealand immediately upon application of the agreement. Tariffs will be eliminated as of day one on key EU exports such as, wine and sparkling wine, chocolate, sugar confectionary and biscuits. EU farmers will see benefits beyond the tariff cuts. The FTA will protect the full list of EU wines and spirits (close to 2,000 names) such as Prosecco, Polish Vodka, Rioja, Champagne and Tokaji. In addition, 163 of the most renowned traditional EU products (Geographical Indications), such as Asiago, Feta, Comté or Queso Manchego cheeses, Istarski pršut ham, Lübecker Marzipan, Elia Kalamatas olives will be protected in New Zealand. The agreement takes into account the interests of EU producers of sensitive agricultural products: several dairy products, meat, ethanol and sweetcorn. For these sectors, there will be no liberalisation of trade. Instead, the agreement will allow zero or lower tariff imports from New Zealand only in limited amounts (through so-called Tariff Rate Quotas). Boost to Horticulture sector: Future of regenerative agriculture across New Zealand farms New Zeeland is the sixth largest global exporter of wine by value; Kiwifruit are New Zeeland's biggest horticultural crop by economic value. Wine grapes are New Zealand’s largest horticultural crop by area. And almost all wine in New Zealand comes from farms that participate in "Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand", an industry-wide certification program. The program covers all aspects of sustainability, from climate to chemical use to labor rights for workers.  New Zealand has a strong culture in wine grape cultivation, and maintains a vineyard with around 16 different species that are under the vineyards. New Zealand wine exports have surged to new record levels with their largest ever one-year growth, lifting 25% in value to NZD$2.4 billion (about $1.5 billion). New Zealand grows wine grapes using regenerative methods such as intercropping, the practice of growing cover crops between rows of cash crops, and composting, using the spent grape skins from the winery to mulch the vines.  The New Zealand wine sector has set sustainability goals that are critical to the future success of the industry. New Zealand wine is differentiated by the country’s cool climate and water supply, meaning that working to mitigate climate change is in the best interest of vintners and other industry stakeholders. Research is currently underway to identify vines resilient to disease and pest pressure and that are more drought tolerant, says Edwin Massey, general manager sustainability for New Zealand Winegrowers, the national organization for the country's grape and wine sector Strong consumer demand for sustainably certified wines is growing in New Zeeland. Having a robust sustainability certification process helps assure these consumers that New Zealand wine is the right choice for them. Although New Zealand produces less than 2 % of global supply, the country is now the sixth largest exporter of wine by value. Similarly, while wine grapes are New Zealand’s biggest horticultural crop by area, kiwifruit are its biggest horticultural crop by economic value. Kiwifruit is a $2.6 billion sector in New Zealand, with most of the farms found in the Bay of Plenty. Zespri is the marketer for the country’s kiwifruit industry and handles exportation, marketing, and distribution of New Zealand kiwis to over 50 countries worldwide, including the U.S. New Zealand kiwifruit production increased by close to 70 percent between 2010 and 2019, and at the same time, the industry improved efficiencies on-farm and in packing and shipping that accounted for a 24 percent drop in greenhouse gas emissions.  On Orchard, Zespri has developed research and development partnerships to better grow and promote regenerative and sustainable farming practices in the kiwifruit and apple sectors. “Over the next five years, we’re looking to test the regenerative concept in three kiwifruit and three apple orchards, using a specific combination of soil, water and biodiversity management practices, comprehensive monitoring of critical ecosystem services, and undertaking an economic analysis of the results,” Depree explained. Zespri is also working in partnership with key leaders in New Zealand’s primary sectors to prepare for the impacts of climate change and manage biodiversity risks. It also set long-term sustainability goals that account for the priorities of customers, growers and other stakeholders, in packaging, water, climate change, health and wellbeing and community investment.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1286/adama-launches-first-global-bio-fungicide-in-peru.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1286/adama-launches-first-global-bio-fungicide-in-peru.html Fri, 11 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0530 ADAMA Receives Registration for ACTAVAN®, its First Global Bio-Fungicide ADAMA Ltd., one of the world's leading crop protection companies, announced the registration of its global bio-control product, ACTAVAN®, in Peru. ACTAVAN® is ADAMA's first global bio-fungicide developed in collaboration with the New Zealand company Waikaitu Ltd. ACTAVAN® uses plant extracts to effectively prevent the occurrence of fruit rots in crops such as grapes, berries, and certain vegetables, while also improving their quality. In addition, ACTAVAN® increases the sugar content, peel firmness, size, and weight of the berries, also reducing fruit splitting. As a biological product, ACTAVAN® is compatible with organic farming and integrated pest management (IPM) practices ACTAVAN® represents a significant innovation in ADAMA's biological offering and complements the existing ADAMA portfolio by providing effective and reliable fungicidal action for all type of farming using a novel active ingredient. ACTAVAN® is a bio-fungicide that stimulates the plant's immune system at a systemic level and consistently deliver positive results. Additionally, unlike many other fungicides, there is no pre-harvest interval for ACTAVAN®, which gives farmers more freedom to plan crop treatment schedules. Alex Pressman, CEO and founder at Waikaitu Ltd said "Sustainable farming is the future for feeding the world's population in a way that is better for the planet and better for business. ACTAVAN® leads the way by protecting plants from harmful fungal diseases and improving fruit quality, while still meeting organic and sustainable farming requirements." ACTAVAN® is currently registered for use in Peru, and ADAMA expects to register the product in other Latin American countries, and in more regions such as Asia-Pacific and Europe, in the near future. ADAMA has more than 50 biological solutions in its portfolio, such as Bralic, a pesticide based on garlic extract, and Protégé, a microbiological nematicide and fungicide. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1247/bionema-stimulates-organic-growth-with-a-new-range-of-biostimulants.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1247/bionema-stimulates-organic-growth-with-a-new-range-of-biostimulants.html Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:37:14 +0530 Launching seven products, including seaweed extracts, humic and fulvic substances, and other natural nutrients Bionema Group Ltd, a leading biocontrol technology developer and manufacturer, has announced the launch of a new range of biostimulant products in the UK for use in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and turf and amenities. These biostimulants use advanced micronutrient technology to promote healthy plant growth. Bionema Group Ltd is launching seven products, including seaweed extracts, humic and fulvic substances, and other natural nutrients that cover all stages of plant growth, with foliar and root applications in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and turf and amenities. These products stimulate natural processes in plants and soil, increasing the uptake and assimilation of nutrients, increasing the surface area of roots and the quality of the soil. Field trials have shown that plants with biostimulants have better resistance against abiotic stress (e.g., heat, drought, salt), while the root reaches more nutrients and can collect more water. In fact, the Bionema team conducted a range of glasshouse and field trials in the UK, EU, India, Canada and LATAM countries, and the findings show that these products may allow farmers to cut their fertiliser use by 50%, while keeping 93% of the yields. In Bionema’s glasshouse trials, root growth was 35% better when using the suggested mix of 50% fertilizer and Bionema’s biostimulants, compared to just using the normal 100% fertilizer mix. The plant biomass (excluding roots) was 93% of that grown with just a common fertilizer mix. The core Bionema biostimulant products are being marketed under the following brand names in the UK market. O-Stimula™:Calcium peroxide complex enables sustained release of oxygen and a continuous supply of calcium for strengthened plant cell walls, optimised soil pH, reduced spread of anaerobic pathogens. Grostimula™ATCA: Acetyl thiazolidine carboxylic acid (ACTA) formulation triggers plants to synthesise their own amino acids and hormones for better plant functioning and growth. Grostimula™EW:Triacontanol acts as a biological PGPR that widens and lengthens opening of stomata for better photosynthesis and respiration, increased crop yield. Plantgro™: Patented combination of biofertilisers and nutrients to help improve yields. RootVita™SP:Combination of biofertilisers, beneficial microbes, nutrients, prebiotics and vitamins for soil health improvement and healthy plant growth. Groprim™: Derived from Sargassum seaweed which is endowed with biostimulant properties that promote plant growth, rooting and tillering, enhances nutrient uptake and plant health, and increases crop productivity. Floretocare™:Bioactive humic and fulvic substances derived from vermicompost provides bioenergy for fetter flower retention, attracts pollinators, promotes healthy flowers and fruit formation. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1171/worldfish-and-norway-join-forces-to-promote-climate-smart-technologies-for-aquaculture-in-egypt.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1171/worldfish-and-norway-join-forces-to-promote-climate-smart-technologies-for-aquaculture-in-egypt.html Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:53:31 +0530 The four-year collaboration aims to increase the incomes of 5,000 fish producers, processors and other fish value chain actors through renewable energy technologies. WorldFish embarked on a groundbreaking initiative with Norway aimed at refining, testing, and scaling innovative renewable energy solutions for the aquaculture sector in Egypt. The four-year initiative, Centre for Renewable Energy in Aquaculture (CeREA), is funded by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Cairo until 2027. The initiative reflects Norway's commitment to enhancing nutrition, promoting job and value creation and empowering local fish value chain actors with climate-smart technologies, particularly small- and medium-scale fish farmers in Africa. “We are delighted to sign the agreement today with WorldFish. The project will enable 5,000 fish producers, processors and other fish value chain actors to increase their productivity and incomes, leading to a reduction in food waste and loss and promoting the transformation to more energy-efficient and climate-smart food value chains. The project is a prime example of an initiative that aligns with Norway's development cooperation priorities. I am very pleased to see so many important and timely elements, including food security, climate adaptation and gender equality, addressed in one program, said,” Hilde Klemetsdal, Ambassador of Norway to Egypt “We firmly believe that sustainable development of aquatic food systems holds immense potential in addressing global food security challenges. Through CeREA and our partnership with Norway, we strive to put aquaculture on a low-emission development pathway for healthier people and the planet,” Essam Yassin Mohammed, WorldFish Director General. More than 600 million people in developing nations rely on aquatic foods, which encompass a wide range of animals, plants and microorganisms cultivated and harvested from water bodies. These aquatic resources play a crucial role in supporting livelihoods as well as ensuring food and nutrition security. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1123/norway-approves-aquaterra-omega-3-oil-for-use-in-aquafeed.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1123/norway-approves-aquaterra-omega-3-oil-for-use-in-aquafeed.html Fri, 30 Jun 2023 17:18:46 +0530 Omega-3 oils are essential to the health and welfare of farmed salmon, so the limited supply of fish oil constrains industry growth Nuseed Nutritional US Inc. welcomes the Norwegian Food Safety Authority's (NFSA) decision to grant the approval of Aquaterra Omega-3 oil for use in fish feed applications. Aquaterra is derived from Nuseed Omega-3 Canola – the world's first plant-based source of DHA, EPA, and ALA. The assessment concludes that the requirement that the feed must be safe and not be harmful to human or animal health, or make food from animals unsuitable for human consumption, is met. Furthermore, we consider that the requirement that feed shall not have adverse effects on the environment has also been met.    "This is a huge step forward in recognising the value of nutritional-driven innovation from agriculture," says Greg Hunt, CEO of Nufarm. Nuseed Omega-3 Canola is a novel and much-needed source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. Wild-caught fish are the main source of these nutrients today but increasing demand and climate change threaten supply chain stability. Norway leads the world in farmed salmon production, producing more than 1.6 million tonnes each year. Omega-3 oils are essential to the health and welfare of farmed salmon, so the limited supply of fish oil constrains industry growth. One to two hectares of Nuseed Omega-3 Canola can produce as much DHA as 10,000 one kg wild fish. There is an opportunity to double the global supply of these important nutrients on less than 5 per cent of current canola production land. Aquaterra is the first biotechnology product authorised for use by the NFSA in Norway under the food act. "This approval is groundbreaking and further validation of Aquaterra's safety and importance to Norway's salmon industry," adds  Brent Zacharias, Group Executive Nuseed. Collaborative studies conducted by industry and NOFIMA (a leading Norwegian applied research institute within aquaculture) have demonstrated that salmon that are fed Aquaterra diets produce higher quality fillets with increased omega-3 content. "Norway has always been a target market for Aquaterra Omega-3 oil, and we are excited about the positive contribution to the industry," says Benita Boettner, Global General Manager of Nuseed Nutritional. Aquaculture produces more than half of the fish people eat today. Boettner says, "Advancing the seafood industry is essential because farmed fish are less resource intensive, with a lower-carbon impact than other proteins." Aquaterra provides a sustainable omega-3 oil that reduces pressure on our marine resources and facilitates aquaculture's growth by closing supply gaps. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1115/bedrock-announces-new-vertical-farming-infrastructure-in-detroit.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1115/bedrock-announces-new-vertical-farming-infrastructure-in-detroit.html Thu, 29 Jun 2023 18:26:03 +0530 An estimated 2.2 million pounds of fresh vegetables, including Lettuces, Petite Greens, Microgreens and Herbs would be produced year-round Bedrock, based in Detroit and Vertical Harvest, a community-oriented indoor farming company, announced plans to explore the development of Vertical Harvest Detroit. Situated within Detroit's Milwaukee Junction neighbourhood, the proposed 60,000 square-foot structure would stand 74 feet tall and feature a 205,000 square-foot growing canopy that utilises hydroponic, vertical and controlled environmental agricultural practices. An estimated 2.2 million pounds of fresh vegetables, including Lettuces, Petite Greens, Microgreens and Herbs would be produced year-round. With its feed locals’ first philosophy, Vertical Harvest would commit more than 70 per cent of the food grown at its proposed Detroit location within 100 miles of the city. This will essentially eliminate long-distance transportation issues and offer preference to local and regional distributors, as well as community institutions. "Food insecurity is one of the most pressing urban problems nationally," said Kofi Bonner, CEO of Bedrock. "In Detroit, a significant portion of the population does not have easy access to fresh produce. Most importantly, Vertical Harvest products will be made accessible to civic institutions for quick and efficient delivery to our neighbourhoods. The partnership with Vertical Harvest is another way that Bedrock will continue to extend our positive impact beyond the downtown core." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1096/scottish-sea-farms-seaweed-scheme-wins-ms-award.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1096/scottish-sea-farms-seaweed-scheme-wins-ms-award.html Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:50:41 +0530 The pilot, at Scallastle in the Sound of Mull, involved replacing artificial kelp hides with natural kelp, resulting in improved health and welfare for the cleaner fish and salmon Scottish Sea Farms has been recognised at the M&S Select Farm Awards 2023 for a pioneering trial to encourage settlement of seaweed in salmon pens, removing the need for plastic cleaner fish hides. The pilot, at Scallastle in the Sound of Mull, involved replacing artificial kelp hides with natural kelp, resulting in improved health and welfare for the cleaner fish and salmon. The award, announced at the Royal Highland Show at Ingliston in Edinburgh, was presented to Farm Manager Michael Keenan and fish husbandry colleague with fish health specialism Sam Wright, who oversaw the day-to-day running of the project. Scottish Sea Farms, the exclusive supplier of M&S Select Farms Scottish salmon, was one of four winners of the awards scheme, which celebrates leading UK food producers. ‘We’ve always been very open to trialling new technologies and approaches at Scallastle,’ said Keenan, ‘but particularly so this latest kelp initiative because of the potential benefits for the cleaner fish and wider marine environment. ‘To now have this ongoing improvement drive recognised by M&S is a really proud moment for all of the team who have worked so hard.’ Studies have shown that seaweed absorbs CO2 and removes nitrogen and phosphorous from the ecosystem. And because kelp has a natural, anti-biofouling property, it is very low maintenance compared to plastic hides. During the trial, conducted last year, not only did the seaweed do well, but the salmon and cleaner fish (both wrasse and lumpfish) in the pens thrived too, said Keenan. ‘We had one pen with real kelp only, one with plastic hides, and one with both artificial and real kelp and we noticed a difference quite quickly. The cleaner fish, which we use as a biological control for sea lice, showed a clear preference for the natural kelp. Morna Marr, Scottish Sea Farms Commercial Manager, who oversaw a visit by M&S to Scallastle last year, said, ‘It was great to be able to show customers the initiative in practice, and see first-hand the salmon and cleaner fish thriving.’ This is the fourth occasion that Scottish Sea Farms has been presented with the Innovation Award, bringing the total number of M&S Awards received over the years to 12-strong, ranging from Plan A ‘Future of Farming’, Rural Communities and Low Carbon Farming Pioneer to Outstanding Producer, Young Producer of the Year and M&S Champion of Champions. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1097/vafo-opens-the-largest-pet-food-factory-in-finland.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1097/vafo-opens-the-largest-pet-food-factory-in-finland.html Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:48:54 +0530 With a production capacity of 20,000 tonnes of pet food each year, VAFO has thus further strengthened its dominant standing in the local market VAFO Group has officially opened its first factory in Finland. The new facility is the largest of its kind in Finland and the eighth overall for the group. With a production capacity of 20,000 tonnes of pet food each year, VAFO (under the direction of its subsidiary Prima Pet Premium) has thus further strengthened its dominant standing in the local market. The total investment in the new factory exceeded 16 million euros, and at full capacity, it will employ up to 20 people. In addition to a positive economic impulse for the region, the project marks the return of production of the Hau-Hau Champion brand to the local market, which means VAFO is also increasing its overall production capacity in the private label segment, an area that has seen remarkable growth in recent times. Test operation at the new factory in Nokia, Finland, got underway at the beginning of March. The factory is situated in the Kolmenkulma Eco3 park, which features a system of organic and circular economy based on the most advanced production technologies. According to Timo Pärssinen, CEO of Prima Pet Premium, a Finnish subsidiary of VAFO Group, this makes the new factory the most sustainable pet food production facility in the whole of Finland. “A sustainable approach to business is part of VAFO Group’s identity, and consumers in Finland attach great importance to it. Sustainable production was a key criterion even in the planning stages of the new factory. Among other things, we can now resume domestic production of the popular Finnish brand Hau-Hau Champion, the best-selling pet food in the local market, which is 100 per cent carbon neutral and, until now, was produced in the Czech Republic. It’s also great to be able to participate in the development of the regional economy and employment; moreover, now we’re in a better position to respond to consumer demand for domestic, locally produced pet foods,” says Pärssinen. Opening exactly two years after the building permit was obtained in May of 2021, the new factory encompasses some 3,000 square meters of floor space, with an additional 300 square meters of warehouse space. It uses an extensive system of solar panels as a source of energy and is 100 per cent compatible with biogas. It also includes a unique packaging line, where special machines produce bags from recyclable film, including the largest 12 kg and 15 kg bags. Not only does this result in more sustainable production, but it also reduces packaging costs, lowers storage requirements for empty packaging, and saves money on the transport of packaging materials. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1092/fao-and-wfp-join-forces-to-help-farmers-resume-production-in-ukraine.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1092/fao-and-wfp-join-forces-to-help-farmers-resume-production-in-ukraine.html Fri, 23 Jun 2023 08:41:27 +0530 The programme aims to prevent Ukraine from requiring food assistance in the long term The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have launched a joint programme in collaboration with mine action partner Fondation Suisse de Déminage (FSD) to support smallholder farmers and rural families most affected by the war.  The programme has already started in Kharkivska oblast, and will later expand to Mykolaivska and Khersonska oblasts, focusing on farmers with land plots smaller than 300 hectares as well as rural families growing food for their own consumption.  The programme is designed to safely release land back to productive use, including by clearing it from mines and other explosive remnants of the war, to help restore agricultural livelihoods, contribute to Ukraine’s economic recovery, and phase out the need for humanitarian assistance for thousands of rural families.  The war has damaged Ukraine’s agriculture and food production, disrupted supply chains and exports, increased production costs, and caused widespread mine contamination.  According to the Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment, published in February 2023, Ukraine’s production of grain and oilseeds decreased by 37 per cent in 2022. Almost 90 per cent of small-scale crop producers surveyed by FAO in Ukraine reported a decrease in revenue due to the war, and one in four reported having stopped or significantly reduced their agricultural activity.  “Making the land safe and free of explosive remnants of the war is the first step to rebuilding resilient and prosperous rural communities in Ukraine, who have been on the frontlines of this war, and preventing their long-term dependence on humanitarian assistance,” said Denise Brown, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine.  “Many families and small-scale farmers in front-line regions are not planting this season because they know their fields are dangerous or they are risking their lives to plant on mined lands or contaminated soils,” noted Pierre Vauthier, Head of FAO Ukraine Country Office. “We expect that the soil rehabilitation, remediation and conservation techniques conducted will support people’s return to farming, and restore rural livelihoods while helping to sustain Ukraine’s agricultural production.”  “Without urgent action, agricultural production in Ukraine will continue to collapse, with direct consequences on food security and diet diversity in the country, and potential ripple effects on regional and global markets,” said Matthew Hollingworth, WFP Representative and Country Director in Ukraine.  FAO, WFP and FSD in close coordination with communities, local authorities and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, will first identify and map lands that require demining by using satellite imagery. In the second phase, demining teams will survey and clear lands from mines and other explosive remnants of the war, prioritizing plots that can be quickly released with minimal clearance work. In the third phase, FAO and FSD will test soils to assess contamination by pollutants left behind by exploded weapons. FAO and WFP will simultaneously survey small farmers and rural families on the types of inputs and resources they need to restart agricultural production and will provide direct in-kind or cash support where possible.  To date, the $100 million project is facing a funding gap of $90 million. FAO and WFP estimate potential annual savings of up to $60 million in direct food assistance to rural communities. The project has been supported by the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, a UN-pooled fund, as well as private donors.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1091/corteva-opens-first-regional-integrated-rd-centre-in-germany.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1091/corteva-opens-first-regional-integrated-rd-centre-in-germany.html Fri, 23 Jun 2023 07:26:00 +0530 With almost €6m of investment, the expansion of the R&D site in Eschbach, Germany, enables Corteva Agriscience to conduct state-of-the-art crop protection studies Corteva Agriscience has opened its first combined crop protection and seed research laboratory in EMEA, helping drive innovation and deliver sustainable solutions for farmers. With almost €6m of investment, the expansion of the R&D site in Eschbach, Germany, enables Corteva Agriscience to conduct state-of-the-art crop protection studies to help develop solutions which protect crops from pests and diseases. In addition, the research centre is energy-efficient with zero emissions from wastewater in line with Corteva Agriscience’s sustainability commitment. The integrated site accommodates three R&D functions focused on seed product development to create more stress-tolerant and climate change-resilient crops; molecular biology with a genotyping lab supporting seed purity testing; and crop protection discovery and development to meet sustainability objectives. Bringing plant breeding and Crop Protection Field Sciences together also facilitates the development of new methods, such as digital trial evaluation with drones, remote sensing and the use of molecular biology to understand the susceptibility of plant diseases to new mode-of-actions. Located in southwestern Germany at the border of France and Switzerland, the site is a key R&D location for the entire EMEA region and provides an excellent base to conduct field trials in almost all relevant European crops. It is fully incorporated into Corteva’s global lab network and is complementary to other laboratories in the U.S. The Eschbach facility will also provide a boost for the local economy, not only through the move of European research programs to the site but also by employing more than 30 scientists and support staff, including experts for pest, disease and weed management. Elliot Heffner, Corteva Agriscience Plant Breeding Leader, Europe, said, “Our investment in the new Eschbach R&D centre reflects our commitment to deliver innovative solutions to farmers that improve productivity and contribute to a resilient and sustainable global food system “In keeping with our sustainability vision, we remain unwavering in our commitment to develop and deploy innovative and sustainable agricultural solutions for the greater good of our customers, consumers and the communities we serve.” Andreas Huber, Corteva Agriscience Field Sciences Leader, EMEA, added, “This new site will enable us to continue innovating, supporting farmers as they move to more sustainable practices. “Corteva Agriscience is committed to protecting the environment while providing farmers with the products they need to protect their crops. With consumer demand growing for crop protection products of natural origin, Eschbach will also focus on biologicals and their efficacy against European pests and diseases.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1085/farmmis-mushrooms-export-sales-expand-in-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1085/farmmis-mushrooms-export-sales-expand-in-europe.html Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:02:56 +0530 This latest order underscores the high-quality products are sought after despite the availability of locally produced and wild mushrooms Farmmi, an agriculture products supplier in China, announced a new high-volume order for its dried Shiitake mushrooms and dried black fungus, which will export to Romania. The latest high-volume order represents a further sales expansion in Europe. According to the World Bank, Romania's economic growth has been one of the highest in the European Union since 2010. Economic growth was robust in 2022 at 4.8 per cent. Romania has made impressive strides in raising its economic performance and prosperity over the past two decades. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have tested the resilience of the Romanian economy and exacerbated its structural vulnerabilities, especially in terms of poverty and disparities in economic opportunity, persistently large gender gaps in labour force participation and employment, widening fiscal and current account deficits, and significant institutional constraints hindering the efficient use of resources. Yefang Zhang, Farmmi's Chairwoman and CEO, commented: "Mushrooms have historically been a mainstay of the Romanian diet. The mineral-dense, healthy benefits are sought after and embraced, especially during the long winters. This latest order underscores the high quality we are known for among discerning customers, as our products are sought after despite the availability of locally produced and wild mushrooms." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1075/cult-food-science-announces-ai-partnership-for-taste-optimisation-in-cultivated-foods.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1075/cult-food-science-announces-ai-partnership-for-taste-optimisation-in-cultivated-foods.html Fri, 16 Jun 2023 19:42:15 +0530 A new partnership with Alcheme Bio leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to accelerate cellular agriculture products to market CULT Food Science Corp. announced a partnership with Alcheme Bio to utilise a flavour optimisation platform to accelerate the development of cellular agriculture products for the Company and its portfolio companies. Alcheme Bio's proprietary approach utilises artificial intelligence and machine learning to revolutionise how cultured product companies optimise for flavour and nutrition. Experience targets are determined early in development which significantly reduces R&D time and costs while machine learning is utilised to design the best taste experiences and determine how those tastes should be implemented in development. The outcome is products that consumers love to eat which is vital in ensuring the adoption of cultivated meats, dairies and other cell-cultivated foods. "When it comes to food, taste and cost are king. Regardless of how sustainable a product may be, something that tastes amazing is key for cultivated foods to be adopted. The production process is multistage, and continuous improvement is a pivotal part of high-quality manufacturing and that's why we're a big supporter of what Alcheme Bio is doing" said Lejjy Gafour, CEO of CULT. "Flavoring is an afterthought for most cultivated companies right now because of the limitations of today's flavouring approaches. Alcheme Bio is pioneering a unique approach to flavouring that reduces R&D costs instead of increasing them. We're excited to be building out our platform in partnership with CULT." said Vanessa Small, CEO at Alcheme Bio. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1071/volta-greentech-and-protos-to-produce-climate-friendly-beef.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1071/volta-greentech-and-protos-to-produce-climate-friendly-beef.html Fri, 16 Jun 2023 10:23:32 +0530 The supplement, made from natural algae, reduces the methane emissions of animals by 70–90 per cent per day Volta Greentech and food company Protos have partnered to significantly increase the production of more climate-friendly beef in Sweden by using Volta Greentech’s feed supplement, Lome. The supplement, made from natural algae, reduces the methane emissions of animals by 70–90 per cent per day when included in their feed (0.6 per cent). The collaboration includes the delivery of algae for up to 1,000 cattle annually over 5 years. The beef is produced by carefully selected farmers chosen by Protos and Volta Greentech. These farmers will be pioneers in using Volta Greentech’s innovative feed supplement to reduce the methane emissions of their cows. “It is likely the most climate-friendly beef in the world. Cows naturally release methane through burping as part of the digestion process. However, by adding a small amount of algae to their feed, methane emissions are significantly reduced,” says Thomas Östlund, CEO of Protos. Lome Beef has the same excellent, rich taste as all Protos meat. Starting from June 9th, Lome Beef will be available at Hemköp stores in the Stockholm area, initially at Torsplan, Stockholm City, and Mörby Centrum for a limited period. “Our ambition is to be at the forefront of sustainability, and with this launch, we simply make it easier for our customers to eat more sustainably. That is why Lome Beef is highly interesting to us,” says Shoan Etemadi, Head of Sales of Hemköpskedjan. After two years of pilot studies, Volta Greentech and Protos can now increase the availability of more climate-friendly meat, which will be sold under the brand ‘Lome’. Following the launch, Protos will sell the meat to grocery stores and wholesalers, subject to availability. “Volta Greentech was founded with the mission to battle global warming. We have significant work ahead in scaling up algae production. But we are on our way. By offering Lome Beef, we have the opportunity to build a movement of climate-aware consumers who share our vision.” says Fredrik Åkerman, CEO of Volta Greentech. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1054/skretting-launches-elevia-a-new-shrimp-feed.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/1054/skretting-launches-elevia-a-new-shrimp-feed.html Tue, 13 Jun 2023 09:33:45 +0530 Elevia engineered to offer superior nutrition and water quality in shrimp hatcheries and nurseries Norway-based aquafeed company Skretting has launched Elevia, a new shrimp feed designed for use in hatcheries and nurseries. Elevia is a new, innovative feed from Skretting, engineered to offer superior nutrition and water quality in shrimp hatcheries and nurseries. The precisely produced, stable micro diet improves larval performance while simplifying feed management and ensuring a cleaner system. Formulated to mimic the natural feeding approach of shrimp larvae, Elevia is a next-generation solution that surpasses conventional feeding methods and traditional aquafeed ingredients, setting a new standard for hatchery performance. Incorporating new sustainable raw materials such as essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, algae-derived DHA and hydrolysed marine proteins, enables shrimp to develop into strong and healthy post larvae with increased capacity to thrive in nursery environments. “Elevia reduces the production cycles in hatcheries and provides shrimp with the necessary energetic reserve to improve resilience for the transport to the farm and acclimatisation,” says Marita Montserrate, Technical Director at Skretting Ecuador. “In addition, Elevia ensures better performance in the nursery, reduces the cost of the post larvae and promotes increased survival and growth throughout the entire production cycle.” Elevia improves the ability of shrimp to handle challenges by providing them with nutrients that improve their immune system and overall resilience. This enables the shrimp to cope more effectively with stressful environmental changes. As a result, shrimp production becomes more reliable and successful, reducing the risks associated with variations in water conditions and other factors. Through Elevia's advanced formulation, physical properties and colour, the need for multiple diets and flakes are significantly reduced, resulting in simplified operations and feed management. Another key feature that contributes to streamlining operations is the diet's ability to maintain water stability. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/995/global-horticulture-suppliers-greenv-acquires-green-simplicity.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/995/global-horticulture-suppliers-greenv-acquires-green-simplicity.html Mon, 29 May 2023 10:06:44 +0530 Group takes major stride forward by adding in-house knowledge and technology for crop-specific research and daylight-free cultivation. GreenV, the internationally operating group of horticulture suppliers, will acquire a 100% stake in Green Simplicity, a Netherlands-based relatively young knowledge and technology company founded in 2014. Green Simplicity Research offers research systems that enable clients to determine the ideal growth conditions for crop cultivation in a fully controlled environment. The primary focus of Green Simplicity Concepts is on the development of concepts and the implementation of large-scale controlled daylight-free agricultural systems. Green Simplicity Research's research systems let growers and breeders test the performance of their own crops in a (fully) controlled environment with a variety of variables, like LED lighting, humidity, irrigation, CO2 and temperature. Using a single variable such as dehumidification or lighting, or a fully controlled environment in an automated multi-layered cultivation system without daylight, Green Simplicity Concepts can offer a suitable solution for production upscaling. The acquisition will enable GreenV to acquire a comprehensive set of knowledge and technology which it will use in the development of new cultivation concepts aimed at maximizing crop yields by utilizing a variety of innovations in automation, climate control, lighting and software. These innovations will accelerate crop growth and yield in both environments with and without daylight (conventional greenhouses and indoor farms). A new innovative 'hub' within GreenV, Green Simplicity will collaborate closely with the indoor farming activities, as well as other group companies: Prins Group and Prins USA (greenhouse construction), Stolze (installation engineering), HT Verboom (internal transport systems), Voshol Warmte- en Elektrotechniek and JV Energy Solutions (climate and installation engineering). Wessel van Paassen, founder and director of Green Simplicity, said "Collaboration with these companies opens up unprecedented opportunities for the future. In the past, we have worked with HT Verboom on several projects, so we were already familiar with GreenV. Currently, we are a small knowledge, data, and technology company. By joining GreenV, we not only gain access to a wide range of relationships and potential clients, but also are able to deliver and scale up our concepts and test environments on site for clients". ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/978/nifa-triggers-investigative-study-on-asian-longhorned-tick-causing-livestock-diseases.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/978/nifa-triggers-investigative-study-on-asian-longhorned-tick-causing-livestock-diseases.html Wed, 24 May 2023 10:00:00 +0530 Medgene awarded USDA funding to leverage the company's platform technology against tickborne disease targets The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) has awarded animal health company Medgene grant funding to study the Asian longhorned tick and its ability to spread diseases in animal livestock. The company will be using its proprietary platform technology to develop and test vaccine approaches to prevent the spread of diseases caused by the tick. Dr. Alan Young, Chief Technology Officer for Medgene, has been researching parasite borne diseases since 2013, studying the effects of tickborne diseases in whitetail deer. "Animal parasites and insects are major disease vectors that have significant impacts on wild animals and livestock. This partnership with USDA-NIFA shows the agency's awareness and dedication to addressing animal health concerns in the United States." Medgene's vaccine approaches leverage a USDA-approved "platform technology" that is safely and easily adapted to multiple animal disease targets. The result is the development of vaccines and an understanding of how diseases move within species and geography within a fraction of the time of traditional vaccine approaches.  Medgene received the award notice from USDA-NIFA in April and will begin field research this summer. The eight-month study will be conducted in conjunction with an independently-operated research facility and supported by an international team of recognized experts in tickborne diseases. Medgene will incorporate the results of this research into its current platform technology-based vaccine portfolio and ultimately apply these findings to other tickborne diseases, such as Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/979/farmed-salmon-exports-to-asia-are-doubled-by-scotland.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/979/farmed-salmon-exports-to-asia-are-doubled-by-scotland.html Wed, 24 May 2023 08:36:00 +0530 Scottish salmon exports to Asia have increased by $15 million, while volumes have increased 97%. In the first quarter 2023, Scottish salmon exports to Asia more than doubled in value to £24 million (€28 million/$30 million), driven by strong demand from China, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea. Among Scottish salmon exports, North America (29 %) and Asia (18 %) account for more than 47 percent, according to UK government data. The total value of exports to Asia increased by £12 million (€14 million/$15 million), while volume increased 97 percent. China and Taiwan individually added a combined £12 million (€14 million/$15 million) market value growth during the period. Singapore and South Korea also performed well, contributing significantly to the 1,900 metric tons of fish exported to Asia. Scottish salmon producers trade body Salmon Scotland said there were further opportunities for growth in North America and Asia because of rising consumer demand and ongoing efforts to reduce trade barriers. Total Scottish salmon export sales between January and March reached £134 million (€154 million/$166 million), an 18 percent increase from the same period in 2022. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/973/vietnam-and-eu-businesses-strengthen-agricultural-product-export-cooperation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/973/vietnam-and-eu-businesses-strengthen-agricultural-product-export-cooperation.html Tue, 23 May 2023 08:19:00 +0530 EuroCham to strengthen Vietnam's import and export turnover of agricultural goods Vietnam's Agriculture and Rural Development and European Business Association recently exchanged views and suggestions to promote the agricultural export chain and enhance integration between Vietnamese and EU businesses. Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Thanh Nam held a meeting with Gabor Fluit, Asia Managing Director of De Heus Group (Netherlands) and President of the European Business Association. (Eurocham) in Vietnam. Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam said that "the import and export of agricultural products between Vietnam and the European Union (EU) has slowed down recently. According to our information, in the first quarter of 2023, import and export turnover of agricultural products reached $1.2 billion, down 14% compared to the same period in 2022 (about $1.4 billion). This is a matter of concern, and we are delighted to welcome the members of the European Business Association in Vietnam. We are ready to listen to recommendations from Eurocham, our view is how to promote trade between the two sides." Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam assessed that 2023 will be a difficult year, especially in the field of agricultural products import and export. To boost imports and export turnover, the Deputy Minister expressed boosting and fostering European and Vietnamese businesses. President of the European Business Association for 2023 - 2025, Gabor Fluit who is also the first President appointed by the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) to strengthen the agricultural sector in Vietnam, emphasized the export of Vietnamese agricultural products to Europe. Minister Tran Thanh Nam suggested partnering with the European Union and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to organize a forum to discuss two issues more deeply. First, an exchange on food safety issues focuses on administrative procedures, helping businesses better understand agriculture's operating mechanisms. The second is examining food safety supply chain practices. "We can successfully build a safe food supply chain between European and Vietnamese businesses, associated with reducing greenhouse gas emissions" stressed Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam. A number of forums of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development revolve around “food safety” and “reducing greenhouse gas emissions”. Since COP26, Vietnam has implemented many forest carbon projects, built a project of 1 million hectares of high-quality rice, and reduced emissions in Dong by the Mekong River to implement its commitment at COP26. In the Central Highlands coffee material area, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is working to reduce emissions and develop sustainably. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/947/danish-innovation-to-convert-shrimp-and-fish-farming-derivatives-into-edible-seaweed.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/947/danish-innovation-to-convert-shrimp-and-fish-farming-derivatives-into-edible-seaweed.html Wed, 17 May 2023 07:50:00 +0530 Nutrients and CO2 from land-based aquaculture to be converted to a green protein and valuable high-fiber seaweed species The University of Copenhagen has launched an innovative project co-funding by Innovation Fund Denmark, which has developed a sustainable method to produce fish, shrimp, and seaweed together. Instead of polluting the sea and contributing to global warming, nutrients and CO2 from land-based shrimp and fish farming will be used to produce sea lettuce – a green protein and valuable high-fiber seaweed species – for human consumption. An innovative project called SeaFree, has been launched at the University of Copenhagen in association with Aarhus University and a range of companies who will collaboratively develop a closed, sustainable cycle on land that utilizes residual nutrients and CO2 from shrimp and fish farming to grow high-value seaweed for the food and healthcare industries. The project is expected to reap results in 4 years. "The project aims to use seaweed production to absorb and convert emissions from land-based aquaculture into a high-value product. Among other things, the seaweed will be used for dietary supplements that can prevent diabetes and sustainable foodstuffs innovations. In addition to capturing emissions that would have otherwise been emitted into the atmosphere and aquatic environment, the seaweed produced is both healthy and rich in umami flavour," says Professor Marianne Thomsen from the Department of Food Science at the University of Copenhagen. The project, funded by Innovation Fund Denmark with DKK 14.4 million (€1.9m), is being carried out in a collaboration among the companies Pure Algae, DryingMate, Food Diagnostics, Sigrid Therapeutics, XOventure GmbH/Rigi Care, KOST, SOF Odden Caviar and HanseGarnelen. The project’s starting point is a 40ft container setup equipped with eight one-thousand-liter tanks. The container solution is a so-called Plug’n’Play technology with great export potential. By combining salt water, CO2 and nutrients with LED lights, the unit can produce a full batch of seaweed in just one week, resulting in an extremely short harvest period. "SeaFree represents the latest in recycling technology for land-based shrimp and fish farming. Besides capturing emissions, the system also recirculates surplus heat from the plants to the Plug'n'Play technology. The project includes the development of a new technology that makes it possible to use surplus heat to dry the seaweed which is then sold to the healthcare industry. In this way, SeaFree contributes to a more sustainable and efficient production process," says Marianne Thomsen.   The final product consists of climate-friendly fish, shrimp and sea lettuce – a healthy, fiber and protein-rich seaweed species. In addition to the production of various dietary supplements, sea lettuce is also used as an edible accompaniment when people buy seafood. According to Thomsen, there is huge potential in farming fish and seaweed in the manner envisioned by SeaFree. If all of the world's land-based shrimp and fish farms implemented the method, it could significantly reduce the CO2 footprint of global food systems. "As such, the combination of aquaculture and seaweed cultivation in closed systems may well develop into a new Danish export market. On a global level, it will be possible to implement the technology, marketed as "SeaFree Synergy Solutions", anywhere in the world. As for the technology’s environmental benefits, they are unequivocal. We are already in contact with South Korea, which is very interested in the technology and the project’s development," adds Marianne Thomsen. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/944/yara-growth-ventures-invests-in-ecorobotix-to-provide-sustainable-solutions-for-agriculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/944/yara-growth-ventures-invests-in-ecorobotix-to-provide-sustainable-solutions-for-agriculture.html Tue, 16 May 2023 12:35:30 +0530 This investment strengthens the portfolio of Yara Growth Ventures in smart farming equipment, for improved sustainability in agriculture. Oslo based Yara Growth Ventures invests in Ecorobotix, who develops smart, innovative, and sustainable solutions for agriculture. Their ARA smart spraying system allows for a reduction of chemical crop inputs like herbicides by 70-95 per cent. Such drastic savings significantly benefit growers by reducing input costs, whilst improving the environmental footprint of modern farming. The Switzerland based scale-up company was founded in 2011 by Aurelien Demaurex and Steve Tanner. The current USD 52 million (CHF 46 million) funding round is jointly led by AQTON Private Equity GmbH and Cibus Capital LLP with additional contributions from both existing and new investors including Yara Growth Ventures. The investment will accelerate Ecorobotix’s geographic expansion and enable new product development. “We are observing a lot of innovation in smart agricultural machinery, but Ecorobotix truly stands out.” said Björn Heinz of the Yara Growth Ventures team and further adds “It is not only their ARA system’s amazing capabilities that take precision farming to a new level. We are also truly impressed by the team’s capabilities and their operational excellence to deliver impressive growth in the market.” “We are proud to be working with investors who clearly see the environmental benefits of our ultra-high precision technology,” said Ecorobotix CEO Simon Aspinall. “With these new investments we will deliver ARA to more farmers, in more markets, increasing agricultural productivity while protecting the environment and reducing CO2 impact.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/940/germanys-grips-energy-inaugurates-solar-plant-in-senegal.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/940/germanys-grips-energy-inaugurates-solar-plant-in-senegal.html Tue, 16 May 2023 09:39:25 +0530 The 604 kW ground-mounted photovoltaic solar plant is an important step in reducing carbon footprint and reducing electricity costs GRIPS Energy, the German renewable energy company and its subsidiary in Dakar GRIPS Energy Sénégal SUARL announced the commissioning of the first photovoltaic solar plant in Senegal. The 604 kW ground-mounted photovoltaic solar plant is an important step in SCL's journey to reducing carbon footprint whilst simultaneously reducing electricity costs. "We are very proud and happy to have taken this exciting first step towards our transition to renewable energies together with GRIPS," says Hamedine BA, SCL's technical officer for the solar plant at the Diama agricultural farm. "Project implementation went smoothly, and we can already see the reduction in our electricity bill. We are even thinking of expanding the plant with an energy storage system," BA continues. Amadou SAM, director of GRIPS Energy Senegal, confirms, "Our approach of a close-knit partnership with our customer SCL and our Senegalese installation partner, in tight collaboration with the engineering experts from our German headquarters, has clearly demonstrated its value. We will of course remain SCL's long-term partner and ensure full performance, service and maintenance throughout the lifetime of the solar plant." In line with the company's full-service offer, a one-stop-shop approach, GRIPS has overseen every detail of the project: from the initial feasibility study and customised plant design to installation. Now that the plant is operational, GRIPS ensures top performance as well as routine plant maintenance through its local partner. "We are pleased to expand our business activities in West African countries with our first solar project in Senegal, says Timon Herzog, Managing Director of GRIPS Energy. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/936/wmbt-holdings-triggers-digital-agriculture-revolution-promoting-transparent-investment-opportunities.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/936/wmbt-holdings-triggers-digital-agriculture-revolution-promoting-transparent-investment-opportunities.html Mon, 15 May 2023 10:54:37 +0530 A collaborative effort in Europe region is ensuring supply chain transparency and traceability to assist farmers, investors, and consumers by combining traditional agricultural expertise with digital technology Poland's Sandomierz City Government has collaborated with Swiss based WMBT International Investment Group through its Sad Sandomierski to pioneer a new era of digital agriculture. The collaboration aims to lead the Digital Agriculture Revolution to provide investors with transparent and sustainable investment opportunities in agriculture arena. WMBT Holdings and Poland's Sad Sandomierski have signed a cooperation agreement to list and finance the digital agriculture project on the GDE exchange. The collaborative effort not only ensures supply chain transparency and traceability. Farmers, investors, and consumers looking for environmentally friendly and responsible options will benefit from the digital agriculture project's alignment with sustainable agricultural practices and functional food products. Using digital technology and traditional agriculture expertise, the project democratizes access to agricultural investments and enables investors to actively contribute to sustainable agriculture. As one of the world's largest apple producers, Poland holds a 10% share of the global market due to its favorable climate, fertile soil, and extensive experience in apple farming. Using digital agriculture revolution as a platform, WMBT Holdings and the government of Sandomierz aim to change the apple industry in Poland and set new benchmarks for investment agriculture worldwide. Digital agriculture project aims to digitize 10 million apple trees in Sandomierz and create a digital investment platform. Investors can acquire part of the production of apple trees, including apple wine, apple chips, functional juices, etc., over a 10-year period. By purchasing bundles of digital assets, they will also be able to obtain carbon credits for thousands of hectares of orchards. The packages will be able to link a Polish (EU) citizen's digital identity, providing further benefits and opportunities. Sandomierz city government and WMBT Holdings have worked together to advance digital agriculture. Digital assets can facilitate sustainable development, improve investment transparency, and drive economic growth. Investing in digital agriculture will revolutionize the apple industry in Poland by setting a new standard for agricultural investments worldwide. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/921/uks-carbon-kapture-partners-with-shellfish-farmers-to-grow-seaweed.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/921/uks-carbon-kapture-partners-with-shellfish-farmers-to-grow-seaweed.html Thu, 11 May 2023 11:39:47 +0530 The company has developed a unique business model allowing its customers to sponsor seaweed grown on ropes to absorb CO₂ directly from the sea Carbon Kapture, a UK-based start-up dedicated to the removal of CO₂ from the atmosphere, has announced the launch of its first seaweed farm. The company has developed a unique business model allowing its customers to sponsor seaweed grown on ropes to absorb CO₂ directly from the sea. It then converts the seaweed into biochar, a stable form of carbon that can be used to enrich the soil and reduce the need for fertiliser. In a ground-breaking move, Carbon Kapture partnered with shellfish farmers in Ireland to grow the seaweed, with plans for its first farm to become even larger than Amazon's newly funded North Sea Farm 1 project by the end of the year.The idea for Carbon Kapture came from Howard Gunstock and Dave Walker-Nix, ecopreneurs who have spent the last four years exploring ways to create an impactful and scalable model. After studying the potential of seaweed as a carbon sink, the pair developed a circular economy model based on capturing carbon from biomass and then working with the local community to put it to good use. In the case of Mulroy Bay, donating it to local farmers to help improve their crops. As well as the agricultural benefits of biochar, Carbon Kapture’s farms will increase biodiversity and help improve water quality. The company is also big on the local community and will get involved with schools, universities, councils, and businesses to create jobs and promote climate awareness."Our partnership with shellfish farmers is a game-changer for the industry and for the fight against climate change," said Gunstock. "We are able to produce large quantities of seaweed using a sustainable and eco-friendly process, and turn that seaweed into biochar that can be used to improve soil quality and lock away the carbon for hundreds of years."Carbon Kapture's first farm has the potential to scale to 250 hectares, which would make it one of the largest seaweed farms in the world, capable of growing approximately 11,000 tonnes of seaweed per year. The company is also partnering with local farmers to distribute biochar, ensuring that it is used in a way that benefits both the environment and the local community."We are excited to be partnering with local farmers to distribute our biochar," said Walker-Nix, CTO. "By working with the local community in County Donegal, we can ensure that our process positively impacts both the environment and the economy."Carbon Kapture is already receiving interest from a variety of organisations, including government, and NGOs, about the potential for scaling up the model to have a wider impact. “The most exciting aspect of this model, is the potential for exponential growth,” said Paul Rees, Chief Revenue Officer. “It takes us a matter of months to create a new Carbon Kapture partnership farm. Given the right interest levels, we aim to establish a global network of 200 farms over the next 10 years, which could capture over 364,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year. We are interested in speaking with companies that wish to distinguish their net zero plans from their competitors. To achieve our growth plans, we are actively looking to build relationships with shellfish and seaweed farmers across the world.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/917/mosa-meat-opens-worlds-largest-cultivated-meat-centre.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/917/mosa-meat-opens-worlds-largest-cultivated-meat-centre.html Wed, 10 May 2023 12:31:07 +0530 The facility is designed to grow as demand increases with regulatory approvals and regional market entries Netherland's Mosa Meat, the pioneer and a leader in the cultivated meat space that grows beef directly from animal cells, opened a new scale-up facility in Maastricht. This fourth facility completes the new Mosa C.A.M.P.U.S. or Centre for Advanced Meat Production, Upscaling, and Sustainability for a total footprint of 7,340 square metres (79,007 square feet). “As this scale-up facility comes online next month, we will have the capacity to make tens of thousands of cultivated hamburgers. The facility is designed to grow as demand increases with regulatory approvals and regional market entries, up to hundreds of thousands of cultivated hamburgers per year. And in combination with our contract manufacturer in Singapore, even a lot more. We are excited to debut this great-tasting hamburger today that even hardcore carnivores will love,” said Maarten Bosch, CEO of Mosa Meat. “When we introduced cultivated meat to the world, we predicted it would take 10 years to create a consumer product. Now, almost exactly 10 years later, we have a consumer product that we can start making in larger quantities and that we can start serving to consumers in Singapore, pending regulatory approval,” said Mark Post, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Mosa Meat. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/897/golden-agri-resources-move-to-europe-for-integrated-agribusiness.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/897/golden-agri-resources-move-to-europe-for-integrated-agribusiness.html Fri, 05 May 2023 11:42:14 +0530 GAR's new office location is in line with the agribusiness' commitment to advancing sustainability in the palm oil sector Golden Agri-Resources (GAR), one of the world's largest seed-to-shelf agribusinesses, has completed its relocation to new premises in Utrecht, the Netherlands, to support growing headcount and commercial aspirations for its European operations. Europe is the world's primary consumer of sustainable palm oil, accounting for 45 per cent of the total global use of certified sustainable palm oil. GAR's new office location, Central Park Utrecht, has been selected with sustainability in mind, in line with the agribusiness' commitment to advancing sustainability in the palm oil sector. Central Park Utrecht has been awarded a BREEAM Excellent certificate for sustainable design, with positive assessments for nine categories including energy, transport, water, management, materials and health. BREEAM is regarded as the world's leading science-based suite of validation and certification systems for sustainability in the built environment. Maarten van der Hoeven, Head of Europe & LatAm at GAR said: "Our European business is built on long-term relationships that prioritise understanding and addressing our customer’s needs to offer consistent, reliable and sustainable offerings across a range of sectors. Our dedicated team have built a structural supply chain for our key customers, always working to add value where possible. This move gives us greater scope to build capacity and continue pushing for quality and sustainability above all else for our customers and partners." GAR has entities in the Netherlands, Spain, Colombia and Brazil, and representative offices in Bulgaria and Romania, supported by an extensive distribution and logistics network encompassing shipping, freight, and warehousing facilities. The company manages dedicated storage terminals and warehouses in Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Romania and Colombia, with plans for further expansion.  GAR also operates a sugar distribution and trading business with a global reach, including the origination of sugar from LatAm through the company's Brazil office. Elsewhere in the Americas, GAR established operations in Colombia and focused on sourcing palm oil in 2021, followed by the formation of storage and distribution channels for its oleochemicals business in the United States in 2022. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/892/alltech-and-agolin-partner-to-provide-eco-friendly-nutrition-solutions.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/892/alltech-and-agolin-partner-to-provide-eco-friendly-nutrition-solutions.html Thu, 04 May 2023 13:05:03 +0530 The partners will be exploring opportunities to develop new technologies that bring together the best of Alltech’s proven nutrition and Agolin’s essential oil blends Alltech announced it has acquired a majority interest in Agolin. Founded in 2006 in Switzerland, Agolin has developed and produced plant-based nutrition solutions that improve herd performance, profitability and sustainability, according to a 2020 meta-analysis in the journal Animals. Agolin’s high-quality essential oil blends are scientifically proven to optimise feed intake and performance, including improved milk and meat production. Furthermore, Agolin Ruminant was the first feed additive certified by The Carbon Trust for methane reduction in ruminants (2018). Today, organisations such as Verra and Gold Standard are including it in their major international climate protection projects. “Agolin’s essential oil blends are a complement to Alltech’s proven nutritional technologies, such as Yea-Sacc and Optigen,” said Dr Mark Lyons, Alltech’s president and CEO. “Governments, consumer brands and retailers are making important commitments to reduce their environmental impact. These commitments rely upon farmers and ranchers, and we are dedicated to supporting them with the best available nutritional technologies to achieve more milk and meat while reducing their environmental footprint.” The alliance between Alltech and Agolin will empower farmers and ranchers to reach their sustainability goals while also supporting the performance and profitability of the cattle in their herds and supply chains. The synergistic use of Alltech and Agolin nutritional technologies leads to benefits such as improved animal welfare, greater feed efficiency and conversion, enhanced milk and meat production, increased profitability, and a reduced environmental footprint, including a boost in nitrogen efficiency. The partners will also be exploring opportunities to develop new technologies that bring together the best of Alltech’s proven nutrition and Agolin’s essential oil blends. Agolin has a presence in Europe, Asia and North America. Alltech’s majority interest in the company will expand the availability of Agolin to additional markets. "We at Agolin are delighted with this strategic alliance to grow synergistically through the added technical expertise and global reach of Alltech,” said Kurt Schaller, managing director of Agolin SA. “This represents a new era for our business, and we look forward to breaking new ground in our industry.” Agolin focuses on research and development to produce and market innovative feed additives based on plant-active ingredients, which are effective and easy to use. Its essential oil blends are backed by a strong quality management system (FAMI-QS), which ensures safety and guarantees traceability. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/891/global-shrimp-forum-2023-to-take-place-during-september-in-netherlands.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/891/global-shrimp-forum-2023-to-take-place-during-september-in-netherlands.html Thu, 04 May 2023 12:18:46 +0530 More than 500 high-level executives representing farmers, feed companies, technology suppliers, service providers, processors, exporters will gather The second edition of the Global Shrimp Forum will take place from 5 to 7 September 2023, a fully dedicated high executive meeting place for the warm water shrimp Industry, in Utrecht the Netherlands. More than 500 high-level executives representing farmers, feed companies, technology suppliers, service providers, processors, exporters, importers, wholesalers, retailers and other industry stakeholders will gather. More than 100 speakers and panellists have been confirmed and this year, to set the scene, the Forum will open with a leadership panel, including President of Cargill Aqua Nutrition, Helene Ziv-Douki, General Manager of Omarsa, Sandro Coglitore and Chairman of Devi Fisheries, Rajagopal Choudary Chitturi. There’s a star line-up for the breakout sessions featuring industry leaders such as the General Manager of Skretting Ecuador, Carlos Miranda, CEO of Marinasol, Roberto Ferron, Shrimp Buyer for Maruha Nichiro, Hidetami Haruta, and Managing Director of MU Seafood, Shyamal Das. A full schedule, including all confirmed speakers and panellists, will be present at the forum. The subjects for this year’s sessions will be: Trade Statistics: The Latest Import and Export Trends Feed Manufacturing and Feed Ingredients Production: Strategies to Sustain Shrimp Production in Challenging Times Finance and Investment: CEO Visions and Investor Reflections Animal Welfare and Decarbonization Technology and Innovation Retail and Consumption This year the conference organisers, the Global Shrimp Forum Foundation (GSFF) are also funding a study to inspire discussion about how to promote global shrimp consumption. The preliminary results of the research will be presented and debated as part of the meeting. During an invite-only lunch, the world’s top producers will also discuss the status of establishing a global shrimp council. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/865/siemens-and-infinite-acres-advance-vertical-farming-in-netherlands-the-hague.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/865/siemens-and-infinite-acres-advance-vertical-farming-in-netherlands-the-hague.html Mon, 01 May 2023 12:45:36 +0530 Under the partnership, a MoU signed to build a vertical farming Field-Lab and Experience Center Siemens Netherlands and Infinite Acres, the technology company of 80 Acres Farms, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to build a vertical farming Field-Lab and Experience Center in The Hague. Under the MoU, the two companies have agreed to jointly open a multi-part research center at Infinite Acres’ headquarters in The Hague. In this research center, the companies will integrate Siemens’ state-of-the-art hardware and software with Infinite Acres’ operating platform and controlled environment growing technology, as well as learnings from Infinite Acres research and development facilities in the United States. The result: advancing the ability of Infinite Acres global breeding and technology partners to expedite the development of the vertical farming industry. With this, both parties are committed to developing sustainable, eco-friendly, and healthy food cultivation solutions across the U.S. and the world. “Vertical farming is a sustainable, yet high-tech solution that requires both experts in agriculture and technology to work together to scale new solutions quickly,” said John Parrott, vice president, and food and beverage head at Siemens Digital Industries US. In the Field Lab, Siemens and Infinite Acres will drive innovation in vertical farming. The Experience Center will show potential customers what vertical farming looks like in practice. “By bringing together Siemens technology and Infinite Acres growing expertise, we can help solve the diverse challenges surrounding agriculture. Our collaboration with Siemens is helping us standardize, industrialize, and scale our vertical farming technology, so we can feed the future” says Infinite Acres CEO Tisha Livingston. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/859/adm-millings-uk-pilot-project-maps-carbon-emissions-in-its-wheat-supply-chain.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/859/adm-millings-uk-pilot-project-maps-carbon-emissions-in-its-wheat-supply-chain.html Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:38:42 +0530 The three-year programme is supporting farmers to better understand their carbon footprint and reduce their emissions ADM, global leader in nutrition, and one of the leading flour millers in the UK, has for the first time calculated the emissions from the production of wheat in its UK supply chain. The pilot – undertaken by ADM Milling – is also one of the first led by a major food manufacturing company in the UK to calculate the emissions in the production of wheat, recognising that as climate change intensifies, it is vital for companies to understand the level of emissions produced further up their supply chain and take action to reduce their carbon footprint. Using Map of Ag as a data collection partner, ADM partnered with around 50 farmers to collect data and calculate the carbon footprint of farms' wheat production based on approx. 25,000 tonnes of wheat harvested last summer, equating to 20 million 1kg bags of flour milled by ADM – the equivalent of roughly 40 million loaves of bread (of 800g each). The data from year one of the pilot shows that the emissions from the UK farmers involved in the study sits at 302kg CO2e/t*, well below the previously reported standard values for UK milling wheat, which typically fall around 420kg CO2e/t. The next stage of the pilot will involve collecting data from the same group of farmers over the next two wheat harvests to ensure ADM creates a reliable baseline for the company and its customers and to track changes year-over-year. Nitrogen fertiliser was responsible for the biggest proportion of emissions (on average 75%). However other key sources of emissions included energy use (liquid/gaseous fuel and electricity) and crop residue (the breakdown of crop residues in field by natural processes). ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/849/biomar-and-agronutris-partners-on-the-next-generation-insect-meal.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/849/biomar-and-agronutris-partners-on-the-next-generation-insect-meal.html Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:56:31 +0530 A scalable, viable model for producing black soldier fly meals for aquaculture as an effective source of aqua nutrition Vietnam-headquartered global aqua feed company, BioMar and French animal nutrition Biotech company Agronutris have signed a long-term partnership to develop the next generation of black soldier fly meals specifically designed for the needs of the aquaculture industry. A wide portfolio of insect meals designed for aquaculture are entering the market following years of research and development. “Black soldier fly meal has always been a promising prospect that could be well suited to aquafeeds. Agronutris has developed a scalable model for black soldier fly able to meet the nutritional and sustainability profile required by the industry" said Fernando Norambuena, Global Category Manager, Novel Raw Materials at BioMar. With extensive attention to feedstock sourcing, 12 years of R&D achievements, and significant industrial investment, the Agronutris solution aims to deliver a stable, high-quality product demonstrating high sustainability performance. Using a circular economy approach, Agronutris has taken a step towards developing an ingredient that significantly impacts the aquaculture industry by moving beyond novel protein sources. "For insect meal to successfully enter aqua feeding, it must demonstrate high nutritional value and support healthy growth for fish and shrimp. Agronutris' innovative products have an excellent nutritional profile suited to the aquaculture industry. We aim to create the ideal product that meets BioMar's ambitious sustainability parameters”, said Chris Haacke, Director of Business Development at Agronutris. “A truly sustainable insect meal should be decoupled from the human food supply chain and fed off a substrate based on waste foods and by-products. With Agronutris, we see a viable, scalable model for producing black soldier fly meals. This could see this product become an effective source of nutrition in aquaculture”, said Vidar Gundersen, Global Sustainability Director at BioMar. BioMar's strategy of supplying low environmental impact alternatives aligns well with Agronutris' mission of providing low environmental impact alternatives. By 2030, 50% of its ingredients will be sourced from a circular and restorative economy and its feed carbon footprint will be lowered by 1/3. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/773/basf-groups-preliminary-figures-reports-13-4-drop-in-sales-in-q1-fy2023.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/773/basf-groups-preliminary-figures-reports-13-4-drop-in-sales-in-q1-fy2023.html Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:57:14 +0530 Sales declined by 13.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2023 to €19,991 million (Q1 2022: €23,083 million). Germany based BASF has released preliminary figures for the first quarter of 2023. Sales declined by 13.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2023 to €19,991 million (Q1 2022: €23,083 million). This was mainly driven by considerably lower volumes. Sales were considerably lower than average analyst estimates for the first quarter of 2023 (Vara: €21,819 million). EBIT before special items of BASF Group amounted to an expected €1,931 million in the first quarter of 2023, a decline of 31.5 per cent compared with the prior-year quarter (Q1 2022: €2,818 million) but considerably above the analyst consensus for the first quarter of 2023 (Vara: €1,599 million). In particular, EBIT before special items in the Agricultural Solutions segment considerably exceeded average analyst estimates. Chemicals, Materials and Surface Technologies were also considerably above the respective average analyst estimates for EBIT before special items in the first quarter of 2023. In the Industrial Solutions and Nutrition & Care segments, EBIT before special items missed average analyst estimates slightly and considerably, respectively. In Other, EBIT before special items was weaker than expected by analysts on average. The BASF Group’s EBIT amounted to an expected €1,867 million in the first quarter of 2023, considerably below the figure for the prior-year quarter (Q1 2022: €2,785 million) but considerably above the analyst consensus (Vara: €1,533 million). Net income reached €1,562 million, considerably above the figure in the prior-year quarter (Q1 2022: €1,221 million) and considerably above average analyst estimates for the first quarter of 2023 (Vara: €1,081 million). In the prior-year quarter, impairments on the participation in Wintershall Dea had burdened net income of BASF Group. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/736/bayer-to-invest-60-mn-euros-in-corn-seed-production-facility-in-ukrain.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/736/bayer-to-invest-60-mn-euros-in-corn-seed-production-facility-in-ukrain.html Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:31:06 +0530 This investment includes a new seed dryer, state-of-the-art agricultural field equipment, storage facilities. Bayer has revealed an investment of overall 60 million euros from 2023 onwards in its corn seed production facility Pochuiky, Ukraine. With this the life sciences company emphasizes its commitment to Ukraine and strengthens its Crop Science business in the country, contributing to rebuilding the economy. This investment includes a new seed dryer, state-of-the-art agricultural field equipment, storage facilities and the construction of two bomb shelters to ensure the safety of the Ukrainian colleagues who have been operating the facility and executing this investment project under very difficult circumstances. Bayer’s Head of Public Affairs, Science and Sustainability Matthias Berninger said, "Our investment underscores our commitment which is in full alignment with our vision of ‘Health for all, hunger for none’ and reflects the critical importance of the country in the global food supply chain. We will do our part to support the rebuilding plan for Ukraine and protecting food security for the region and for the world." Berninger attended a small business delegation on a visit to Ukraine led by Robert Habeck, German Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. The delegation which also included Oliver Gierlichs, Managing Director of Bayer Ukraine, discussed Germany’s commitment to the country and its people as well as the possibilities of an economic partnership. It was the first business delegation of the German government in Ukraine since the beginning of the war. Prior to the war, the company made a significant investment of close to 200 million euros to establish corn seed production through a network of skilled Ukrainian farmers and the greenfield seed processing site in Pochuiky. The plant was inaugurated in 2018 and operates with around 100 on-site employees and about 250 to 300 seasonal workers. Bayer, with its plant, is one of the biggest investors in the region. Its taxes comprise about 25 per cent of the local community budget. Bayer is actively involved in solving social issues of the local community in the Pochuiky village by investing in the construction of a new road and the local hospital, as well as continuously supporting the local school, kindergarten and library.  Pochuiky site investment in line with overall efforts of Bayer to support Ukraine. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/737/philippines-france-to-strengthen-cooperation-for-agricultural-development.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/737/philippines-france-to-strengthen-cooperation-for-agricultural-development.html Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:30:24 +0530 Both sides agreed upon the finalisation and signing of the Implementation Agreement on the Promotion of Geographical Indications The governments of the Philippines and France will continue to partner towards the development and strengthening of the agri-food sector, particularly involving the local livestock and dairy industry.  This was decided during the 3rd Philippines-France Joint Steering Committee (JSC) on Agricultural Cooperation held at the Philippine Coconut Authority.  The JSC was co-chaired by Noel A. Padre, Assistant Secretary for Policy, Research and Development of the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) and Françoise Simon, Head of the International Affairs Division of the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty (MAFS). Michele Boccoz, French Ambassador to the Philippines was also present.  In an administrative arrangement signed between the Government of the Philippines and the Government of France in 2017, one of the implementation cooperation is the conduct of dialogues such as the Joint Steering Committee on Agricultural Cooperation every two years to strengthen areas of cooperation and open new doors for partnership.  During the meeting, both sides agreed upon the finalisation and signing of the Implementation Agreement on the Promotion of Geographical Indications, confirmed the planned activities on strengthening the management of African swine fever, and continued further discussions on ASF vaccine development.  In addition, France supports the proposal of the NMIS on the fellowship visits to reference labs specialising in the analyses of veterinary drug residues in pig meat. The Philippines also raised proposed scholarship grants and agricultural education.  Both sides have agreed on furthering dairy cooperation and on expediting existing projects.  The Farm and Fisheries Consolidation and Clustering (F2C2) shared their priorities from the Agriculture Forum which transpired the previous day and discussions arise about the exchange of experts to help with the priorities.  Possible areas of partnership with France include the development of wholesale markets, improvement of the Peking duck industry, and strengthening the resilience of the seaweed industry. The possible creation of an SPS working group was also raised.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/734/yara-and-enbridge-to-develop-a-low-carbon-blue-ammonia-project-at-texas.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/734/yara-and-enbridge-to-develop-a-low-carbon-blue-ammonia-project-at-texas.html Thu, 06 Apr 2023 11:59:44 +0530  It aims contribute to Yara’s strategy of decarbonizing agriculture as well as serving new clean ammonia segments such as shipping fuel, power production and ammonia as a hydrogen carrier. Norway based Yara Clean Ammonia (Yara), a Yara International ASA company, and Enbridge Inc., are pleased to announce the signing of a letter of intent to jointly develop and construct a world scale low-carbon blue ammonia production facility as equal partners. The proposed facility, which includes autothermal reforming with carbon capture, will be located at the Enbridge Ingleside Energy Center (EIEC) near Corpus Christi, Texas. Once operational, the production facility will be capable of supplying low-carbon ammonia to meet growing global demand, with an expected capacity of 1.2–1.4 million tons per annum. Approximately 95 per cent of the carbon dioxide (CO2) generated from the production process is anticipated to be captured and transported to nearby permanent geologic storage. If confirmed through the Front-end Engineering Design (FEED) phase and approved, total project investment is expected in the range of US$2.6–US$2.9 billion, with production start-up in 2027/2028. Enbridge and Yara will utilize their complementary strengths to develop and execute the project. Yara’s industry-leading experience in ammonia development, production, operations and distribution, combined with Enbridge’s large-scale infrastructure development expertise and world-class EIEC deep water docks and export platform, will be critical to advancing the project from development through to commercial operation. In addition, Yara, the world’s largest ammonia distributor, is expected to contract full offtake from the facility, which further enhances the strategic value and commercial viability of the project. “Yara is pleased to be joining Enbridge in developing this significant clean ammonia project. As presented at our Capital Markets Day, we are working systematically to develop project opportunities in the U.S. and this project will significantly contribute to our strategy of decarbonizing agriculture as well as serving new clean ammonia segments such as shipping fuel, power production and ammonia as a hydrogen carrier,” said Magnus Krogh Ankarstrand, President of Yara Clean Ammonia. Enbridge’s Texas Eastern Transmission Pipeline is expected to provide the transportation service for feed gas that will be used for the production process, and Enbridge, along with Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, is advancing a nearby CO2 sequestration hub which is a potential destination for the project’s captured CO2. “We are excited to partner with Yara and collaborate on this clean energy project, especially given their expertise in global ammonia projects, operations and distribution,” said Colin Gruending, Enbridge Executive Vice President and President, Liquids Pipelines. “EIEC is well positioned to become the most sustainable export terminal in North America through low-carbon fuel production, carbon capture and solar self-power.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/733/planet-based-foods-enters-european-markets-with-uk-subsidiary.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/733/planet-based-foods-enters-european-markets-with-uk-subsidiary.html Thu, 06 Apr 2023 11:48:10 +0530 Planet Based Foods Global Inc., the parent company of Planet Based Foods, will continue its operations in the United States  Planet Based Foods Global Inc. announced that the Company has formed a UK subsidiary under the name PBF Europe LTD. for the purpose of entry into European markets. Planet Based Foods Global Inc., the parent company of Planet Based Foods, will continue its operations in the United States as it establishes itself in new international territories. "This is a groundbreaking announcement for Planet Based Foods, and should come as no surprise for those that have been following our growth these past few months," Braelyn Davis Planet Based Foods CEO and co-founder said. "We're excited to introduce some key personnel that will assist the company in establishing its foothold in Europe. From there, we'll be looking to partner with renowned distributors and producers in the food and beverage technology space to elevate us to the next echelon not only in Europe but beyond as well." The Company announced that it'll be expanding its operations to the United Kingdom, not just to sell products but to establish an ethically sustainable food system similar to what has been accomplished in the United States. From seed to sale, Planet Based Foods is committed to promoting sustainable practices and will be proud to work alongside local growers to begin harvesting the core ingredient, hemp. This is an exciting opportunity for us to continue our mission of promoting sustainable food systems, and the Company looks forward to contributing to the UK's agricultural landscape. It's an exciting time for Planet Based Foods as it prepares to enter the European market. For months, consumers have anxiously awaited the Company's arrival to enjoy Planet Based Foods' tasty and health-conscious foods. The Company intends to replicate the success of its Business-to-Consumer model and plans to add more Business-to-Business opportunities potentially. Planet Based Foods remains committed to offering healthier hemp-based alternatives for its consumers. In addition, PBF Europe LTD. will allow the Company to better serve its European customers as it continues to grow its brand in the region. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/724/global-ngo-compassion-in-the-world-farming-reforms-animal-farming-strategies.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/724/global-ngo-compassion-in-the-world-farming-reforms-animal-farming-strategies.html Wed, 05 Apr 2023 15:19:57 +0530 global campaigning NGO with headquarters in the UK, and playing vital role across Europe, in the US, China and South Africa aims to control measures in factory farming of livestocks A comprehensive three-year strategy by the global NGO, 'Compassion in World Farming' calls for far-reaching food and farm reforms as part of a global movement. Factory farming is the largest cause of cruelty on earth, driving all three crises, like climate, hunger and wildlife crises and it will be too late without action within this decade. A new online platform has been launched by an international animal welfare environmental charity to engage individuals, organisations, and forward-looking businesses in calling on world leaders to urgently transform our food system. The aim is to build a powerful voice across a broad range of sectors – including health, social justice, the environment, food business, conservation, and animal welfare. The initiative is assuring better lives for animals farmed now and influencing policy makers and funders to embrace climate- and nature-friendly farming. Founded in 1967 by a British dairy farmer to control the intensive factory farming, Compassion is an global campaigning NGO with headquarters in the UK, and playing vital role across Europe, in the US, China and South Africa. Ground-breaking investigations and campaigns expose factory farming's true cost and hold those with the power to affect change to account. Its work with thousands of food businesses achieves game-changing welfare and sustainability commitments giving billions of animals lives worth living. The new strategy is broken down into three overarching goals which build on the significant successes Compassion has achieved in recent years, including an historic commitment from the European Union to ban cages for farmed animals by 2027. These goals are: to achieve a global shift from factory farming to regenerative farming that works with nature and animals to reduce human reliance on animal products, including by eating less meat, fish, and dairy; and to raise a global awareness that good animal welfare is essential for sustainable climate and nature-friendly food. To achieve these goals, Compassion will focus on the four main actors that hold the key to achieving the goals – governments, corporates, the United Nations and the finance sector. It will continue to run powerful global campaigns and engage with global and national bodies that have the power to drive change, including the UN, the EU, and governments around the world. Engagement with leading and forward-thinking food businesses will continue to help achieve these goals by demanding higher animal welfare and planet-friendly practices in food production. Another important focus will be influencing financial institutions to shift investments away from factory farming towards nature-friendly and animal-positive farming, as well as the production of alternative proteins like grains, pulses, and cultivated meat. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/719/bayer-ag-establishes-bioethics-council-for-guidance-on-current-bioethical-questions.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/719/bayer-ag-establishes-bioethics-council-for-guidance-on-current-bioethical-questions.html Tue, 04 Apr 2023 12:52:11 +0530  Bioethics Council aims to focus on the development of new biotechnological and artificial intelligence-based solutions. Bayer AG has established a Bioethics Council consisting of internationally renowned experts, to provide broad independent perspective and guidance on current bioethical questions, particularly with regard to the development of new biotechnological and artificial intelligence-based solutions. Bayer is committed to using emerging technologies in an ethically responsible way as part of its business and R&D activities across all its divisions. The Bioethics Council will maintain regular dialogue with Bayer leadership on the implementation and long-term development of Bayer’s Bioethics Policy. To this end, the Bioethics Council focuses, among others, on the further development and implementation of Bayer’s Bioethics Policy. This policy represents a company-wide ethical framework for decisions relevant to R&D innovations in the life sciences. It covers medical topics, bioengineering, and artificial intelligence. The Bioethics Policy specifically gives guidance on issues related to the discovery, development, production and application of treatments and therapies to promote human health, and in agricultural products and services. Dr Monika Lessl, Head of Corporate R&D and Social Innovation at Bayer AG. said, "We are aware of our responsibility as a research company and therefore want to actively participate in the further development of bioethical standards in dialogue with society. Exchange with external experts is essential for this," she emphasized. Dr. Axel Trautwein, Head of Regulatory Science at Bayer Crop Science, added: "Developing innovations in the life sciences, particularly in biotechnology, inevitably requires a thorough assessment of the ethical implications for people and the environment. Bayer wants to raise and uphold high bioethical standards throughout its operations – with the help of the Bioethics Council. Being transparent about our approach and our progress in this process is the cornerstone of all our efforts in building a solid ethical framework for our business." The Bioethics Council convenes twice a year. In addition, the experts offer support on specific questions, either individually or in small teams. The Council is designed in several ways to safeguard the independence of its members. The experts provide external independent advice and do not represent Bayer or its operations. The Council currently has ten members. Bayer will regularly report on its work.Members of the Bayer Bioethics Council are: Carolina Aguerre, Professor of Humanities and Social Sciences, Universidad Católica del Uruguay I. Glenn Cohen, Professor of Law and Faculty Director, Petrie-Flom Center for Health Law Policy, Biotechnology & Bioethics, Harvard Law School Gry Hasselbalch, PhD, Independent scholar Insoo Hyun, Director of the Center for Life Sciences and Public Learning, Boston Museum of Science Andreas Kurtz, Head of the Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Registry (hPSCreg, former European Human Embryonic Stem Cell Registry) Sir Jonathan Montgomery, Professor of Health Care Law, University College London Jonathan D. Moreno, Professor of Medical Ethics & Health Policy and of the History & Sociology of Science, University of Pennsylvania Anne Muigai, Professor of Genetics and Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs and Research at the National Defence University-Kenya Sonny Ramaswamy, President of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities in Redmond, WA, USA Julian Savulescu, Chen Su Lan Professor in Medical Ethics at the National University of Singapore ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/714/netherland-pilots-worlds-first-large-scale-methane-reducing-feed-additive-for-cattle.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/714/netherland-pilots-worlds-first-large-scale-methane-reducing-feed-additive-for-cattle.html Tue, 04 Apr 2023 11:56:52 +0530 Dutch dairy industry moves towards sustainability with successful incorporation of Bovaer® into the regular farming activities of 158 dairy farms in the Netherlands  Dutch dairy company Royal FrieslandCampina, DSM, and feed supplier Agrifirm have successfully incorporated Bovaer® into the regular farming activities of 158 dairy farms in the Netherlands in the world’s first large-scale on-farm use of the methane-reducing feed additive for cattle. The six month program, which started in 2022, confirmed that Bovaer® can easily be introduced at scale without affecting animal health, milk production or milk composition. This work supports the quicker adoption of Bovaer® by the dairy sector, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping the Netherlands to reach its climate targets. In 2022, history was made by launching an extensive project to gain practical experience with Bovaer®, involving more than 20,000 cows and 158 farms. The successful collaboration between the member dairy farmers of FrieslandCampina, DSM and Agrifirm led to a decrease of 10,000 tons of CO2e in methane emissions (an average of 28% less enteric methane emissions). The project’s success also opens the door for Bovaer® to be more easily implemented across the entire Dutch dairy herd. This move towards sustainability in the Dutch dairy industry stands to benefit consumers and farmers alike. Starting this year, farmers that are using Bovaer® in their feed can be recognized for its use through the KringloopWijzer (Annual Nutrient Cycling Assessment), the carbon footprint tool of the Dutch Dairy Sector (ZuivelNL). The successful collaboration between Bovaer® and the member dairy farmers of FrieslandCampina has opened the door for Bovaer® to be implemented across the entire Dutch dairy herd. This move towards sustainability in the Dutch dairy industry will benefit farmers and consumers alike. Together with its member dairy farmers, FrieslandCampina aims to achieve a 33% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on its member dairy farms by 2030 (vs. 2015). It is therefore working on various solutions to achieve this, such as using guaranteed deforestation-free soy in cattle feed, digestion of manure, generating sustainable energy on farms and reducing cow methane emissions using Bovaer®. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/682/new-rijk-zwaan-varieties-create-more-choice-in-the-leek-market.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/682/new-rijk-zwaan-varieties-create-more-choice-in-the-leek-market.html Tue, 28 Mar 2023 12:57:27 +0530 Company wants to be a dependable partner for leek growers and offer a broad and innovative portfolio in order to support their future growth. Since last year, leek growers have had more varieties to choose from. Rijk Zwaan is aiming to play a serious role in this important crop, following an intensive period of development work. It has initially launched four strong new varieties that pave the way for a complete portfolio of hybrid leek varieties, that helps leek growers to address today’s challenges. Here, three key Rijk Zwaan employees discuss the importance of collaboration, their drive to support customers’ future growth, and the company’s ambitions. Dependable partner for leek growers Bert Crins (Breeder), Filip Hermans (Crop Coordinator) and Rik Van Laere (Crop Manager) all played a key role in the launch of the new leek varieties. They are keen to emphasise the importance of teamwork, since they worked together not only with numerous other colleagues, but also with various growers from seven European countries. Van Laere explains why Rijk Zwaan’s decision to invest in the development of leek varieties was a logical one: “As one of the world’s leading vegetable breeding companies, we believe that such an important European crop belongs in our range. We want to be a dependable partner for leek growers and offer a broad and innovative portfolio in order to support their future growth.” Collaboration equals speed According to Crins, the success of this project is thanks to the effective collaboration between the Rijk Zwaan team and the growers: “We breathed new life into our leek breeding programme ten years ago. We started by identifying the market needs; that gave us a clear goal to aim for. We then gradually improved our genetics and worked towards that goal. Over the past five years, we’ve made strong progress thanks to the short lines of communication and a continuous feedback loop between Breeding, Product Development and the market. Growers in all important European leek markets ran trials with high-potential varieties and shared their findings with us. That enabled us to make any necessary changes quickly.” Hermans adds: “We should be proud of that speed because it’s pretty unique. It meant that we could introduce the first four varieties in our range simultaneously. They differ in terms of earliness and shaft length, but they are all aligned with the market needs.” Challenges for leek growers Hermans is happy to explain more about those needs. “Leek growers are looking for labour-friendly varieties, not only because labour accounts for a big share of their costs, but also because employees are in increasingly short supply. Therefore, a leek variety must be easy to clean,” he says. “Harvest reliability is another requirement. Due to ever-tighter restrictions on the use of crop protection agents, resistances are becoming more important in the battle against pests and diseases. Needless to say, we’re focusing heavily on developing varieties with resistances against problems such as thrips and leek rust. The third challenge is climate change. Heat and drought can have a big impact on leek crops due to the long season, which is why we strive to develop robust varieties. Besides that, a leek variety must have good agronomical traits and produce a high yield.” The best four leek varieties The four new varieties meet all of those needs. They clearly emerged from the long selection process as the high-potential varieties, Crins explains: “Floccus RZ, Nebulus RZ, Volutus RZ and Radiatus RZ were selected as the best, including based on growers’ trials.” Hermans sums up the key characteristics: “Floccus is for the earliest cycles. It’s fast and has high tolerance to bolting and thrips. Nebulus follows on from that. It’s a uniform, labour-friendly and versatile variety. Volutus is for the late-autumn/early-winter segment. It remains short, uniform and nicely upright with a blue leaf colour. Last but not least, Radiatus is a prepack type which like Volutus is upright with blue leaves, plus it is strong against thrips.” Paving the way for a complete portfolio There are more new leek varieties in the pipeline. Rijk Zwaan is continuing to expand its portfolio. Hermans: “In the autumn of 2022 we selected several new varieties to complete our portfolio in the other segments. As soon as these varieties become commercial, they will be listed on the websites for the specific production regions. We will continue to work closely with the growers to fine-tune how to optimise cultivating our varieties in practice. Of course, our next generation of varieties will also be focused on even more harvest reliability, labour efficiency and resistances. That’s how we stay relevant in every market segment.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/677/grubmarket-expands-supply-to-ukraine-romania-and-opens-office-in-egypt.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/677/grubmarket-expands-supply-to-ukraine-romania-and-opens-office-in-egypt.html Tue, 28 Mar 2023 08:07:28 +0530 These developments represent GrubMarket's underlying commitment to building a robust, global supply chain for high-quality, fresh produce GrubMarket announced that it has expanded its supply of fresh produce to Eastern European countries Ukraine and Romania, and also opened a new office in Egypt through its Salix Fruits business. Based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Salix Fruits is a global fresh fruit importer and exporter of a wide portfolio of produce items, including apples, lemons, oranges, tangerines, pears, grapes, and more. Salix Fruits works with hundreds of growers across 20 countries and serves over 450 business customers in 50 countries worldwide, with operations in Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Spain, India, the U.S., and now Egypt as well. These developments represent GrubMarket's underlying commitment to building a robust, global supply chain for high-quality, fresh produce. By expanding the supply of fresh produce to Ukraine, Romania, and other Eastern European countries, GrubMarket has positioned itself to help address challenges like worldwide food shortage crises and geopolitical disruptions to the global food supply chain. The expansion of the supply of fresh produce to Ukraine also signifies GrubMarket's support for the Ukrainian people to have continued access to fresh and healthy food, even under challenging circumstances. In 2022, despite significant logistics and transportation challenges, the company supplied a variety of fresh fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, sourced from Argentina and South Africa, to most regions around Ukraine. Over the course of 2022, GrubMarket grew the total volume of products supplied to Ukraine by nearly 20 per cent and is on track for over 50 per cent growth this year. GrubMarket also plans to diversify both the variety, adding commodities such as avocados, and the sourcing, adding imports from countries like Spain, of the products it supplies to Ukraine and Romania. In another significant expansion milestone for GrubMarket, Salix Fruits has opened a new office in Sadat City, Egypt, which will primarily source high-demand Egyptian citrus for GrubMarket's end customers. Salix's Egypt operation will be led by Haydy Shaheen, a foreign trade expert with over a decade of experience in the fresh produce industry in the Egyptian market. With the addition of the Egypt office, GrubMarket now operates in both Northern and Southern Africa, with plans to expand further across the African continent. "We are thrilled to be expanding our operations through key markets like Egypt," said Mike Xu, GrubMarket CEO. "Egypt is a key emerging market for food production and agriculture, and having an office there allows us to further execute our strategy to source the highest-quality fruits and vegetables from premier growing regions around the world for our end customers throughout the U.S. and beyond. We sincerely look forward to building stronger relationships with local farmers and growers in this area, as we continue to expand our presence across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and the rest of the world." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/676/australia-negotiates-on-wine-agreement-proposed-by-eu.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/676/australia-negotiates-on-wine-agreement-proposed-by-eu.html Tue, 28 Mar 2023 07:47:35 +0530 The Australian Government is running a public objections process on wine geographical indications (GIs) Australia is negotiating amendments to the Australia-European Community Agreement on Trade in Wine (Wine Agreement). As part of the negotiation, the Australian Government is running a public objections process on wine geographical indications (GIs) proposed by the EU. A public objections process provides stakeholders with an opportunity to have their say and formally lodge an objection to the protection of specific wine GIs proposed by the EU. This process is required under Australia’s international obligations and will enable the government to take into account the full range of Australia’s interests in considering the EU’s requests. It does not indicate the government has made a decision to protect or amend the protection of any specific EU wine GIs. Joanna Stanion, First Assistant Secretary for Agricultural Policy encouraged the Australian wine industry and other stakeholders to put forward any submissions regarding these GIs. “This is an open and transparent process for all interested stakeholders to provide their views,” Stanion said. “The government will use this information to help inform Australia’s negotiating positions in the finalisation of the Wine Agreement.” The EU is seeking protection for 50 new wine GIs under the Wine Agreement, as well as updates to existing wine GIs. As part of this request, the EU is again seeking protection for Prosecco and Vittoria. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/673/portugals-sparos-launches-innovative-micro-diet-for-turbot-hatcheries.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/673/portugals-sparos-launches-innovative-micro-diet-for-turbot-hatcheries.html Mon, 27 Mar 2023 14:31:23 +0530 The micro diet incorporates a selection of top-quality ingredients that have been thoroughly tested Portugal-based SPAROS announced the launch of its latest product, WIN Max, within the HATCHERY FEEDS range. As a leader in aquaculture nutrition, SPAROS has developed this innovative micro diet to optimise the performance of turbot at marine hatcheries through customised nutrition. WIN Max has been designed in partnership with key customers and R&D institutions and is tailor-made to meet the evolving needs of hatchery managers. This premium weaning micro diet incorporates a selection of top-quality ingredients that have been thoroughly tested and produced by low-shear extrusion, incorporating microencapsulation of water-soluble nutrients. It has been formulated specifically for turbot, ensuring good growth and survival at the early development stages. Additionally, WINMax combines high palatability, digestibility and adjusted physical properties to ensure increased uptake by the fish while lowering the impact on water quality. “We are thrilled to introduce WINMax to our customers and the market at large,” said Luís Conceição co-founder and R&D director from SPAROS. “This product is the result of tireless research, development, and innovation. We are confident that it will outperform our customers’ expectations while offering unparalleled value at turbot hatcheries.” With the launch of WIN Max, SPAROS continues to build a portfolio of premium bespoke products that deliver exceptional results. This new product marks an exciting new chapter in SPAROS’ history. At SPAROS, we have a hands-on approach towards converting customer needs into new solutions. The close contact we have with our customers and R&D institutions allows us to establish strong partnerships that lead to the development of bespoke products. As João Henriques, Product Manager at SPAROS puts it, “Our customers’ success is our success, and we strive to create value for them through innovation and collaboration.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/665/ecorobotix-introduces-novel-smart-herbicide-biospray-device.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/665/ecorobotix-introduces-novel-smart-herbicide-biospray-device.html Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:09:00 +0530 UHP-spraying solution is efficient and more cost-effective solution which can be used for both selective and non-selective herbicides Ecorobotix has introduced a UHP-spraying solution for spot-spraying herbicide application, making it more efficient and more cost-effective solution which can be used for both selective and non-selective herbicides. The ARA Precision Sprayer is a revolutionary ultra-high precision sprayer with an ability to treat plant-by-plant with an unprecedented accuracy of 6x6 cm and a breakthrough in targeted herbicide delivery. ARA's technology can accurately detect, classify, and spray only individual weeds (avoiding surrounding soil and crops), thanks to its AI based plant recognition capability and ultra-high precision (UHP). Ecorobotix's UHP-spraying solution is radically different from conventional and spot-spraying herbicide application, making it more efficient and more cost-effective solution which can be used for both selective and non-selective herbicides. Under the Biospray project, ARA proved its potential for Sustainable and Non-Selective Herbicide & Pesticide Use in Agriculture. The EU-funded agROBOfood project has supported the Biospray industrial challenge project to adapt Ecorobotix's ultra-high precision technology to meet the needs of biocontrol applications and to conduct field trials for three types of applications.  The novel Biocontrol are derived from natural ingredients (such as vinegar and geranium) and offer effective crop treatment.  These simpler molecules are assumed to be highly effective herbicides and pesticides, to degrade totally (so don't remain in the soil/environment) and to require less energy to produce (reducing the CO2 footprint). "For example, 'natural' herbicides can be used to treat weeds but can also harm the crops if they were broadly sprayed so they are best delivered by an ultra-high precision sprayer which targets individual plants (spraying only weeds but not crops)", explains Steve Tanner, CTO Ecorobotix. The products can be used both in conventional farming and bio/organic farming.  However, formal homologation of these biocontrol products is still ongoing for use in organic/bio farming. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/666/syngenta-launches-global-platform-to-address-complex-challenges-in-agriculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/666/syngenta-launches-global-platform-to-address-complex-challenges-in-agriculture.html Fri, 24 Mar 2023 12:59:24 +0530 “Shoots by Syngenta™” will also include a startup accelerator, providing a supportive ecosystem for early-stage companies developing new agricultural technologies. Syngenta Group announced the launch of “Shoots by Syngenta™,” a global platform designed to help tackle agriculture’s most complex challenges, increase innovation, and advance more sustainable agriculture. Starting with science-based innovation challenges, the platform will connect scientific discovery and creativity, bringing together academics, research institutes, startups, and cross-industry sectors to collaborate with Syngenta’s global network of 5,000+ scientists. “Shoots by Syngenta™” will also include a startup accelerator, providing a supportive ecosystem for early-stage companies developing new agricultural technologies. Cohorts of startups will enter a program connecting them with mentors, resources, and funding to accelerate their growth and impact. “Helping growers sustainably feed a rapidly growing human population requires a strong collaboration focus, not just across agriculture but across industries,” said Gusui Wu, Global Head of Seeds Research. “Collaboration is at the heart of how our scientists approach innovation every day. It’s embedded in our scientific culture, and we are continually seeking out different technologies, solutions and partners to help us better serve farmers.” “Shoots by Syngenta™” will spotlight specific innovation needs from across the Syngenta Crop Protection and Seeds businesses. Science-based innovation challenges will be posted on the website, enabling anyone with a scientific interest to submit proposals in response to the challenges or other areas of focus. Proposals are quickly evaluated, and if there is a mutual fit, they are progressed to a collaboration partnership to take forward the research or technology that might eventually be licensed. “We know that science holds the answer to the challenges we face, so we’re open to sharing and helping others benefit from our world-leading findings and experiences,” says Camilla Corsi, Global Head of Research for Syngenta Crop Protection. “Shoots by Syngenta™ gives us gives access to real, proven data and insight, which can inform and accelerate future science-led breakthroughs.” Additionally, the startup accelerator will provide early-stage companies the opportunity to pilot their technology at Syngenta’s Farm of the Future and select grower farms globally, mentorship and access to industry experts, and an opportunity to present and test ideas with relevant business leaders and investors. Participants will get one-on-one mentoring by Syngenta business leaders that is customized based on each team’s specific requirements. "Our vision is to create an ecosystem that drives innovation and collaboration in the agricultural industry, creating a more sustainable and efficient future for farmers, consumers, and the planet," said Feroz Sheikh, Chief Information and Digital Officer at Syngenta Group. "We believe that the most promising solutions to global food security, sustainability, and productivity will come from bringing together innovative and technology-driven start-ups with growers and industry experts.” Leaders from Syngenta Group will be present at this week’s World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit and the IUPAC International Congress of Crop Protection Chemistry to engage with fellow innovators and share more on “Shoots by Syngenta™.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/643/vietnams-coffee-export-to-spain-reaches-287-mn.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/643/vietnams-coffee-export-to-spain-reaches-287-mn.html Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:15:26 +0530 In 2022 Spain imported 376,450 tons of coffee, worth 1.37 billion euros ($1.46 billion), a year-on-year increase of 11 per cent in volume and 47.5 per cent in value. Vietnam is the largest supplier of coffee for Spain, reaching 113,550 tons, worth approximately 269 million euros ($287 million), up 21.6 per cent in volume and 78.9 per cent in value compared to 2021. According to Vietnam's Import-Export Department (Ministry of Industry and Trade), citing data from the European Statistics Agency, in 2022 Spain imported 376,450 tons of coffee, worth 1.37 billion euros ($1.46 billion), a year-on-year increase of 11 per cent in volume and 47.5 per cent in value. The average import price of Spanish coffee is up to $3,650 per ton, up 32.9 per cent compared to 2021 and the highest level in the period 2018-2022, in which, the average import price of Spain’s coffee from most sources increased, except for the Netherlands. In 2022, the supply of coffee to Spain in 2022 is mainly from markets beyond the EU, the volume reached 275,770 tons, worth 911.82 million euros ($ 973.18 million), an increase of 11.5 per cent in volume and 77.8 per cent in value compared to 2021. Vietnam's coffee market share in Spain's total imports from the world market increased to 30.16 per cent. In contrast, Spain decreased 23.2 per cent of coffee imports from Indonesia in volume but increased by 12.5 per cent in value compared to 2021, reaching 20,500 tons, worth 46.95 million euros ($50.11 million). According to the Import-Export Department, Spain is the 8th largest trading partner of Vietnam in the EU, the 7th largest export partner and the 8th largest import partner of Vietnam. In 2022, two-way trade turnover between Vietnam and Spain reached $3.54 billion, up 13 per cent compared to 2021 (the highest growth rate ever). Vietnam's export turnover to Spain reached $ 2.96 billion, up 16.34 per cent and Vietnam's import turnover from Spain reached $572.69 million, down 1.59 per cent compared to last year. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/642/rijk-zwaan-builds-a-second-facility-for-seed-treatment-and-storage-in-the-netherlands.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/642/rijk-zwaan-builds-a-second-facility-for-seed-treatment-and-storage-in-the-netherlands.html Tue, 21 Mar 2023 10:54:53 +0530 Activities performed in the new facility will include seed extraction, seed treatments and seed storage. Rijk Zwaan, a Dutch vegetable breeding and seed production company headquartered in De Lier in the province of South Holland builds a second facility for seed treatment and storage in the Netherlands. Construction work is now underway on a new Rijk Zwaan facility for the treatment and storage of vegetable seeds. This marks a further expansion of the vegetable breeding company’s existing facilities in De Lier, the Netherlands. The new building is expected to be fully operational by spring 2025. Activities performed in the new facility will include seed extraction, seed treatments and seed storage. Besides that, the building will house offices and a multifunctional meeting area for use by employees and visitors. Rising demand for vegetable seeds The demand for vegetable seeds is expected to continue to rise, not least due to the growing world population. “By increasing Rijk Zwaan’s capacity for seed treatment and storage, we can continue to meet growers’ needs for high-quality vegetable varieties. At the same time, our new facility will enable us to spread our seed processing and storage activities across multiple locations, thus supporting even better business continuity,” says Hubertien Doldersum, Manager Operations at Rijk Zwaan. Consideration for the community The wants and needs of the local community have been taken into account in the building plans. Parallel to the ‘Kralingerpad’ cycle path, for example, a public footpath and greenery will be created on the new Rijk Zwaan premises. Moreover, the existing watercourse has been widened to 12 metres to significantly improve drainage away from De Lier. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/603/syngenta-partners-with-aphea-bio-to-bring-novel-agri-tech-to-markets-across-europe.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/603/syngenta-partners-with-aphea-bio-to-bring-novel-agri-tech-to-markets-across-europe.html Fri, 10 Mar 2023 13:20:13 +0530  The partnership aims to accelerate the introduction of a novel biological seed treatment solution across multiple countries in Europe over the next five years. Wheat farmers seeking to increase yields while reducing fertilizer inputs are set to benefit from a new collaboration between Syngenta Crop Protection and Aphea.Bio announced. The collaboration aims to accelerate the introduction of a novel biological seed treatment solution across multiple countries in Europe over the next five years, pending regulatory approval. This places a much-needed technology in the hands of farmers seeking to improve the sustainability of their farming operations, and to address challenges arising from an increasingly constrained toolbox of available agricultural technologies as well as evolving consumer demands.Eur ACTIV by Aphea.Bio® is a biostimulant applied as a seed treatment on wheat that is based on beneficial microorganisms. By improving the crop´s nutrient use efficiency, it enables as much as five percent higher yields even with reduced fertilizer use. “We are excited to announce this collaboration with Aphea.Bio, which supports our important ambition of helping feed ever growing populations in more sustainable ways,” said Jonathan Brown, Head of Global Seedcare at Syngenta Crop Protection. “It demonstrates our commitment to bringing novel, nutrient use efficiency solutions to growers, helping safeguard yields if nitrogen inputs are reduced. Combined with our leading conventional seed treatment portfolio, ACTIV by Aphea.Bio® will offer a unique value proposition in a fast-changing EU landscape.” Isabel Vercauteren, CEO and co-founder of Aphea.Bio, said: “We are excited to launch our first wheat biostimulant in partnership with Syngenta. We are joining forces to build a more sustainable and profitable future for European farmers. And this is just the beginning.” An introduction of ACTIV by Aphea.Bio® will represent an additional building block in the strategy to achieving healthy soils by supporting crops through beneficial microorganisms. It furthermore has the potential to contribute to the goal of the European Union’s Green Deal to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers inputs. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/601/philippines-regains-eu-market-access-for-pili-nuts-export.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/601/philippines-regains-eu-market-access-for-pili-nuts-export.html Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:53:52 +0530 The EU market opening will benefit local pili processors and exporters including thousands of pili farmers Dried pili nuts from the Philippines can now enter the European Union (EU) following the issuance of the European Commission Implementing Regulation (EU). The document signed authorises the inclusion of dried pili nuts in the Union's list of novel foods that may be placed on the EU market after it passed the EU’s food safety and labelling requirements. In line with the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. President to boost high-value crops for export, the Department of Agriculture (DA) welcomed the EU issuance that opens market opportunities for the country’s pili industry. The export of pili nut, which is considered a novel food or those that have not been significantly used for human consumption in the EU before May 1997, has been temporarily stopped following new EU rules for novel foods in 2015. The EU market opening will benefit local pili processors and exporters including thousands of pili farmers as this opportunity enables them to gain more income from higher-value commodities such as pili. The Bicol Region is the country’s top pili producer with about 90 per cent or 1,796.38 hectares of pili production area and 84 per cent or 4,932.60 metric tons of the total volume of production based on the Philippine Statistics Authority data in 2021. The DA’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), and the Bicol Regional Field Office are actively involved in the pili industry development. The DA agencies provide inputs, establish facilities for production, post-harvest, processing and marketing, and conduct research for development and capacity-building activities including the adoption of good agricultural practices and food safety standards, among others. The major export markets for Philippine pili include the United States of America, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada. Diversifying exports is one strategy being utilised for the Philippine economy to become more resilient against adverse global shocks. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/595/bayer-develops-a-organ-on-chip-platform-to-reduce-animal-testing-in-healthcare.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/595/bayer-develops-a-organ-on-chip-platform-to-reduce-animal-testing-in-healthcare.html Thu, 09 Mar 2023 09:03:00 +0530 The platform can help reduce animal testing as a alternative model while improving development outcomes, reducing costs, and improve patient safety in consumer health industry Bayer, the global health care and nutrition expert is developing a platform to reduce or replace animal testing with a alternative model of “organ-on-chip” (OoC) technology and interactive computational software. The pilot project, supported by esqLABS, Dynamic42, Placenta Lab of Jena University Hospital, and Bayer’s Consumer Health Division aims to generate clinically relevant data, a key step in evaluating new drug candidates in preclinical research. The effort is first-of-its-kind collaboration in the consumer health industry. The one-year pilot will focus on evaluating whether small molecules can cross the blood-placenta-barrier in pregnant women, an understudied population due to challenges in conducting clinical research. The platform will consist of a microphysiological system (MPS, so called “organ-on-chip”) representing the main human tissues involved in drug disposition (liver, intestine, placenta) as well as a pumping system to circulate cell culture media among the tissues. The platform will be digitalized to simulate the distribution of compounds and translate the data to human situations. While animal tests are often required by regulation in the preclinical phase of new drug development, there can be challenges in translating outcomes from animals to humans in some cases. If successful, the platform could help reduce animal testing while improving development outcomes, reducing costs, and last but not least improving patient safety. Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will bring together esqLABS’ unique expertise in computational modelling of biomedical systems, Dynamic42’s expertise in in-depth tissue and hardware engineering as well as Bayer’s leading expertise in human pharmacokinetic predictions to create the integrated biological and computational platform. The Placenta Lab provides unique experience in developing and building a placenta-on-chip, which is the key element in this study. esqLABS will develop the computational software tool, and Dynamic42 will develop a multi-organ-on-chip platform including the placental barrier. Bayer will provide industry guidance for real-world usage, as well as drug and data sets to help validate the platform’s predictions. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/587/beneo-invests-in-sustainable-rice-value-chain-in-belgium.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/587/beneo-invests-in-sustainable-rice-value-chain-in-belgium.html Wed, 08 Mar 2023 11:07:23 +0530 Initiates projects to strengthens rice supply chain by equipping local rice farmers in Southeast Asia's Laos with Farm Machinery BENEO (HQ: Belgium), the global market leader in the production and sale of rice starch has initiated sustainable value chain projects in Southeast Asian Laos regions by provisioning harvesting and threshing machinery to regional farmers to improve farmers working conditions. BENEO has partnered with Indochina Development Partners Lao (IDP), a rice milling Company and long-term logistic partners to further the project. The project aims to invest in enhancing and strengthening its farm level partnerships throughout its entire supply chain. The rice ingredients production site in Wijgmaal, Belgium is aiming to change the long-term working life of more than a hundred small-scale farmers in Laos.  Approximately 70% of the total cultivated area and one-fifth of the national GDP are devoted to small-scale rice farming in Laos. BENEO worked with its longtime partner IDP, the largest rice producer and supplier in Laos, to improve working conditions for local farmers. Consequently, eight harvesting machines and four threshers were purchased to ease workloads and increase yields. As part of the initiative, machines are provided to 10 groups of 10 small-scale farmers. The machines eliminate the need for manual harvesting by eliminating the need for hand cutting and manually threshing. Farmers can expect higher yields and higher incomes from direct threshing because rain-related losses, as well as mold formation, are reduced. Further, farmers can rent the machines to other farmers in the region, allowing many farming families to benefit from BENEO's investment. In order to ensure the long-term success of the project, BENEO retains ownership of all equipment, while training the farmers on its use and maintenance.  Roland Vanhoegaerden, Operations Managing Director for BENEO’s rice ingredients comments: “By supporting farmers with new equipment, we have helped 100 farming families ease their everyday workloads. By providing these economic resources to rice farmers, we are contributing to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Given the success of this initiative, we intend to launch another project of this type in the coming year to support more rice farmers.” BENEO has been developing and producing plant-based functional ingredients from natural sources for the food, feed and pharmaceutical industries. BENEO's production site in Wijgmaal (Belgium) is the source for more than half of the world’s rice starch, despite the rice crop being primarily imported from South East Asia. Unique rice derivatives such as rice starch, rice flour and rice protein are being produced at the site for the food and feed market. BENEO is active in over 80 countries, and has six state-of-the-art production sites in Belgium, Chile, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands that deliver high-quality ingredients at all times. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/584/skyports-drone-services-strengthens-presence-in-s-korea.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/584/skyports-drone-services-strengthens-presence-in-s-korea.html Tue, 07 Mar 2023 10:49:45 +0530 Establishes Joint Venture with Korean drone company to enhance maritime shipment operations. Skyports Drone Services (HQ: London) the leading Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure developer and drone services provider has formed a joint venture (JV) entity between its drone services business and Korean drone technology company, Marine Drone Tech (MDT), under a new name Skyports Drone Services Korea. The recent opening of Skyports' Korea office in late Feb 2023 follows the establishment of its Japan office in October 2022, as the company expands its presence across the Asia-Pacific region. The joint venture will be dedicated to delivering tailored drone solutions that address connectivity, productivity, and safety across a variety of applications in maritime operations. The joint venture aims to set up operations in S. Korea’s Yeosu and Busan regions, with a primary focus on maritime ship-to-shore deliveries. The company will focus on maritime ship-to-shore operations following its expansion in Singapore across delivery and monitoring drone services to Korea, improving transportation service levels, and reducing costs. Skyports Drone Services is a provider and operator of eVTOL drones for cargo drone deliveries, survey and surveillance. Over the past year, the company has steadily expanded its AAM infrastructure projects and drone delivery operations with local Korean partners, businesses, and regulators. Skyports Drone Services has proven capabilities in the operation of long-range and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) autonomous flight for a multitude of use cases, including ship-to-shore and maritime applications, medical and dangerous goods deliveries, and AI-driven surveys for the agriculture and infrastructure sectors.  Skyports Drone Services is elevating business potential, connectivity and access to critical supplies through the application of drone services. Skyports has projects operating across four continents including Asia, North America, South America, and Europe. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/581/evonik-launches-first-plant-based-animal-nutrition-premix.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/581/evonik-launches-first-plant-based-animal-nutrition-premix.html Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:25:00 +0530 Flavonoid-rich plant extracts alleviate inflammation in sows, laying hens and dairy cows Evonik is introducing a new plant-based Animal nutrition premix product to maintain good health among sows (female pigs), laying hens and dairy cows by boosting their immunity. The new product, called PhytriCare® IM, consists of selected plant extracts with a high flavonoid content. Flavonoids are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. Currently available throughout Europe, the product is under approval in other countries. PhytriCare® IM is originally developed in association with Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition GmbH & Co. KG to prevent an overshooting of inflammatory reactions in sows, laying hens and dairy cows. PhytriCare® IM is a blend of carefully selected plant extracts covering a wide range of flavonoid subclasses. This blend targets a broad spectrum of inflammatory pathways to modulate, but not suppress, the inflammatory response. “Farm animals are exposed to a variety of stress factors and respond by activating the body's defense mechanisms. If the stress continues at a higher level for a longer period, it can lead to chronic inflammation. The animal then uses an increased share of its energy and nutrients for the immune system rather than for beneficial activities, such as growth and performance, sometimes for months or years. Female animals are particularly stressed by reproductive processes anyway. Consequently, production efficiency decreases and the animal's ecological footprint increases” explains Evonik Animal Nutrition department. Evonik has worked on the natural anti-inflammatory effect of flavonoids in PhytriCare® IM in association with Dr. Eckel. Some of these secondary plant constituents, numbering around 8,000, have been shown to influence certain biochemical processes in animals that are associated with inflammation. Since the prophylactic use of antibiotics has been banned in Europe, many farmers are looking for alternative solutions to keep their animals healthy and productive. In addition to probiotics, various other product classes have become established, including phytogenics. Evonik Animal Nutrition adds plant-based PhytriCare® IM to its probiotics-based Gut Health Solutions portfolio. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/582/novel-biostimulant-seed-treatment-to-boost-wheat-yields-with-reduced-fertilizer-use.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/582/novel-biostimulant-seed-treatment-to-boost-wheat-yields-with-reduced-fertilizer-use.html Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:24:00 +0530 Syngenta Crop Protection partners with Aphea.Bio to bring novel agricultural technology to markets across Europe to reduce fertilizer use A new collaboration between Syngenta Crop Protection and Aphea.Bio will benefit wheat farmers by increasing yields while reducing fertilizer inputs. Aphea.Bio and Syngenta will join forces to build a more sustainable and profitable future for European farmers. The collaboration aims to accelerate the introduction of a novel biological seed treatment solution across multiple countries in Europe over the next five years, pending regulatory approval. A much-needed technology is now available to farmers seeking to improve the sustainability of their farming operations, and to address challenges arising from an increasingly constrained toolbox of available agricultural technologies as well as evolving consumer demands. ACTIV by Aphea.Bio® is a biostimulant applied as a seed treatment on wheat that is based on beneficial microorganisms. By improving the crop´s nutrient use efficiency, it enables as much as five percent higher yields even with reduced fertilizer use. “The collaboration is our extended commitment to bringing novel, nutrient use efficiency solutions to growers, helping safeguard yields if nitrogen inputs are reduced. Combined with our leading conventional seed treatment portfolio, ACTIV by Aphea.Bio® will offer a unique value proposition in a fast-changing EU landscape” explains Jonathan Brown, Head of Global Seedcare at Syngenta Crop Protection.   The ACTIV by Aphea.Bio® product represents an additional building block in the strategy to build healthy soils by supporting crops with beneficial microorganisms. In addition, it can contribute to the European Union's Green Deal goal of reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/575/syngenta-to-build-a-state-of-art-market-facility-in-india-to-bolster-farmers-business-operations.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/575/syngenta-to-build-a-state-of-art-market-facility-in-india-to-bolster-farmers-business-operations.html Fri, 03 Mar 2023 08:44:03 +0530 Under I-CLEAN project Syngenta invests Rs 3.3 cr ($24.5 million) to expand its state-of-art market facility over 51020 sq feet, in Southern Indian state Telangana, Wanaparthy (Dst) Global Agriculture solution company, Syngenta is investing Rs 3.3 crore ($24.5 million) to build a state-of-art market spread over 51020 sq feet, in Southern Indian state, Telangana, Wanaparthy (Dst). Upon completion, the facility will be handed over to the Agriculture Marketing Board for operation and maintenance. This market will cater to over 20,000 farmers by providing them a safe place to do their business and consumers of over 30 villages and urban areas around this district headquarter. Apart from Telangana, 24 such I-CLEAN projects are running in Bihar (18), Uttar Pradesh (02), Karnataka (04) catering to the needs of rural farmers. On his current 3 day visit to India Syngenta’s Global CEO J Erik Fyrwald said “Syngenta has strengthened its ties with India, the world's 5th largest economy. Syngenta will continue to invest itself in the future of the country's agriculture. We are dedicating one of the country's biggest rural wayside markets in Wanaparthy district, Telangana, built under Syngenta’s flagship CSR I-CLEAN (Inculcating Cleanliness, Learning, Education, Awareness and New Habits) program”. Present in the country for 94 years now, India has always been at the core of our focus for its sheer size, diversity and potential - 40% of the workforce in the country is employed in agriculture. We have consistently worked on addressing challenges facing Indian agriculture. “Accordingly, our R&D has been geared to providing technology to the farming community for enhancing productivity and also reducing input costs for better returns on investment. We invest and innovate to transform the way crops are grown and protected to bring about positive, lasting change in agriculture. Our ambition is to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture, providing leading seeds and crop protection innovations and digital solutions to enhance the prosperity of farmers, wherever they are,” Fyrwald added. One of the unique features of this marketplace is that it provides exclusive facilities for women farmers including a day care facility with a baby feeding room. This will ensure that women farmers can focus on their business without being concerned about leaving their children at home. Susheel Kumar, MD & Country Head, Syngenta India said, “The I-CLEAN project has been a remarkable success. We are glad to be able to contribute to the rural prosperity of Telangana, which has one of the highest rates of agriculture growth at 7.8%. With a slew of impressive programs including Rythu Bandhu Scheme, Mission Bhagiratha and Drone Certification, the state has made rapid strides and it gives us joy to become partners in this journey.” Syngenta’s I-CLEAN program has brought about significant transformation. According to a social-economic impact assessment, the income of farmers who sell their produce at I-CLEAN markets have gone up by 49% as they are able to spend more time in markets; the improved infrastructure sees increased daily footfall. The facilities like safe drinking water, solar lights and toilets have improved the livelihood opportunities of local farming communities by about 40%.  Syngenta also ensures that farmers are trained in best crop protection practices, health and hygiene practices. “The marketplace has multiple awareness messages highlighting the importance of proper crop protection practices, tips of health and hygiene. As an agri input company, we take stewardship very seriously and educate our farmers on various aspects of safety on a continuous basis,” added Dr KC Ravi, Chief Sustainability Officer, Syngenta India. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/569/malaysia-approves-insect-meal-export-to-eu-uk-markets.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/569/malaysia-approves-insect-meal-export-to-eu-uk-markets.html Wed, 01 Mar 2023 17:19:10 +0530 Nutrition Technologies to support sustainable pet food supply The Malaysian Ministry of Agriculture has authorized the local firm, ‘Nutrition Technologies’ to export its insect meal and oil into the EU & UK markets, the first in Malaysia to receive such approval. This approval allows the rapidly growing sustainable pet food sector in Europe to access high quality, low-energy insect-based materials in South-East Asia. The Nutrition Technologies Sdn Bhd, are the manufacture and supplier of insect protein meal, oil and frass (insect manure) fostering the evolving agriculture and feed industries globaly. Using a combination of beneficial microbes and Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) using a low-energy, zero-waste production model to grow their insects, the larvae are reared on clean and traceable agro-industrial by-products. The insect-based products are suitable for application in pet food, livestock and aquatic feed, and have a range of proven functional benefits which improve the animals' health and growth. The insect meal is also suitable for therapeutic applications in pets that have allergies to common pet food proteins such as beef and lamb. The potential impact on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions can also be controlled by opting insect-based meats replacing with traditional protein sources, as approximately 25% of the GHGs associated with meat production is generated through use in pet food. Since tropically farmed insects produce a fraction of the GHG emissions of traditional meat - this enables manufacturers to make further improvements to the carbon footprint of pet food production. The insectmeal is fully compliant with EU regulations, and the facility is both GMP & HACCP certified. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/570/singapores-ew-nutrition-acquires-feed-quality-and-pigment-business.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/570/singapores-ew-nutrition-acquires-feed-quality-and-pigment-business.html Wed, 01 Mar 2023 16:30:00 +0530 Acquires Novus International giving EW Nutrition ownership of a feed preservative, a feed mill processing aid, feed ingredient and a state-of-the-art production facility in Spain. Global animal nutrition solutions provider to the feed industry, EW Nutrition with its South East Asia/Pacific headquarter in Singapore has acquired the Feed Quality and Pigments business from the US based Novus International, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, EW Nutrition becomes the owner of world-renowned brands such as Santoquin® feed preservative, SURF●ACE®, a feed mill processing aid, and feed ingredient Agrado®. The acquisition also gives EW Nutrition ownership of a state-of-the-art production facility in Constantí, Spain. “This transaction will further reinforcing EW Nutrition’s global market position, and increasing its product portfolio and geographical reach,” says Michael Gerrits, Managing Director of EW Nutrition. “The products acquired will further support EW Nutrition’s mission to mitigate the impact of antimicrobial resistance by providing comprehensive animal nutrition solutions.” Dan Meagher, President and CEO of Novus International, Inc., explains that the company has a long term interest on resources, core platforms and emerging technologies, with a special focus on gut health. Acquisition is a significant milestone and we now shift our focus to energies on developing new, innovative technologies into meaningful nutrition solutions for our customers.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/566/eu-funded-agrobofood-project-leverages-precision-technology-for-pest-control.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/566/eu-funded-agrobofood-project-leverages-precision-technology-for-pest-control.html Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:58:05 +0530 Ecorobotix's ARA Ultra-High Precision Sprayer deployed in Biospray project extending potential around Sustainable and Non-Selective Herbicide & Pesticide The EU-funded agROBOfood project is supporting the Biospray industrial challenge project to adapt Ecorobotix's ultra-high precision technology to meet the needs of biocontrol applications and to conduct field trials for three types of applications.  The ARA Precision Sprayer is a revolutionary ultra-high precision sprayer with an ability to treat plant-by-plant with an unprecedented accuracy of 6x6 cm and a breakthrough in targeted herbicide delivery.  The ultra-high precision technology, combined with its ability to detect, classify and spray individual weeds, reduces costs and enhances sustainability. ARA's technology can accurately detect, classify, and spray only individual weeds (avoiding surrounding soil and crops), thanks to its AI based plant recognition capability and ultra-high precision (UHP). Ecorobotix's UHP-spraying solution is radically different from conventional and spot-spraying herbicide application, making it more efficient and more cost-effective solution which can be used for both selective and non-selective herbicides. The Biospray project targeted three crop care applications in sugar beet: selective application of pelargonic acid (organic herbicide), azadirachtin and spintor (two organic insecticides). The field test results across two seasons showed satisfactory weeding results and a reduction of insecticide use.  Furthermore, herbicide savings of ~70-95% can be made using ARA's Ultra-High Precision Sprayer. More agronomic tests are needed to validate the exact efficiency of these new biocontrol products and fine-tune machine performance for this use-case. Although the project started with AVO, an autonomous robot with ultra-high precision spot spraying technology, a change has been made which led to the development of the ARA ultra-high precision sprayer, which is 3x the size of AVO and is towed behind a tractor. "With ARA, AVO's spot spraying technology has been improved with higher precision and faster speed of operation.  A towed sprayer is also easier for farmers to use and more economical." explains Steve Tanner. ARA's Ultra-High Precision Sprayer is considered as a sustainable selective and non-selective herbicide application and is a game-changer for the agricultural industry. The Biospray project has proven its potential, and we are excited to continue working towards the goal of efficient, environmental-friendly and sustainable crop protection solutions. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/555/tanmiah-food-company-partners-with-mhp-group-to-boost-saudi-poultry-production.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/555/tanmiah-food-company-partners-with-mhp-group-to-boost-saudi-poultry-production.html Mon, 27 Feb 2023 16:05:19 +0530 The joint venture's primary focus will be developing and operating poultry breeding facilities and a greenfield hatchery in Saudi Arabia to hatch 108 million hatching eggs per annum. Tanmiah Food Company, an established market leader in the provision of poultry and other meat products, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with MHP, the leading European producer of poultry. The agreement is the first step in establishing a joint venture between Tanmiah's wholly owned subsidiary, Desert Hills for Veterinary Services Company Ltd and MHP SE the parent company of the leading international food & aggrotech group headquartered in Ukraine. Supported by the government of Saudi Arabia, and in line with the food security goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the memorandum sets out the principles of establishing a joint venture with the aim of accelerating efforts to close the existing production gap in KSA's domestic poultry sector. The joint venture's primary focus will be developing and operating poultry breeding facilities and includes the establishment of a greenfield hatchery in Saudi Arabia to hatch 108 million hatching eggs per annum. It will also invest in feed milling facilities with the target of producing 137 thousand tonnes of feed per annum. The initiatives will be primarily funded by the Agriculture Development Fund of Saudi Arabia. MHP is set to provide a wide spectrum of industry expertise across the value chain to capture long-term opportunities and design best-in-class facilities fully adapted to local market conditions. The establishment of the joint venture company remains subject to necessary regulatory approvals including the clearance by the General Authority for Competition of Saudi Arabia and other applicable authorisations.  Zulfiqar Hamadani, CEO of Tanmiah, said, "The new partnership with MHP is yet another important step, demonstrating our resolve to contribute towards KSA's poultry self-sufficiency whilst reinforcing our pioneering role in supporting the Kingdom's food security and self-sufficiency objectives. In addition, as Europe's largest poultry producer, MHP brings a wealth of industry expertise that will advance Tanmiah's production capabilities and efficiencies, whilst enhancing our sustainability agenda."  Dr John Rich, MHP SE Executive Chairman, added, "This memorandum represents an important milestone in MHP's international strategy. I am confident that Tanmiah's excellent operational track record in combination with MHP's industry-leading poultry expertise can bring transformational results to the Kingdom on its way to achieving the food security goals of 2030 Vision. The agreement also brings closer together the people of Saudi Arabia and Ukraine." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/551/ab-vista-expands-animal-gut-health-portfolio-with-product-acquisition.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/551/ab-vista-expands-animal-gut-health-portfolio-with-product-acquisition.html Fri, 24 Feb 2023 19:08:44 +0530 Acquires Progres®, an innovative natural additive which can reduce inflammation and stimulates tissue recovery with a healing effect AB Vista, developer and global supplier of feed additives for animal nutrition, with exclusive presence in Singapore and India, has extended its product offering with the acquisition of Progres®, an innovative natural additive from Finnish biosciences company Hankkija. Progres is a patented natural resin acids product that improves gut integrity by reducing inflammation and stimulates tissue recovery with a healing effect. It also beneficially modulates intestinal microbiota, favoring butyrate producers and lactobacilli, reducing the growth of Gram-positive pathogens. A component of antibiotic-free production systems, Progres was introduced in 2015 and improves poultry, swine, and ruminant performance. AB Vista’s Managing Director Juan Ignacio Fernández said: “Progress is a natural product with proven research and scientific foundations that supports a more sustainable approach to animal production. By adding Progres to our portfolio, we can support nutritionists, veterinarians, and production managers in developing strategies and production programmes that deliver improved gut health, nutritional optimisation, and food safety & security. We look forward to leveraging our global supply chain to allow new markets to take advantage of Progres” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/547/eu-commission-prepares-for-bilateral-trade-with-new-zealand.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/547/eu-commission-prepares-for-bilateral-trade-with-new-zealand.html Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:33:36 +0530 EU-New Zealand trade agreement proposes draft decisions to the Council for ratification to initiate EU-New Zealand bilateral trade which has the potential to grow by 30% equivalent to €4.5 billion The European Commission has proposed a bilateral trade agreement with New Zealand by submitting a draft decision to the European Council for ratification. Approval of the trade agreement will trigger bilateral trade opportunities for both small and large scale businesses between EU-New Zealand that have the potential to grow by 30% equivalent to €4.5 billion. The agreement is expected to deliver major benefits for the EU and prompt further investment into New Zealand, with a potential growth rate of up to 80%. Within the first year of implementing the deal, EU companies can save about €140 million a year in duties. EU farmers will have much better opportunities to sell their produce in New Zealand immediately upon implementation of this agreement. EU exports such as chocolate, sugar confectionery, biscuits, wine and sparkling wine will no longer be subject to tariffs. A number of dairy products, beef and sheep meat, ethanol and sweetcorn are among the agricultural products whose interests are protected by the agreement. The new trade policies aims to expand export opportunities for small and large businesses to avail the benefits such as, Eliminating all tariffs on EU exports to New Zealand Opening the New Zealand services market in key sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, maritime transport and delivery services; Ensuring non-discriminatory treatment to EU investors in New Zealand and vice versa Enhancing EU companies' access to government procurement contracts in New Zealand Facilitating data flows, creating predictable and transparent rules for digital trade, and providing consumers with a secure online environment Maintaining high standards of data protection and preventing unjustified data localization requirements Helping small businesses export more through a dedicated chapter on small and medium enterprises Significantly reducing compliance requirements and procedures to allow for quicker flow of goods Significant commitments by New Zealand to protect and enforce intellectual property rights, aligned with EU standards. As part of the EU's Green Deal Industrial Plan announced by President von der Leyen on 1 February 2023, open trade is one of the four pillars. With the new trade policies in place, the EU economy will become greener, more competitive, and more resilient. The EU-New Zealand Trade Agreement is the first one to integrate the EU's new approach to trade and sustainable development. Based on cooperation and strengthened enforcement, both sides agreed to ambitious TSD commitments. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/543/elicit-plant-develops-tech-platform-to-improve-crops-endurance-to-drought-resistance.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/543/elicit-plant-develops-tech-platform-to-improve-crops-endurance-to-drought-resistance.html Mon, 20 Feb 2023 13:38:24 +0530 Formulated with phytosterols, the novel platform BEST-a Maize promotes reduced water consumption in field crops France based agri-biotech company, Elicit Plant, has successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of its technological platform BEST-a Maize by proving its ability to withstand water stress in field crops.  The endurance solution is based on phytosterols and is dedicated to the ecological transition of agriculture. Phytosterols, a molecule of plant origin, enable plants to better resist water stress by stimulating metabolic responses specific to each species. A 150 field trials carried out in 2022 on an international scale (Europe, North America, South America) by independent operators have highlighted a regular and high performance of the platform solution to reduce the impact of the lack of water on corn crops: 12% productivity gains (+6 quintals per hectare on average). "Trials were conducted in three continents, with different pedoclimatic characteristics. These results confirm Elicit Plant its ability to favor agroecological transition and to plan for the international market " says Jean-François Déchant, President and co-founder of Elicit Plant. Since 2019, Elicit Plant has carried out a total of 500 field trials, with a success rate close to 90%. Over the years, the company has been able to accurately determine the most favorable pedoclimatic, seasonality and formulation parameters for crop profitability. During the next six months, Elicit Plant is expected to receive an additional 10 million euros through R&D programs, supported by the "France 2030" recovery plan. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/539/microban-introduces-antifungal-additives-for-pvc-pu-and-eva-applications.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/539/microban-introduces-antifungal-additives-for-pvc-pu-and-eva-applications.html Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:01:06 +0530 MicroGuard technology provides high antifungal efficacy and built-in protection against microbial degradation, which leads to water contamination risk harming aquatic life. The UK based global antimicrobial brand, Microban International is expanding its portfolio of antimicrobial technologies by introducing MicroGuard™, a series of antifungal additives for PVC, PU, and EVA applications including foam. MicroGuard technology provides high antifungal efficacy and 24/7 built-in protection, preventing microbial degradation to extend the useful product lifetime. Microban’s novel technologies adopted in MicroGuard acts as a non-leaching antifungal agent composed of active ingredients that are free from metals. This can be an alternative to arsenic-based OBPA, a common antifungal additive that has a high risk of contaminating water sources and harming aquatic life eventually causing regulatory concerns. Michael Ruby, President at Microban International, commented: “MicroGuard, is a metal-free technology designed to combat fungal growth on PVC products, as well as on PU and EVA foams. MicroGuard’s more favorable toxicity profile is ahead of the curve in terms of shifts in the regulatory landscape concerning built-in antifungals for these goods, offering manufacturers a highly effective built-in solution to increase product durability.” MicroGuard has obtained global registration and can be seamlessly integrated into PVC, PU and EVA products at the point of manufacture, and has been designed for use in a broad range of applications. Manufacturers can treat polymer products with MicroGuard both in pellet and liquid forms.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/525/new-adama-plant-in-brazil-to-manufacture-key-fungicide-active-ingredients-ais.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/525/new-adama-plant-in-brazil-to-manufacture-key-fungicide-active-ingredients-ais.html Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:05:51 +0530 The New Multi-Purpose Plant (MPP) in Taquari (Brazil) intend to be a leading global producer of Prothioconazole in the crop protection industry ADAMA, one of the world's leading crop protection companies, has opened a new multi-purpose plant (MPP) in Taquari, Brazil. The new plant produces key active ingredients (AIs) for the crop protection industry, including Prothioconazole, an important fungicide which protects Brazil's soybean crops against Asian Soybean Rust.  In the global fungicide market, Prothioconazole accounts for $1.2 billion in sales. Over $50 million has been invested in ADAMA's new plant, of which approximately 30% went to implementing sustainable practices. With its global Prothioconazole manufacturing facilities, ADAMA is one of the top global producers and suppliers of this important molecule. With the MPP facility, ADAMA intends to launch a variety of prothioconazole-based products in Brazil within the next five years. The new plant has the capacity to fully supply its global future pipeline of Prothioconazole-based products. ARMERO, one of ADAMA Brazil's leading products, is already in production.  Bruce Morris, Head of Active Ingredients Manufacturing & Sourcing explains, "The in-house production of this key active ingredient provides ADAMA a competitive advantage in Brazil, and reduces import. Our competitive, backward-integrated capability allows us to engage in new partnerships as a major supplier in the global Prothioconazole market".  In recent years, ADAMA Brazil launched several leading products including Armero™ (fungicide); Araddo® (herbicide) and Arremate® (herbicide for pasture).  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/519/rovensa-group-launches-global-biosolutions-business-unit-to-promote-sustainable-agriculture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/519/rovensa-group-launches-global-biosolutions-business-unit-to-promote-sustainable-agriculture.html Fri, 10 Feb 2023 11:36:32 +0530 Rovensa Next, the business unit will house comprehensive portfolio of agricultural inputs and technologies to shape a sustainable future for agriculture and drive its bio-transformation Berlin based Rovensa Group, the global innovative agriculture solution provider has launched a new business unit, Rovensa Next to drive bio-transformation by shaping a sustainable future for global agriculture field. The flagship project ‘Rovensa Next’ aggregates ten Rovensa Group companies, creating a holistic platform of innovative biosolutions. Ten Rovensa Group companies comprising of "Agrichembio, Agrotecnología, Idai Nature, Microquimica, MIP Agro, OGT, Oro Agri, Rodel, SDP, and Tradecorp" will now form the new global business unit. With the new business unit, Rovensa Group anticipates a turnover of more than EUR 1 billion by 2025. The global transition and local implementation of Rovensa Next will begin from July 2023. The new business unit is expected to combine innate technical knowledge, innovation by  working alongside farmers and distributors to solve sustainability challenges, with the global expertise and leadership of Rovensa Group. Eric van Innis, Rovensa Group CEO, stated: "Farmers and distributors need specialised advisors to help them create a potent strategy that considers their local environment and challenges. Rovensa Next assists in sustainable crop management for better quality and increased yield.” Rovensa Next unites a global network of 30 R&D laboratories, excellence centres, fields, and greenhouses; 14 production plants; more than 84 partnerships with research centres and universities. Equipped with 100 R&D and innovation specialists comprising more than 850 field experts, Ravensa Next aims to lead cutting-edge research to create effective biosolutions. Image Caption: José Alfredo García, Co-COO Rovensa Next, Javier Calleja, incoming CEO Rovensa Group, Eric van Innis, CEO Rovensa Group and Carlos Ledó, Co-COO Rovensa Next ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/506/evonik-invests-e25-mn-in-methionine-intermediates-production-plant-in-germany.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/19/506/evonik-invests-e25-mn-in-methionine-intermediates-production-plant-in-germany.html Mon, 06 Feb 2023 15:12:31 +0530 The investment will safeguard the long-term supply of MMP to the European methionine production hub Germany-based Evonik has invested €25 million in developing and expanding its methylmercapto-propionaldehyde (MMP) production plant in Wesseling, Germany, in the latest move to strengthen its world-scale global methionine production network. MMP is integral in the production of MetAMINO (DL-methionine) which is used in animal feed to improve the performance of livestock farming. The precursors of this essential amino acid have been produced in Wesseling for more than 50 years. Dr Gaetano Blanda, head of the Animal Nutrition business line, said, "With this investment, Evonik is strengthening the European methionine network to safeguard the long-term supply of MMP to our MetAMINO production hub in Antwerp, Belgium. The move underscores our commitment to serving and expanding the global DL-methionine market and secures the best possible supply security for our customers.” The conversion and expansion of the plant in Wesseling have been made possible by the development of a new production process, that will allow for the avoidance of the storage of chemical intermediates, such as acrolein, at the site. Commenting on the plant upgrade, Dr Jan-Olaf Barth, head of the Essential Nutrition product line, said, “Evonik is known for its innovative approach and world-class technology, and in Wesseling, we have now developed a process that increases efficiency and, with Responsible Care in mind, further enhances safety at the site." He added, “This investment is a building block of our global methionine asset strategy with the clear goal of being the cost and technology leader in all regions and the reliable partner for our customers.” ]]>