https://agrospectrumasia.com/rssfeed/industry/bio%20fertilizer bio fertilizer https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4912/phosagro-targets-nearly-doubling-fertiliser-shipments-to-africa-in-2026.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4912/phosagro-targets-nearly-doubling-fertiliser-shipments-to-africa-in-2026.html Wed, 04 Nov 2026 14:05:58 +0530 Russian fertiliser manufacturer PhosAgro plans to nearly double its mineral fertiliser shipments to Africa in 2026 compared with the previous year, as the company strengthens its presence in African agricultural markets and expands initiatives supporting soil health and sustainable farming. Speaking at the Third Russia–Africa Forum in Moscow, PhosAgro Deputy CEO for Marketing Mikhail Sterkin said the company had shipped more than 1.3 million tonnes of mineral fertilisers to African countries during the first nine months of 2026, exceeding its full-year 2025 volume of over 974,000 tonnes. The company's fertiliser exports to Africa increased by approximately one-third in 2025 compared with the preceding year, with shipments more than doubling from 2021 levels, according to PhosAgro. Alongside its export expansion, PhosAgro is investing in research and development of biological crop nutrition products. Its research centre is developing biofertilisers, biostimulants and plant stress-management solutions aimed at improving crop resilience under challenging environmental conditions, particularly drought. The company is also collaborating with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) on agricultural soil management and farmer training initiatives across Africa. Under the Soil Doctors programme, more than 12,000 soil diagnostic kits have been distributed to African farmers to support field-level soil assessment and nutrient management, according to PhosAgro. The company has also supported the establishment of the AFRILAB regional soil laboratory network, which comprises approximately 240 laboratories across 54 African countries. During the forum, Sterkin highlighted regulatory challenges affecting the introduction of agricultural innovations into African markets. He proposed greater mutual recognition of national product certifications to reduce repeated testing requirements and accelerate access to new agricultural inputs. The discussions also addressed the role of agricultural technology, fertilisers and private-sector investment in tackling land degradation and strengthening drought resilience across Africa. PhosAgro's expansion plans reflect its efforts to increase fertiliser supplies to the continent while supporting soil management and crop nutrition initiatives through research partnerships and agricultural knowledge transfer. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4619/china-builds-national-biopesticide-evaluation-platform-as-industry-moves-toward-standardization.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4619/china-builds-national-biopesticide-evaluation-platform-as-industry-moves-toward-standardization.html Mon, 07 Sep 2026 16:29:20 +0530 China is stepping up efforts to build the regulatory and technical infrastructure needed to commercialize the next generation of crop-protection products, with the establishment of a national biopesticide evaluation center at the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The National Biopesticide Evaluation Center has been established with a construction budget of 42.8 million yuan and is among the first national full-chain evaluation platforms for biopesticides in China. Only two facilities of this kind currently exist nationwide. The center is designed to connect the development of biopesticides with the testing, safety evaluation and registration processes required to bring them to market. Its scope will include microbial pesticides, RNA interference-based pesticides and botanical pesticides, creating a single platform spanning research and development through registration and application. “This marks a new stage of standardized and regulated development for China’s biopesticide industry,” the center’s director said. The investment comes as biopesticides gain importance in the global shift toward lower-impact crop protection. Unlike conventional chemical pesticides, biological products use microorganisms, RNA interference, plant-derived active ingredients and other biological mechanisms to control pests and diseases. Their potential to reduce environmental impact while maintaining crop protection has made them an increasingly important part of agricultural innovation strategies. For China, the push is also closely tied to food security and efforts to reduce agricultural pollution. Government policies, including the 14th Five-Year Plan for Accelerating Agricultural and Rural Modernization, have identified biopesticide research, development and adoption as important tools for improving agricultural sustainability and controlling non-point source pollution. But the industry has faced a problem that cannot be solved by technology alone: standards and evaluation systems have not always kept pace with the products being developed. China’s existing pesticide evaluation framework has historically been designed around chemical pesticides. That creates challenges for products whose modes of action and biological characteristics are fundamentally different, particularly microbial and RNAi-based pesticides. Industry experts have pointed to gaps in product quality standards and safety evaluation criteria, along with concerns around inconsistent product quality and efficacy. For companies attempting to commercialize new biological crop-protection technologies, those gaps can add uncertainty to development, registration and market entry. The new national platform is intended to address that bottleneck. Its operating model is built around a continuous cycle in which research supports evaluation, evaluation supports application, and real-world application feeds information back into research and development. Five functional laboratories will support the platform, covering product chemistry evaluation, efficacy evaluation, environmental safety evaluation, toxicological evaluation and crop safety evaluation. The center is also introducing three quality-management systems—CMA, CATL and GLP—to strengthen the reliability and credibility of its testing and evaluation work. “This will ensure the authority and international mutual recognition of evaluation data,” the center’s director said. That capability could become increasingly important as Chinese developers seek not only domestic approvals but also greater acceptance of their biological crop-protection products in international markets. Rather than focusing solely on final-stage pesticide testing, the platform will cover a wider range of activities. These include identification of strain resources, high-throughput screening of active ingredients, analysis of mechanisms of action, safety assessments and guidance on registration applications. The objective is effectively to create a one-stop pathway for biopesticide developers seeking to move products from laboratory research toward commercial deployment. That model reflects a broader change in how the biological crop-protection sector is developing. As more companies and research institutions move into microbial technologies, RNA-based crop protection and botanical actives, the competitive challenge is shifting from discovering new biological solutions to demonstrating that they can deliver consistent efficacy, safety and quality under regulatory scrutiny. Regarding China, building a standardized evaluation infrastructure could help reduce that gap. The center will operate with product research and development as its driving force, evaluation services as its support system and industrial application as its ultimate objective. Its mandate includes filling gaps in the existing evaluation standards, integrating research, testing and commercialization, and aligning China’s evaluation capabilities with international technologies and practices. The investment also signals that biopesticides are moving beyond the role of niche alternatives to conventional chemistry. As governments tighten environmental requirements and growers face growing pressure to manage resistance and reduce chemical inputs, biological crop protection is becoming an increasingly strategic segment of the agricultural input market. Yet the sector’s expansion will depend on more than scientific breakthroughs. Developers need predictable regulatory pathways, reliable testing methodologies, consistent manufacturing standards and data that customers and regulators can trust. China’s new national evaluation center is designed to provide precisely that infrastructure. If successful, the platform could help shorten the path between biological discovery and commercial application while giving regulators a more appropriate framework for evaluating technologies that do not fit neatly into conventional chemical-pesticide models.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4379/ghana-advances-organic-farming-push-as-mofa-signs-10-million-fertiliser-plant-agreement-with-omanbapa-agritech.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4379/ghana-advances-organic-farming-push-as-mofa-signs-10-million-fertiliser-plant-agreement-with-omanbapa-agritech.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 16:17:04 +0530 Ghana has taken another step toward reshaping its agricultural input ecosystem after the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Omanbapa AgriTech Ltd to establish a large-scale organic fertiliser processing plant valued at $10 million. The proposed facility, which will be located between the Ashanti and Ahafo regions, is expected to become a key component of the country's transition from conventional chemical fertilisers to organic alternatives. A joint technical committee will determine the final project site. The agreement was signed by Minister for Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku on behalf of the government, while Bernard Oduro Takyi, Chief Executive Officer of Omanbapa AgriTech Ltd, represented the company. Government Prioritises Soil Health and Sustainable Food ProductionThe investment aligns with Ghana's broader agricultural transformation agenda, which increasingly emphasises long-term soil fertility, environmental sustainability and food safety. Speaking during the signing ceremony, Agriculture Minister Eric Opoku said the government's policy direction is to progressively replace inorganic fertilisers with certified organic alternatives to preserve soil productivity and strengthen sustainable crop production. According to the minister, maintaining healthy soils has become a national priority as the country seeks to improve agricultural resilience while ensuring safer food production for consumers. He noted that the agreement follows several months of technical consultations between the ministry and Omanbapa AgriTech, culminating in a project that is now ready to move into implementation. The minister added that once the agreement takes effect, construction activities are expected to begin following confirmation of the final project location. Three-Phase Manufacturing Strategy Omanbapa AgriTech said the investment will be executed through a phased development model designed to gradually expand domestic production capacity. The first phase will focus on procurement of raw materials, followed by fertiliser blending operations before advancing to full-scale manufacturing. During the initial blending stage, the facility is expected to produce 20,000 to 30,000 metric tonnes of organic fertilisers annually. Once fully operational, production capacity is projected to reach approximately 60,000 metric tonnes per year. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture is expected to serve as the principal purchaser of products manufactured at the facility, creating an assured domestic market during the project's early years. Company Completes Regulatory Approvals Omanbapa AgriTech stated that it has already secured the regulatory approvals required to manufacture and commercialise organic agricultural inputs in Ghana. According to the company, product registrations and compliance procedures have been completed with the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA). The company also confirmed that it has obtained licences covering the importation, production and commercial distribution of organic agricultural products. With regulatory approvals in place, Omanbapa has requested consideration in future government procurement programmes involving organic agricultural inputs. Organic Inputs Target Larger Share of Agricultural Supply Beyond establishing manufacturing capacity, Omanbapa AgriTech outlined a broader objective of increasing the share of organic products within Ghana's agricultural input system. The company said it aims for organic products to account for approximately 80 per cent of agro-inputs procured by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture over time, supporting national efforts to improve soil quality while reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers. The $10 million investment is also expected to strengthen local fertiliser manufacturing capacity, reduce import dependence and create opportunities for value addition within Ghana's agricultural supply chain. As governments across Africa increasingly prioritise regenerative agriculture and climate-resilient farming practices, Ghana's latest investment signals growing policy momentum behind organic fertiliser production as a strategic pillar of sustainable agricultural development. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4376/zhongnong-zhichuang-huazhong-agricultural-university-and-hubei-hongshan-lab-launch-30-million-microbial-pesticide-innovation-center.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4376/zhongnong-zhichuang-huazhong-agricultural-university-and-hubei-hongshan-lab-launch-30-million-microbial-pesticide-innovation-center.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:52:39 +0530 In a major push toward sustainable agricultural innovation, Shanghai-based Zhongnong Zhichuang Technology Co., Ltd. and its Wuhan subsidiary, Zhongnong Zhiwei Biotechnology, have signed a landmark cooperation agreement with Huazhong Agricultural University and Hubei Hongshan Laboratory. The strategic partnership formalizes the creation of the Institute for Microbial Pesticide Resource Discovery and New Product Development, supported by a initial 30 million yuan research budget aimed at scaling next-generation biopesticide technologies. The newly established institute is designed as an end-to-end innovation engine to bridge the traditional gap between academic research and commercial deployment. Under the multi-party agreement, the entities will focus on three main operational pillars: building comprehensive microbial pesticide strain libraries, co-developing high-efficacy biological pest control products, and training specialized agricultural engineers. To ensure commercial traction, the program has established an explicit operational performance benchmark of securing at least one new biopesticide registration certificate each year. Yang Renfeng, Chief Executive Officer of Zhongnong Zhichuang and Chairman of Zhongnong Zhiwei, described the venture as a foundational step in refining the company's long-term agricultural biotechnology roadmap. By connecting top-tier academic expertise with the company’s contract research, development, and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) technical service platform, the collaborative framework aims to accelerate the translation of bench science into viable market products that directly enhance crop yields and soil health. From the academic side, Zhang Yongjun, Vice President and Party Committee Member of Huazhong Agricultural University, underscored the strategic role microbial biopesticides play in safeguarding national food security and reducing chemical reliance in modern farming. Zhang outlined three key priorities for the institute: establishing clear technical milestones, facilitating two-way personnel mobility between research labs and industrial sites, and securing robust independent intellectual property rights to build competitive, green agricultural clusters. Moving forward, the consortium plans to continually scale R&D investments, pooling scientific talent and corporate resources to overcome technical bottlenecks in microbial strain discovery, formulation stability, and industrial synthesis. The project stands as a central component in China's broader drive toward green agricultural transformation and resilient food supply chains. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/features/30/4152/cracking-the-code-rick-melnick-managing-partner-coo-for-dunhamtrimmer.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/features/30/4152/cracking-the-code-rick-melnick-managing-partner-coo-for-dunhamtrimmer.html Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:59:15 +0530 For decades, the use of biologicals in commercial agriculture has been a story of tremendous promise, and oftentimes, equally tremendous frustration. The microorganisms are remarkable. The modes of action are elegant. The science is rife with possibilities. Yet, for all of that potentiality, biologicals have remained in the margins of modern production agriculture, often viewed as too unstable, too inconsistent, or too difficult to manufacture at scale. Now, that is changing. Not because the underlying biology has suddenly gotten better, but because three innovative companies have each independently solved a manufacturing problem that once seemed insurmountable. NewLeaf Symbiotics, CXC-AG, and GreenLight Biosciences work with entirely different biological platforms and achieved their respective breakthroughs through equally distinct scientific journeys. But their stories share an undeniable common thread: each succeeded by understanding biology deeply enough to stop fighting against it — and start working with it. Together, these companies are helping to reshape what the biologicals industry can offer farmers while accelerating one of the most consequential shifts in modern production agriculture. NewLeaf Symbiotics: Teaching a Microbe to Run a Marathon Of all the age-old challenges in biological manufacturing, few are more stubborn than the problem of live gram-negative bacteria. Unlike well established gram-positive microbes such as Bacillus thuringiensis spp. kurstaki, which form naturally durable spores that can withstand spray-drying, storage, and handling with relative ease, non-spore-forming gram-negative microorganisms are notoriously fragile. Getting them from the fermentation tank to the farmer’s field in a living, active state has historically been so difficult that most of the industry simply avoided them altogether. Enter NewLeaf Symbiotics, the St. Louis-based biologicals company that built its entire business around one such group: pink-pigmented facultative methylotrophs (PPFMs). These microorganisms are metabolically versatile, physiologically interesting, and (as NewLeaf has demonstrated) are capable of driving meaningful outcomes across biostimulant, biocontrol, and nitrogen-use efficiency applications. The challenge has always been making these microbes an accessible technology farmers can easily use. “A grower wants to be able to use something just as easily as they do all the chemistries that are currently in the shed and on the shelf that they’ve been using for decades,” says Michael Frodyma, NewLeaf’s head of manufacturing and product development. “They want products where the application compatibility, the shelf stability, all those things are exactly like what they’re accustomed to using.” While that sounds like a straightforward aspiration, achieving it with live gram-negative microorganisms is anything but. Frodyma says NewLeaf’s breakthrough came from a counterintuitive insight: the key to a stable end product was not going to be found in the downstream formulation steps — the drying, the excipients, the packaging — but in what happened to the cells before any of that began. Frodyma describes the concept using a simple analogy. A person who is sick and exhausted cannot run a marathon, at least not very well. But that same person — if they have trained hard, rested well, and prepared properly — absolutely can. The organism is identical in both cases. What differs is physiological readiness. NewLeaf spent years learning exactly how to create “marathon-ready” cells: manipulating what the microbe receives during fermentation, when it receives it, and adapting the range of other fermentation variables that determine whether the living cell can survive spray drying, endure two years of shelf storage, survive tank mixing, and then perform in the field. NewLeaf says the results speak for themselves. The company now reports two-year ambient shelf stability across its entire technology portfolio — a remarkable achievement for live, non-spore-forming gram-negative organisms. With its practical experience and advanced analytical tools, Frodyma says the company has moved from a roughly 50 per cent manufacturing success rate from its early production days to close to 98 per cent success at commercial scale. That is the kind of manufacturing reliability that is a prerequisite for mainstream agricultural adoption. Given its success and the company’s intent focus on a defined class of organisms, NewLeaf believes it has also built a powerful pipeline advantage. When a new strain is identified from the company’s collection of nearly 13,000 unique isolates, the team has shown it can typically develop a commercially scalable manufacturing process in three to six months. That speed is only possible because NewLeaf’s underlying process knowledge in transferable across strains. It is a direct dividend of the company’s disciplined focus on PPFMs. These advancements offer NewLeaf a broad range of exciting possibilities. The company launched its first bioinsecticide (TS201) in March 2024 and first biofungicide (TS601) in February 2026. By positioning these technologies alongside their existing biostimulants, NewLeaf has enabled the stacking of crop-specific biostimulant, bioinsecticide, and biofungicide solutions into a coordinated biological program, a program that growers can apply with the same ease and compatibility they expect from conventional chemistry. Mission accomplished. CXC-AG: Intercepting a Conversation The story of CXC-AG begins not in a boardroom or a startup incubator, but in the chilly soybean fields of southwestern Quebec in the mid-1980s. Dr. Don Smith had recently arrived at McGill University as an Assistant Professor when researchers there introduced the first soybean varieties capable of maturing in Canada’s short growing season. Smith watched those young plants emerge from the ground looking healthy, then fade to an unsettling pale yellow before finally, mysteriously, greening back up. Cold soils were the culprit, he suspected. Optimal soil temperature for soybean nodulation (25° - 35° C) had been known for nearly a century, and Quebec’s spring planting soils were barely above 10. What Smith would discover was that the cold was disrupting the crucial first 12 hours of chemical signaling between soybean roots and their specialized symbiotic partners Bradyrhizobium japonicum, the nitrogen-fixing bacteria that form nodules on soybean roots. That early signal exchange involves the plant releasing isoflavonoides such as genistein, and the bacteria responding by producing lipo-chitooligosaccharides, or LCOs — compounds that trigger the plant to accept the symbiosis. While this process had already been known to science, Smith was able to watch what happened when soil temperatures slowed the process enough to for him to clearly observe the interactions. He found that by preexposing the bacteria to genistein in the lab the night before they were applied in the field, the microbes generated LCOs in advance. The finding was that treated plants didn’t just nodulate faster. They came out of the ground faster, too. Soon, with two years of statistically significant data in hand from multiple field sites around Quebec, Smith was confident in the implications. LCOs weren’t only signals for soybean nodulation they were helping the plants manage stress as well. The discovery grew stranger and more interesting from there. A graduate student, at Smith’s offhand suggestion, tested LCOs on corn — a crop with no connection to the soybean-Bradyrhizobium symbiosis whatsoever. “Neither of us expected it to work,” Smith recalls, “but lo and behold, it worked on corn, too.” That moment brought forth an entirely new scientific understanding: LCOs were not merely nodulation signals. They were something older and broader — stress-response molecules that may have originated billions of years ago as signals between root-associated bacteria and plants. Four decades of research later, Smith’s lab at McGill remains the only group in the world singularly focused on plant-microbe signaling at this depth. LCOs work. That much is proven. LCO technology became the foundation of the Optimize (2003) and Jumpstart (2013) product lines that have since been sold commercially around the world. The problem CXC set out to solve was deeper than just proving efficacy. As François Lamoureux, CXC’s President and CEO, puts it bluntly, “LCOs are notoriously hard to make. The challenge for CXC was figuring out how we can make LCOs more accessible to the farmer.” Lamoureux says the early manufacturing of LCOs was done using a pharma-style approach: porting the production mechanism into genetically modified E. coli bacteria to achieve meaningful yields. That route works, says Lamoureux, but it introduces a GMO organism into production, which carries its own regulatory and market-perception complications that CXC wanted to avoid, so they took a different approach. Working alongside Smith and a team that includes several of his former students, now CXC’s chief scientists, the company has developed methods to coax meaningful yields of high-purity LCOs from the original producing organism — Bradyrhizobium japonicum — without any genetic modification. Smith says the process exploits 40 years of accumulated knowledge about the organism’s nutritional requirements, culturing conditions, and the subtle variables that most researchers would not think to manipulate. The commercial stakes for this breakthrough are significant. LCOs function at extraordinarily low concentrations — on the order of 10 to the minus 11th molar, well within the range of the most sensitive hormonal signals in any biological system on Earth. The practical implication is that a single gram of properly produced LCO can treat an enormous number of acres, making cost-per-acre economics potentially transformational. The Smith Lab and CXC have also identified a second molecule (product name Abio) — a bacteriocin-derived signal from Bacillus thuringiensis found inside the soybean nodule. Abio further boosts LCO efficacy when the two are combined, creating what CXC describes as a supercharged LCO platform. Lamoureux says the Abio platform is at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9. Developed by NASA the TRL readiness scale was used to characterize the maturity of technologies during the acquisition phase of a program. TRL9 signifies a technology that is fully mature, fieldproven, and commercially operational in its final form. As such, CXC is in the process of identifying the right commercial partner with the scale and market access to bring its supercharged LCO (+Abio) platform technology to growers globally. GreenLight Biosciences: An Answer from the Bottom of the Ocean RNA interference (RNAi) — the mechanism by which double-stranded RNA molecules can silence specific genes in target organisms — has been one of the most exciting ideas in biological crop protection for more than two decades. The science, which won a Nobel Prize in 2006, offers something that conventional chemistry cannot: a mode of action so precisely targeted that a properly designed RNA molecule can silence a gene in a Colorado potato beetle without with an almost unprecedented level of specificity. The obstacle for RNAi was never the science. It was the manufacturing economics. Dr. Andrey Zarur, CEO of GreenLight Biosciences, describes the three historical routes to RNA production with the precision of someone who spent years eliminating each of them. Chemical synthesis — the approach used for therapeutic RNAs in treatments of some genetic disorders (such as amyloidosis), cardiovascular disease, and cancer — produces high-fidelity product but at costs ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per gram. The process of enzymatic polymerization utilizes purchased nucleotide triphosphates as catalysts to synthesize RNA polymers in vitro, the method behind mRNA COVID vaccines. This method brings manufacturing costs down to thousands of dollars per gram, still a long way from viability for agricultural applications, where effective use might require use rates of ten grams per hectare. The third route — fermentation using engineered bacteria — attracted enormous investment from heavy-hitters like Monsanto, Bayer, Syngenta, and others during the 1990s and 2000s. These companies theorized that if you could engineer E. coli to produce foreign RNA in a high-density fermentation, the economics should be favorable. In practice, however, biology refused to cooperate. Zarur says the problem is fundamental and evolutionary. Every living organism on Earth has developed systems to recognize and destroy foreign RNA — because foreign RNA is the signature of infection. In E. coli-based fermentation, as foreign RNA accumulates, the bacteria respond by dramatically upregulating the production of nucleases that degrade the RNA. The result is a broad distribution of molecular fragments in the broth, only 1-2 per cent of which is high purity product. When sprayed on crops, the mixture largely failed, and the major companies eventually walked away. GreenLight’s conclusion was at once simple, complicated and unambiguous. They needed to eliminate the living cell entirely from the manufacturing process. But this created what seemed like an impossible engineering problem. RNA synthesis requires energy, specifically ATP, the universal energy currency of life, to phosphorylate the nucleotide building blocks needed for RNA polymerization. Organisms make ATP either through respiration, photosynthesis, glycolysis, or anaerobic metabolism. Once living cells were removed from the process, where would the ATP come from? “The key to this whole problem became: can we supply energy to the system so that it can phosphorylate those nucleotides and drive this reaction forward?” Zarur says. “Simply elucidating that took a couple of years. But then figuring out how to make that energy took another eight years, because it had never been done before.” The breakthrough came from an unexpected source. In the alkaline volcanic vents at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean — in a place called the Atlantis Massif — live organisms have thrived for 4.2 billion years with neither oxygen nor sunlight. These extremophiles produce ATP by extracting phosphate from inorganic molecules like calcium phosphate and iron phosphate in their surroundings, using a set of ancient enzymes that likely predate every other energy metabolism on Earth. GreenLight surmised it could adapt those enzymes for industrial use. The original organisms worked in cold, high-pressure marine environments, drawing on insoluble phosphate sources that would simply precipitate out of a bioreactor. Researchers spent years engineering the system to function at room temperature, ambient pressure, with soluble phosphate sources, and at speeds sufficient for industrial production. When the first version of GreenLight’s cell-free enzyme system worked, the resultant RNA cost about $100 per gram — 10 times cheaper than anything else available at the time. Within a year of hitting that milestone, however, iterative improvements drove the cost below $1 per gram, an astonishing reduction stemming from the high purity of the resulting product. A mass spectrometry analysis of GreenLight’s RNA shows essentially a single peak — approximately 99% of the product is the correct molecule at the correct molecular weight. That means that every molecule sprayed in the field is capable of affecting its target. That purity also proved critical for regulatory approval: GreenLight had to help the EPA develop an entirely new framework for evaluating RNA insecticides, including sequence analytics, bioinformatics demonstrating non-target organism safety, and environmental fate studies. That framework now exists and has been adopted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Today, GreenLight has two commercial RNA biopesticide products on the market — Calantha, targeting the Colorado potato beetle, and Norroa — and is expanding rapidly. “We’re sold out of everything,” Zarur says. “We can’t keep it on the shelves, and it’s only May.” Current production is running at approximately 5.5 metric tons of RNA per year, with the company aiming for 30 metric tons by year end — more RNA than was previously thought possible to manufacture. According to Zarur, the GreenLight pipeline is extensive. Common Denominators Three companies. Three entirely different biological platforms. Three very different manufacturing breakthroughs. And yet the underlying similarities are striking. In each case, the biology was ready long before the manufacturing was. PPFMs have been known and studied for decades. LCOs were commercialized by a global agricultural company. RNA interference won a Nobel Prize. The science was not the bottleneck. Manufacturability was. Initially, NewLeaf could not stabilize living gram-negative cells. At the outset, CXC could not produce LCOs from non-GMO organisms at commercial purity and yield. In the beginning, GreenLight could not make RNA cheaply enough for field use. Biology becomes agriculture only when manufacturing catches up. In each case, the companies’ respective solutions required working with biology rather than against it. NewLeaf didn’t depend upon formulation gymnastics to protect cells that weren’t ready; it learned how to make cells that were ready before processing began. CXC didn’t try to force a faster GMO production route; it leaned into 40 years of knowledge about the original organism’s biology. GreenLight didn’t try to suppress the E. coli nuclease response; it removed the living cell from the process entirely and rebuilt biological energy chemistry from its most ancient roots. Likewise, across all three innovations, purity and consistency emerge as strategic advantages rather than technical footnotes. These innovations are not rooted in brute-force engineering solutions. They are solutions that stem from deep biological understanding. The long-term implications of these manufacturing breakthroughs extend well beyond the individual products coming to market. They suggest a structural leap forward in how the biologicals industry will compete and how farmers eventually think about their input programs. If biological products can be manufactured with the stability, cost, purity, and performance consistency that conventional chemistry has long offered, they can officially transition from nice-to-haves to need-to-haves. And in a world of increasingly erratic growing conditions, tools that help crops perform under variable stress conditions are precisely what farmers need most.   ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4036/syngenta-secures-exclusive-rights-to-novel-biofungicide-for-southeast-asias-rice-sector.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/4036/syngenta-secures-exclusive-rights-to-novel-biofungicide-for-southeast-asias-rice-sector.html Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:36:32 +0530 Partnership with Ascribe Bioscience aims to bring PHYTALIX to Asian farmers by 2029, offering a new biological weapon against crop diseases while supporting sustainable yield growth Syngenta and U.S.-based biotechnology innovator Ascribe Bioscience have entered into a landmark development and supply agreement to commercialize PHYTALIX, a next-generation biofungicide designed to strengthen crop resistance against a broad spectrum of fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. The agreement grants Syngenta exclusive commercial rights to the product for rice and other major crops across Southeast Asia, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time. The collaboration marks a significant step in the accelerating integration of biological crop protection technologies into mainstream agricultural production systems. The commercial alliance follows four years of extensive field validation conducted by Syngenta, during which PHYTALIX demonstrated strong performance against key crop diseases while delivering consistent yield improvements. Trials highlighted its effectiveness as part of integrated pest management (IPM) programs, particularly in combating Bacterial Leaf Blight, one of the most damaging diseases affecting rice cultivation across Asia. Developed from scientific discoveries at the Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell University, PHYTALIX works by activating plants’ natural defense mechanisms rather than directly targeting pathogens. The biological solution enables crops such as rice, soybeans, maize, and wheat to enhance their own resistance to disease pressures throughout the growing season. The partnership comes at a critical time for global rice production. Rice remains the primary food source for nearly half the world’s population, yet growers are facing mounting challenges from climate variability, emerging disease threats, and increasing resistance to conventional crop protection products. Industry experts view biological solutions as an increasingly important complement to traditional chemistries, helping farmers maintain productivity while meeting evolving sustainability expectations. PHYTALIX has been designed to bridge the gap between conventional crop protection products and biological alternatives. The product offers a novel mode of action, broad-spectrum disease control, high stability, and low application rates, making it suitable for adoption across a wide range of farming systems and operational scales. According to Syngenta, the technology could become an important tool for managing complex disease pressures while supporting more resilient and sustainable rice production across the region. “The collaboration with Ascribe reflects our commitment to bringing farmers differentiated solutions that help them implement more efficient and modern farming strategies through the combined use of conventional and biological products,” said Emilhano Lima, Global Head of Seedcare and Biologicals at Syngenta. He added that partnerships with emerging innovators are essential to accelerating the delivery of next-generation biological technologies to farmers worldwide. For Ascribe Bioscience, the agreement represents a major commercial milestone and validation of the technology’s global potential. “By partnering with Syngenta in Asia, we are able to move this innovation from the laboratory into the hands of farmers seeking new and sustainable disease-management solutions,” said Dr. Jay Farmer, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ascribe Bioscience. “Syngenta’s commitment underscores the significant opportunity for PHYTALIX in global agriculture.” The companies will now advance regulatory registration processes and market development activities across the targeted Asian markets. Subject to approvals, the first commercial launches of PHYTALIX are expected in 2029. The partnership reflects a broader industry shift toward biological crop protection products as agricultural producers seek solutions that combine productivity, sustainability, and resilience in an increasingly challenging farming environment. As disease pressures intensify and regulatory scrutiny of conventional chemistries grows, innovations such as PHYTALIX are expected to play an increasingly prominent role in the future of crop protection. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3966/basf-commissions-new-fermentation-biohub-in-ludwigshafen-to-scale-biological-crop-protection-portfolio.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3966/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/30/3947/singapore-becomes-strategic-hub-for-cortevas-bio-based-crop-protection-research.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3947/singapore-becomes-strategic-hub-for-cortevas-bio-based-crop-protection-research.html Mon, 25 May 2026 15:16:07 +0530 Spinosyn-based biological solutions highlight shift toward low-dose, high-efficiency crop protection technologies across Asia-Pacific markets Corteva Agriscience has expanded its laboratory facility in Singapore by 50 per cent, marking a strategic investment aimed at accelerating the development of advanced, nature-inspired crop protection solutions for the Asia-Pacific region. The expanded facility enhances the company’s research and development capabilities in formulation science and biological innovations, reinforcing its focus on next-generation agricultural inputs designed to improve efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness for farmers across diverse cropping systems. A key area of innovation highlighted by the company is its spinosyn-based crop protection portfolio, derived through fermentation of naturally occurring soil bacteria. These biological solutions are positioned as high-efficiency crop protection tools that require lower application rates while delivering targeted pest control outcomes, aligning with growing demand for reduced-input farming practices across Asia. The expansion reflects broader industry momentum toward bio-based agricultural technologies, as farmers and agribusinesses increasingly seek alternatives that balance productivity with environmental stewardship. The facility is expected to support the formulation and refinement of biological crop protection products tailored to regional agronomic conditions. The inauguration of the expanded laboratory was attended by senior company leadership alongside representatives from Singapore’s Economic Development Board, underscoring the country’s positioning as a strategic hub for chemicals innovation and bioeconomy development. The investment strengthens Singapore’s role as a centre for advanced agricultural research, while enabling Corteva to deepen its engagement with Asia-Pacific markets through locally relevant innovation pipelines. With this expansion, Corteva continues to reinforce its global R&D footprint, aligning scientific research with the evolving needs of farmers and the accelerating shift toward biological and sustainable crop protection systems. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3938/bioprime-and-mosaic-seek-to-redefine-fertilizer-economics-through-biological-intelligence.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3938/bioprime-and-mosaic-seek-to-redefine-fertilizer-economics-through-biological-intelligence.html Mon, 25 May 2026 12:02:41 +0530 The commercial collaboration aims to create scalable crop systems that nourish plants, strengthen soil health and improve resource efficiency simultaneously BioPrime AgriSolutions a pioneer in the biological crop solutions powered by its proprietary SNIPR discovery platform, and Mosaic, a global leader in crop nutrition, today announced a commercial collaboration in India focused on incorporating biological components into Mosaic’s crop nutrition solutions. The initiative aims to support growers with solutions that activate plant potential, optimize resource use and build long-term agronomic resilience. This collaboration comes at a time when farmers are facing increasing cost pressures and supply volatility across key agricultural inputs. Integrated solutions that improve efficiency and productivity are essential to support sustainable and profitable farming. The conventional focus on improving NUE, ensuring more applied fertilizer reaches the plant remains important, but it represents only one dimension of agricultural performance. The BioPrime - Mosaic partnership is designed to advance a more ambitious thesis: that fertilizers, integrated with advanced biological intelligence, can do far more than feed the plant. By layering BioPrime’s biological innovations derived from its SNIPR platform directly into Mosaic’s proven crop nutrition frameworks, this collaboration aims to create a new category of solution, one that nourishes, activates and strengthens crops across their entire growth cycle. Dr. Renuka Diwan, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, BioPrime AgriSolutions said, “Fertilizers have powered global agriculture for over a century. Our partnership with Mosaic is about honouring that legacy while fundamentally advancing what fertilizers can deliver. By embedding biological intelligence into proven nutrition platforms, we are not replacing the fertilizer, we are elevating it. The result is a system that activates the plant, optimizes the input and strengthens the farm.” Unlike conventional nutrition programs that address a single dimension of plant health, the Crop Performance System operates simultaneously across multiple biological levers. Metabolic Efficiency: Biologicals activate key plant metabolic pathways, enabling crops to convert available nutrients into yield more effectively, reducing waste and improving return on every input dollar. Stress Resilience: Integrated biological components prime crops against abiotic stressors, drought, heat and salinity thereby sustaining performance in the increasingly volatile climate conditions facing farmers worldwide. Soil-Microbe-Plant Synergy: By engaging the soil microbiome as an active partner in nutrition delivery, the system enhances nutrient availability, root development and long-term soil health, building fertility rather than depleting it. Precision Nutrient Assimilation: Advanced biological agents improve the plant’s ability to uptake and utilize nutrients at critical growth stages, amplifying the agronomic value of Mosaic’s proven fertilizer platforms. Robin Edwin, Director, Mosaic said, “At Mosaic, we believe the future of agriculture is not about choosing between crop nutrition and biologicals, but integrating them to deliver better agronomic outcomes for growers. Mosaic Biosciences was created to advance exactly this vision. Our collaboration with BioPrime is another step in building integrated solutions that help growers improve productivity, nutrient efficiency and overall farm performance.” The timing reflects the structural challenges reshaping global agriculture. Geopolitical instability and supply chain disruptions continue to drive fertilizer price volatility, placing cost pressure on farmers at every scale. At the same time, sustainability expectations are intensifying, demanding that productivity gains be delivered with a smaller environmental footprint. The Crop Performance System is designed to navigate both realities – improve agronomic return to every dollar invested in crop nutrition; support sustainable intensification – producing more from existing land without proportionally increasing environmental burden and deliver scalable solutions adaptable across diverse crops, geographies and farming systems. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3868/basf-commissions-new-biohub-facility-in-germany-to-accelerate-biological-crop-protection-portfolio.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3868/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/30/3736/biotalys-reaches-first-rd-milestone-with-syngenta-in-sustainable-insect-control.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3736/biotalys-reaches-first-rd-milestone-with-syngenta-in-sustainable-insect-control.html Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:08:23 +0530 Partnership progresses to next phase following successful in vitro validation of bioactive ingredients Biotalys, an AgTech company focused on protein-based biocontrol solutions, today announced it has achieved the first research milestone in its ongoing partnership with Syngenta to develop a novel bioinsecticide targeting key crop pests. Initial laboratory testing has delivered encouraging in vitro results, demonstrating the effectiveness of newly developed bioactive compounds created using Biotalys’ proprietary AGROBODY technology. These compounds have shown activity against specific insect molecular targets, supporting the potential of this approach in next-generation pest control. “Biotalys is committed to advancing crop protection solutions that combine the performance of conventional products with the environmental benefits of biologicals,” said Carlo Boutton, Interim CEO of Biotalys. “Collaborating with industry leaders such as Syngenta enables us to accelerate innovation and move promising technologies closer to commercial application. This milestone reinforces the value of our platform in developing new modes of action for insect control.” As growers face increasing challenges from insect resistance and stricter regulatory requirements, demand continues to grow for solutions that deliver sustained efficacy while reducing environmental impact. Biotalys’ protein-based biocontrols represent a new class of crop protection products designed to address resistant pest populations through targeted and sustainable mechanisms. Following this milestone, the collaboration will move into the next phase of research, where the bioactive ingredients will be evaluated in vivo to further validate their performance. In line with the agreement, Syngenta will issue a milestone payment to Biotalys, reflecting continued progress in the joint development program. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3729/koppert-unveils-kc2404-new-biological-shield-against-fungal-threats.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3729/koppert-unveils-kc2404-new-biological-shield-against-fungal-threats.html Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:24:51 +0530 Next-generation fungicide moves closer to approval, redefining sustainable crop protection In a significant stride toward sustainable agriculture, Koppert has introduced KC2404, an advanced biological fungicide poised for regulatory approval in the third quarter of 2026. First showcased at the prestigious Crop Health Days hosted at the World Horti Center, the product offers growers an early glimpse into a powerful new solution for combating powdery mildew and a spectrum of fungal diseases across high-value crops. From Thermal Waters to Targeted Protection At the core of KC2404 lies a unique scientific foundation—a lysate derived from Willaertia, a single-celled amoeba sourced from thermal waters near Lake Annecy. Cultivated in controlled bioreactor environments, this lysate is rich in bioactive compounds that not only inhibit fungal spore germination but also activate the plant’s innate defense systems. The result is a dual-action mechanism that combines direct pathogen suppression with enhanced crop resilience. Broad-Spectrum Efficacy Backed by Field Performance KC2404 demonstrates robust activity against a wide array of pathogens, including powdery mildew, rust fungi, Cladosporium leaf spots, and destructive oomycetes such as Phytophthora and downy mildew. Trial data from 2024 cucumber studies under intense disease pressure revealed infection levels of approximately 12 per cent in treated plants—significantly lower than over 20 per cent in comparable biological treatments and more than 40 per cent in untreated controls. When paired with an adjuvant, the product’s efficacy approached that of conventional chemical standards, reinforcing its commercial potential. Operational Simplicity Meets Regulatory Advantage Beyond performance, KC2404 offers compelling practical benefits. With no maximum residue limits and no mandated re-entry or safety intervals, it simplifies on-farm operations while aligning with increasingly stringent regulatory frameworks. Certification for organic agriculture is currently underway, positioning the product as a versatile tool for both conventional and organic growers. Scaling Across Crops and Markets Initial registration efforts are focused on key greenhouse crops such as cucumber, tomato, and eggplant, targeting major diseases including powdery mildew and Phytophthora. Looking ahead, Koppert plans to expand approvals across additional crops and geographies, with application programs expected to reach up to 10 treatments per cycle in cucumbers and as many as 12 annually in other crops, including ornamentals and strawberries. A Glimpse Into the Future of Crop Protection As agriculture pivots toward safer, residue-free solutions, KC2404 represents a compelling fusion of biology and innovation. By harnessing naturally derived compounds and translating them into high-performance crop protection, Koppert is not only advancing its product portfolio but also helping redefine the future of disease management in a more sustainable and resilient global food system. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3727/lomons-green-leap-bimie-redefines-future-of-acaricide-innovation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3727/lomons-green-leap-bimie-redefines-future-of-acaricide-innovation.html Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:37:12 +0530 World’s first registered bacterial solution challenges chemical dominance In a landmark moment for sustainable agriculture, Sichuan Lomon Bio Technology Co., Ltd. has officially launched BIMIE, the world’s first fully registered bacterial acaricide. The unveiling, held during a high-profile virtual conference that drew over 10,000 viewers, marks the company’s strategic expansion from plant growth regulators into advanced biopesticide innovation—underscoring its ambition to lead the global biologicals revolution. At the heart of BIMIE lies its pioneering active ingredient, Bacillus velezensis LM-W2, formulated at 1 billion CFU/ml. Granted full regulatory registration in 2026, the product stands alone globally in its category. Developed from plant endophytes and refined through years of research since 2021, this microbial solution introduces a radically different mode of action compared to conventional chemical acaricides, offering both efficacy and ecological compatibility. Unlike traditional chemistries, BIMIE operates through a sophisticated biological mechanism. Its microbial metabolites disrupt the digestive systems of mites, allowing active enzymes such as proteases to penetrate the bloodstream and impair immune and neurological functions. As noted by He Yueqiu of Yunnan Agricultural University, this multi-target mode of interference significantly reduces the likelihood of resistance development, while preserving beneficial organisms such as predatory mites—an essential pillar of integrated pest management. Performance metrics reinforce BIMIE’s disruptive potential. Visible effects emerge within three hours of application, with control efficacy exceeding 95 per cent within 24 hours and residual protection lasting up to 20 days. Its additional ovary-splitting action curbs pest populations at the source, making it particularly effective against targets such as Panonychus citri and aphids. Field trials across Sichuan and Guangxi provinces demonstrate consistent results, with sustained control rates of 85–95 per cent over extended periods—outperforming conventional treatments like imidacloprid and acetamiprid. From a practical standpoint, BIMIE offers strong compatibility with widely used crop protection inputs, including bifenazate and abamectin, while requiring careful avoidance of certain compounds such as fluazinam and mineral oils. Optimized for application above 25°C, the product remains functionally resilient even in cooler conditions, enhancing its versatility across diverse agro-climatic zones. Strategically positioned for high-value crops and resistance-prone farming systems, BIMIE reflects a broader shift toward green, sustainable pest control solutions. As emphasized by Li Yi, the company’s marketing director, overcoming entrenched perceptions around the slower action of biologicals will be key—placing field demonstrations and real-world validation at the center of market adoption. Backed by the industrial strength of Lomon Corporation Group, a global leader in plant growth regulators such as S-abscisic acid and gibberellic acid, this launch represents more than a product debut—it is a declaration of intent. With BIMIE, Sichuan Lomon Bio Technology Co. Ltd. takes a decisive step toward its vision of becoming a global leader in biological agriculture, reshaping the future of crop protection with science-led, environmentally conscious innovation. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3574/from-domestic-strength-to-global-influence-brazils-bioinput-playbook.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3574/from-domestic-strength-to-global-influence-brazils-bioinput-playbook.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:12:41 +0530 Mauro Heringer tells Agrospectrum how regulatory coordination, tropical biotech and sovereign innovation are positioning Brazil at the center of regenerative agriculture In an exclusive interview with Agrospectrum, Mauro Heringer, Director of International Relations at ABINBIO and Member of the National Bioinputs Export Committee (ApexBrasil), outlined how Brazil’s dominance in tropical bioinputs is reshaping global agricultural markets. He emphasized that Brazil’s competitive edge lies in its “Proof of Tropical Resilience,” with biological solutions tested across six biomes under extreme climatic and pest pressures—conditions that validate their robustness for global deployment. Heringer highlighted regulatory harmonization, living logistics, and institutional coordination under Law 15,070/2024 as central to accelerating exports while positioning Brazil as a benchmark for sustainable agricultural biotechnology. Framing bioinputs as a matter of national security and technological sovereignty, he asserted that Brazil’s ambition extends beyond exports to leading a global transition toward high-performance regenerative agriculture. From Domestic Success to Export Strategy Brazil has built a large and sophisticated domestic bio-inputs market. What specific capabilities or lessons from domestic adoption give Brazilian companies a competitive edge when entering highly regulated international markets? Brazil’s success in the bioinputs sector is not merely a function of sales volume—it reflects deep biotechnological and institutional maturity that has given rise to a true “tropical innovation ecosystem.” The country’s competitive advantage rests on what can be called the Proof of Tropical Resilience. Unlike competitors operating in temperate climates, Brazilian companies develop bioinputs for an environment defined by six distinct biomes within a single territory, continuous year-round cultivation cycles, intense pest pressure and high temperatures. These are among the most challenging agricultural conditions in the world—and Brazil has learned to innovate within them. This is where the real advantage lies: the tropicalization of biotechnology. Brazil does not simply “sell the bottle.” It exports the expertise required to replace or complement synthetic chemistry in highly productive agricultural systems under extreme biological stress. As a result, Brazilian companies are not commodity suppliers. They are holders of strategic intellectual property essential to advancing sustainable global food security. The lesson is straightforward: if a biological solution performs consistently across Brazilian biomes—particularly in the Cerrado—it possesses more than enough robustness for virtually any other agricultural region in the world. Brazil exports resilience, not just microorganisms. Regulatory Asymmetry Across Markets How does the export committee plan to navigate starkly different regulatory regimes for biological inputs in the EU, the United States, and Latin America, and where do you see the greatest bottlenecks to market access? I will start from the end of the question. In my view, the biggest bottlenecks are regulatory alignment and what I call “Living Logistics.” Exporting chemicals is relatively straightforward. Exporting living organisms—bacteria and fungi—is fundamentally different. It requires cold-chain infrastructure, precision logistics and strict control over viability and shelf-life throughout transit. Maintaining biological stability over long international distances remains the most significant technical and commercial challenge. On the regulatory front, asymmetries between countries create additional complexity. Rules, compliance standards and legal frameworks vary widely, making harmonization a strategic priority. To address this, a formal partnership was established in mid-2025 between ApexBrasil and CropLife Brasil, which recently welcomed ABINBIO (Brazilian Association of Bioinput Industries). Together, they formed the National Bioinputs Export Committee, a platform designed to coordinate international expansion and regulatory strategy. Navigating global markets requires differentiated approaches, as regulatory cultures are not uniform. In the European Union, the framework is guided by the Precautionary Principle, which emphasizes intrinsic hazard. There, our strategy is centered almost entirely on demonstrating toxicological safety, purity and the absence of contaminants. We do not sell “productivity” to Europe—we sell food safety and the elimination of chemical residues. The positioning should resemble an “Intel Inside” for agriculture: if it carries Brazilian bio-technology, it represents sustainability and safety. In the United States, the regulatory philosophy—led by the EPA—is pragmatic and risk-based. The focus must therefore be on agronomic efficacy. Our dossiers emphasize large-scale performance data generated across millions of Brazilian hectares under tropical conditions. This industrial-scale validation offers something that controlled laboratory trials alone cannot replicate. In Latin America, the priority should be regional harmonization. Here, the challenge is largely political and institutional. Alignment within Mercosur is essential, with Brazil’s regulatory approval—already subject to rigorous scrutiny by MAPA, ANVISA and IBAMA, under one of the world’s most advanced bioinput frameworks—serving as a regional quality benchmark. The objective is mutual recognition: if a product has been approved by the tropical leader, Brazil, it should qualify for fast-track registration in neighboring markets such as Paraguay, Colombia and Bolivia. In short, the pathway to global expansion requires regulatory intelligence, logistical innovation and geopolitical coordination—not just technological excellence. Branding “Brazil” in Sustainability-Driven Markets The project emphasizes brand positioning around sustainability and bioeconomy. How do you reconcile Brazil’s leadership in bio-inputs with ongoing international scrutiny of its broader environmental record, particularly in land use and deforestation? This is a fundamental question. First, it is important to adjust the premise of the question with data. Often, the narrative imposed on the sustainability issue is a distorted and uninformed view. Brazil is an agro-environmental powerhouse: we preserve more than 60 per cent of our territory with native vegetation and possess the most rigorous environmental legislation in the world (the Forest Code) and, now, modern Bioinput legislation. No other major food producer delivers these numbers.Our leadership in Bioinputs is not an attempt to "compensate" for a problem, but rather the natural evolution of this preservationist mindset. Thanks to our tropical biotechnology (such as Biological Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Fixation and no-till farming), we have managed to increase production by 400 per cent in recent decades while expanding the land area by only 40 per cent.Therefore, Brazil needs to be emulated. By exporting bioinputs, we are offering the world the same technology that allows us to be the only country feeding 1 billion people while preserving the majority of its forests. Innovation vs. Standardization Tension Biological inputs often require localized formulations and application protocols. How does Brazil balance the need for market-specific adaptation with the efficiencies required for scalable global exports? We solve this dilemma through a "Platform Biology" strategy. The common mistake is thinking that one exports a "ready-to-use final product" just like a chemical pesticide. Brazil has learned to export the Base Technology and Application Know-How.In Industry Standardization (Upstream): Brazil has achieved global excellence in industrial development. Our factories produce spores and metabolites with very high concentration and purity and extended shelf-life. This is standardizable and scalable worldwide. It is the biological "hardware."In Field Adaptation (Downstream): The "software" (how to use it) is adaptable. Our companies don’t just sell the jug; they sell the agronomic protocol. We have formulation technology that allows the same tested robust strain to be activated or applied differently depending on Indian or American soil. Thus, efficiency comes from the industrial scale of our fermentation; adaptation comes from the robustness of our tropical strains. If a bacterium survives the stress of Brazilian soil, it performs easily in less hostile environments.Brazil does not export a "medicine," but rather a "treatment system." By separating the biological asset (standardized) from the application intelligence (localized), companies achieve the benefits of mass production without the risk of inefficacy in foreign soils. Domestic Ownership as Strategic Advantage With over 80 per cent of bio-input companies being Brazilian-owned, how does domestic ownership shape innovation, capital formation, and long-term export competitiveness compared to multinational-dominated ag-input sectors? The fact that Brazil’s bioinput sector is predominantly national in capital structure—historically over 80 per cent —is a positive anomaly within Brazilian agribusiness, which has traditionally been dependent on multinational chemical and seed companies. This domestic foundation has fostered a form of biotechnological sovereignty that significantly reshapes Brazil’s export competitiveness. However, intellectual honesty requires a distinction between the sector’s historical structure and its current market dynamics. The premise that the sector remains mostly national is still statistically defensible when measured by number of companies. Brazil has hundreds of registered bioinput firms—many of them small and medium-sized regional agritechs. If one counts by tax ID (CNPJ), the majority are indeed Brazilian-owned. But when the metric shifts from number of companies to revenue concentration and market share, the picture is evolving rapidly. Multinational giants such as Bayer, Syngenta, Corteva and UPL—as well as foreign investment groups—have accelerated acquisitions of leading Brazilian bioinput firms. Once a Brazilian company is acquired, it continues operating locally, but capital allocation decisions and long-term strategic direction shift to a global headquarters. Why is this happening? Because the Brazilian bioinput sector has become one of the most profitable and dynamic segments in agribusiness, turning it into a primary target for mergers and acquisitions. Many companies that began with 100 per cent national capital were acquired precisely because multinationals struggled to replicate the speed of Brazilian innovation or navigate Brazil’s complex regulatory and agronomic landscape as effectively as local players. This creates a strategic paradox. Brazil risks becoming an exceptional “nursery of biological startups”—a global laboratory for innovation—whose most successful companies are absorbed by foreign capital once they achieve maturity and export scale. At the same time, the very factors that attract multinational interest explain Brazil’s competitive edge. In global chemical conglomerates, biological products are often treated as complementary or defensive tools—designed to protect or extend the lifecycle of synthetic molecules. In contrast, for national Brazilian companies, bioinputs are not an add-on; they are the core business. That structural difference matters. When biology is the central strategy, 100 per cent of R&D investment is directed toward biological performance. There is no internal conflict of interest, such as the risk of cannibalizing sales of high-margin synthetic fungicides. In large chemical corporations, a disruptive biological innovation can threaten existing revenue streams. In Brazilian bioinput companies, disruption is the objective. The result is faster innovation cycles, greater technological boldness and a development pipeline focused purely on biological efficiency under tropical conditions. This strategic clarity—biology as mission, not supplement—is what transformed Brazil into a global reference in bioinputs. The challenge now is ensuring that this innovative sovereignty is not diluted as consolidation accelerates. Competition with Established Multinationals As global agrochemical and biotech firms rapidly expand their biological portfolios, where does Brazil see its most defensible competitive moat—cost, performance in tropical systems, speed of innovation, or something else? Our defensive moat is, without a doubt, Proven Performance in Tropical Systems. While multinationals compete by buying startups to build a portfolio, Brazil has an advantage that cannot be bought: decades of natural selection in the field.The 'Tropicalization' Factor: Biology is context-dependent. A fungus developed in a laboratory in Europe might die in two hours under the sun in Mato Grosso (or Maharashtra). Our strains were isolated and selected under extreme thermal and water stress. They are "elite athletes" of survival.Real Scale vs. Greenhouse: Multinationals test in controlled greenhouses. Brazil tests on 40 million hectares of commercial crops. We have the world’s largest database on how bioinputs interact with the real environment.Cost-Benefit: Since we master large-scale fermentation (on-farm and industrial), we can deliver this elite biology at a cost that makes its use viable in commodities (soybeans, corn, cotton, sugarcane, etc.), not just in expensive fruits.Application Science and Coexistence (Compatibility): Foreign multinationals usually sell the "bottle." Brazilian companies sell the management. Brazil has learned to mix biologicals with chemicals in the same spray tank without inactivating the microorganism. This knowledge regarding formulation stability and chemical compatibility is what global producers want most today to reduce costs.The Brazilian "Pipeline": Brazil possesses the greatest microbial biodiversity in the world. The ability to isolate, test, and register new assets with agility creates an innovation cycle that multinationals, with their global bureaucratic structures, struggle to match. Institutional Coordination and Governance What concrete mechanisms will ensure that the export committee translates coordination into measurable outcomes—such as export growth or regulatory approvals—rather than remaining a symbolic platform? The Committee began its work at the end of 2025. To ensure the export committee does not become a "symbolic platform" without practical delivery, the governance of the bioinput sector in Brazil is being structured on technical execution mechanisms and commercial diplomacy.Law No. 15,070/2024 provides the legal basis, but the translation into measurable results depends on three pillars of institutional coordination. The committee does not act only in commercial promotion, but in the convergence of standards. The concrete mechanism is the creation of joint working groups with bodies such as EFSA (Europe) and the EPA (USA), aiming to reduce registration time abroad through the acceptance of data generated in Brazil (mutual recognition).The committee utilizes the rigor of the new legal framework to advocate that biological efficacy dossiers approved by MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture) be accepted as technical proof in other countries, eliminating the need to repeat field tests that last years.Institutional coordination involves ApexBrasil, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply in a market segmentation program. Examples such as the creation of an export "Bio-Pipeline" can be cited. The committee identifies biotechnological bottlenecks in partner countries and can directly connect Brazilian companies that have the specific solution through diplomatic missions, trade fairs, events, and through agricultural attachés at Brazilian embassies in key countries.Another aspect to prevent Brazilian products from being blocked by subjective sustainability issues is the implementation of Certification and Traceability Support within a Bioinput Conformity Seal system. Audits will ensure that the exported input meets bioeconomy and low carbon emission requirements, integrating them into the national bioinput program. Long-Term Market Transformation Do you view Brazil’s push into biological inputs primarily as an export opportunity, or as part of a broader effort to reshape global crop protection and fertility markets away from synthetic inputs—and how does that ambition influence policy and investment priorities? This is the question that defines the "endgame" for Brazil. The strategic answer is that export is merely the vehicle, but the global paradigm shift is the destination. Brazil doesn’t just want to be the largest exporter of bioinputs; it intends to be the architect of the new era of world agriculture.This is, undoubtedly, a global paradigm shift. Export is just the economic consequence; the cause is the survival necessity of modern agriculture. Brazil doesn’t just want to sell a substitute for chemicals; we want to lead the transition to the Era of High-Performance Regenerative Agriculture.We are positioning ourselves to be the "Saudi Arabia of Green Chemistry." Just as the Middle East was indispensable in the oil era, Brazil will be indispensable in the bioeconomy era. We are not just "moving away" from synthetics; we are integrating biological tools to create a smarter and more resilient system.This vision changes everything. Our investment priorities have shifted from the logic of "technology importation" to "technological sovereignty." The National Bioinput Plan and the APEX Brasil Bioinput Export Committee Project are proof that the Brazilian State has decided that biotechnology is strategic for national and global security.The Brazilian offensive aims to reposition synthetic inputs (especially fossil-based nitrogen fertilizers and high-toxicity pesticides) as high-risk assets with high environmental costs. The vulnerability revealed by global crises (such as the fertilizer shortage in 2022) accelerated the National Fertilizer Plan and the Bioinput Legal Framework (Law 15,070/2024). Brazil treats bioinputs as a matter of national security. The ambition is to reduce external dependence on mineral fertilizers by up to 50 per cent in the coming decades.By proving this is possible on a continental scale, Brazil creates a "demonstration effect" for the rest of the world, leading a movement for biotechnological food sovereignty. We are redesigning the architecture of food production. The future is biological, and Brazil is the laboratory where this future has already begun.I invite India to join us on this journey. Together, as leaders of the Global South, we have the responsibility and the capacity to define how the world will feed itself over the next 50 years: with more biology, more biotechnology, and more respect for our tropical soils and the people who are here and their future generations. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3504/union-budget-2026-expectations.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3504/union-budget-2026-expectations.html Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:40:55 +0530 Resilience, efficiency & prosperity As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveils Budget 2026, the nation demands more than routine allocations. Indian agriculture is at a historic inflection point. This Budget is expected to operationalise the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aiming to transform farming from a low-margin, input-heavy, staple-focused sector into a high-productivity, high-value, globally competitive engine. Economists, industry leaders, and multilateral agencies concur: Incremental tweaks have run out of runway, and structural reforms are imperative to bridge productivity gaps, restore soil and water health, and secure farmers’ livelihoods. “Budget 2026 must signal a decisive move from blanket input subsidies to outcome-linked support that rewards water-use efficiency, balanced fertilisation, and low-emission practices at the farm level,” asserts Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member (Agriculture), NITI Aayog.  Dr Ashok Gulati, Infosys Chair Professor for Agriculture at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER)and former Chairman, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), echoes the call for digitally verifiable, efficiency-led support: “Linking direct benefit transfers with soil health cards, precision nutrient management, and diversified cropping will reduce fiscal stress while lifting total factor productivity across both rainfed and irrigated systems.” The imperative is clear: Budget 2026 must transition from fragmented schemes to a coherent, science-led, productivity-centric agricultural strategy — a structural foundation for a globally competitive, climate-smart, and high-income Indian agriculture. The Foundation of 2025: From Intent to Implementation Budget 2025 laid important groundwork, signaling a shift from stop-gap support toward structural measures aimed at productivity and resilience. The launch of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, targeting 100 low-productivity districts, marked the start of district-level agricultural renewal. Coupled with a six-year protein security initiative under the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, it created stable procurement for tur, urad, and masoor, reducing India’s import dependence in key pulses. “Budget 2026 must accelerate India’s shift to a climate-resilient, value-enhanced agri-economy by scaling biologicals and unlocking the waste-to-wealth opportunity. Targeted fiscal support for biosolutions, soil health and circularity can boost productivity while reducing chemical dependence. ’’ — Krishna Mohan Puvvada, Regional President, (Middle East, India and Africa), Novonesis Experts argue the next step must embed climate intelligence into farm-level decisions. “Budget 2026 must fund monsoon-contingent nutrition advisories at scale — using rainfall analytics and soil data to dynamically adjust fertiliser recommendations — so farmers can shift from fixed schedules to climate-responsive feeding of crops,” says Dr Manish Singh, AVP–Technical & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited. He proposes a unified Nutrient Efficiency Index (NEI), integrating soil-test data, cropping patterns, water use efficiency, and fertiliser balance. “Budgets and subsidies should be allocated based on NEI improvement, not fertiliser consumption. This drives balanced nutrition and scientific fertiliser use rather than volume-driven demand,” he added. “Budget 2026 must signal a decisive move from blanket input subsidies to outcome-linked support that rewards water use efficiency, balanced fertilisation and low-emission practices at the farm level.”​ — Dr Ramesh Chand, Member (Agriculture), NITI Aayog Budget 2026 also sought to ease liquidity bottlenecks by raising Kisan Credit Card limits from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, supporting smallholders, dairy farmers, fishers, and allied producers. Sectoral reforms — from the National Mission on High-Yielding Seeds and a five-year cotton revitalisation plan to institutions like Bihar’s Makhana Board — aimed to modernise production, while allocations for storage, logistics, and market infrastructure addressed post-harvest losses. “Budget 2026 must prioritise digital infrastructure, credit linkages, and rural capacity building to scale precision agriculture. Agri-drones, IoT and data analytics can boost yields, conserve resources and strengthen climate resilience. Targeted subsidies, public–private partnerships and R&D incentives will accelerate adoption, integrate technology with national agricultural databases, and shift India from subsidy dependence to self-reliant, innovation-led farming.”  – Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace Yet, experts insist these gains must now converge into a coherent resilience architecture. “The next Budget should consolidate irrigation, watershed, soil health, and climate missions into a single ‘National Resilient Farms Mission’ with district-level targets for water productivity and soil organic carbon,” says Dr V. K. Singh, Director, ICAR–Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA).  “Linking direct benefit transfers with soil health cards, precision nutrient management and diversified cropping will reduce fiscal stress while lifting total factor productivity across rainfed and irrigated systems.”​ — Dr. Ashok Gulati, Infosys Chair Professor for Agriculture at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and former Chairman, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), adds, “Every rupee for irrigation must be co-anchored with micro-irrigation, fertigation-ready soils, and climate-resilient varieties so public investment translates into real resilience on farmers’ fields.” Budget 2026 will ultimately be judged on whether it can convert these incremental foundations into a mission-driven, 2047-ready agricultural architecture that delivers genuine resilience, competitiveness, and prosperity for India’s farmers. Fixing the Foundations: The Budget That Must Rewire Subsidies, Markets and Science As Budget 2026 approaches, it is evident that Indian agriculture stands at a pivotal crossroads. The long-standing promise of doubling farmers’ incomes, once a political mantra, now demands a sober re-examination. Structural pressures—from climate volatility and shrinking margins to global competitiveness and rising nutritional expectations—have made incrementalism insufficient.  “The allocation of the budget should be done across three horizons: the immediate year, the next five years, and the long-term vision through 2047,” asserts Sandeepa Kanitkar, Chairman of BASAI and Managing Director of Kan Biosys, highlighting that India’s agricultural budget—barely 2 per cent of total expenditure—is glaringly inadequate for a sector that contributes 17 per cent of GDP, sustains 55 per cent of the population, and underpins the nutrition of 140 crore citizens. “The next Budget should consolidate irrigation, watershed, soil health and climate missions into a single ‘National Resilient Farms Mission’ with clear district targets for water productivity and soil organic carbon.”​ — Dr V. K. Singh, Director, ICAR–CRIDA The inefficiencies of current spending are stark when viewed through the prism of subsidies. India invests roughly Rs 1.75 – 2 lakh crore annually on fertilisers, electricity, MSP procurement, crop insurance, and other input-linked supports, yet the returns in productivity, soil health, water security, and farmer incomes remain worryingly low.  “Subsidies have historically encouraged consumption rather than efficiency,” Sandeepa notes. Cheap urea drives over-application, subsidised electricity has accelerated groundwater depletion, irrigation grants rarely incentivise precision water use, and MSP procurement entrenches cropping patterns that undermine soil regeneration. For sectoral leaders, Budget 2026 must mark a decisive philosophical pivot—from input-heavy, subsidy-driven policies to a science-led, technology-driven, and outcome-oriented framework.  Every rupee for irrigation must be co-anchored with micro-irrigation, fertigation-ready soils and climate-resilient varieties so that public investment translates into real resilience on farmers’ fields.”​ — Dr Himanshu Pathak, Ex- Director General, ICAR & Secretary, DARE S. Soundararadjane, CEO of HyFarm, points to the potato sector as a model: “India could build the world’s most advanced, predictable, and globally competitive potato ecosystem through a National Potato Innovation Mission. CRISPR-edited varieties, AI-powered breeding, drone-led phenotyping, and mass deployment of True Potato Seeds can transform production while reducing costs and disease risks. Region-specific varieties are not optional anymore—they are strategic imperatives.” “Budget 2026 must reform subsidies by shifting from consumption-based support to science-led, Package of Practice–linked incentives tied to production outcomes. Performance-based support will improve soil health, enhance resource efficiency, and raise farmer incomes. Mechanisation assistance should be delivered via DBT and limited to FMTTI/BIS-approved equipment to ensure quality, effectiveness, and measurable impact on the ground.”  - Ravindra Agrawal, Chairman, KisanKraft Ltd Sandeepa further advocates restructuring through Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT). “Subsidies must be given through DBT to farmers and allow them to use this money as per their wish. This has started with Kisan Samman Nidhi but must be extrapolated by diverting subsidies given for insurance, fertilisers, electricity, and water to DBT,” she explains. Such a shift would correct long-standing distortions, empower decision-making, sharply reduce leakages, and create the fiscal headroom necessary to invest in science, innovation, and climate resilience. “To truly raise farm incomes, storage, grading, logistics and digital marketplaces must be treated as core agricultural infrastructure, not peripheral add-ons.”​ — Sanjiv Puri, Managing Director, ITC Ltd “A key priority must be efficiency-driven subsidy reform. We need to shift from consumption-based subsidies to scientifically designed, Package of Practice (PoP)–linked incentives tied directly to production outcomes. Performance-based support improves soil health, enhances resource efficiency, and strengthens farmer incomes. Mechanisation support should be delivered through DBT and restricted strictly to FMTTI/BIS-approved equipment to ensure quality and impact in the field,” says Ravindra Agrawal, Chairman, KisanKraft Ltd, emphasizing that combining DBT with outcome-linked incentives can amplify impact across mechanisation, inputs, and farm management practices. “India’s next big leap will come from shifting towards processed, residue-compliant, traceable and climate-smart agri-exports rather than relying mainly on bulk commodity shipments.”​ — Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA Markets, too, are evolving in ways that demand more sophisticated production systems. The rising domestic and global appetite for residue-free food is already accelerating India’s biopesticide segment. Sandeepa emphasises that a formal residue-free label—jointly administered by the Ministries of Health and Agriculture—could unlock higher farmer incomes through premium market categories. “Blanket reduction on CIB-registered biopesticides must be done at the earliest to 5 per cent,” she cautions, noting that inconsistent GST categorisation is harming both growers and industry participants seeking safer input adoption. “Targeted support for FPOs, agri-startups and interoperable e-market platforms can cut post-harvest losses, stabilise prices and make climate risk more manageable for smallholders.”​ — Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Chairman, Board of Governors of the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC); Chairman, Karnataka Agriculture The export ecosystem is entering a decisive phase. “India must position itself as a trusted global supplier,” says Kuchibhotla Srinivas, Partner, Deloitte. Strategic export corridors, residue-free clusters, bilateral agreements, and harmonisation with global standards, he argues, can convert India’s scale into global influence.  “If India wants to lead in exports, supply chains must embed traceability, quality assurance, and sustainable input use,” adds Ankur Aggarwal, Executive Chairman, Crystal Crop Protection. The global opportunity is clear. “India’s next big leap will come from shifting towards processed, residue-compliant, traceable, and climate-smart agri-exports rather than relying mainly on bulk commodity shipments,” says Abhishek Dev, Chairman of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). “The agri sector needs a unified national framework, science-based standards, and simplified licensing to enable innovation in high-value micronutrients and specialty fertilisers. Streamlined regulation will accelerate advanced nutrition technologies, strengthen soil health, and unlock productivity and profitability gains essential for truly transformative agricultural reform.”  — Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, President, IMMA  Value addition must become central to India’s strategy, particularly in crops like sugarcane. “Exports of sugar quota have to be restricted to further increase production of alcohol for oil substitution. Value addition is the key. Targets of 20 per cent plus substitution have to be the new target for easing some oil dollars. The money thus freed up can be used to improve irrigation, research, and perfecting models which are customised for Indian agriculture,” adds Sandeepa. Circularity, too, must become integral. Krishna Mohan Puvvada, Regional President, (Middle East, India and Africa), Novonesis stresses, “Adequate support must be provided for harnessing the waste-to-wealth potential in agriculture, including robust logistics for storage and transportation of agricultural waste feedstocks that can be transformed into fertilizers and bioenergy.” “A direct benefit transfer model for fertilisers—sold at full cost with farmers claiming subsidy via POS authentication—can be a game-changer. It ensures manufacturers receive full value, the government gains full GST, markets maintain adequate supply, leakages and black-marketing are curbed, and subsidy outlay reflects actual use. Budget 2026 should prioritise this transparent, efficient reform.” – Vinod Goyal, CEO, Agricare Corporation Domestic market architecture requires equal attention. Dr Ashok Dalwai, Chairman, Board of Governors of the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) and Chairman, Karnataka Agriculture Price Commission, notes, “Targeted support for FPOs, agri-startups, and interoperable e-market platforms can cut post-harvest losses, stabilise prices, and make climate risk more manageable for smallholders.” Institutional strengthening, he stresses, is vital for farmers to remain competitive amid market volatility. Budget 2026, therefore, must reimagine subsidies, shifting from input-centric to outcome-centric frameworks. “Water, soil and climate must be planned as one ecosystem. Budget 2026 should institutionalise watershed-scale irrigation planning, incentivise soil regeneration, and embed climate-risk analytics into district planning. This is not sustainability for compliance; it is sustainability for survival,” says Srinivas.  “Budget 2026 can back a flagship ‘Sulphur- and Potash-Secure India’ initiative that promotes sulphate-based potash and balanced secondary nutrients, improving taste, colour, shelf-life and exportability of fruits, vegetables and plantation crops while reducing import vulnerability.”--Dr. Manish Singh, AVP-Technical & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited “For a water-starved nation like India, drip should be made compulsory. This would conserve soils along with improving the area of irrigation. The river-joining project must have allocation for short, medium, and long term. Bonds must be raised to mobilise domestic and World Bank funds,” adds Sandeepa. Structural gaps in specialised inputs also demand urgent attention. Dr Rahul Mirchandani, President, Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA) observes, “India’s agricultural ecosystem is at an inflection point, yet not structurally prepared for large-scale reforms. One major gap lies in the micronutrients and specialty fertilizer industry, which remains outside mainstream policy despite its direct link to soil health, crop quality, and farmer income. Fragmented licensing under FCO, uneven state compliance frameworks, and the absence of a unified national policy slow innovation, restrict ease of doing business, and prevent rapid scale-up of advanced nutrition technologies like chelates, water-soluble fertilizers, and fortified micronutrient blends.”  “Budget 2026 must anchor a long-term Viksit Bharat Kheti Vision 2047 by reforming fertiliser use. Mandating a 25:15:5 co-pack of chemical, organic and biofertilisers—and supporting OF/BF manufacturing through PLI—can strengthen soil health, raise nutrient-use efficiency, expand acreage coverage and build climate-resilient productivity. It is time subsidies drive transformation, not perpetuate inefficiency ” --- Sandeepa Kanitkar, Chairman of BASAI and Managing Director of Kan Biosys Dr Singh underscores the strategic imperative: “Budget 2026 can back a flagship ‘Sulphur- and Potash-Secure India’ initiative that promotes sulphate-based potash and balanced secondary nutrients, improving taste, colour, shelf-life, and exportability of fruits, vegetables, and plantation crops while reducing import vulnerability.” Complementing this, Vinod Goyal, CEO, Agricare Corporation advocates a pragmatic DBT-based reform: “Fertilizers shall be sold on full cost price at dealer shops—farmers register purchases on a Point of Sale (POS) machine at the time of pick-up, and subsidies are directly transferred to their bank accounts.”  “Budget 2026 must treat water, soil and climate as one ecosystem by institutionalizing watershed-scale irrigation, incentivising soil regeneration and embedding climate-risk analytics in district planning. Equally critical is a legally robust Digital Land Ledger, interoperable with crop and credit data, to unlock formal finance, insurance and market access for millions of farmers still excluded from the system ” — Kuchibhotla Srinivas, Partner, Deloitte Sandeepa adds, “Chemical fertilizers should be bundled with organic and biofertilisers—25 kg of CF, 15 kg of OF, and 5 kg of BF per bag. This allows fertilizer to cover 30 per cent more land with improved use efficiency. Organic and biofertilizer industries can be supported through PLI schemes to attract private investment, improve soils, and build climate resilience.” As multiple industry leaders emphasise, this reform will determine whether Indian agriculture can truly align with the aspirations of Viksit Bharat 2047, delivering prosperity, sustainability, and global competitiveness for generations to come. Tech, Traceability, and Transformation: Budget 2026’s Agri-Vision Budget 2026 is not merely a fiscal exercise—it represents a strategic inflection point for Indian agriculture, an opportunity to pivot from incremental measures to transformative, technology-driven reforms.  “Agri-drones are no longer a novelty; they are an important part of the agritech landscape. Subsidies, public-private partnership models, and targeted R&D incentives can accelerate manufacturing and deployment, creating rural employment while increasing productivity. We must also potentially look at integrating drone data with national agricultural databases to enable smarter crop planning, soil monitoring, and weather resilience strategies,” says Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace. “ Fertiliser purchases must be linked to a unified Digital Farm ID, which allows tracking of nutrient use efficiency, preventing over-application and enabling customised advisory. It builds India’s first data-driven nutrient intelligence system’’ --- Yogesh Chandra, VP-Sales & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited Echoing this vision, Soundararadjane, stresses that Budget 2026 should introduce a Digital Farming Acceleration Subsidy—shifting support from traditional inputs to IoT and automation tools such as soil moisture sensors, disease-warning IoT nodes, digital soil intelligence kits, smart irrigation systems, automated grading and sorting units, and low-cost climate stations for cold stores. “A 40–60 per cent capital subsidy will democratise access and unlock predictive, precision farming at scale,” he asserts. Equally critical is the foundation of clear land rights and reliable credit. “When a farmer has clear land ownership and predictable finance, they can finally shift from reactive decisions to planned, technology-led farming,” observes Ankur.  “Budget 2026 must accelerate digital land records and frictionless credit so farmers can plan, invest and adopt modern crop protection responsibly. To compete in global markets, India’s supply chains need embedded traceability, quality assurance and sustainable input use. Strategic public–private collaboration can fast-track safe pesticide practices, surveillance systems and next-generation, environmentally responsible formulations ” — Ankur Aggarwal, Executive Chairman, Crystal Crop Protection Srinivas adds, “The Budget should focus on the two biggest unlocks for farmer prosperity: clean digital land records and frictionless credit. A legally robust Digital Land Ledger, interoperable with crop data and credit scoring, can unlock formal finance, insurance, and market contracts for millions of farmers currently outside the system.” The systemic importance of logistics and digital marketplaces is reinforced by Sanjiv Puri, Managing Director, ITC Ltd: “To truly raise farm incomes, storage, grading, logistics, and digital marketplaces must be treated as core agricultural infrastructure, not peripheral add-ons.”  “Budget 2026 should launch a National Potato Innovation Mission to transform India into a globally competitive processing potato hub. A strong public–private R&D partnership must fast-track CRISPR-based climate-resilient varieties, AI-driven breeding, drone phenotyping, automated trials and True Potato Seeds. This science-led upgrade is essential for predictable supply, higher productivity and world-class processing quality.” – S. Soundararadjane, CEO of HyFarm Nutrient management, too, must be integrated. Yogesh Chandra, VP-Sales & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited, explains, “Fertiliser purchases must be linked to a unified Digital Farm ID, allowing tracking of nutrient use efficiency, preventing over-application and enabling customised advisory. It builds India’s first data-driven nutrient intelligence system.” Budget 2026 must therefore deliver measurable, integrated reforms—embedding science, finance, technology, and policy into a unified, farmer-centric framework. It is the launchpad for the Viksit Bharat Kheti Vision 2047, enabling high-productivity, high-value, climate-smart agriculture and positioning India as a globally competitive agri-economy. ----- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3465/singapore-scientists-create-microneedle-system-to-deliver-biofertiliser-directly-into-plants-boosting-growth-with-less-waste.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3465/singapore-scientists-create-microneedle-system-to-deliver-biofertiliser-directly-into-plants-boosting-growth-with-less-waste.html Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:34:05 +0530 A dissolving patch delivers beneficial microbes into leaves and stems, speeding growth in vegetables while using over 15 per cent less biofertiliser than soil application Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed dissolving microneedle patches that deliver living “biofertiliser” straight into plant tissue. In greenhouse tests, Choy Sum and Kale grew faster — by shoot biomass, leaf area and height — while using over 15% less biofertiliser than standard soil inoculation. The approach points to more precise fertiliser delivery, less waste and potentially lower off-target environmental impact, with near-term fit for urban and vertical farms and for high-value crops that benefit from controlled dosing. Biofertiliser, which contain beneficial bacteria and fungi that help crops absorb nutrients and tolerate stress, are usually added to soil. There, they must compete with native microbes and can be hindered by acidity and various other conditions. Much of the input never reaches the roots. By placing beneficial bacteria or fungi directly into leaves or stems, the new method developed by the NUS team bypasses those hurdles and accelerates early gains. Dr Arya Gopinath Madathil Pulikkal (left) and Asst Prof Andy Tay (right) in front of a small greenhouse containing Choy Sum plants “Inspired by how microbes can migrate within the human body, we hypothesised that by delivering beneficial microbes directly into the plant’s tissues, like a leaf or stem, they could travel to the roots and still perform their function, but much more effectively and be less vulnerable to soil conditions,” said Assistant Professor Andy Tay from Department of Biomedical Engineering at the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, and Principal Investigator at the Institute for Health Innovation & Technology (iHealthtech), who led the work. The team fabricated plant-tuned microneedles from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a biodegradable, low-cost polymer. For leaves, a 1 cm by 1 cm patch carries a 40 by 40 array of pyramids about 140 μm long, while a short row of roughly 430-μm needles suits thicker stems. Microbes are blended into the PVA solution, cast into tiny moulds and locked in the needle tips. Pressed by the thumb or with a simple handheld applicator that spreads force evenly, the needles slip into plant tissue and dissolve within about a minute, releasing their microbial cargo. In laboratory tests, the patch barely disturbed plant tissue or function. Shallow indentations in leaves faded within two hours; chlorophyll readings remained stable; and stress-response gene expression, which briefly rose after insertion, returned to baseline within 24 hours. The patches maintained high microbial viability after storage for up to four weeks – this means the patches can be prepared in advance – and importantly, loading concentration translated to delivered dose, which enables controlled application that is difficult to achieve in soil. A 3D-printed applicator provided uniform insertion across large leaf areas and could become an integral component in future robotic automation. The NUS team demonstrated that delivering a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) cocktail of Streptomyces and Agromyces-Bacillus through leaves or stems improved growth in Choy Sum and Kale compared to untreated controls and gave better results than soil treatments with microbes. PGPR is commonly used to improve nutrient uptake and stimulate growth hormones in plants. Additionally, the plants grew more as the researchers loaded more microbes into each patch, up to an effective ceiling. Beyond that, extra microbes did not help the plants grow further. This lets growers determine the lowest effective dose, which in turn cuts costs and waste. “Our microneedle system successfully delivered biofertiliser into Choy Sum and Kale, enhancing their growth more effectively than traditional methods while using over 15 per cent less biofertiliser,” Asst Prof Tay said. “By faster growth we refer to higher total plant weight, larger leaf area and higher plant height.” The team tracked the bacteria as they moved from the injected leaves to the roots within days. At the roots, the bacteria nudged the root microbiome towards a more beneficial mix without throwing it out of balance. Plant chemical readouts showed that the main energy-production cycle (involves cells turning sugars into usable energy) was working harder, nitrogen was used more efficiently and compounds needed for growth were synthesised at a higher rate. The team also observed stronger antioxidant capacity, a sign the plants were better prepared for stress and growth. The team extended the approach to beneficial fungi. Patches loaded with a Tinctoporellus strain (AR8) promoted Choy Sum growth and adjusted phytohormones levels – the signalling molecules that guide how plants grow, develop, and respond to their surroundings – helping to keep plant growth hormones in balance. “This work is the first to demonstrate that root-associated biofertiliser can be directly delivered into a plant’s leaves or stems to enhance growth,” Asst Prof Tay added. “With this finding, we introduced a new concept of ‘microneedle biofertiliser’ that overcomes significant challenges of soil inoculation.” The researchers see early applications in urban and vertical farms where precise dosing matters, as well as in slow-growing, high-value crops such as medicinal herbs. Looking ahead, Asst Prof Tay added, “A major focus is scalability. We plan to explore integrating our microneedle technology with agricultural robotics and automated systems to make it feasible for large-scale farms. We will also test this across a wider variety of crops, such as strawberry, and investigate how these microbes migrate effectively from the leaf to the root.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3396/brazilian-bioinput-industry-faces-decisive-moment-as-regulatory-framework-takes-shape-says-abinbio.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3396/brazilian-bioinput-industry-faces-decisive-moment-as-regulatory-framework-takes-shape-says-abinbio.html Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:49:19 +0530 Brazil’s biological inputs industry is entering a decisive regulatory phase as the Ministry of Agriculture drafts rules under the newly approved Civil Framework for Biological Inputs. ABINBIO, which has secured a central role in the negotiations, is pushing for unified industry participation to shape regulations, correct outdated tax classifications, and unlock federal financing mechanisms. The association is also working to position Brazil globally, leveraging its biodiversity to expand international markets for biocontrol and biofertiliser products. With the domestic market expected to double to over $ 3 billion by 2030 and biologicals rapidly replacing synthetics, ABINBIO leaders warn that industry unity now will determine competitiveness for decades. Brazil's biological inputs industry stands at a critical juncture as regulators begin drafting rules that will govern one of the world's fastest-growing agricultural sectors, according to the Brazilian Association of Bioinput Industries (ABINBIO). The trade group is urging companies to unite during what it characterizes as a "historic window" that will determine competitive dynamics for decades. "We are at a historic moment. The rules of the game are being discussed now and will be established, with the Ministry of Agriculture as protagonist," said Auro Ruschel, ABINBIO's legal director and head of Auro Ruschel Advogados Associados, a firm specializing in agricultural input regulation. "The industry needs to unite around ABINBIO to participate in this public debate and build regulation that serves the sector's interests." Regulatory Architecture Under Construction The urgency stems from ongoing Ministry of Agriculture technical working groups tasked with implementing Brazil's newly approved Civil Framework for Biological Inputs. ABINBIO, which secured a seat at the negotiating table, successfully inserted key provisions into the legislation and now faces the challenge of translating broad legal principles into operational regulations. The association's "purposeful bias," as Ruschel describes it, focuses on pragmatic problem-solving for an industry previously constrained by regulatory frameworks designed for synthetic agrochemicals rather than biological alternatives. Since its official launch, ABINBIO has expanded beyond core regulatory advocacy to address taxation classification issues with the Federal Revenue Service, where biological products remain erroneously categorized alongside chemical pesticides for customs and tax purposes—a legacy classification system that creates compliance burdens and competitive disadvantages. Financial Infrastructure and Global Positioning The organization is simultaneously pursuing access to federal incentive mechanisms, including financing lines from FINEP (Financier of Studies and Projects), EMPRAPII (Brazilian Company for Research and Industrial Innovation), and BNDES (National Bank for Economic and Social Development), which historically favored established chemical input manufacturers. International market development represents another strategic priority. "The bioinput industry in Brazil, due to our country's characteristics, can adapt and sell products for all biomes. Internationalization is fundamental for opening new markets," Ruschel explained, highlighting Brazil's unique biodiversity advantage in developing biological solutions applicable across diverse global agricultural systems. Despite its recent formation, ABINBIO has secured institutional recognition typically reserved for established trade associations. "Despite being a young association, ABINBIO already has relevant seats within the federal government and public debate, alongside traditional entities. We've achieved the same spaces and speaking opportunities despite our youth," Ruschel noted. Market Dynamics Drive Urgency The stakes justify the mobilization effort. According to Dunham Trimmer, an international bio-intelligence agency, Brazil's biological inputs market currently exceeds 1.5 billion and is projected to surpass 3 billion by decade's end. The country accounts for over 20 per cent of global biocontrol growth between 2021 and 2030. The sector comprises approximately 145 companies, with significant expansion anticipated as biological products increasingly substitute synthetic chemicals—a global trend driven by sustainability mandates and consumer preferences. Ruschel projects substantial market amplification through 2032, characterizing biological inputs as "a highly relevant, highly sustainable economic vertical with a significant growth trajectory." Coordination Imperative Ruschel's message echoes ABINBIO President Marcelo de Godoy Oliveira's positioning, distilled to a single directive: "Unity." "All sector companies must understand that the rules of the game are being discussed now. It is imperative that all input industries pay attention and participate," Ruschel warned. Participation channels through ABINBIO membership, which enables companies to integrate into regulatory discussions, designate board representatives, and collaborate on technical arguments presented to government working groups. The objective, Ruschel emphasized, centers on "building regulation that serves industry interests, without creating market reserves or impediments, but allowing the industry to grow increasingly." The call reflects recognition that regulatory architecture established during this formative period will either facilitate or constrain an industry positioned as a cornerstone of sustainable Brazilian agriculture. As synthetic input substitution accelerates globally, Brazil's regulatory approach could establish templates for emerging markets while determining whether domestic producers capture value or cede market share to international competitors operating under different frameworks. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3372/chemical-crunch-biological-breakthrough-rethinking-fertiliser-strategy-in-volatile-world.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3372/chemical-crunch-biological-breakthrough-rethinking-fertiliser-strategy-in-volatile-world.html Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:47:45 +0530 The 2025 fertiliser upheaval has laid bare the disquieting vulnerabilities of India’s nutrient security—an economy shackled to volatile global markets, skewed subsidies, and an unhealthy addiction to artificially cheap urea. What appears as a transient supply disturbance is, in reality, a geopolitical tremor triggered by China’s export restrictions, Russia’s selective opportunism, and the capriciousness of global energy prices, all converging to imperil the livelihoods of millions of smallholders. This article therefore discusses how emergency imports and ballooning subsidies merely anaesthetise a deeper malaise while the soil continues to suffer from decades of nutritional imbalance. It scrutinises the emerging promise of biofertilisers and microbial technologies—no naïve replacements, but synergistic enhancers capable of restoring soil vitality, improving nutrient-use efficiency, and relieving India’s fiscal burden. Ultimately, it calls for a paradigm shift toward a resilient hybrid nutrient strategy that embeds biological intelligence into mainstream agriculture, fortifying both food sovereignty and climate resilience. The global food system is once again under pressure from a fertilizer shock. In early 2025, prices surged sharply—Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) and Triple Superphosphate experiencing the steepest escalation, while nitrogen markets oscillated amid volatile energy costs. “Every fertilizer crunch is more than an input shock—it exposes the fragility of food systems intertwined with energy and mineral geopolitics. For India, with one of the world’s largest subsidy bills, surging global phosphate or nitrogen prices intensify fiscal strain and farmer vulnerability, while export curbs amplify these systemic risks “, stated Renuka Diwan, CEO, BioPrime. “Fertilizer crunches aren’t mere supply shocks—they expose how fragile food systems are when tied to global energy and mineral geopolitics. India’s fiscal and farmer vulnerabilities rise with every price surge. Crises like this urge systemic change: integrating biofertilisers, nutrient enhancers, and biostimulants can boost nutrient use efficiency, improve soil health, reduce subsidy burdens, and give farmers greater resilience and confidence.” - Renuka Diwan, CEO, BioPrime The crisis exposes systemic fragilities. “What we are witnessing is not merely a supply disruption but a systemic unravelling — where global export curbs, volatile energy costs, and our chronic import dependency have converged to expose the fragility of India’s fertiliser architecture. The perversity of artificially low urea prices has distorted nutrient balance, while bureaucratic inertia in logistics and subsidy flows has compounded the malaise. In truth, the crisis is less about scarcity and more about structural myopia,” added Jayanta Chakraborty, Chairman, Agriculture Committee, BCC&I. Ajay Kakra, Leader – Food and Agriculture, GIDAS, Forvis Mazars in India, further explains how fertiliser crunch directly straining farmers and household budgets. “Global fertiliser prices have surged, with the World Bank index up 15 per cent in 2025, while TSP and DAP jumped roughly 43 per cent and 23 per cent , respectively. In India, the landed import price of DAP approached Rs 54,160 per tonne, and urea averaged $546 per tonne internationally. Governments are underwriting enormous costs: India’s fertiliser subsidy outlays remain vast, with multi-thousand crore disbursements in recent years and targeted top-ups for phosphatic and potassic fertilisers of about $860 million in FY 2024–25 “, he analysed. “Bio-fertilizers are vital for resilient, efficient, and sustainable agriculture. They reduce dependence on volatile imports, enhance nutrient uptake, restore soil health, lower chemical use, and cut emissions. With India’s R&D, farmer networks, and supportive policies, rapid scale-up is possible. Immediate, medium, and long-term actions—from emergency imports to local production clusters—can embed bio-inputs at the heart of our nutrient strategy.”  - Jayanta Chakraborty, Chairman, Agriculture Committee, BCC&I Yet the crisis presents an inflection point. “ The fertiliser shortfall of 2025 isn’t just a supply glitch—it’s a wake-up call to the fragility of our food security, shackled to volatile energy markets, import dependencies, and subsidy distortions. Stopgap imports and capacity boosts may calm the panic, but they’re band-aids on a structural wound,” stated Sohit Satyawali, Chief Business Officer - Brand Business, Crystal Crop Protection Limited. “The real fix lies in rethinking our nutrient economy—treating biofertilisers and microbial inoculants as partners, not replacements, that boost efficiency, stabilise yields, and revive soil health. With fertiliser subsidies crossing Rs 2 lakh crore, even modest efficiency gains can unlock massive fiscal and farm-level payoffs. Field results already prove it: biological inputs are cutting chemical use by up to 15 per cent while keeping productivity intact—a rare win for both farmers and the exchequer ,”he opined. Chemical Crunch, Biological Boost The 2025 fertilizer crisis underscores that agricultural inputs are no longer mere commodities—they are instruments of geopolitical strategy. China, a leading producer of phosphatic fertilizers, imposed export restrictions in January 2025 to stabilise domestic prices, immediately affecting India, which imports nearly 90 per cent of its phosphate from China. Shipments were delayed, local stocks depleted, and costs surged, exemplifying “nutrient nationalism.” “Global fertiliser prices have surged, with the World Bank index up 15 per cent in 2025, while TSP and DAP jumped roughly 43 per cent and 23 per cent , respectively. In India, the landed import price of DAP approached Rs 54,160 per tonne, and urea averaged $546 per tonne internationally. Governments are underwriting enormous costs: India’s fertiliser subsidy outlays remain vast, with multi-thousand crore disbursements in recent years and targeted top-ups for phosphatic and potassic fertilisers of about $860 million in FY 2024–25  ’’  - Ajay Kakra, Leader – Food and Agriculture, GIDAS, Forvis Mazars in India Unlike the 2021–22 disruptions, this crisis coincided with climate-linked production shortfalls and high energy prices, intensifying risks for import-dependent economies. Meanwhile, Russia continued selective exports despite sanctions, exploiting regulatory gaps and exposing the fragility of a strategically vital yet concentrated market. The repercussions for Indian farmers during the Kharif season were acute. States including Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh reported severe delays in urea, DAP, and NPK blends, with rationed allocations, long queues, and localized shortages threatening yields. Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka, President, IPL Biologicals , therefore streamlined the root cause of disruption in fertilizer supply chain : “The very foundation of nitrogen production—the energy-guzzling Haber-Bosch process—rests uneasily on natural gas, itself a hostage to the caprices of geopolitics and volatile energy markets. Meanwhile, phosphorus fertilisers such as DAP languish under export curbs from China, and the potash trade remains ensnared in the web of international sanctions. For a nation like India, which imports its entire potash requirement, this confluence of constraints not only imperils soil nutrition but also exacts a heavy toll on our foreign exchange and food sovereignty.” Adding on to the perspective, Vineet Jain, Managing Director , R M Phosphates & Chemicals Pvt Ltd further recommended “Relying exclusively on emergency imports and inflated subsidies is but a palliative, addressing symptoms while leaving the underlying malady untouched. The true panacea lies in weaving biofertilisers and microbial inoculants into the very fabric of India’s nutrient strategy—arming farmers against price shocks, alleviating the fiscal weight of subsidies, and restoring our soils’ enduring fertility.” "At Crystal, we foresaw this transition early and steadily built our GreenAg portfolio, which today includes trusted bio stimulants / nutrition brands like Talwar Zinc, Nutrozen, Marvel, and Calbrozen. These solutions have not only reduced farmers’ dependency on imported fertilizers but have also delivered superior ROI for small and marginal growers—a critical factor in sustaining their livelihoods. What truly differentiates the GreenAg portfolio is the way it is supported by our agronomists, known as ‘Crystal Doctors’, who actively engage with farmers to promote the importance of balanced crop nutrition and healthier soil ecosystems. “ – Sohit Satyawali, Chief Business Officer - Brand Business, Crystal Crop Protection Limited Dr. Suhas Budhe, Legal Advisor, SFIA, rightly terms 2025 fertilizer crisis as a perfect storm of interlinked vulnerabilities, thereby vividly illustrating how geopolitics, energy markets, and import dependence can converge to imperil both agrarian livelihoods and fiscal stability - “China’s reimposition of specialty fertilizer export restrictions from October 2025 disrupted global supply chains, hitting India hardest, given its 80–95 per cent dependence on Chinese imports. Volatile natural gas prices compounded the shock, as energy accounts for 60–80 per cent of nitrogen fertilizer production costs. Domestically, urea stocks plummeted 57 per cent, from 86.4 to 37.2 lakh tonnes, just as the critical Kharif season began. Global DAP prices surged 36 per cent , from $583 to nearly $800 per tonne, sparking queues, protests, and panic buying among smallholders. The crisis also strained government finances, with India’s fertilizer subsidy burden exceeding Rs 1.77 lakh crore.” The 2025 fertilizer disruptions illuminate a cascade of agrarian vulnerabilities. Crop yields hang in the balance when timely and adequate nutrient supply falters, while smallholders grapple with inflated prices and black-market distortions that exacerbate financial distress. “Integrating bio-fertilizers into cropping systems is essential for resilient, sustainable agriculture. These microbial inoculants enhance nutrient solubilization, improve plant uptake, and can supply 25–40 per cent of soil nutrient needs. Combined with precision farming, they strengthen soil structure, support a healthy rhizosphere, and provide a scientifically sound, environmentally friendly, and economically viable path toward decentralized, future-ready nutrient management.” – Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka, President, IPL Biologicals  Rising fertilizer costs, coupled with expanding crop acreage, further escalated production expenses and fueled wholesale price inflation. Domestic output struggled—urea dropped from 102.1 lt to 93.6 lt, DAP remained steady at 13.7 lt, and NPK complexes edged up only modestly. Declining imports and depleting stocks intensified shortages, with partial relief achieved through substitutions like SSP and 20:20:0:13. Beyond immediate productivity, the crisis imperils food security and underscores the insidious erosion of soil health caused by over-reliance on chemical nitrogen, reminding us that short-term fixes often compromise the foundations of sustainable agriculture. Amid this disruption, biofertilisers such as Rhizobium, Azospirillum, Bacillus megaterium, and phosphate-solubilising bacteria can buffer farmers, reduce chemical dependency, and mitigate exposure to global price volatility. “India’s vulnerability to global supply shocks underscores the imperative of self-reliance in agriculture. “Fertilizer subsidies make inputs affordable for farmers but can inadvertently curb innovation in the industry. Fixed pricing and high chemical fertilizer support discourage investment in advanced formulations and slow adoption of organic and biological inputs. Globally, combining chemical fertilizers with microbes, biostimulants, and bioactive components enhances nutrient efficiency and soil health. Policy frameworks should incentivize sustainable, incremental innovation to create this synergy while reducing dependence on synthetic inputs.” – Shanmugam Sambanthan, Head-Agriculture, Middle East, South Asia and Africa, Novonesis By indigenising the production of chelated micronutrients, high-density NPKs, and crop-specific formulations, we reduce import dependence, stabilise prices for farmers, and conserve precious foreign exchange ,’’ opined Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, Chairman, Aries Agro Limited. “Our Make In India and import substitution initiatives have cut imported raw materials from 51 per cent in 2018‑19 to 18 per cent in 2024‑25. Localised manufacturing, R&D, and raw material sourcing are not mere operational choices—they are instruments of Atmanirbharta, shielding our agrarian economy from the vicissitudes of international markets,” he added. Toward a New Nutrient Paradigm Biosolutions are indeed making inroads among Indian farmers, yet their adoption remains embryonic. “Worth $ 100–127.5 million in India and growing 8–11 per cent annually, they can boost yields 10–40 per cent when used alongside chemical fertilisers “, opined Kakra. “ Yet adoption is limited—less than 5 per cent of farmers account for most usage. Scaling biologicals demands robust policy support: large field trials, quality certification, and strengthened extension services. Done right, they can curb import dependence, stretch subsidy funds, and restore long-term soil health,” he recommended. “Relying solely on emergency imports and higher subsidies is like treating symptoms without curing the disease. The real solution lies in integrating biofertilisers and microbial inoculants into the core of India’s nutrient strategy. These biological solutions can buffer farmers from future price shocks, lower the nation’s subsidy burden, and nurture soils for long-term fertility. ” – Vineet Jain, Managing Director , R M Phosphates & Chemicals Pvt Ltd  For India to realise the full promise of these biological inputs, a target of 50 per cent coverage across all cultivable land is imperative. Achieving such scale through standalone farmer adoption, however, would be protracted, particularly given the fragmented mosaic of India’s smallholder agriculture.  Infact, India is uniquely positioned to lead this transition. Existing initiatives—the National Mission on Natural Farming, PM-PRANAM, and the Soil Health Card program—provide institutional scaffolding for mainstreaming microbial inputs. “Biofertilisers are a potent alternative: a $2.5–2.8 billion global market growing 12–18 per cent annually. Brazil sees 15–30 per cent yield gains with 50 per cent less nitrogen; India reports 15–20 per cent gains with 30 per cent nitrogen reduction ”, advocated Dr. Buddhe . “They cost 30–50 per cent less than synthetics, improve soil health, sequester 0.5–1 t C/ha annually, cut emissions, and create sustainable nutrient cycles via nitrogen-fixing and phosphate-solubilising microbes,” he stated. “Biofertilizers are a compelling alternative, with the global market projected to grow 12–18 per cent annually. Brazil’s 80 per cent adoption boosts yields 15–30 per cent while cutting nitrogen use by half; Indian trials show 15–20 per cent gains with 30 per cent nitrogen reduction. Cost-effective, climate-positive, and soil-friendly, biofertilizers can transform nutrient cycles. Coordinated policy, farmer education, and public-private partnerships can build resilience and secure sustainable food systems.” – Dr. Suhas Budhe, Legal Advisor, Soluble Fertilizers Industry Association (SFIA) While examining the drivers of the crisis, its local manifestations in India Shanmugam Sambanthan, Head-Agriculture, Middle East, South Asia and Africa, Novonesis, quantified the opportunity to integrate biofertilisers into new- age medium- and long-term nutrient strategies. “The global fertilizer paradigm is evolving: biologicals—microbes, bioactives, biostimulants such as seaweed extracts and humic acids—are increasingly being woven into conventional formulations to enhance efficiency and rejuvenate soils. Biofertilisers are not adversaries of chemical fertilizers; they are synergistic allies, amplifying natural soil processes while chemicals deliver immediate nutrient support. Integrating these during production offers a bespoke, sustainable approach, gradually curbing synthetic dependence and tailoring nutrients to specific crops and agroclimatic conditions ,” he opined. “The challenge ahead is not just shielding Indian agriculture from external shocks, but integrating sustainable, Made-in-India solutions like high-density NPKs, crop-targeted fertilizers, and biostimulants into mainstream nutrient management. Combined with a strong domestic manufacturing base and scalable biological solutions, India can secure inputs, reduce subsidy burdens, and build the foundation for climate-positive agriculture. Aries Agro is proud to lead this journey.” - Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, Chairman, Aries Agro Limited Fertilizer manufacturers are therefore, evolving beyond standard NPK formulations, designing products tailored to the specific nutritional needs of high-value crops. Encouraging them to integrate biosolutions—such as microbes (biofertilisers), enzymes, and biostimulants like cell-free microbials, protein hydrolysates, and amino acids—into chemical fertilizers during production, supported through subsidies and capacity-building, can provide farmers with the combined benefits of biological and chemical inputs. The 2025 crisis underscores that fertilizers are no longer mere chemical commodities but instruments of biological intelligence. In the words of Renuka, “It is a call to embed resilience into the very fabric of agricultural systems. By combining chemical inputs with next-generation biologicals, India and the world can move toward nutrient security that is cost-efficient, climate-positive, and farmer-centered. We are not seeking replacement strategies but a total rebalancing—one that diversifies risk, safeguards productivity, and aligns agriculture with global sustainability goals.” ---------- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3263/billion-dollar-microbe-market-transforming-global-vegetable-supply-chains.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3263/billion-dollar-microbe-market-transforming-global-vegetable-supply-chains.html Wed, 17 Sep 2025 11:27:31 +0530 For over fifty years, synthetic fertilisers powered global food production but caused soil degradation, water contamination, and greenhouse-gas emissions, prompting a shift toward sustainable alternatives. Biofertilisers—live microbial products—are emerging as a mainstream solution, improving nutrient uptake, plant resilience, and produce quality while integrating with precision agriculture systems. Policy support, particularly in India, the EU, and Denmark, is accelerating adoption through subsidies, regulatory compliance, and carbon-credit incentives. Regional case studies demonstrate that microbial inputs, when combined with sensor-guided fertigation and AI-driven management, can reduce synthetic nitrogen use by 15–35 per cent , boost yields, and enhance market value. The global takeaway: biofertilisers are not just environmentally necessary but a strategic enabler of profitable, precision-driven vegetable farming. For decades, synthetic nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers were the workhorses of the Green Revolution — turbocharging yields, slashing food prices, and feeding billions. But that victory came with a steep bill: degraded soils, polluted water, rising greenhouse gases, and dependence on inputs whose prices swing with global markets. The rules of fertilisation are now being rewritten. In high-value vegetable farming, the shift is unmistakable. Sustainability mandates, precision agtech, and microbial breakthroughs are pushing growers toward a new playbook. Biofertilisers — living microbes that boost nutrient uptake, soil health, and crop resilience — are stepping out of the margins and into the heart of production. They don’t just cut the fertiliser bill; they raise produce quality, strengthen plants against stress, and slot neatly into sensor-driven, fertigation-ready systems from India to Denmark. The question is no longer if they work — but how fast they can scale and reshape the economics of vegetable farming. From Idea to Instrument: The Biofertiliser Opportunity The science behind biofertilisers is solid. Symbiotic bacteria like Rhizobium, phosphate-solubilising microbes, and mycorrhizal fungi unlock bound nutrients, fix atmospheric nitrogen, and boost water-use efficiency. Meta-analyses show that, under proper management, biofertilisers can replace 20–30 per cent of synthetic N/P in vegetables without sacrificing yield — while improving firmness, vitamin levels, and shelf life. The market is catching up fast. IMARC Group projects the global biofertiliser sector to hit $2.5 billion in 2024, growing at over 11 per cent CAGR through 2030 — faster than most ag inputs. In high-value vegetable farming, where residue limits and sustainability standards are strict, adoption already tops 20 per cent. But scaling isn’t frictionless. Microbes are living products — they need cold chains, soil-specific tailoring, and precise timing. Farmers used to the consistency of synthetics can face uneven results if biofertilisers meet the wrong soil pH, moisture, or temperature. Policy Landscape: Aligning Incentives, Compliance, and Adoption Government policy is now the biggest accelerator — or brake — on biofertiliser adoption. In India, programmes like PKVY and NMSA are subsidising bio-inputs, funding farmer training, and running demo plots to de-risk adoption for both smallholders and commercial hubs. Fertiliser control rules and mandatory nutrient-use efficiency reporting are nudging growers toward balanced nutrition. States such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu add extra firepower with cold-chain support, certification, and advisory services — lowering the operational barriers to microbial use. ” With over a century of microbial expertise, now renewed by the merger of Novozymes and Christian Hansen, we are working to redefine how crops are nourished, protected and optimized. We work not only to replace chemical inputs, but also harness nature’s own solutions for improved and more resilient cropping systems, all while allowing growers to unlock additional yields from every acre. Our philosophy has always been to integrate our global R&D expertise with local needs. We see this in action in different ways. At the business level, as a deeply innovation driven company, we invest roughly 10 per cent of our turnover in R&D, a very significant proportion of our revenue ” — Kate Brandon Sutton, Head of Plant Biosolutions Applied R&D, Novonesis Precision agriculture is the force multiplier. Sensor-guided fertigation, drones, and AI agronomy platforms sync microbial application with crop growth stages, maximising yield response. But, as Katie Whittiker of Novonesis points out, India’s smallholder-heavy farm structure makes scaling a challenge. Subscription-based digital agronomy and shared drone services are emerging as cost-efficient solutions to bridge the gap. “Protected cultivation adds another layer of opportunity, particularly around urban consumption centres where quality, consistency, and residue compliance are non-negotiable. Here, biofertilisers and biostimulants can be precisely delivered through drip systems, aligning with the closed-loop, resource-efficient nature of greenhouses and shade-net operations”, opined Kattie. “Companies like Novonesis, which collaborate with cooperatives and input distributors, play a crucial role in bridging research-led innovation with last-mile farmer adoption — ensuring that advanced microbial solutions reach growers with proper guidance and compliance support “, she added. “Our long term partnerships with platforms like Benchling underscores our investment in cutting-edge R&D innovation and development of next-gen Biosolutions for emerging agricultural segments. We aim to do this in precision farming and protected agriculture segments by – Expanding the suite of microbe-based inputs tailored for high-value crops; Collaborating with organizations and cooperatives to enable data-driven decision making at the level of the farm and the field, and Supporting growers with robust stewardship programs that facilitate seamless adoption, and help maximize returns on investment " — Katie Whittiker, Head of Plant BioYield Business Unit, Novonesis Globally, regulation is uneven but decisive. The EU’s Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR 2019/1009) sets strict efficacy, safety, and traceability standards — critical for exporters facing tight nitrate and residue limits. In the Middle East and Africa, policy levers are tied to EU compliance: Turkey, Morocco, and Egypt are rapidly adopting microbial fertilisers to secure greenhouse exports, while Sub-Saharan rules remain patchy — a hurdle and opportunity for new entrants. Denmark offers a glimpse of the future: subsidies tied to nitrogen cuts, public-private R&D under the IBIS platform, and carbon-credit monetisation create a strong business case for biofertiliser use. Policy isn’t just compliance — it rewires market economics. Where governments integrate incentives, adoption rises faster, microbial performance is more consistent, and ROI for suppliers and growers improves. Precision Vegetable Farming Meets Biological Inputs Digital agriculture and microbial biosolutions are redefining performance standards in high-value vegetable farming. In both CEA and irrigated fields, blanket fertiliser applications are giving way to real-time, demand-driven nutrition. IoT soil sensors, AI-powered fertigation, and multispectral imaging now work in sync to deliver the right nutrients at the right moment — maximising efficiency and yield. ” Extensive global and regional trials on vegetable crops — including tomatoes, chilies, and leafy greens — consistently reveal that India’s average yields remain well below global benchmarks. This productivity gap underscores a significant opportunity for bio-inputs such as biofertilisers and biostimulants to drive both yield gains and sustainability outcomes. When integrated with optimised agronomic practices, biological solutions have delivered yield improvements exceeding 10 per cent compared with conventional methods. In India, fertigation-based trials have recorded yield increases of up to 18 per cent in tomatoes and chilies, while greenhouse experiments in Vietnam have demonstrated markedly improved nutrient uptake and superior quality in leafy vegetables. Validated through close collaboration with growers and research institutions, these results confirm the reliability of microbial inputs under real-world conditions " — Shanmugam Sambanthan, Commercial Head, Agriculture ,South Asia, Middle East and Africa, Novonesis Globally, the impact is striking. Israeli drip-irrigation pioneers like Netafim and Rivulis inject biofertilisers directly into root zones, boosting microbial colonisation and cutting synthetic nitrogen use 20–30 per cent without hurting yields. In Europe, greenhouse tomato growers combine microbial consortia with precision nutrients to hit nitrate-residue targets while sustaining export-grade productivity. A 2023 Wageningen study found 12–15 per cent yield gains and up to 40 per cent nitrate reductions when biofertilisers were paired with variable-rate fertigation. India is steadily moving toward this model, though adoption is concentrated in progressive clusters. Agritech start-ups are embedding microbial inputs into AI-driven agronomy platforms, giving smallholders access to tools once reserved for corporates. Subscription services for drones, sensors, and fertigation-as-a-service are lowering financial barriers. Early pilots in Nashik report tomato yield gains of 10–18 per cent and synthetic nitrogen savings of up to 35 kg/ha through precision-linked biofertilisers. Protected cultivation is another growth lever. Greenhouses and shade-net houses near urban centres enable year-round, residue-free, premium vegetables with lower post-harvest losses. Novonesis’ biofertiliser and biostimulant range, tailored for drip-irrigated systems, has delivered firmer bell peppers and cucumbers, higher marketable yields, and 12–15 per cent better nutrient-use efficiency, boosting grower margins. The benefits are clear: lower synthetic fertiliser costs, improved water efficiency, and premiums for low-residue produce. But scaling is local — what works for a protected cucumber farm in Bengaluru may not suit an open-field tomato grower in Rajasthan. Precision tools plus biological inputs aren’t just incremental; they mark a structural shift toward climate-resilient, resource-efficient farming. For policymakers, they advance fertiliser-reduction and soil-health goals. For growers, they boost per-hectare profitability while cutting input volatility. For investors, they signal a decade of data-driven, biology-led, sustainability-aligned growth. Across the globe, this integration is gaining traction. Israeli drip-irrigation firms inject biofertilisers into root zones to optimise colonisation. European greenhouse tomato growers pair microbial consortia with precision nutrients to meet yield and nitrate-residue standards. In India, agritech start-ups are embedding microbial inputs into AI-powered agronomy platforms, bringing precision farming to smallholders. Benchmarking Regional Pathways: India in Focus Biofertiliser adoption is global but uneven, following three distinct paths: scale-driven South Asia, scarcity-driven Middle East and Africa, and regulation-led Denmark. Each reflects unique market forces, infrastructure readiness, and regulatory pressures, offering lessons on where the microbial transition will accelerate and how businesses can position themselves. India leads South Asia, accounting for over 60 per cent of the region’s $143 million biofertiliser market in 2024, with 11–12 per cent annual growth projected. Policy is a major driver: PKVY and NMSA subsidise bio-inputs, fund training and demo plots, and incentivise adoption among smallholders and commercial vegetable hubs. Fertiliser controls and nutrient-use reporting further nudge farmers toward microbial solutions, especially where synthetic fertiliser costs are volatile. Domestic production adds a cost edge. Local Rhizobium, phosphate-solubilising microbes, and mycorrhizal inoculants are often 20–30 per cent cheaper than imports, while improved quality control builds trust. Smallholder economics are increasingly compelling: ICAR trials show integrated biofertiliser regimes in tomatoes, brinjal, and capsicum can boost yields 10–18 per cent, improve nutrient-use efficiency up to 25 per cent, and cut synthetic nitrogen by 35 kg/ha under fertigation. These results are reshaping the investment calculus for farmers, distributors, and downstream buyers alike. Shanmugam Sambanthan, Commercial Head, Agriculture ,South Asia, Middle East and Africa, Novonesis, expects India’s B2B bio-input market to evolve rapidly, though the highly fragmented agriculture landscape . ” Currently, bio-inputs are still a small fraction of overall inputs used by farmers. The fragmentation across farmlands provides can be a significant challenges to the adoption of Bio-inputs, particularly when it comes to reaching farmers through the direct trade, and most importantly in providing meaningful services to farmers. Along similar lines, companies including startups in the bio-input space struggle to scale due to the high investment and resource requirements needed for wide market reach “, Sambanthan opined. Novonesis has carved a distinct niche in India’s bio-inputs market as a B2B innovator, focusing on cutting-edge R&D rather than direct-to-farmer sales. Its strength lies in developing advanced microbial and biostimulant solutions while partners handle market reach, distribution, and farmer engagement — a win–win that accelerates adoption without diluting focus on innovation, quality, or regulatory compliance. A collaboration with KRIBHCO illustrates this model. By combining Novonesis’ next-generation biosolutions with KRIBHCO’s distribution network and agricultural expertise, the partnership scales access, ensures reliable supply, and co-invests in farmer awareness programs and demonstration plots across diverse crops and agro-climatic zones. The results are tangible: Irrigated vegetable hubs like Nashik (Maharashtra) and Kolar (Karnataka) report 30–40 per cent integration for high-value crops such as tomato and capsicum. Adoption lags in rainfed eastern and central regions ( ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3178/switch-bioworks-advances-development-of-microbial-fertilizer-products-with-new-facility.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3178/switch-bioworks-advances-development-of-microbial-fertilizer-products-with-new-facility.html Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:14:08 +0530 Switch Bioworks, a biotechnology company focused on developing low-cost and sustainable fertilizers, has announced significant advancements in its operations. The company has expanded into a new corporate headquarters and R&D facility in San Carlos, California, marking a pivotal step in its mission to revolutionize the fertilizer industry. Switch Bioworks specializes in engineering symbiotic microbes that enhance plant growth by activating fertilizer production at the root level. By leveraging proprietary technology, the company aims to reduce the cost of fertilizers while improving agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.  The newly established corporate headquarters and R&D facility in San Carlos, California. triples the company's R&D capacity, providing dedicated spaces for fermentation, plant growth studies, and laboratory work. This expansion underscores Switch Bioworks' commitment to scaling its innovative solutions and bringing them to market.  Switch Bioworks is driven by a vision to transform the agricultural landscape by addressing the challenges of traditional fertilizer use. Its microbial-based approach focuses on nitrogen, a critical component of crop production, with the goal of reducing costs for farmers while supporting food security and environmental health.  The company’s efforts are supported by a team of experts and advisors, along with backing from leading investors. Its microbial technology represents a cutting-edge solution designed to align with the needs of modern agriculture, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers.  Switch Bioworks’ new headquarters serves as a launchpad for its mission to reshape the fertilizer industry. The facility not only provides the infrastructure needed for advanced research and development but also reflects the company’s dedication to fostering innovation. With this expansion, Switch Bioworks is poised to accelerate the development of next-generation fertilizers that address the growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices. By focusing on affordability, efficiency, and environmental impact, the company aims to support farmers in producing more food while caring for the planet. The move to the new facility marks a significant milestone for Switch Bioworks, enabling the company to enhance its research capabilities and strengthen its position as a leader in sustainable agricultural biotechnology. This step forward reflects its commitment to creating solutions that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment alike. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3117/japans-sumitomo-invests-in-dph-biologicals-to-develop-biological-plant-nutrition-and-crop-protection-products-aiming-to-enter-us-market.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3117/japans-sumitomo-invests-in-dph-biologicals-to-develop-biological-plant-nutrition-and-crop-protection-products-aiming-to-enter-us-market.html Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:47:19 +0530 Strengthening product development and sales in the United States, the world's largest market for biological agricultural inputs Sumitomo Corporation has invested in DPH Biologicals, a U.S.-based company, developing and commercializing biological plant nutrition and crop protection products. This investment follows previous equity investments in Futureco Bioscience S.A. (Spain, 2017) and Bio Insumos Nativa (Chile, 2024), and is part of Sumitomo Corporation's strategy to reinforce its business in the biological crop protection and fertilizer sector – one of the key focus areas within the company's agribusiness operations. By incorporating DPH Bio's business platform and linking it with existing global networks and Group operations in R&D and manufacturing of biological agricultural inputs, Sumitomo Corporation aims to further strengthen its value chain and promote broader adoption of these inputs. In turn, this will contribute to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices worldwide. DPH Bio has strong capabilities in both product development and sales of biological plant nutrition and crop protection products. It offers high-quality products that help improve soil health and boost yields for major U.S. crops such as corn and soybeans, in addition to fruit and vegetable crops. DPH Bio collaborates with strategic external partners to develop and distribute products that meet market needs for different regions and crop characteristics. Leveraging DPH Bio’s strengths, Sumitomo Corporation aims to strengthen its agribusiness foundation in the U.S. by offering high value-added products, including products from Sumitomo Corporation Group companies. The company also aims to expand global sales by combining these strengths with its extensive international network. As the global population continues to grow, it is essential to increase agricultural productivity, which is driving sustained growth in the use of agrochemicals and fertilizers. In this context, demand is surging for biological crop protection and fertilizer products that use microorganisms or plant-based extracts and place less burden on the environment. The global market for biological crop protection products is projected to grow from $8 billion (approx. JPY 1.2 trillion) in 2023 to over $15 billion (approx. JPY 2 trillion) by 2029 – an approximately 1.9-fold increase – and is expected to account for approximately 20% of the total crop protection market ($75 billion, approx. JPY 11 trillion). In the United States, which has become the world's largest market for biological agricultural inputs, this growth is further accelerated by public calls for more environmentally conscious farming and a rise in consumer interest in health and food safety. For over 50 years, the Sumitomo Corporation Group has been engaged in the agrochemical and fertilizer business. It currently operates agro-input distribution businesses in approximately 40 countries, contributing to agricultural production around the world in collaboration with local producers. In the biological input space, Sumitomo Corporation has steadily expanded business through equity participation and exclusive distribution agreements, especially in Europe and Latin America. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3114/kemin-launches-revocurb-an-omri-listed-botanical-oil-based-soil-treatment-for-soil-health.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3114/kemin-launches-revocurb-an-omri-listed-botanical-oil-based-soil-treatment-for-soil-health.html Fri, 18 Jul 2025 10:52:02 +0530 New alternative to soil fumigation controls plant-parasitic nematodes, soilborne pathogens, and pre-emergent weed seeds in all crop soils Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services, has launched RevoCURB™, a new FIFRA 25(b)-exempt soil treatment designed to address the limitations of traditional fumigants and provide a safer, more sustainable alternative for both organic and conventional growers. RevoCURB is a powerful and versatile three-in-one solution that functions as a nematicide, fungicide-bactericide, and herbicide, providing an effective pre-plant or post-harvest soil treatment. Formulated using Kemin's proprietary emulsifiable concentrate formulation, RevoCURB combines the power of four essential oils—thyme, clove, garlic, and cinnamon—to deliver broad-spectrum control of plant-parasitic nematodes, soilborne diseases, and pre-emergent weed seeds. "The introduction of RevoCURB is a game-changer for both organic and conventional growers with its unique formulation and multiple modes of action that ensure comprehensive pest control," said Dr. Bridget Hatfield, Technical Services Manager, Kemin Crop Technologies. "We've tested RevoCURB on many different fields with various soil conditions, and we observed stunning improvement in crop yields compared to standard chemistry. We're thrilled to offer a safe new tool for growers to integrate into their soil preparation program." RevoCURB offers a safer, more flexible solution for today's growers. With no buffer-zone requirements, it can be confidently applied near municipalities and high-population areas. RevoCURB's worker-friendly profile requires only minimal personal protective equipment and carries a zero-hour restricted entry interval, allowing workers to re-enter treated areas immediately after application. Designed for maximum convenience, RevoCURB is compatible with a wide range of standard application methods, including drip tape, micro-sprinklers, soil drenches, and overhead irrigation systems. "For years, soil fumigation has been the go-to solution for managing soilborne pests and diseases in specialty crops, however, growing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and the unique needs of organic farming are driving a shift toward safer, more sustainable alternatives," said Emily Fuerst, General Manager, Kemin Crop Technologies. "Organic growers, in particular, face significant hurdles in soil disinfestation due to the strict prohibition of synthetic chemicals, longer pre-planting timing, and expensive procedures. RevoCURB represents a significant advancement in soil health management. By leveraging the power of essential oils and Kemin's expertise on them, we are providing growers with a safer, more cost-effective and efficacious solution that meets the demands of modern agriculture." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3069/verdesians-primacy-alpha-earns-certified-biostimulant-status-from-the-fertilizer-institute.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3069/verdesians-primacy-alpha-earns-certified-biostimulant-status-from-the-fertilizer-institute.html Mon, 30 Jun 2025 12:34:23 +0530 Verdesian Life Sciences has announced that its flagship nitrogen management solution, Primacy Alpha, has received the Certified Biostimulant label under The Fertilizer Institute’s (TFI) certification program. The designation confirms the product’s efficacy, composition, and safety standards in line with the United States Biostimulant Industry Guidelines. The certification not only validates the scientific basis of Primacy Alpha but also enhances its prospects for regulatory approvals and wider market access. “This certification is a powerful endorsement of the science behind Primacy Alpha,” said Amber Harrison, Product Marketing Manager at Verdesian. “It reflects our commitment to proven, sustainable technologies that help crops thrive—especially under stress.” Primacy Alpha is a phosphite-free biostimulant designed to improve nutrient uptake, bolster reproductive growth, and increase stress tolerance in crops. Its proprietary formulation includes nitrogen, potassium, sulfur, boron, manganese, and zinc, and leverages patented technology developed in collaboration with Los Alamos National Laboratory and UC Riverside. The product is compatible with both foliar and soil applications and integrates easily into existing fertility regimes. It is suited for a wide array of crops, including cereals, legumes, vegetables, grapes, and tree nuts. With growing regulatory scrutiny and rising demand for sustainable agri-inputs, the TFI certification positions Verdesian's Primacy Alpha as a credible, science-backed solution in the evolving biostimulants market. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3140/olmix-launches-cormin-sw-a-pfc6-certified-biostimulant-for-enhancing-blended-fertilizer-performance.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/3140/olmix-launches-cormin-sw-a-pfc6-certified-biostimulant-for-enhancing-blended-fertilizer-performance.html Sat, 28 Jun 2025 12:19:00 +0530 Fertilizer efficiency: one of the major challenges facing agriculture Olmix continues its development strategy by obtaining European PFC 6 certification for Cormin® SW, its non-microbial biostimulant designed for bulk-blending fertilizer manufacturers. The certification is another asset in Olmix’s strategy to address the European market for mineral fertilizer blends. It attests not only to the agronomic performance of Cormin® SW, but also to the rigor of quality control and the transparency of information provided to users, in accordance with European Regulation 2019/1009. Faced with these challenges, Cormin® SW offers farmers a concrete solution. Formulated using exclusive MIP® RHIZO technology based on enzyme cofactors and prebiotics derived from seaweed and organic plant extracts, the product acts directly on the soil microorganisms involved in nutrient assimilation by plants. “To produce more with less, it is essential to make the most of every kilogram of fertilizer. Cormin® SW improves crop nutrition while mobilizing soil resources, maximizing yields and further rationalizing fertilizer inputs for greater environmental friendliness,” explains Jérôme Alix, Head of Crops at Olmix. A simple, adaptable, and immediately operational solution: Presented in the form of granules to be added directly to fertilizer mixing stations, Cormin® SW integrates perfectly into existing production lines. Compatible with all fertilizers, it is used at a dose of 75 kg/ha on all field crops. “This certification opens the doors to the European market, but also to Asia and Latin America, where the quality of European standards is recognized and interest in our technology is growing. Cormin® SW embodies our vision: high-performance, eco-designed solutions that drive progress for the agriculture of tomorrow,” concludes Charles Marchand. Olmix is an international group specializing in the development, production and distribution of high value-added bio-based solutions for the livestock and crop sectors. Through its ranges of finished products and ingredients, the Group is a privileged partner of farmers, distributors and agri-supply manufacturers on an international scale, enabling intelligent, sustainable agriculture in over 100 countries worldwide. Its Plant care division offers solutions to improve soil health, optimize plant nutrition and resistance, address climate change and reduce the use of inputs. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2870/milliken-company-announces-new-manufacturing-facility-in-singapore-to-meet-growing-asian-demand.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2870/milliken-company-announces-new-manufacturing-facility-in-singapore-to-meet-growing-asian-demand.html Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:25:33 +0530 Singapore site will be a critical manufacturing hub for microencapsulated solutions Global diversified manufacturer Milliken & Company announced the opening of its new manufacturing facility in Singapore. This strategic capacity expansion is Milliken’s first chemical plant in Asia and grows the company’s manufacturing footprint to meet increasing demand for advanced material solutions in the region. The new operation is Milliken’s latest investment in Encapsys’ microencapsulation technology and provides greater flexibility and speed in supporting customer needs. Acquired by Milliken in 2021, Encapsys is a world leader in microencapsulation, with more than 70 years of pioneering patented solutions. “Milliken's decision to establish its first Asian chemical plant here reflects its confidence in Singapore’s position as a strategic hub for specialty chemicals in the region. The new plant's advanced manufacturing capabilities will strengthen our chemicals ecosystem and meet growing customer needs in areas such as consumer goods and healthcare. We continue to welcome like-minded partners such as Milliken to tap on Singapore’s capabilities and connectivity, to create cutting-edge material solutions for the world” Kelly Lai, Vice President, Chemicals and Material, EDB, Singapore. US-based industrial manufacturer Milliken Chemical has set up its first chemical plant in Asia here in Singapore. The Singapore site will be a critical manufacturing hub for microencapsulated solutions used in consumer products and industrial materials. The company is also committed to boosting the capabilities of the local workforce through training programmes and overseas attachments at its Wisconsin facility. Milliken focus on insights and innovation to develop everything from new molecules to new products that protect first responders, help wounds heal faster, protect food, and make environments healthier. Milliken’s unique Encapsys™ microencapsulation technology handles a range of biodegradable chemistries and is compatible with both herbicides and non-herbicides, offering greater flexibility across varying use cases, including the ability to program phase changes. Milliken invest in advanced analytical and testing capabilities to give a competitive edge through precise insights that drive product innovation and ensure quality, helping us meet market demands more efficiently. Microencapsulation is the process of forming a strong shield around a microscopic cargo to protect its core, which can extend product stability and shelf-life, lengthen control periods, sharpen targeting and enable mixtures to improve the efficacy and performance of crop protection products. Milliken brings over 70 years of expertise in delivering technical solutions to even the most difficult cores across a variety of active ingredients. Our Encapsys technology offers precision-engineered chemical microencapsulation processes such as coacervation, interfacial polymerization and in situ polymerization with customizable release mechanisms – all while growing partnerships and protecting resource scarcity. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2875/icl-to-acquire-the-activity-of-evogenes-subsidiary-lavie-bio.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2875/icl-to-acquire-the-activity-of-evogenes-subsidiary-lavie-bio.html Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:20:35 +0530 Lavie Bio improves agriculture productivity and sustainability through microbiome-based ag-biological products Evogene Ltd. a leading computational biology company focused on revolutionizing life-science-based product discovery and development, today announced the signing of a definitive agreement under which ICL, will acquire the majority of activity of Evogene's subsidiary, Lavie Bio Ltd. As part of the agreement, ICL will also acquire Evogene's MicroBoost AI for AG platform. The transaction is expected to close during the second quarter of 2025, subject to the fulfillment of customary closing conditions. Lavie Bio is a recognized leader in the ag-biologicals industry with a robust pipeline of microbiome-based ag-biological products. Key assets to be transferred to ICL include Lavie Bio's core team, the BDD technology platform, the company's microbial bank and data assets, the majority of the company's development programs, and its commercial products. Additionally, ICL will acquire Evogene's MicroBoost AI for AG platform. Lavie Bio's existing agreements with its current partners will not be transferred to ICL and may generate future revenue for Lavie Bio's shareholders. This transaction follows strategic investment by ICL Planet and more than two years of close collaboration between ICL and Lavie Bio, focused on developing innovative bio-stimulant solutions for row crops facing various abiotic stresses. "Today marks a significant milestone in Lavie Bio's journey," said Amit Noam, CEO of Lavie Bio. "By combining our capabilities with ICL's expertise, we can further accelerate the development of groundbreaking ag-biological products that will provide innovative solutions to farmers around the world."  "This transaction reflects Evogene's ongoing strategy to unlock the value of its assets for the benefit of its shareholders," said Ofer Haviv, CEO of Evogene. "We are confident that the integration of Lavie Bio's activities into ICL will significantly advance the global ag-biologicals field and drive impactful innovation in agriculture." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2851/ai-driven-microbial-fertilizer-development-agreement-forged-between-xtalpi-and-kula-bio-forge-in-china-and-the-middle-east.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2851/ai-driven-microbial-fertilizer-development-agreement-forged-between-xtalpi-and-kula-bio-forge-in-china-and-the-middle-east.html Fri, 11 Apr 2025 12:14:57 +0530 R&D investment will be allocated to AI-driven product optimization, field trials, and market adaptation research, with initial commercialization efforts XtalPi signed a strategic R&D collaboration agreement with U.S.-based Kula Bio in Boston. This partnership initiates a joint research initiative worth multi-million USD, focused on developing the next generation of microbial organic fertilizers to provide breakthrough solutions for agriculture in arid and desert regions. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI), microbial technology, and automation, the collaboration aims to enhance agricultural productivity, improve soil health, and accelerate the global transition to green and efficient farming practices across China, the Middle East, and beyond. Kula Bio's technology is based on research led by Harvard University professor and National Academy of Sciences member Daniel Nocera, who was recognized by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2009. The company has developed microbial organic fertilizers that compete with chemical fertilizers, significantly enhancing soil fertility, increasing crop yields, and reducing environmental pollution. The partnership will focus on overcoming soil degradation in drought-prone regions through innovative microbial fertilizers designed to transform non-traditional arable land into high-quality farmland. Under the agreement, the two companies will leverage XtalPi's globally leading AI and automation R&D platform and Kula Bio's extensive expertise in microbial technology to co-develop innovative biofertilizers tailored for arid and desert agricultural applications. The multi-million-dollar R&D investment will be allocated to AI-driven product optimization, field trials, and market adaptation research, with initial commercialization efforts planned in China and the Middle East, expanding global arable land resources and promoting ecological resilience. As part of the initiative, XtalPi will oversee field trials in China and the Middle East, covering at least five crop types to ensure that research outcomes translate into practical applications with strong market potential. Meanwhile, Kula Bio will utilize the technological advancements from this collaboration to accelerate global agricultural decarbonization and sustainable development. This collaboration marks another milestone in XtalPi's strategic expansion of its AI-powered agriculture ecosystem. Following recent partnerships in AI-driven crop breeding with CyberPlantX, and intelligent seed R&D platform with Guangdong Hengjian Investment and Shouguang Vegetable Group, the Kula Bio alliance further solidifies XtalPi's commitment to modernizing agriculture through cutting-edge technologies. By leveraging AI and automation to address key challenges in agriculture, XtalPi continues to drive the industry's transformation into a tech-driven, sustainable growth model. Kula Bio's President and COO Dr. Harrison Yoon commented: "Kula Bio's groundbreaking microbial technology is poised to create powerful synergy with XtalPi's state-of-the-art AI driven breeding and microbial design platform. Powered by advanced automation, this collaboration marks a bold step forward in accelerating innovation, expanding market reach, and addressing some of the world's most urgent sustainability challenges through next generation biological solutions." Dr. Shuhao Wen, Chairman of XtalPi, commented: "It's an honor to forge this strategic collaboration with Kula Bio's world-class team as we accelerate large-scale deployment of next-gen green agricultural solutions in arid regions worldwide. Together, we're delivering market-defining products that overcome arable land limitations while setting new industry benchmarks for future sustainable farming practices. Our AI for Science platform will continue driving this transformation - creating scalable, climate-resilient farming systems that balance food security with environmental sustainability." ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2787/pivot-bio-unveils-proven-g3-a-patent-protected-gene-editing-technology-with-powerful-mechanisms-of-action.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2787/pivot-bio-unveils-proven-g3-a-patent-protected-gene-editing-technology-with-powerful-mechanisms-of-action.html Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:32:37 +0530 PROVEN G3, the third-generation nitrogen solution for corn Pivot Bio, one of the world's leading innovative agtech companies, announced that it has launched a new product in its line of innovative ag solutions for growers in the U.S. Pivot Bio PROVEN® G3 will join the company's notable Pivot Bio PROVEN® 40 nitrogen-fixing solution, which has been successfully used by growers on millions of acres to date. PROVEN G3, the company's third-generation nitrogen solution for corn, will be commercially available in 2026, pending state registrations. This marks a major advancement in nitrogen innovation, as PROVEN G3 is the first PROVEN product with multiple modes of action and significant benefits to American farmers, who work hard to feed, clothe and fuel the world. "Built to enhance our industry-leading and proprietary gene-edited nitrogen-fixing technology, PROVEN G3 adds an exclusive microbe blend that increases nutrient uptake and nitrogen-use efficiency. PROVEN G3 consistently drives improved nitrogen production, seamlessly enhancing farmers' current nitrogen programs and yield potential," said Ryan Van Roekel, Ph.D., commercial agronomy leader for Pivot Bio. "Pivot Bio realizes every farm presents unique challenges, including varying soil types, field conditions and nutrient-management approaches," said Van Roekel. "PROVEN G3 was designed by some of the top scientists and agronomists working side by side with growers to adapt to these differences, allowing farmers to customize timing and placement to maximize efficiency, productivity and profitability across their diverse acres. As a weatherproof and most efficient source of nitrogen per pound, PROVEN G3 seamlessly integrates into current fertility programs." With PROVEN G3, the company will continue its industry-leading research program with notable colleges and universities and will be completing the largest farmer demo in Pivot Bio's history, spanning 300-plus locations, demonstrating the performance and consistency of PROVEN G3 at scale. This research will join recent peer-reviewed research from Wisconsin and Purdue universities, published in Scientific Reports, confirming that Pivot Bio's gene-edited microbes successfully fix nitrogen from the air and deliver it directly to plant roots, even in the presence of synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, a three-year study from the University of Illinois further validates Pivot Bio's products as a reliable third source of nitrogen for corn. The research demonstrates that crops utilizing Pivot Bio's gene-edited technology absorb more nitrogen —including nitrogen derived from the atmosphere — helping farmers implement multi-mode nitrogen plans for improved efficiency and productivity. In addition to this latest advancement for corn, the company also recently announced a new product launch for cotton — a first for the cotton market — with CERT-N™. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2740/syngenta-and-ceres-biotics-partner-to-bring-innovative-biological-solutions-to-farmers-globally.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2740/syngenta-and-ceres-biotics-partner-to-bring-innovative-biological-solutions-to-farmers-globally.html Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:26:29 +0530 VIXERAN® enables farmers to optimize nitrogen fertilizer use and transition to more sustainable on-farm practices Syngenta Crop Protection and Ceres Biotics have announced a new agreement to increase farmers' access to VIXERAN®, a biological fertilizer that optimizes nitrogen fertilizer use. Vixeran® is an innovative biostimulant derived from Azotobacter salinestis strain CECT9690, a microbe that can inhabit interior tissues of plants and cause no disease. Multiple modes of action allow the biostimulant to efficiently access nitrogen from the environment through the leaves and roots of the plant. VIXERAN® is designed to complement traditional nitrogen fertilizers. While nitrogen – essential to critical plant processes such as growth, leaf-area expansion and biomass-yield production – is the most abundant, naturally-occurring gas constituting about 78% of air, plants are not able to readily access nitrogen from the environment. The use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer in modern agriculture requires an energy-intensive and costly industrial process, while the widespread use of such fertilizers increases greenhouse gas emissions and lowers the sustainability of agriculture. Jonathan Brown, Global Head Seedcare and Biologicals at Syngenta, said: “Syngenta is investing significantly to bring the most innovative biological solutions to farmers around the world. Biostimulants that boost the nutrient use efficiency of crops have a significant role in strengthening the sustainability of agriculture, and are integral to Syngenta’s efforts to improve both crop yields and soil health.” Emilio Marin, CEO and co-founder of Ceres Biotics, highlights: “Collaberating with Syngenta we aim to bring to the market novel and sustainable biostimulants that improve nutrient use efficiency and maximize yield helping farmers implement more sustainable agricultural practices. VIXERAN® will be accessible to farmers globally, and this is a big step towards building up more sustainable crop management systems.” VIXERAN® offers farmers greater flexibility in their nitrogen management strategies and optimizes crop performance in two key ways: it complements standard nitrogen fertilization programs to effectively boost yield potential beyond traditional methods, and, in situations where nitrogen availability is reduced due to environmental factors or supply constraints, VIXERAN® can help farmers maintain their yield targets. The agreement follows an earlier collaboration to launch VIXERAN® in the European Union. Under the current agreement, VIXERAN will be introduced to markets globally. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2700/worm-power-secures-grants-to-strengthen-vermicomposting-fertilizer-facility-to-expand-global-markets.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2700/worm-power-secures-grants-to-strengthen-vermicomposting-fertilizer-facility-to-expand-global-markets.html Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:00:52 +0530 Secures $900,000 Grant from USDA to accelerate production of its sustainable, Earthworm-Fueled Fertilizer Worm Power, the worldwide leader in vermicompost products, announced that the company has been selected to receive $900,000 in federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition to accelerating expansion plans at the company's ten-acre vermicomposting fertilizer facility in Avon, N.Y., Worm Power will be able to optimize manufacturing processes to enhance global product availability and production levels with this grant, which is part of the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP). "Globally, there is an incredibly high demand for all-natural, organic fertilizers and biostimulants. Growing food, increasing crop nutrient intake, or reducing carbon footprint are all significant considerations for growers. When our production rises – potentially tenfold – we can expand access to our products, meet customers' needs and promote more sustainable farming practices," said Managing CEO, Patrick Burke. The Worm Power team is set to increase production of its signature product, vermicompost, a soil additive that is produced by leveraging the digestive power of earthworms. The company's product, which is considered an industry disruptor for both its production method and results, is helping to improve crop yield and plant performance. The solution has been validated both in the field and in academia, garnering significant interest from investors and a broad spectrum of customers from commercial agriculture, turf management and cannabis and other high-value horticulture crops, as well as hobby farmers. Worm Power boasts the largest process-controlled vermicompost operation in North America, utilizing tens of millions red wigglers on a daily basis throughout its expansive property. With the funding now secured, Worm Power will make a series of facility upgrades including purchasing and modernizing its equipment, constructing additional product and storage buildings, and enhancing site access at the farm to improve on-site loading and shipping processes. The total project is estimated to cost more than $1.8 million and will help Worm Power bring its product to market at an accelerated pace. Burke adds, "Our forward-thinking ownership group is fully committed to the ongoing investment in Worm Power, but with the help of the USDA's grant, we'll be potentially hitting production goals 18 months ahead of schedule. On top of that, we're working hand-in-hand with a family-owned dairy. When our production increases to those higher levels, we're simulatenously changing the economic fortune of that family farm, which we all know family farms play such a critical role in the economy." The FPEP grants, authorized by the CCC Charter Act and administered by USDA's Rural Business‐Cooperative Service (RBCS), were made available by the Biden-Harris administration to help increase American-made fertilizer production, spur competition and combat price hikes affecting U.S. farmers. The program aims to support independent suppliers such as Worm Power, which make sustainable, farmer-focused and innovative fertilizer products. Worm Power has committed to match the USDA's grant by the required 40%. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2653/groundwork-bioag-adama-partner-to-offer-rootella-inoculants-in-china.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2653/groundwork-bioag-adama-partner-to-offer-rootella-inoculants-in-china.html Wed, 08 Jan 2025 11:34:56 +0530 Partnership poised to accelerate adoption of cost-effective mycorrhizal inoculants to one of the world's largest agricultural markets Groundwork BioAg, the largest global producer of mycorrhizal inoculants, and ADAMA Ltd., a leading global crop protection company, announced an exclusive commercial agreement to offer Rootella® mycorrhizal inoculants to Chinese farmers. This collaboration builds on Groundwork BioAg's successful introduction of Rootella to local distributors in China earlier this year, following the product's approval for commercialization in 2023. China represents a significant opportunity for mycorrhizal inoculants, with approximately 127 million hectares of harvested cropland. Rootella, a biostimulant based on naturally robust strains of mycorrhizal fungi, offers Chinese farmers a natural and cost-effective solution to improve crop yields, enhance soil health, and reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers. It is particularly beneficial for farmers growing vegetables, sugarcane, potato, and row crops including cotton, corn and soybean.  "Following the success of our local field trials and the positive response from Chinese distributors, this partnership with ADAMA marks a crucial step in our global expansion strategy," said Hanan Dor, Chief Commercial Officer at Groundwork BioAg. "As environmental and financial pressures mount for farmers worldwide, we’re excited to offer Chinese farmers access to the most highly concentrated mycorrhizal inoculant products available, helping them optimize plant health, sequester carbon, and ensure productive, sustainable harvests." This partnership builds on the success of similar collaborations between Groundwork BioAg and ADAMA in other major agricultural markets, including India, where the companies have successfully introduced mycorrhizal products tailored to local farming practices.  "ADAMA’s expansion into biological formulations, including Rootella, is a response to our deep understanding of the evolving needs of farmers in China", said Helen Zhang, General Manager of ADAMA China CDC. "This strategic partnership with Groundwork BioAg expends our portfolio of innovative solutions that not only enhance crop productivity but also promote sustainability. By incorporating biological options into our portfolio, we are committed to supporting sustainable farming practices and providing farmers with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly challenging agricultural environment." The expanded distribution of Rootella in this important agricultural market is timely, as it supports China's 14th Five-Year National Agriculture Green Development Plan, which emphasizes resource protection, pollution control, and the development of low-carbon agricultural practices. Groundwork BioAg’s representative office in Hainan province has been working with several local distributors following successful local trials in corn, soybean, wheat, cotton and select specialty crops in 2023. ADAMA will offer Rootella to its farmer customers starting in the 2025 planting season. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2646/pivot-bio-launches-new-retail-distribution-partnerships.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2646/pivot-bio-launches-new-retail-distribution-partnerships.html Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:16:09 +0530 Hefty Seed Company Among the First Distribution Partners to Deliver Advanced Nitrogen Solutions Across the Midwest and Plains Pivot Bio, one of the world's leading innovative agtech companies, is proud to announce a strategic distribution partnership with Hefty Seed Company, one of the largest independent ag retailers in the U.S. Beginning in 2025, PROVEN® 40, a microbial nitrogen source powered by Pivot Bio's patented gene-edited technology, will be available at all Hefty Seed Co. locations, offering corn farmers a new mode of nitrogen delivery that complements Hefty's trusted lineup of crop input offerings. With an expansive network of 49 retail locations spanning 10 states, Hefty Seed Co. has built a trusted legacy as one of the nation's leading crop protection and seed suppliers. "Hefty Seed Company has earned a reputation for empowering farmers through expert agronomic advice, proven crop inputs, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed on the farm," said Chris Turner, chief commercial officer, Pivot Bio. "We are excited to partner with Hefty's expert advisors to bring farmers this patented technology that helps maximize every acre potential while supporting long-term operational success." By providing a steady, in-season nitrogen supply, PROVEN® 40 helps crops meet nutrient demands efficiently, insulates against the risks of nitrogen loss events, and protects yield potential while improving overall production consistency. Through this partnership, more farmers will gain access to the first new mode of nitrogen delivery this century, serving as a complementary nitrogen source alongside synthetic fertilizers and manure to strengthen modern crop management systems. Starting in the new calendar year, Pivot Bio's PROVEN® 40 for corn and RETURN ® for sorghum, wheat and other small grains will be available to any interested farmers across the entire Hefty Seed Co. network. To assist farmers in effectively integrating this innovative technology for maximum benefit, Pivot Bio and Hefty Seed Co. are introducing a collaborative field support initiative. This dynamic partnership will provide customers with personalized nitrogen planning, field-tested insights, and data-driven recommendations—each tailored to the specific needs of their operations—delivered by Hefty's trusted local advisors or Pivot Bio's expert agronomy team. Additionally, Hefty Seed Company's customers will have access to emerging programs like Pivot Bio's N-OVATOR program designed to create new revenue opportunities through partnerships with downstream buyers. This approach not only supports better nitrogen use efficiency but also positions grain farmers to benefit financially from sustainable production practices. This alliance reflects a shared commitment to delivering full-system solutions that enhance productivity, maximize efficiency, and drive long-term farm profitability ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2642/azotic-technologies-limited-expands-its-technology-to-the-japanese-market.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2642/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/30/2501/evonik-to-deliver-first-biomass-balanced-ammonia-with-reduced-carbon-footprint.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2501/evonik-to-deliver-first-biomass-balanced-ammonia-with-reduced-carbon-footprint.html Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:52:49 +0530 Partners with BASF on the first delivery of BASF’s ammonia BMBcertTM grade BASF and its customer Evonik have agreed on the first delivery of BASF’s ammonia BMBcertTM grade. Thereby, both chemical companies demonstrate their commitment to offer products with a reduced product carbon footprint (PCF). With its ammonia BMBcert, BASF delivers to Evonik a product whose PCF is at least65 % lower than the standard product. Both, BASF and Evonik are extending their product portfolios and launching ammonia-based products applying a biomass balance approach. These products are readily available via existing sales channels and fully integrated into the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems of the companies. “Evonik and BASF share the same vision: We are convinced that the chemical industry can transform and replace fossil with renewable feedstocks and utilities. The supply with ammonia BMBcert is a big milestone for both of us,” said Dr. Jens Aßmann, Vice President Business Management Ammonia Value Chain andOperations Amino Resins at BASF. Evonik has received a first shipment of ammonia BMBcert produced by BASF. By incorporating BASF’s ammonia BMBcert into its ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) PLUS certified production processes, Evonik demonstrates its commitment to a more sustainable economy and its ambitious emissions reduction targets. By 2030, Evonik seeks to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 25 % and Scope 3 emissions by 11 % compared to 2021 levels, and to become climate-neutral by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement and validated by Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi). Evonik plans to use ammonia BMBcert to produce a range of sustainable products, including VESTAMIN® IPD eCO and VESTAMID® eCO Polyamide 12. “eCO” stands for Evonik’s aim to eliminate CO2 via mass balance approach using renewable feedstock in existing systems and production processes. With the eCO grades, customers benefit from more sustainable products with no compromise in performance. Thus, conventional, trusted VESTAMIN curing agents for epoxy resin systems with typical applications in industrial flooring, marine and anticorrosive paints can easily be replaced by the IPD eCO grade. The same proves true for VESTAMID eCO Polyamide 12, which covers tailored, high-performance polyamide, typically found in shoe soles, sunglasses, gas pipes, safety-related automotive parts and many more. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2500/indonesias-brin-developing-green-biopesticides-to-drive-sustainable-horticulture.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2500/indonesias-brin-developing-green-biopesticides-to-drive-sustainable-horticulture.html Mon, 07 Oct 2024 11:27:23 +0530 BRIN aims to help Indonesia promote sustainable cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and decorative plants on over 110 million hectares of existing horticultural land. Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing eco-friendly biopesticides to support the growth of sustainable horticulture in the country. "Since using synthetic pesticides pollutes the soil, spoils beneficial organisms, and disrupts the ecosystem as a whole, we are in need of environmentally friendly solutions," Head of BRIN's Food and Agricultural Research Organization Puji Lestari stated. Lestari said the agency had placed focus on research aimed at inventing natural pesticides using plants, microbes, and minerals. Lestari expressed hope that the efforts invested by BRIN would help Indonesia promote sustainable cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and decorative plants on over 110 million hectares of existing horticultural land. Meanwhile, Rasiska Tarigan, a researcher at BRIN's Center for Horticultural Research, emphasized the importance of using microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, as materials for making biopesticides. "Microbes living around plant roots can help improve soil structure, provide nutrients, and protect plants from pests," she explained. Tarigan stated that fungi and bacteria, as antagonistic microbes, can also be used as effective biofungicides and bioinsecticides. She said bioinsecticides, made from entomopathogenic microbes, can effectively safeguard plants from invasive insects without leaving chemical residues. "Rhizosphere microorganisms, or microbes living around plant roots, can also play a role in the absorption of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen and iron, while supporting photosynthetic processes," she added. Bearing all that in mind, the researcher emphasized that BRIN would continue making efforts to develop microbe-based products to help the government provide domestic farmers with solutions to pests and plant diseases. "We hope that our research will result in products effective for dealing with plant diseases caused by different factors, including climate change, across the country," she remarked. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2437/coirnutri-a-first-of-its-kind-peat-free-coir-compost-to-revolutionise-plant-growth.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2437/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/30/2416/ipl-biologicals-and-afepasa-spain-partner-for-global-joint-registration-of-biological-products.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2416/ipl-biologicals-and-afepasa-spain-partner-for-global-joint-registration-of-biological-products.html Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:18:40 +0530 IPL Biologicals Ltd., the global leader in agri-biologicals with the widest portfolio of bio-pesticides, bio-fungicides, and bio-fertilizers; and AFEPASA, one of the oldest and respected manufacturers of biocontrol, nutrition and plant bio-stimulation solutions of Europe, have signed an Agreement to globally register and market IPL’s proprietary microbial bio-pesticides. These products have been tried and rested all over the world and are much sought after globally.  The first product to be registered will be IPL’s star nematicide with a very high-level of efficacy. Starting with Europe, this product will be registered globally. As chemical products are largely ineffective against nematodes, the global market potential for IPL’s nematicide is huge. The Agreement was signed at the AFEPASA office in Spain, where IPL was represented by Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka,, President, and AFEPASA was represented by Manel Montaño, CEO. This JV will benefit the farmers across the world by providing solutions for the difficult to control pests, reduce their dependence on chemicals while improving the yield and quality.  Speaking on the joint venture, Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka,, President of IPL Biologicals Ltd. Said, ″We are thrilled to join hands with AFEPASA in this groundbreaking partnership that will bring our cutting-edge agri-biological solutions to Europe. Due to resistance many agri problems have defied solution by chemical pesticides. Also, biological products do not have a problem of dangerous residue in the crops. Our biological products have shown remarkable efficacy in trials and large field demos all over the world. In AFEPASA, we have a partner who will enable us to quickly take-to-the-market our most exciting product.″ Manel Montaño, CEO of AFEPASA commented, ″The strategic collaboration with IPL Biologicals will enable us offer innovative bio-pesticides to the European and global markets. We will be replacing harmful synthetic pesticides with safe biologicals, not only prioritizing the health of food consumers but also that of our environment. We are happy to be associated with IPL Biologicals, the global technology leader in agri-biologicals, and a company that has the most exciting technology path for the future, and who we are certain will dominate the global agri-biologicals market.″ ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2257/thailands-pdrc-promotes-organic-fertilizers-production-to-increase-productivity.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2257/thailands-pdrc-promotes-organic-fertilizers-production-to-increase-productivity.html Mon, 01 Jul 2024 10:58:16 +0530 Reinforces BCG Model by promoting the restoration of soil fertility and emphasizing soil management Thailand's Land Development Department responds to the policy of strengthening the agricultural sector, reducing production costs, and drives forward with measures to build immunity and sustainability in line with the BCG Model.   As part of the BCG Model, soil fertility is restored by emphasizing soil management and promoting the proper and appropriate use of fertilizers. In addition to reducing and replacing chemical fertilizers and agricultural chemicals with organic fertilizers and substances, farmers are also encouraged to make and use organic fertilizers from waste materials to improve and maintain soil, increase soil fertility, and reduce production costs. The Land Development Department is ready to transfer knowledge on the production and use of organic fertilizers, including technology and formulas for producing high-quality organic fertilizers, including biological fertilizers, which are microorganisms that produce nutrients and make nutrients in soil more useful to plants.  In addition to providing production factors, transferring knowledge about fertilizer production and application methods to farmers, provincial land development stations have established farmer groups in order to reduce the use of chemicals and to promote learning and knowledge exchange. Furthermore, this creates independence and self-reliance for farmers while creating jobs and income for people in the community, enabling them to produce and use in their own areas. Pramote Yajai, Director-General of the Land Development Department, revealed that the Land Development Department has 15 microbial products in 3 groups, consisting of; Group 1: microbial products for soil improvement, increasing organic matter, nutrients and plant hormones, including Super Accelerator PD.1 for producing compost, Super Accelerator PD.2 for producing bio-fermented liquid, Super Microorganism PD.9 to increase phosphorus in acidic and acidic soil, PD.11: Rhizobium microorganisms for green manure plants, PD.12: Bio-fertilizer to increase nutrients and plant hormones, PD.13: Mycorrhiza for corn, PD.15: Photosynthetic bacteria to promote growth and increase plant yield, Group 2: microbial products for pest control, including Super Accelerator PD.3 to control rot and wilt in vegetables, PD.14: Trichoderma to control and eliminate plant diseases, Super Accelerator PD.7 for producing pest control substances, and Group 3: microbial products for environmental protection, including Super Accelerator PD.6 to reduce wastewater and eliminate bad odors. The Soil Biotechnology Division has prepared the microbial products. Consisting of various super PD accelerators sufficient to meet the needs of farmers in using agricultural waste materials such as rice straw, cow dung, pig dung, chicken dung, rubber wood ash, filter cake, soybean residue, etc. to make compost, high-quality organic fertilizer for farmers to use in agricultural areas. The benefits of such organic fertilizers are: It is a source of primary nutrients that are sufficient for the needs of plants to grow and produce. It is a source of secondary nutrients and micronutrients for plants. It has microorganisms that are beneficial to the soil and plants. It releases nutrients to plants slowly, reducing the loss of nutrients. It is an alternative for farmers to replace chemical fertilizers. Farmers can easily produce and use it themselves. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2220/koreas-nousbo-and-sk-leaveo-to-commercialize-biodegradable-controlled-release-fertilizers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/2220/koreas-nousbo-and-sk-leaveo-to-commercialize-biodegradable-controlled-release-fertilizers.html Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:05:00 +0530 Signs MoU to commercialize controlled release fertilizers (CRF) with eco-friendly biodegradable resin coatings, utilizing world-class CRF production technology South Koreas Nousbo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SK leaveo, an eco-friendly materials investment subsidiary of SKC, at SKC's headquarters for the commercialization of eco-friendly controlled release fertilizers (CRF). Nousbo, which was listed on KOSDAQ in 2022 based on its CRF production technology, holds a world-class level of sigmoid-type CRF technology that adjusts fertilizer release according to the growth curve of crops. The CRF produced by Nousbo significantly reduces labor compared to conventional fertilizers that require multiple applications. It also reduces the amount of fertilizer used, preventing salt damage, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and decreasing river water pollution. Through this MOU, Nousbo plans to utilize its expertise in planning, production, and marketing strategies to align with global fertilizer market trends. SK leaveo will focus on developing biodegradable resins for the production of coated fertilizers, aiming to launch new products by the first quarter of 2025. They plan to apply biodegradable resins suitable for fertilizer release control to lead the domestic and international markets. Recently, SK leaveo has been actively engaged in the eco-friendly materials business, having held a groundbreaking ceremony for a PBAT material production plant in the Haiphong Economic Zone in Vietnam. This facility reportedly has an annual production capacity of 70,000 tons. PBAT, known as "degradable plastic," can replace traditional plastics and naturally decompose by microorganisms when buried, reducing environmental waste problems. With the continuous increase in overseas demand for the controlled release fertilizers, Nousbo expanded its production facilities last year to achieve an annual production capacity of 20,000 tons. In Europe, where the use of biodegradable resins in fertilizer production is being legally reviewed due to environmental concerns, Nousbo will maximize the advantages of both companies through the practical research conducted with the Rural Development Administration on the development of eco-friendly biodegradable resin-coated fertilizers. Nousbo aims to lead the global market and strengthen ESG management. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1865/microbial-fertilizer-enhancer-biowish-reaches-5-million-acre-farm-land-globally.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1865/microbial-fertilizer-enhancer-biowish-reaches-5-million-acre-farm-land-globally.html Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:26:00 +0530 Reches farm lands in United States, China, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam BiOWiSH Technologies, Inc., a global provider of biotechnology solutions, has covered over 5 million acres of farmland with its microbial fertilizer BiOWiSH® Crop Liquid. Due in large part to key partners like SABIC Agri-Nutrients, Syngenta MAP (Modern Agricultural Program), ADM and PetroVietnam Ca Mau Fertilizer, farmers throughout the United States, China, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam are exploring BiOWiSH® fertility solution and programs. In addition to increasing production per acre, the company strives to reduce the carbon footprint of the agricultural supply chain by improving sustainability, economics, and efficiency. In independent, third-party trials, BiOWiSH ® consistently delivered outstanding results across a variety of crops, climates, and management practices, averaging 86% win rate and 7.7% yield increase in all crops globally. In contrast to traditional fertilizers, bio-enhanced fertilizers arrive ready for use on-farm, eliminating the need for any additional applications, fermentation, or special equipment. BiOWiSH is a microbial fertilizer enhancement recommended for coating straight urea, the world's most widely used fertilizer. The direct addition of BiOWiSH® to fertilizer creates a new class of Bio-Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer (EEF) and makes it an easy fertility program modification for farmers seeking to improve nutrient efficiency and optimize yields.In addition to optimizing yield potential, the BiOWiSH® technology is being adopted by leading fertilizer companies worldwide as part of their Scope 3 emissions targets and initiatives. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, BiOWiSH Technologies, Inc. is a global provider of biotechnology solutions for the agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental management industries. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1909/biofertilizers-in-asia-trends-prospects-and-growth-potential.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1909/biofertilizers-in-asia-trends-prospects-and-growth-potential.html Tue, 09 Jan 2024 09:15:00 +0530 Over the past few years, organic food has gained popularity due to health-conscious consumers, environmental awareness, and a desire to make more sustainable and high-quality choices. Agricultural practices that are innovative and sustainable are becoming increasingly important as the organic industry gains traction. Nitrogen-fixing microorganisms are expected to display the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Chemical fertilizers pose a number of health hazards, the increase in government initiatives and an increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability in modern agriculture are some of the reasons for the growth of this segment. Advanced farming with drip irrigation and sprinklers is becoming increasingly popular, as are health concerns. Furthermore, nitrogen-fixing microbes are an environmentally friendly and economically beneficial method of providing nitrogen to plants. Growing organic farming and the growing demand for organic food are contributing factors to the growth of the biofertilizers market. As environmental concerns grow, government initiatives are increasing to promote the use of biofertilizers, and market players are increasingly focusing on inorganic growth strategies. A high demand for synthetic fertilizers and a high cost of biofertilizer production may, however, restrain the growth of this market to some extent.  Market Potential and forecast Organic products are becoming increasingly popular among consumers, which has led to a greater awareness among farmers of the disadvantages of using agricultural chemicals in their operations. Asia-Pacific's demand for biofertilizers will increase 8.6% CAGR during the forecast period. The global Biofertilizers market size was valued at $2685.6 million in 2022 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 12.26% during the forecast period, reaching USD 5373.87 million by 2028. During the forecast period 2022-2029, the biofertilizers market is expected to reach $3.2 billion at a CAGR of 11.5%. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. There are several factors driving the growth of this regional market, including the rapid growth of its population and income, increased mechanization, and irrigation facilities. The market for biofertilizers in this region is also boosted by government policies that promote and expand the organic sector. Top Players in Global Biofertilizers Market Global biofertilizer market has a significance for the cereals & grains industry and accounts for the largest share. A large part of the market share in this segment can be attributed to the growing demand for organic and naturally grown cereals & grains, the importance of minimizing chemical fertilizer effects on cereal & grain products, and the vast amount of land cultivated for organic cereal & grain production. Globally, dry biofertilizers are expected to account for the largest share. Dry biofertilizers have gained a large share of this market as they are widely available and highly efficient in all climatic conditions, resulting in the large market share of this segment. Agrinos AS; Kan Biosys Pvt. Ltd; National Fertilizer Ltd; Ajay Bio-Tech (India) Ltd; China Bio-Fertilizer Group; Rizobacter Argentina S.A.; Agri Life; Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited; Kiwa Bio-Tech Products Group Corporation; Symborg; Madras Fertilizers Limited; EuroChem Agro GmbH; Lallemand Inc; Syngenta AG; Mapleton Agri Biotec Pty Ltd. The Asia-Pacific Biofertilizer Market is fragmented, with the top five companies occupying 36.97%. The major players in this market are Biostadt India Limited, Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd, Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited, Kiwa Bio-Tech and The Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore Limited. Biofertilizers in demand: Mycorrhizae, Azotobacter, Rhizobium A mycorrhizal-based biofertilizer is at the forefront of sustainable agricultural practices in terms of balancing productivity, health of the environment, and resource efficiency. By leveraging beneficial mycorrhizal fungi, these biofertilizers enhance nutrient uptake, improve soil structure, and increase plant resilience.  As an important tool in promoting environmental health and organic food production, mycorrhizae-based biofertilizers are revolutionizing organic food production. Mycorrhizal fungi enhance the nutritional value of organic food by extracting nutrients from the soil and delivering them to plant roots. Mycorrhizae-based biofertilizers are growing in demand due to the increase in organic and natural food consumption. Biofertilizers based on mycorrhizae are achieving widespread acceptance as a solution that enhances crop flavor while adhering to sustainability principles. By using biofertilizers, farmers and consumers are able to benefit from both better tasting crops and more sustainable practices. Mycorrhizae-based biofertilizers enhance flavor while supporting soil health and biodiversity in sustainable agriculture. A number of genetic and molecular studies are providing insight into the genetic components of mycorrhizal associations, which can assist in the development of biofertilizer formulations that are effective. For specific crops, soil types, and environmental conditions, mycorrhizal fungi are being created as custom blends. Mycorrhizae Based Biofertilizers Market in the globally is growing as a result of these innovations. Furthermore, Azotobacter is the largest nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and is not symbiotic. The product is mainly used for rice, cotton, and vegetables, as well as non-leguminous plants. The fastest-growing form of Rhizobium can replace commercial N fertilizers in leguminous plants by aiding them in removing nitrogen from the soil as Rhizobium increases agricultural productivity. The Azotobacter-based biofertilizers market is dominant in China, accounting for about 31.3% of the market value, which is valued at about USD 137.1 million in 2022. China had 93.5% of the total value of the biofertilizer market in 2022, making it the region's dominant country. A total of 82.3% of the Chinese biofertilizer market was dominated by row crops in 2022. The organic acreage of row crops in the country was 2.1 million hectares in 2022. Commercialization and Product Innovation: To maximize yields and promote sustainability, integrated agriculture combines various practices. The principles of integrated agriculture are well aligned with mycorrhiza-based products. The products promoted soil health, nutrient cycling, and plant resilience, which contributed to diversified agriculture. With integrated agriculture, soil health is prioritized and chemical inputs are reduced, which further boosts mycorrhizae's demand. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1883/bionema-group-launches-tender-for-product-marketing-of-innovative-biocontrol-solutions.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1883/bionema-group-launches-tender-for-product-marketing-of-innovative-biocontrol-solutions.html Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:14:00 +0530 Bionema Group, a leading developer of sustainable biocontrol solutions, is excited to announce a tender for the marketing of their innovative range of environmentally friendly biological products. These groundbreaking solutions are designed to address crop protection and plant health management in the Agriculture, Sport Turf Amenity, Horticulture, Agriculture, and Forestry sectors. As public awareness and concerns regarding the impact of agrochemicals (pesticides and fertilisers) on human health, biodiversity, soil health and the environment continue to rise, Bionema aims to provide a complete collection of more than 60 biological products and technology that offer effective, eco-friendly alternatives. This strategic move follows Bionema’s transformative deal with Syngenta in 2021, congealing their position as a world-leading biocontrol technology company. Over the past 15 months, Bionema has undergone significant growth to meet the progressing needs of the market. Their different product range now includes Biocontrol, Biostimulants, Biofertiliser and Efficacy Booster customised to agriculture, horticulture, forestry, turf & amenities, and public health. Dr Minshad Ansari, Founder and CEO of Bionema Group, expressed the company’s vision, said, “Our goal is to be at the forefront of Biological Agriculture technology innovator, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. With changing global trends and increasing demands from consumers, society, and regulators, sustainable alternatives are urgently needed. For instance, consider the EU’s aspiring plan to ban 50% pesticides by 2030 and significantly increase organic farming. Achieving such targets requires innovative solutions like the ones we are introducing”. Bionema’s expanded portfolio significantly enhances their presence in the Biological Agriculture sector, complementing their ongoing R&D, farmer’s training, and additional services focused on advancing biological solutions in different cropping systems. The company’s innovative formulation and delivery platform technology enable the development of products with 20-30% higher efficacy and productivity compared to existing products. Dr Ansari stressed, “While we are pleased to introduce our new products, our commitment to innovation and collaboration remains unwavering. We have achieved significant milestones, but our dedication to progress continues, and we firmly believe that the best is yet to come”. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1698/indias-iisr-develops-new-granular-lime-based-trichoderma-bio-pesticide-fertiliser.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1698/indias-iisr-develops-new-granular-lime-based-trichoderma-bio-pesticide-fertiliser.html Mon, 08 Jan 2024 08:16:22 +0530 The new product can effectively neutralise the soil acidity in a single application The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) Kozhikode have successfully developed a new granular lime-based Trichoderma formulation, ‘Tricholime’, integrating Trichoderma- a fungal biocontrol agent used for controlling a variety of soil-borne pathogens- and Lime into a single product, making the application easier for the farmers. This lime-based formulation neutralizes the soil acidity while promoting plant growth and shields crops from soil-borne pathogens, all in a single application. Scientists who worked behind the new formulation say Trichoderma has proven effective in suppressing several soil-borne plant pathogens and serves as a successful bio-pesticide and bio-fertiliser in crop production. This formulation can also boost the growth of useful microbes in soil and also benefits the crop by improving the physical condition of the soil, enhancing secondary nutrient availability and by boosting soil microbial activity, they add. Trichoderma, being a fungal biocontrol agent, has proven effective in suppressing several soil-borne plant pathogens and serves as a successful bio-pesticide and bio-fertilizer in crop production. Recognizing the of Trichoderma and the challenges posed by traditional lime applications, the scientists at IISR developed ‘Tricholime’ to integrate lime and Trichoderma. According to the scientists’ team led by IISR Director R. Dinesh, the significance of this formulation lies in its ability to mitigate soil acidity and supply bio agents concurrently ensuring optimal plant growth and nutrient uptake. The institute hopes that the technology behind this product can also be extended to include other beneficial bioagents, opening new possibilities in product development to support sustainable organic farming, they add. This formulation also benefits the crop by improving the physical condition of the soil, enhancing secondary nutrient availability and by boosting soil microbial activity. IISR hopes that the technology behind this product can also be extended to include other beneficial bio-agents, opening new possibilities in product development to support sustainable organic farming. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1592/syngenta-joins-the-phytobiomes-alliance.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1592/syngenta-joins-the-phytobiomes-alliance.html Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:01:09 +0530 Syngenta Crop Protection, a global leader in agricultural innovation, has become a sponsor of the International Alliance for Phytobiomes Research, cementing a partnership between the research community and industry that is aimed at advancing both fundamental science and sustainable agriculture. Phytobiome is a collective term for plants within a specific growing environment, for example soil, and the complex interactions influenced by microbes, nutrients, animals, climate, weather, and management practices. This complex and dynamic ecosystem plays a crucial role in the health and functioning of crops, affecting their growth and overall well-being. For example, beneficial microbes in the phytobiome provide essential aid to plants, such as protection against pathogens and acquisition of nutrients. At the same time, there can also be elements of the phytobiome that cause diseases or stress to the plants, such as pathogenic microbes, high heat, or low water availability. Interactions within the phytobiome are highly complex, with much of it yet to be fully understood. Through its partnership with the Phytobiomes Alliance, Syngenta will contribute towards international research into understanding the interactions of the phytobiome’s diverse components. The results of these studies will play a pivotal role in ensuring sustainable food security for a growing population over the next decades. In a key aspect of this collaboration, Syngenta will lead a dedicated working group focused on soil health. Furthermore, Syngenta will work with fellow Alliance partners to identify focus areas for the development of cutting-edge biological solutions and support science-based regulations that facilitate farmers’ access to the biological products they need. Syngenta invests significantly in delivering new solutions that improve farming’s environmental footprint. From novel technologies that precisely address farmers’ pest challenges to biologicals that improve a plant’s ability to leverage available nutrients, Syngenta is at the forefront of agriculture’s transformation. Its participation in the International Phytobiomes Alliance reflects its strong commitment to be a collaborator of choice. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1355/revolutionizing-modern-agriculture-with-nano-fertilizers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1355/revolutionizing-modern-agriculture-with-nano-fertilizers.html Fri, 01 Sep 2023 11:16:35 +0530 A nano fertilizer can deliver nutrients more efficiently than traditional fertilizers, reducing waste and improving plant growth. A relatively new development in fertilizers, nano fertilizers deliver nutrients to plants more effectively and efficiently than traditional fertilizers. Nano fertilizers are composed of tiny particles with dimensions of one billionth of a meter or smaller. They are composed of nanonutrients, which are ultra-minute particles of nutrient ions. Plants grow better and produce more when nutrients are delivered specifically to specific tissues. Fertilizers traditionally consist of macro-sized particles that dissolve in soil and release nutrients for plants to absorb. Nanofertilizers typically have particle sizes of less than 1000 nanometers and are about 40,000 times smaller than human hair. A nanofertilizer consists of particles that are much smaller and are designed to penetrate plant tissue and deliver nutrients directly into cells. Plant nutrients are delivered to plants more efficiently and effectively with nano fertilizers. A variety of materials can be utilized for the manufacture of nano fertilizers, including silica, zinc oxide, and carbon nanotubes. In addition to foliar spraying, seed coating, and root dipping, they can also be applied to plants through a number of different methods. Plant growth and productivity are improved by an effective targeted delivery system that ensures plants receive the nutrients in the right amounts. Agricultural productivity and sustainability can be enhanced with nano fertilizers. Using them can make fertilizers more efficient, reduce environmental pollution, and make plants more resistant to diseases and droughts. Advantages and benefits of the nan0-fertiliser process: Various nano fertilizers can be used, such as nanochelated micronutrient fertilizers, nanosilicon fertilizers, nanoorganic fertilizers, nanoslow-release fertilizers, and nanobiofertilizers. Nano fertilizers offer several advantages over traditional fertilizers, including improved efficiency, reduced waste, and increased nutrient uptake. Some drawbacks of these materials, however, include potential toxicity and high production costs.  Nevertheless, Nano fertilizers are considered to be having the potential to reduce environmental pollution by minimizing the amount of excess nutrients that are released into the environment. Furthermore, nano fertilizers help plants resist environmental stressors such as droughts and diseases. Plant defense mechanisms are activated by some types of nano fertilizers, such as silicon nanoparticle fertilizers, which can increase resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. Associated challenges and regulatory policies  A potential health risk associated with nano fertilizers is one of their concerns. Because nanoparticles are so small, soil and water systems may have difficulties accumulating them. Silver nanoparticles, for example, have been shown to have toxic effects on soil microbes and other organisms. Silica and carbon nanoparticles, however, have been found to be relatively safe. Many countries have regulations and policies governing the production, use, and disposal of nano fertilizers in order to ensure their safety. A major consideration for the widespread adoption of nano fertilizers in agriculture is their cost-effectiveness. In spite of the higher cost of nano fertilizers, their targeted delivery system may increase efficiency and reduce waste, which might offset the higher price. Nano fertilizers are cost-effective when used in combination with certain crops and conditions. Production costs, application rates, and crop types all play a role in their cost-effectiveness. Nano fertilizers market dynamics and key players The nano fertilizer market is segmented on the raw materials, methods of applications and application. Based on raw materials, the market is segmented into nitrogen, silver, carbon, zinc and others. Based on the methods of applications, the nano fertilizer market is segmented into a spray or foliar and soil. Based on applications, the nano fertilizer market is segmented into cereals & grains, oilseeds & pulses, fruits & vegetables and others In recent year, EuroChem Group AG entered into exclusive discussions to buy the nitrogen business of the Borealis group. Borealis is also a melamine market leader, with plants in Austria and Germany supplying the critical raw ingredient principally to the woodworking sector. Melamine and technical nitrogen solutions are significant new business streams for EuroChem as it seeks to extend its nitrogen-based product range throughout Europe. Some other major key players in the Nano Fertilizer market are: Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited Lazuriton Nano Biotechnology Co., Ltd. Fanavar Nano-Pazhoohesh Markazi Company Tropical Agrosystem India (P) Ltd. EuroChem Shan Maw Myae Trading Co., Ltd Geolife Group AG CHEMI Group, s.r.o. JU Agri Sciences Pvt. Ltd. Nano Solutions and more Nano fertilizers are projected to grow in the coming years as chemical fertilizers are increasingly replaced by nano fertilizers. Innovative developments in nanotechnology have made it possible to synthesize nanoparticles at large scales to create nano-fertilizers. Globally, the demand for nano fertilizers is expected to grow due to the growing population over the next five years. A growing demand for crops with higher yields will further support the growth of the nano fertilizer industry worldwide. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1343/bionema-launches-new-range-of-biofertilisers.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1343/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/30/1268/amvac-expands-growth-regulator-portfolio-in-citrus-plant-product.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1268/amvac-expands-growth-regulator-portfolio-in-citrus-plant-product.html Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:05:27 +0530 Mandolin offers citrus growers a solution to promote size and quality improvements in mandarins AMVAC®, a global technology solutions provider in agriculture, has added Mandolin® plant growth regulator specifically formulated for thinning citrus fruit, to its citrus product portfolio. Mandolin received EPA registration in California for use on mandarins, including tangerines, tangelos, tangors and clementines, as well as oranges.   By effectively thinning immature fruit at the appropriate time, Mandolin offers citrus growers a solution to promote size and quality improvements in mandarins. Mandolin helps growers combat problems caused by overcrowded fruit, such as limited quality and carbohydrate drain, which can weaken trees and make them more susceptible to pests and sun damage.  Mandolin is an addition to AMVAC’s citrus product portfolio, which includes AbbA ULTRA® miticide/insecticide helping growers fight damaging mites and insects; Citrus Fix® plant growth regulator that provides preharvest fruit-drop control; Deadline® molluscicide products for fast, effective, and long-lasting control of slugs and snails; and Krovar® DF Crop herbicide with two modes of action for built-in resistance management and residual control of key annual and perennial broadleaf and grass weeds.  ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1191/karrikin-liquid-supplement-to-promote-soil-health-seed-germination-plant-growth.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1191/karrikin-liquid-supplement-to-promote-soil-health-seed-germination-plant-growth.html Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:03:00 +0530 New Karrikaid™ soil enhancer taps into smoke's natural power to boost plant development and soil productivity. VGrid Energy Systems, a California-based clean energy producer, announces the launch of Karrikaid™, a new liquid plant and soil enhancer containing Karrikin molecules, recently found to play a significant role in promoting plant and soil productivity. Over millions of years, plants have evolved to respond quickly after wildfires. A growing body of evidence suggests that Karrikin molecules, derived from plant smoke and first discovered in the early 2000s, are important signaling compounds that stimulate plants to regenerate quickly and vigorously in post-fire conditions. Karrikaid™ liquid helps mimic these conditions when applied to plants and soils. Karrikaid™ also includes a synergistic blend of organic acids and compounds, providing several additional benefits. First, Karrikaid™ is a significant source of acetic acid, which helps improve the bioavailability of key plant nutrients such as iron, zinc, and manganese. Additionally, beneficial microbes metabolize the organic acids in Karrikaid™, enhancing the natural biology of the soil. Finally, Karrikaid™ includes phenolic compounds that aid in plants’ responses to biotic and abiotic stress, including excessive heat, drought, ultraviolet exposure, insects, pathogens, and heavy metals. “At VGrid, we look to mother nature for solutions. Whether it’s creating clean energy from agricultural waste, sequestering carbon with biochar, or enhancing soil health with our organic bio-liquids, VGrid is on the cutting edge of environmental innovation,” said Jeff Norton, VP of Business Development. Norton adds, “The number of researchers looking at the benefits of smoke on plants is exploding. Study after study, and trial after trial, are showing outstanding results, specifically in supercharging seed germination, flowering, and early plant development. We want to be first-to-market in bringing these benefits to our customers with a natural, effective, and environmentally friendly product.” ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1164/new-field-trial-indicates-biostimulants-can-enhance-nutrient-use-efficiency-nue.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/1164/new-field-trial-indicates-biostimulants-can-enhance-nutrient-use-efficiency-nue.html Tue, 11 Jul 2023 07:20:00 +0530 Study revels that farmers are driven to use biostimulants due to increase in nitrogen efficiency and a decrease in fertilizer expenses Efficient use of resources is key to maximizing yield potential and optimizing a grower's return on their fertilizer investment. Improving nutrient use efficiency (NUE) is a major concern for farmers as they plan input applications.  In a recent study on biostimulants, growers cited an increase in nitrogen efficiency and a decrease in fertilizer expenses as one of the key drivers for the use of biostimulants. As growers look to optimize inputs while meeting productivity goals, address regulatory pressure, and ultimately improve ROI, biostimulants provide a powerful tool to increase NUE. MArket analytics company Stratovation Group recently published the benchmark study observations on Farmer Perceptions of agricultural biologicals teaming up with TFI, Ara and DCLRS. Increasing NUE: Legislation & Restrictions Large fertilizer applications are an effective way to maximize yield, but this can result in offsite nutrient loss, which has led to increasing regulatory pressure. The European Commission aims to reduce nutrient losses by 50% by 2030, while maintaining soil fertility for crop production. This is projected to result in an overall 20% reduction in NPK fertilizer inputs. Compounding this challenge of reduced inputs, it is well known that 25–65% of fertilizers applied to crops are not fully utilized. Fertilizer efficiency can be impacted by a great number of factors, including environmental conditions, crop management, water quality, and soil health. As growers contend with these challenges, many are turning to biostimulants to optimize their NUE and increase their return on investment in fertilizer. Increasing Efficiency FBSciences, a global leader in the innovation and commercialization of climate-smart biorationals for agriculture is also a leader in NUE.  Through proprietary biostimulant technology, Transit® forms the foundation for comprehensive crop nutrition products. With Transit Soil® and Transit Foliar®, flagship biostimulant products, nutrients are rapidly uptaken, absorbed, and translocated inside plants, resulting in improved NUE, both of which are applied and those already present.  This increased nutrient uptake and utilization of nutrients means that more of what growers apply will actually get into the crops, resulting in less runoff and leaching, and less waste of a grower's fertilizer dollar. Increased NUE also reduces the necessary amount of applied fertilizer to achieve the same crop yield, meaning the same performance/results can be achieved with a lower application rate of other products. With soaring nitrogen fertilizer prices, being able to maintain efficacy and results with a lower application rate is crucial. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/985/new-global-fertilizer-and-biostimulant-plant-to-be-built-by-yara.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/985/new-global-fertilizer-and-biostimulant-plant-to-be-built-by-yara.html Thu, 25 May 2023 12:48:12 +0530 The new facility is scheduled to be operational by late 2025 in UK, expanding the specialty crop nutrition business with foliar fertilizers and biostimulants production. Yara International is set to build its new global production plant for specialty crop nutrition products and biostimulants intended to increase yields and improve quality. The plant will be one of the largest in the world for these products, which are crucial for achieving food security and combating climate change. The new plant will enable Yara to increase its footprint in this specialty crop nutrition business, one of the fastest-growing agriculture markets. The specialty crop nutrition products are formulated to meet crops' specific needs throughout the growing season and increase their resilience to climate change. While the facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2025, YaraVita aims to double its production capacity and further increase its capacity if needed. To facilitate this, the new plant will be built close to the company’s existing site in Yorkshire, UK. The plant will export almost all of its output to global markets. “Our specialty crop nutrition products help farmers increase yields and quality without increasing land use. That not only benefits farmers but also helpful for the planet,” says Mónica Andrés Enríquez, Executive Vice President for Europe at Yara International. The special nutrients provided by foliar fertilizers (applied directly to the leaf or fruit) are equally important for crop growth and quality as the traditional mineral fertilizers applied directly to the soil. Biostimulants eventually help the plants adapt better to climate change and improve nutrient use efficiency. The global specialty fertilizers market is projected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% between 2022 and 2027, according to MarketsandMarkets. The CAGR for biostimulants is growing at an even higher rate – more than 12% – DunhamTrimmer estimates, referring to the period from 2018 to 2030. “If one nutrient is lacking or under stress, crop growth, yield and quality can be reduced. Specialty crop nutrition products are complementary to traditional mineral fertilizers and are crucial for achieving balanced crop nutrition. Just in micro quantity usage, they ensure a lower carbon footprint for food production by increasing yield per unit of land,” says Rejane Souza, Senior Vice President of Global Innovation at Yara International. Yara is a global leader in specialty crop nutrition products and one of Europe's largest producers. By combining crop nutrition solutions with agronomic advice and digital tools, Yara offers a comprehensive range of crop nutrition solutions. With its agronomic expertise in foliar nutrients, biostimulants and soils spaning more than 50 years Yara also records 100 years of agronomic knowledge in crops and soils. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/984/yara-to-build-new-global-plant-for-specialty-fertilizers-and-biostimulants-in-uk.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/984/yara-to-build-new-global-plant-for-specialty-fertilizers-and-biostimulants-in-uk.html Thu, 25 May 2023 11:36:56 +0530  By the end of 2025, YaraVita's capacity will be doubled when the facility is operational. Yara International announced that it will build a new global production plant for specialty crop nutrition products and biostimulants designed to increase yields and improve quality. The plant will be one of the largest in the world for these products, which are crucial for achieving food security and combating climate change. The new plant will allow Yara to increase its footprint in this specialty crop nutrition business, one of the fastest growing markets in agriculture. Sales of YaraVita specialty crop nutrition products and biostimulants have grown fivefold in the last 20 years. These products are formulated to meet the specific needs of crops throughout the growing season and to help them increase their resilience to climate change. The plant, to be built close to the company’s existing site in Yorkshire, UK, will allow Yara to double the capacity of its YaraVita products when the facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2025 and further expand production capacity if needed. Virtually all the output from the plant will be exported to markets around the world. “Our specialty crop nutrition products help farmers increase yields and quality without increasing land use. That not only benefits farmers but is also good for the planet,” says Mónica Andrés Enríquez, Executive Vice President for Europe at Yara International. “It’s no wonder that this market is growing exponentially. Amid today’s food security and climate change challenges, it’s more important than ever to feed the world with nutritious food while also protecting the planet,” she adds. “If one nutrient is lacking or under stress, crop growth, yield and quality can be reduced. Specialty crop nutrition products are complementary to traditional mineral fertilizers and are crucial for achieving balanced crop nutrition. Although only needed in small amounts, they can make a big difference for farmers and are critical to ensure a lower carbon footprint for food production by increasing yield per unit of land,” says Rejane Souza, Senior Vice President of Global Innovation at Yara International. Yara is a global leader in specialty crop nutrition products and one of the biggest producers in Europe. The company has more than 50 years of agronomic expertise in foliar nutrients and biostimulants and more than 100 years of agronomic knowledge in crops and soils. This extensive knowledge enables Yara to offer a comprehensive range of crop nutrition solutions combined with agronomic advice and digital tools. ]]> https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/951/revolutionary-fertilizer-stimulator-to-boost-cannabis-and-hemp-cultivation.html https://agrospectrumasia.com/news/30/951/revolutionary-fertilizer-stimulator-to-boost-cannabis-and-hemp-cultivation.html Wed, 17 May 2023 02:11:54 +0530 TERPS PLUS fertilizer enhancer to increase cannabinoid output and terpene production in cannabis and hemp plants. Microbe Life Hydroponics, a leading provider of advanced plant nutrient and microbial solutions, has launched TERPS PLUS. This is an advanced fertilizer enhancer specially formulated to increase cannabinoid output and terpene production in cannabis and hemp plants. TERPS PLUS is a cannabis-proven suite of hydroponics technologies, custom formulated and built on the proven technologies sold for thousands of acres of high-value specialty crops. TERPS PLUS promotes and optimizes plant growth, plant health, crop quality, and yield potential by promoting rapid plant nutrient uptake. The innovative solution offers a range of benefits, such as boosting chlorophyll production and increasing photosynthetic efficiency; Increased plant nutrient uptake, utilization, and delivery; Increased season-long whole plant vegetative and reproductive growth; Promoting plant health and stress tolerance; Optimized flowering, size, and cannabinoid concentration; Increased final dry bud weight and yields of cannabinoids and terpenes. Microbe Life Hydroponics products are designed specifically for cannabis and hemp cultivators. Their bacterial products produce higher yields, improve plant vigor, reduce fertilizer needs, and work with all nutrient programs. These products are designed to work in soil, hydroponic, aquaponic, aeroponic, DWC, vertical farming and CEA growing environments offering flexibility to growers. Brett Richter, VP of Marketing for Microbe Life Hydroponics said "TERPS PLUS fertilizer enhancer is designed to provide cultivators with a simple and effective solution for increasing cannabinoid output and terpene production with a 5x target and expected ROI. With TERPS PLUS, growers can maximize their yield potential and achieve exceptional results starting with improved Terpene profiles, aroma and flavor". ]]>