https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/rssfeed/agri-business/industrial industrial https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/4553/switch-bioworks-names-gordana-m-djordjevic-chief-scientific-officer-adds-eric-bartels-to-advisory-board.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/4553/switch-bioworks-names-gordana-m-djordjevic-chief-scientific-officer-adds-eric-bartels-to-advisory-board.html Thu, 27 Aug 2026 18:13:12 +0530 Switch Bioworks is strengthening its scientific and commercial leadership as it moves its engineered microbial technology closer to agricultural deployment, appointing Gordana M. Djordjevic, Ph.D., PMP, as Chief Scientific Officer and agricultural biologicals veteran Eric Bartels, Ph.D., to its Board of Advisors. The appointments come at an important stage for the deep-tech company, which is developing engineered microbes designed to produce nitrogen directly on plant roots. Switch is now advancing its technology through field trials in the US Midwest after securing USDA and EPA authorisation for first-in-class trials of its engineered microbial fertilizer. The company was founded around a proposition aimed at one of agriculture's most persistent challenges: how to provide crops with nitrogen while reducing exposure to the energy requirements, costs and supply-chain vulnerabilities associated with conventional fertilizer production. Most nitrogen fertilizer is manufactured using the Haber-Bosch process, an energy-intensive industrial pathway that converts atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia. The economics of that system are closely tied to energy markets, particularly natural gas, leaving fertilizer producers and farmers exposed to fluctuations in energy prices as well as geopolitical and logistical disruptions. Switch Bioworks is pursuing a fundamentally different approach. Its engineered microbes, initially developed at Stanford, are designed to establish themselves on plant roots before activating nitrogen production. The company's genetic-switch platform is intended to separate microbial growth from microbial production, allowing the organisms to establish themselves before switching on the desired biological function. That programming is central to Switch's technology proposition. Rather than asking engineered microbes to perform a production function continuously, the system is designed to control when and where the microbes become active. While nitrogen fixation is the company's first commercial target, Switch believes the underlying genetic-switch technology could ultimately be applied to other areas of biological manufacturing. Djordjevic will lead Switch's scientific and research and development organisation, with responsibility for advancing its product pipeline from laboratory development into greenhouse and field testing. She will also focus on expanding the company's multidisciplinary R&D organisation and advancing its intellectual property and regulatory strategies. Her appointment brings extensive experience in scaling biotechnology programmes and translating laboratory science into commercially relevant products. Before joining Switch, Djordjevic served as co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Arsenale Bioyards, where she helped establish the company's R&D infrastructure, intellectual property portfolio and early commercial pipelines. She previously served as Vice President of R&D at Perfect Day, where she led multidisciplinary teams working across strain engineering, high-throughput screening, fermentation, automation, bioanalytics and data science. Her work included improving R&D efficiency and reducing cost of goods. She has also held senior positions at Zymergen, Synthetic Genomics and BP Biofuels and has co-invented multiple patents. Djordjevic said Switch's technology addresses a fundamental challenge in engineered biomanufacturing and that fertilizer provides the company's first opportunity to demonstrate its potential. “Switch has developed a compelling solution to one of the core constraints in engineered biomanufacturing,” said Djordjevic. “Fertilizer is where we're proving it first. The opportunity now is to scale that advantage, from strong growroom results to consistent performance in the field, and ultimately across every application this platform can reach.” That transition—from controlled environments to commercial fields—will be one of the most important tests for Switch. Biological technologies can perform strongly under controlled conditions, but agricultural deployment introduces substantially greater variability. Soil characteristics, weather, crop genetics, microbial competition and farm management practices can all influence microbial establishment and performance. Switch's field trials are therefore designed to examine whether its engineered organisms can establish and produce nitrogen consistently under real agricultural conditions. The company has received USDA and EPA authorisation for its first field trials, which are currently underway across multiple agricultural sites in the US Midwest. The trials are being conducted on corn and are examining two critical elements of the technology: whether the microbes successfully establish on plant roots and whether the genetic switch can activate nitrogen production under field conditions. The results could be significant for the company's commercialisation pathway. A microbial nitrogen technology must ultimately demonstrate not only biological activity but also consistency, scalability, agronomic performance and regulatory viability before it can become a practical alternative or complement to conventional nitrogen fertilizers. Switch is simultaneously strengthening its commercial and strategic capabilities through the appointment of Eric Bartels to its Board of Advisors. Bartels brings more than three decades of experience spanning agricultural biologicals, R&D, strategy and commercialisation. He held leadership positions at Syngenta before establishing and leading McKinsey's agriculture and food chain practice. More recently, he served as Global Head of Biological Products and Chief Science Officer at Indigo, where he oversaw the biologicals business from discovery and product development through commercial launch and revenue responsibility. Bartels currently advises McKinsey, agricultural technology startups and German federal innovation agencies. His experience provides Switch with expertise extending beyond technology development into partnerships, commercial strategy and market execution. “Switch Bioworks marries deep biological insight with a strong understanding of what it will take for microbial products to succeed in the market,” said Bartels. “That combination is rare at this stage. I look forward to helping this team get its science out of the lab and into the field.” For Switch, the combination of Djordjevic's R&D expertise and Bartels' commercial and biologicals experience reflects the company's transition into a more execution-focused phase. Founder and CEO Dr. Tim Schnabel said the two appointments would strengthen Switch's ability to develop the technology while building the capabilities required to take it towards commercialisation. “Gordana and Eric bring complementary experience at a crucial point in Switch's development. Their leadership strengthens our ability to execute and expand the potential of our genetic-switch platform as we advance toward commercialization,” Schnabel said. The company's proposition comes against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of the conventional nitrogen fertilizer system. Nitrogen is indispensable to modern crop production, but its manufacture carries a significant energy requirement. Fertilizer markets have also demonstrated their vulnerability to energy shocks, geopolitical tensions and disruptions in international supply chains. Biological approaches to nitrogen supply have consequently attracted growing interest from agricultural technology companies and investors. Microbial products could potentially offer farmers another source of crop nutrition while reducing dependence on industrially manufactured nitrogen. However, the commercial opportunity also comes with a demanding technical challenge. Biological nitrogen production must deliver sufficient nitrogen to support crop productivity at a commercially meaningful scale. It must also operate consistently across different soils, climates and farming systems. This is where Switch's genetic-switch architecture is intended to provide a competitive advantage. By programming microbes to establish first and activate production later, the company is attempting to address the tension between microbial survival and biological output. The concept also gives the technology potential applications beyond agriculture. Switch describes its genetic-switch platform as a broader approach to controlling engineered microbes, with the ability to regulate when and where biological functions are activated. Nitrogen fertilizer is therefore being positioned as the first application through which the company can validate the platform. The immediate commercial focus, however, remains firmly agricultural. Corn field trials represent a critical step in determining whether laboratory and growroom performance can translate into the complexity of commercial farming. Switch's intellectual property position is another component of its commercialisation strategy. The company's genetic-switch technology is covered by seven patent families, providing an intellectual property foundation as it moves towards wider deployment. The coming stages will ultimately determine whether Switch can move beyond demonstrating microbial activity to establishing a viable agricultural business. That will require evidence that the technology can deliver reliable nitrogen production, perform consistently under field conditions and fit into farmers' existing production systems. The company is betting that the ability to program microbes differently from conventional biological products can help unlock that opportunity. For agriculture, the significance extends beyond a single microbial fertilizer product. If engineered microorganisms can reliably establish on plant roots and produce nitrogen in response to programmed biological signals, the technology could represent a different model for delivering crop nutrients—one in which biological systems are designed to manufacture inputs closer to where crops need them. Switch is now attempting to prove that proposition in the field. With Djordjevic taking charge of the scientific organisation, Bartels adding decades of biologicals and commercialisation experience, and authorised field trials underway across the US Midwest, the company is entering the phase where laboratory innovation must confront agricultural reality. The outcome will determine whether Switch's genetic-switch technology can become more than an intriguing biotechnology platform—and whether microbial nitrogen production can progress from a promising concept to a commercially viable tool for modern agriculture. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/4469/jiangsu-changqing-agrochemical-reports-profit-growth-as-fungicide-sales-accelerate.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/4469/jiangsu-changqing-agrochemical-reports-profit-growth-as-fungicide-sales-accelerate.html Fri, 14 Aug 2026 18:14:13 +0530 Jiangsu Changqing Agrochemical Co., Ltd. reported moderate revenue growth and stronger earnings in the first half of 2026, supported by a significant increase in fungicide sales and improved recurring profitability despite continued volatility in the global pesticide market. The company, listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange under the code 002391, recorded revenue of RMB 2.166 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2026, representing a 4.01 per cent increase from the same period last year. Net profit attributable to shareholders rose 27.62 per cent year-on-year to RMB 53.95 million, while net profit excluding non-recurring gains and losses increased 49.16 per cent to RMB 59.01 million. Basic and diluted earnings per share stood at RMB 0.0863, compared with RMB 0.0676 in the first half of 2025. The company’s weighted average return on equity increased to 1.26 per cent from 1 per cent a year earlier. Operating cash flow remained negative during the reporting period. Net cash generated from operating activities was RMB 184.46 million, down 46.18 per cent from RMB 342.72 million in the previous-year period. Although the cash outflow narrowed substantially compared with the figure cited in the company’s previous reporting context, the difference between profit growth and operating cash generation remains an important factor for investors to monitor. In the second quarter, revenue reached approximately RMB 1.17 billion, representing year-on-year growth of 0.6 per cent. Net profit attributable to the parent company declined 9.2 per cent to RMB 23.23 million, while net profit excluding non-recurring items increased 6.7 per cent to RMB 22.77 million. Second-quarter earnings per share were RMB 0.0358. As of June 30, the company’s total assets stood at RMB 8.987 billion, up 3.06 per cent from the end of 2025. Net assets attributable to shareholders were RMB 4.178 billion, down 1.69 per cent from the previous year-end. The balance sheet also reflected a rise in working-capital requirements. Accounts receivable increased to approximately RMB 1.115 billion from RMB 736.06 million at the end of 2025, while inventories rose to RMB 1.425 billion from RMB 1.321 billion. Short-term borrowings increased to RMB 2.129 billion from RMB 1.504 billion, and long-term borrowings reached RMB 991.24 million. The company said the global pesticide industry experienced a period of adjustment from 2023 through 2025, affected by lower agricultural-commodity prices, elevated distribution inventories and changes in downstream purchasing cycles. As inventories were gradually digested, market supply and demand began to improve. Changqing said that pesticide demand in 2026 increasingly reflected actual agricultural consumption rather than only channel restocking. The company expects long-term demand to remain supported by population growth, food-security requirements and the continuing need to improve agricultural productivity. The company’s strategic focus is on the development, manufacture and sale of efficient, low-toxicity and low-residue pesticides. It is also seeking to improve its product structure, expand higher-value offerings and strengthen its position in markets where regulatory and environmental requirements are becoming more demanding. Fungicides were the strongest growth area in the first half. Revenue from the fungicide product series reached RMB 286.06 million, an increase of 64.63 per cent year-on-year. Fungicides accounted for 13.2 per cent of total revenue, compared with 8.34 per cent in the first half of 2025. Herbicides remained the largest product category, generating RMB 961.33 million in revenue, down 9.29 per cent year-on-year and accounting for 44.38 per cent of total revenue. Insecticide revenue increased 10.96 per cent to RMB 872.50 million, representing 40.27 per cent of total revenue. Revenue from plant-growth regulators declined 11.70 per cent to RMB 7.20 million. Service revenue fell 13.77 per cent to RMB 31.80 million, while other revenue declined 58.41 per cent to RMB 7.52 million. The product mix shows that Changqing remains dependent on herbicides and insecticides, but the expansion of fungicide sales is beginning to provide an additional growth engine. Whether this momentum is sustained will depend on product competitiveness, pricing, registrations, market demand and the company’s ability to manage production costs. The company is also exploring new e-commerce sales models to support brand promotion and broaden distribution channels. The initiative reflects changes in agricultural-input distribution, although pesticide sales remain subject to registration, labelling, application, compliance and traceability requirements. During the reporting period, Changqing increased its research and development investment to RMB 109.89 million, up 23.75 per cent from RMB 88.79 million a year earlier. The company said it was strengthening independent innovation and promoting the development and application of green and environmentally friendly pesticide products. Its portfolio includes more than 50 active-ingredient products and more than 170 formulations across herbicides, insecticides and fungicides, according to the half-year report. Changqing’s operating model combines the production and sale of active ingredients with the manufacture and distribution of formulations. Most active ingredients are sold to other pesticide companies, including export customers, for further processing into formulations. A portion is processed by Changqing’s own formulation businesses and sold through distributors. The company said its domestic products are sold across more than 30 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions. Its products are also exported, directly or through intermediaries, to markets across the Americas, Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia. Export revenue remains material. Direct exports generated RMB 637.61 million in the first half, down 5.52 per cent year-on-year, while indirect exports rose 23.58 per cent to RMB 509.16 million. Together, direct and indirect exports accounted for approximately 52.93 per cent of total revenue. Domestic regional performance was mixed. Revenue from central and southern China increased 37.08 per cent, while revenue from southwestern China rose 60.09 per cent. Revenue from eastern China was broadly stable, while northern China recorded a decline. The company said it continued to adjust production and pricing in response to raw-material trends and market demand. It also pursued cost reduction through process optimisation, technical improvements and management upgrades. Research and product development remain central to Changqing’s strategy. The company operates a national-level postdoctoral research station, a provincial enterprise technology centre and an industry-level quality-testing facility. It also works with research institutes and external technical advisers. Changqing has highlighted its focus on higher-efficiency and lower-residue products as a response to stricter environmental and agricultural regulations. The company said it has invested in cleaner production, wastewater treatment, solid-waste treatment and waste-gas control, including biological treatment systems, incineration facilities and regenerative thermal oxidisation equipment. The half-year report also identifies several risks. These include price competition, capacity-expansion risk, raw-material volatility, safety and environmental compliance, changes in industry policy and fluctuations in the international trade environment. Raw materials account for approximately 70 per cent of production costs, according to the report. As a result, price changes in petrochemical-related inputs can directly affect margins. The company said it has some ability to pass on cost changes and benefits from scale in procurement, but pricing adjustments may lag behind movements in raw-material costs. Capacity expansion may also create pressure if new production comes online faster than demand or distribution channels can absorb it. Higher fixed assets and depreciation could weigh on profit if utilisation and market penetration do not increase as planned. The international business creates additional exposure. Changes in pesticide residue standards, anti-dumping or countervailing investigations, import rules and registration requirements could affect export sales. Changqing’s first-half results show a company operating in a market that is stabilising but not yet free of volatility. Revenue growth was modest, but recurring profit expanded substantially, fungicide sales accelerated and research investment increased. At the same time, the company faces pressure from negative operating cash flow, higher receivables, increased short-term borrowings, raw-material costs and uneven product demand. The improvement in recurring earnings will need to translate into stronger cash generation for the recovery to be considered durable. For Changqing, the key performance indicators in the second half will be the sustainability of fungicide growth, the recovery of herbicide demand, the movement of product prices, inventory and receivables management, cash-flow conversion and the commissioning of new or modified capacity. The half-year report presents a business attempting to improve its product mix while navigating a complex pesticide cycle. Fungicides are emerging as the clearest growth category, but the company’s longer-term performance will depend on whether it can convert that growth into stronger margins, better working-capital discipline and more consistent operating cash flow. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/4352/us-finalises-anti-dumping-countervailing-duties-on-chinese-l-lysine-raising-trade-barriers-for-amino-acid-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/4352/us-finalises-anti-dumping-countervailing-duties-on-chinese-l-lysine-raising-trade-barriers-for-amino-acid-exports.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 14:27:41 +0530 The United States Department of Commerce has issued its final affirmative determinations in the anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations into L-lysine imports from China, concluding that Chinese producers exported the amino acid at unfairly low prices while benefiting from government subsidies. The decision introduces steep trade remedies that are expected to significantly alter the competitive landscape for Chinese L-lysine suppliers in the US market. The final anti-dumping determination, announced on July 21, 2026, assigns weighted-average dumping margins ranging from 73.55 percent to 139.83 percent for Chinese producers and exporters. After adjusting for export subsidies, the corresponding cash deposit rates range from 73.37 percent to 139.65 percent, substantially increasing the cost of exporting Chinese L-lysine to the United States. In its parallel countervailing duty investigation, the Department of Commerce determined that Heilongjiang Wanlirunda Biotechnology Co., Ltd. and Shouguang Golden-land Industry & Trading Co., Ltd. received countervailable subsidies at a rate of 82.11 percent, while Inner Mongolia Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd. and all other Chinese exporters and producers were assigned a subsidy rate of 48.21 percent. The investigation covers products classified under US Harmonized Tariff Schedule code 2922.41.0090. The final determinations conclude an investigation initiated on June 18, 2025, when the US Department of Commerce launched anti-dumping and countervailing duty probes into Chinese L-lysine imports. Preliminary countervailing duty findings were issued on January 16, 2026, followed by preliminary anti-dumping determinations on March 3, 2026, before the issuance of the final rulings. The anti-dumping order assigns the highest dumping margin of 139.83 percent to multiple producer-exporter combinations. These include Anhui BBCA Biochemistry Co., Ltd. exporting through Zhengzhou Longgu Trading Co., Ltd.; the Eppen Group, comprising Heilongjiang Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd., Inner Mongolia Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd. and Ningxia Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd., exporting through Zhengzhou Longgu Trading; and Shouguang Golden Corn Biotechnology Co., Ltd. exporting through both Zhengzhou Longgu Trading Co., Ltd. and Zhengzhou Heshu Stockbreeding Development Co., Ltd. A second group of exporters received a 73.55 percent dumping margin. These include shipments from Anhui BBCA Biochemistry, Heilongjiang Wanlirunda Biotechnology, and the Eppen Group exported through Agromate SG Pte. Ltd., as well as Shouguang Golden Corn Biotechnology through Ainore (Tianjin) Trading Co., Ltd. The same 73.55 percent dumping rate also applies to exports involving Aollen Biotech Co., Ltd., including products supplied by Anhui BBCA Biochemistry, Changchun Dahe Biotechnology Development, Henan Jinyufeng Biotechnology, Jilin Meihua Amino Acid, Qiqihar Longjiang Fufeng Biotechnology, Zhucheng Dongxiao Biotechnology, the Eppen Group, and Heilongjiang Wanlirunda Biotechnology. In addition, exports handled by Pegasus Ltd. from the Eppen Group, Shandong Shouguang Juneng Golden Corn Development, and Qiqihar Longjiang Fufeng Biotechnology were also assigned the same duty rate. The Department also established a China-wide anti-dumping rate of 139.83 percent, applying the highest duty level to exporters that did not qualify for separate rates. The final measures substantially increase the trade barriers facing Chinese L-lysine suppliers in one of the world's key feed additive markets. Exporters subject to the highest anti-dumping and subsidy rates are expected to experience a sharp rise in landed costs, potentially reducing their competitiveness in the United States and prompting greater focus on alternative export destinations. The ruling also has broader implications for the global amino acids industry. With Chinese suppliers facing significantly higher duties, feed manufacturers and importers may diversify procurement toward producers in other regions, while Chinese manufacturers could redirect export volumes to markets outside the United States. The decision further reinforces the increasing use of anti-dumping and countervailing duty measures in strategically important agricultural input sectors as governments intensify scrutiny of international pricing practices and industrial subsidies. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3842/artefact-and-almond-board-of-california-forge-landmark-partnership-to-transform-almond-shells-into-next-gen-industrial-materials.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3842/artefact-and-almond-board-of-california-forge-landmark-partnership-to-transform-almond-shells-into-next-gen-industrial-materials.html Thu, 07 May 2026 11:17:39 +0530 California’s almond co-products move from agricultural residue to high-value engineered materials, powering a new wave of sustainable manufacturing across consumer, home, and mobility sectors. Artefact, a materials innovation and manufacturing company, in collaboration with the Almond Board of California, has announced the commercial launch of California almond shell composite materials designed for use in consumer goods, home products, building applications, and automotive interiors. The initiative marks a significant step in repositioning agricultural by-products as core inputs for advanced manufacturing, while reinforcing a broader shift toward domestically sourced, regenerative industrial materials. California, which produces nearly 80 percent of the world’s almonds, provides the foundational supply chain for this development, with almond shells—previously relegated largely to low-value applications such as livestock bedding—now being re-engineered into durable, design-ready composites. Through Artefact’s proprietary material processing technologies, these shells are transformed into functional, aesthetically versatile inputs capable of replacing petroleum-based plastics in a range of applications. Industry stakeholders describe the partnership as an attempt to align agricultural abundance with industrial reinvention, effectively integrating farming ecosystems with advanced manufacturing value chains. The initiative is also positioned as a catalyst for reshoring production, with a focus on embedding clean manufacturing within California’s Central Valley, closer to the source of raw agricultural inputs. A pilot production facility is currently being developed in coordination with growers and processors to reduce logistics costs, minimise environmental impact, and strengthen rural industrial linkages. According to the Almond Board of California, the initiative builds on long-standing efforts to maximise the value derived from almond cultivation while reducing agricultural waste. The organisation has emphasised that the repurposing of almond co-products reflects a broader commitment to circular economy principles and enhanced resource efficiency across the sector. Artefact leadership has framed the partnership as part of a larger industrial transition in which sustainability becomes a driver of design innovation rather than a constraint. The company argues that regenerative materials such as almond shell composites can unlock new creative possibilities for product designers while simultaneously strengthening domestic manufacturing ecosystems rooted in agricultural production. With demand emerging from product brands across consumer goods, interiors, and mobility sectors, the initiative signals the early stages of a materials shift in which agricultural residues are repositioned as strategic industrial inputs. Proponents suggest this model could serve as a blueprint for integrating agriculture, design, and manufacturing into a unified value chain, reshaping both rural economies and industrial supply networks in the United States. In essence, the partnership represents a convergence of agronomy and advanced materials science—where what was once agricultural waste is now being reframed as a foundational resource for the next generation of sustainable manufacturing. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3396/brazilian-bioinput-industry-faces-decisive-moment-as-regulatory-framework-takes-shape-says-abinbio.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3396/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://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3312/spotify-for-kitchens-daniel-baven-on-future-of-digital-food-hubs.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3312/spotify-for-kitchens-daniel-baven-on-future-of-digital-food-hubs.html Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:08:23 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum and NUFFOODS Spectrum Asia interview, Daniel Baven, CEO and Co-founder of Noahs, unveils how his company is turning everyday convenience stores into digital food hubs — the new crossroads of food, tech, and community. With its plug-and-play platform, Noahs lets retailers “stream” culinary brands like Spotify streams music, giving chefs global reach and consumers fresh, data-driven dining experiences on demand. The results speak volumes — Q8 stations powered by Noahs saw food sales surge 374 per cent and basket sizes climb 228 per cent. Unlike ghost kitchens or delivery aggregators, Noahs taps into existing retail kitchens, transforming them into profitable, AI-ready food networks overnight. Baven predicts that by 2030, food will replace fuel as the heartbeat of convenience retail — Noahs will be the invisible engine powering that revolution. Section I: Vision & Market Disruption Reimagining C-Stores: What inspired you to launch Noahs, and why is now the inflection point for reinventing convenience retail? The spark for Noahs came from watching how every major content industry—music, film, travel—has gone through its streaming revolution. Food hasn’t. Yet we have millions of kitchens sitting in prime retail locations, underutilized and disconnected from the digital economy. We saw an opportunity to turn those kitchens into digital food hubs. The real inflection point is convergence: consumers expect convenience, platforms demand supply, and retailers need new revenue streams to replace declining categories like tobacco and fuel. Convenience stores are sitting on the infrastructure of the future—they just need the operating system. That’s what Noahs provides. Digital-First Food Revolution: With the C-store market set to surpass $1T by 2029, how do you see technology reshaping the future of food retail? We’re standing on the edge of a complete reset. In five years, most people won’t cook at home the way they do today. It will simply make more sense to tap into a network of nearby retailers streaming great food, made fresh, faster, and cheaper than a home kitchen could ever compete with. Convenience stores and supermarkets are sitting on the most valuable real estate of the future — the crossroads of local communities. When those spaces go digital, they’ll stop being “shops” and start becoming marketplace hubs for food, experiences, and daily life. Technology is the enabler, but the change is cultural. It’s about food creators having a new stage, communities having new choices, and retailers becoming the backbone of the next food economy. Noahs was built exactly for that — to power this transformation and give retailers the tools to move from analogue to intelligent, from transactional to experiential. What’s coming is bigger than food tech. It’s a reinvention of how food exists in society. Section II: The Noahs Model – Technology + Brand + Kitchen Plug-and-Play Platform: Your tech platform can digitize a store with just a Wi-Fi connection. What makes this solution scalable across global chains with different IT maturity levels? The secret is simplicity. Most retailers are trapped in heavy legacy systems that make every new integration a nightmare. We flipped that logic. Noahs runs as a layer on top of existing infrastructure, connecting to what’s already there instead of trying to replace it. That means a store can go live in hours — not months — with zero capex and no new labor. The system plugs into delivery aggregators, POS systems, kitchen screens, and loyalty tools. The moment it connects to Wi-Fi, the store becomes part of a digital network that can sell, operate, and analyze in real time. It’s built for diversity. Whether it’s a gas station in Denmark, a supermarket in Belgium, or a convenience store in the Philippines, the platform automatically adapts to local tech setups and market conditions. That’s why it scales — because it doesn’t force uniformity, it enables it. Noahs is not just a tool; it’s a translator between the analogue world and the digital food economy. It’s what the retailers has been looking for, but it didn’t exist until now. Spotify for Kitchens: You’ve called Noahs’ Brand Platform a “Spotify for Kitchens,” letting retailers stream proven brands and menus directly into their stores. How do you curate the catalogue, and what data drives menu updates? We’re building a world where food moves like music. In the same way streaming opened a global stage for artists, we believe culinary creators will soon reach audiences anywhere — not through physical expansion, but through digital distribution. A chef in Copenhagen could see their tacos sold in Dubai the same week. That’s the future we’re shaping with Noahs. Our brand platform is the foundation for that future. It lets retailers activate proven food concepts directly into their stores, adapting to local tastes and neighborhoods instead of being locked into a single global brand deal. That flexibility is what the industry has been missing — agility, creativity, and cultural relevance. This shift also enables a complete rework of the food supply chain — simplifying how ingredients, inventory, and production flow through the system. It creates a feedback loop between real-time demand and supply, throttling production, reducing waste, and preparing the industry to fully harness AI. We’re still early in this journey, but the vision is clear: menus that evolve like playlists, brands that scale without borders, and a supply chain that finally moves as intelligently as the data behind it. For culinary entrepreneurs, it’s a new way to monetize creativity. For retailers, it’s the chance to become curators of food culture — not just sellers of products. That’s what “Spotify for Kitchens” really means: a living, breathing ecosystem where food, data, and creativity stream together. Modular Smart Kitchens: Your kitchens range from 1 to 20 m². How do you ensure operational efficiency, quality control, and food safety across distributed sites? The next decade will blur the line between retail and hospitality. We believe the world’s biggest food operators won’t be restaurant chains — they’ll be retailers. To make that leap, retailers will recruit from the culinary world, bringing in chefs, kitchen managers, and operational talent who can run hospitality at scale. What used to be a store will evolve into a network of kitchens, each designed for efficiency, consistency, and speed — powered by technology, not tradition. Noahs is the platform that enables this transformation. We don’t operate the kitchens — we power them. Our system acts as the operating layer that keeps every recipe, process, and temperature consistent across hundreds of locations. Retailers become the operators; Noahs becomes their digital backbone. On the hardware side, we’ve developed a full suite of modular kitchens — from compact 1 m² single-brand setups to 20 m² multi-brand environments for service stations, food courts, and supermarket delis. These units are engineered for throughput, safety, and profitability, with built-in monitoring and data loops that ensure every kitchen runs to the same standard. We also anticipate a wave of cross-company innovation in this space — robotics, automated production, drone delivery, and robotaxis changing the future states of the hardware component. Restaurant kitchens, as we know them today, simply can’t compete with that model. A Noahs-powered multi-brand kitchen can serve multiple food concepts with a fraction of the space, labor, and cost — while maintaining higher quality and consistency. That’s the future we see unfolding. Section III: Business Impact & Results Q8 Case Study: The Q8 transformation saw food sales jump 374 per cent and basket size rise 228 per cent. Which parts of the Noahs model (tech, brands, kitchens) drove the biggest lift? Those numbers from Q8 aren’t isolated results — they’re a preview of what happens when retail locations evolve through Noahs’ three-layer model. Every site that connects our technology platform, brand platform, and modular kitchens can experience a similar transformation. The tech layer creates instant digital access and operational visibility. The brand layer adds proven food concepts that attract new customers and expand sales channels. And the kitchen layer converts that demand into consistent, scalable output with an engine fit for the purpose. In the quoted Q8 case, all three layers came together at once — which is why the impact was so dramatic. But in most rollouts, we see a natural progression: first digitalize existing shop catalogues, then layer in easy-to-operate brands suited to the current store format, and finally scale through modular smart-kitchens and more advanced brand concepts. Each layer amplifies the next. What Q8 showed is that this isn’t theory — it’s the future playbook for every retailer. Service stations, supermarkets, and convenience stores can all become high-performing food hubs simply by activating the system step by step. The model works anywhere, because it’s built for the way people live now — connected, on-demand, and expecting quality food wherever they are. ROI & Adoption Curve: How quickly can retailers expect payback when adopting Noahs, and how do you help de-risk the investment decision? The short answer: fast. Because Noahs requires no upfront investment in new labor or capex, most retailers see positive returns within the first few months of activation. The payback curve depends on the depth of adoption — tech alone delivers immediate efficiency and access to new revenue channels, while layering in brands and kitchens compounds the effect. But beyond ROI, what really de-risks adoption is our model itself. We don’t ask retailers to change who they are — we enhance what’s already there. Noahs plugs into existing infrastructure and workflows, building value on top of current systems instead of replacing them. We also start small. A single pilot location can validate the impact before scaling to dozens or hundreds. The data from those first sites creates a clear business case — not projections, but proof. Retailers everywhere are under pressure to reinvent fast, but the risk tolerance is low. Our approach makes innovation incremental, measurable, and cash-positive from day one. That’s why Noahs scales — it rewards courage without demanding blind faith. Section IV: Competitive Landscape & Future of Food-Tech Standing Out in a Crowded Space: How does Noahs differentiate from ghost kitchens, Q-commerce players, and aggregator-led solutions? Ghost kitchens and Q-commerce were great experiments — but they’re built on isolated infrastructure. Each new location means new costs, new staff, and new risk. Aggregators, on the other hand, built digital demand but not digital supply — they own the customers, not the kitchens. Noahs connects the dots. We’re not building more kitchens; we’re activating the millions that already exist inside retailers. Instead of competing with delivery platforms, we empower retailers to integrate directly with them — turning stores into digital food hubs that can sell across every channel instantly. Where ghost kitchens chase scale through real estate, Noahs achieves it through connectivity. Where Q-commerce promises speed, we deliver sustainability — a model that actually works economically for both retailers and creators. Most importantly, we’re not just solving delivery — we’re reinventing food infrastructure. We give retailers the OS, brands, and hardware they need to own their role in the digital food economy. The future of food won’t belong to aggregators or ghost kitchens — it’ll belong to the platforms that make everyone else scalable. That’s where Noahs sits. 2025 Trends: What’s next for food-tech—robotic kitchens, AI menu personalization, functional food boom? Which of these will most affect the C-store ecosystem? The short answer? Noahs. Beyond that, it’s too early to expect any real leapfrogs in robotics. The robotics we see today are impressive, but they’re trapped between eras — built for a world that’s already shifting beneath them. The real step change will come when humanoid robots, like the ones Tesla and Figure are developing, can integrate naturally into existing operations. That’s a 2030 story, not 2025. The real 2025 trend in food will be the convergence of retailers into food — moving away from being simple convenience hubs to becoming food operators in their own right. That shift will ignite the most dramatic transformation the industry has seen in decades. AI will play a major role, but not yet in the way most imagine. Everyone’s talking about AI, but its real power depends on something far more fundamental: digitization. That’s what Noahs is building — the digital foundation that makes the intelligent food economy possible. Section V: Scaling & Strategy Geographic Expansion: Which regions outside Denmark and Thailand are next on your radar—and what makes a market “Noahs-ready”? Officially, we’re now expanding in 4 countries - Denmark, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Ireland. Within 2026, we expect to announce at least ten more countries across three continents joining the Noahs platform. We are currently preparing the best we can to meet the increasing demand for our solution. A market becomes “Noahs-ready” when retailers recognize that the old model no longer works — when rising costs, labor shortages, and changing customer behavior force a rethink of what retail really is. Europe is leading that shift. High operational costs and rapid transformation are pushing retailers to act faster than ever, and we’re positioned to help them do it in a scalable, low-risk way. Being Noahs-ready isn’t only about geography and necessity — it’s also about mindset. The retailers who will win this decade are the ones willing to reimagine themselves as food operators. That’s where our platform fits in: as the bridge between today’s analogue retail world and tomorrow’s fast paced food economy. Capital & Investors: Are you seeking growth capital, and if so, what kind of investors (VC, strategic, corporate) best align with your vision? We are currently finalizing our latest seed round and are well-capitalized for the current growth phase. Our next major raise — a Series A — is planned for 2026, and preparations are already underway. Right now, our focus is execution and scale. That said, we’re always open to conversations with investors who see what we see — those who understand that the future of food isn’t about building more restaurants, but about enabling the platforms that connect them. The best fit for us are partners who bring more than capital — those who share the vision of redefining food infrastructure globally and can accelerate that journey through strategic reach, technology, or market access. Vision 2030: Paint us a picture: what does a Noahs-enabled convenience store look like in 2030, and what share of its revenue will come from food vs. fuel? By 2030, the traditional service station will be unrecognizable. The era of fuel as the defining anchor is ending — what comes next will be built around food, experiences, and premium retail. We’re already seeing early signs of that leapfrog. Elon Musk’s new Tesla Diner is a perfect example — a glimpse of how technology, design, and hospitality can fuse into something people actually want to visit. That’s what excites me: not a finished blueprint, but the open canvas ahead. I prefer not to lock in a final vision. The real innovation will come from collaboration — from working with retailers, chefs, designers, and local communities to build places that fit their rhythm. Some will focus on food and digital ordering, others on community spaces or hybrid retail experiences. The beauty is that the platform allows for all of it. What I do know is that the transformation is imminent, and food will be the catalyst that starts it. Once retailers take that step, everything else follows — design, operations, social experiences, even how we define “convenience.” Over time, Noahs will simply become part of that ecosystem — the invisible layer powering whatever comes next. The real story won’t be about us. It’ll be about how retailers use this opportunity to reinvent what it means to serve their communities. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3173/australia-pledges-new-strategies-to-bolster-the-forestry-industry-with-300m-in-grant.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/3173/australia-pledges-new-strategies-to-bolster-the-forestry-industry-with-300m-in-grant.html Fri, 08 Aug 2025 07:30:47 +0530 Timber Fiber Strategy: A Blueprint for innovation and sustainability in Australia’s forestry industry Australia has unveiled the Timber Fibre Strategy, a comprehensive plan to drive growth and innovation in Australia’s forestry industry. The Strategy outlines 128 ambitious actions aimed at creating a sustainable, globally competitive sector that meets both domestic and international demand for forest products. Developed through extensive consultation with the forestry industry and guided by the Strategic Forest and Renewable Materials Partnership, the Strategy provides a roadmap for addressing key challenges and opportunities in the sector. It emphasizes the role of forestry in supporting Australia’s housing agenda and contributing to the government’s broader economic and environmental goals. As part of the initiative, the government has committed $300 million to bolster the forestry industry, including: Over $100 million for research, development, and innovation through Australian Forest and Wood Innovations. Over $100 million to advance wood processing innovation under the Accelerate Adoption of Wood Processing Innovation program. Over $73 million to increase future wood supply through the Support Plantation Establishment program. $10 million to address workforce training needs via the Forestry Workforce Training Program. The Timber Fibre Strategy also highlights the potential for forestry to play a pivotal role in addressing housing shortages and achieving net-zero emissions. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Julie Collins MP, has emphasized the importance of collaboration with industry, states, and territories to maximize the benefits of this investment. Minister Collins stated, “Our forest products sector has a unique opportunity to deliver sustainable, high-quality, carbon-sequestering products that Australians need. This $300 million investment is already advancing the objectives outlined in the Strategy, and we are committed to doing more to support the industry’s growth.” The Strategy has been shared with Australian Forest and Wood Innovations to guide the government’s $100 million investment in transformative research. It has also been presented to federal and state colleagues to ensure forestry contributes to housing construction, productivity, and emissions reduction. The Timber Fibre Strategy sets a vision for a thriving forestry sector, encompassing sustainable forest management and a diverse, innovative manufacturing industry. Co-chairs of the Strategic Forest and Renewable Materials Partnership, Stephen Dadd and Michael O’Connor, described the Strategy as a collective effort involving industry leaders, unions, researchers, and community groups. They noted, “The forestry industry has told us it wants to help solve some of the challenges facing Australia. From housing to net zero, the Strategy provides actionable steps to use sustainable, carbon-sequestering forest products to build houses and boost productivity.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2921/taiwan-promotes-a-domestic-peanut-drying-center-to-demonstrate-new-integrated-processing-methods.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2921/taiwan-promotes-a-domestic-peanut-drying-center-to-demonstrate-new-integrated-processing-methods.html Mon, 19 May 2025 12:44:40 +0530 Dryer is equipped with automatic control and energy-saving design which can process 12.5 metric tons of fresh pods at a time In order to implement the policy of automated production of domestic grains, the Tainan District Agricultural Improvement Station of the Ministry of Agriculture actively promotes the establishment of a demonstration site for the "Domestic Peanut Post-Harvest Drying Center", integrating the soil removal, weed removal and circular drying operations after the peanuts are harvested from the field to create a consistent mechanical processing system. The demonstration was held on May 16 at the Lihao Peanut Farm in Fuchao Village, Tuku Township, Yunlin County. Relevant industry players, production and marketing groups, and farmers are invited to participate and learn about the technological achievements on the spot. Tainan Farm Director Chen Yuchu pointed out that the annual peanut planting area in Taiwan is about 16,000 to 18,000 hectares, with Yunlin County being the largest producing area, accounting for more than 70% of Taiwan's total production. Although mechanized outsourcing has been introduced for field preparation, sowing, and harvesting, the post-harvest drying process still relies on artificial sun exposure. Faced with problems such as aging labor, insufficient exposure sites, and traffic disputes and dust pollution caused by road exposure, these problems have become a major bottleneck restricting the sustainable development of the industry. To solve this problem, the Ministry of Agriculture has commissioned the Tainan Agricultural Research and Development Center and industry-academia collaboration to develop domestic drying equipment in recent years. Finally, in 2011, they successfully developed the "Circulating Peanut Dryer" and passed the agricultural machinery performance test. The dryer is equipped with automatic control and energy-saving design. It can process 12.5 metric tons of fresh pods at a time. The drying time only takes 2.5 to 3.5 days. Each machine can serve approximately 20 hectares of fields, saving more than 300 man-days of manpower each season, effectively improving drying efficiency and production safety.  Director Chen further explained that the farm is currently guiding the establishment of a unified demonstration site for the Lihao peanuts, introducing automatic processing machinery such as soil removal, stem removal, drying and unloading, to achieve standardization and refinement of post-harvest processing. This not only solves the manpower and site problems of traditional sun exposure, but also greatly reduces the risks of being affected by climate and pollution, ensuring food safety quality and stable supply of contracted products. It is of great significance, especially in reducing the risk of aflatoxin pollution, reducing traffic safety disputes and rural operation conflicts. The Tainan Agricultural Innovation Station emphasized that it will continue to promote the peanut contract farming and drying center policy in the future, promote standardized mechanical operation processes through cooperation between industry, government, and academia, attract young farmers to return to production, establish a modern grain processing demonstration system, and lay a solid foundation for the domestic peanut industry to move towards sustainable development. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2891/moa-hosts-taiwan-agricultural-information-exchange-programs.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2891/moa-hosts-taiwan-agricultural-information-exchange-programs.html Fri, 02 May 2025 13:09:25 +0530 Key role in creating a bridge between Taiwan’s agricultural industry and world markets Taiwan's Ministry of Agriculture held an event related to Australian agricultural experience, April 29 in the southern county of Pingtung, highlighting government commitment to promoting a collaborative relationship that prioritizes local producers’ needs and increases the experience of domestic personnel to compete in international markets. Organized by the MOA Department of International Affairs, the physical and virtual event brought over 130 academics, business representatives, experts and officials together. Sharing their observations during the event were delegation members to the 19th Taiwan-Australia Agricultural Meeting; and Evoke AG, an Asia Pacific premier agrifood innovation event, both held in February in Brisbane. Highlights included topic discussions on international trends such as food and agriculture supply chain transparency and a case study on zero use of fossil fuel in farms. Participants further explored issues such as biosecurity management, cross-border agro-industrial cooperation, investment incentives and restrictions in the Australian market and the complementary nature of bilateral industries. In addition, the MOA unveiled two international agricultural leadership training programs in the final session. In the first, the MOA will work with the U.K.-based nonprofit organization Nuffield International and other international partners to cultivate young agricultural personnel aged from 18-30 in a program that supports youth to travel overseas to learn about industry-related innovation and management. A second program assists those aged over 30 to gain management expertise and play a key role in creating a bridge between Taiwan’s agricultural industry and world markets. The MOA emphasized that Taiwan’s agriculture must move toward high-value and sustainable development to face global challenges such as climate change and intensified trade competition. Australia is a close partner and shares interest in areas spanning smart agriculture and sustainability, the MOA said, expressing anticipation of further strengthening bilateral strategic cooperation. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2556/green-plains-launches-worlds-first-clean-sugar-technology-facility-cst.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2556/green-plains-launches-worlds-first-clean-sugar-technology-facility-cst.html Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:16:35 +0530 Patented system produces dextrose and glucose corn syrups with up to a 40% lower carbon-intensity than existing alternatives Green Plains Inc. unveiled successful ongoing production of dextrose syrups at the world’s first commercial deployment of Clean Sugar Technology™ (CST™) in Shenandoah, Iowa. This patented system, designed by Fluid Quip Technologies, produces dextrose and glucose corn syrups with up to a 40% lower carbon-intensity than existing alternatives. These low carbon-intensity ingredients are designed for renewable chemicals, bio-based materials and food and beverage formulations. “The successful start of the game-changing Clean Sugar Technology in Shenandoah, combined with the first ever dextrose from a dry mill, ushers in a new era for Green Plains and the sugar industry as a whole,” said Todd Becker, President and Chief Executive Officer at Green Plains. “Not only is this disruptive to traditional manufacturing of dextrose and glucose products but we believe our entry into this market with a focus on low carbon-intensity ingredients better positions us to meet expanding demand. I would like to thank the many people who have worked tirelessly to help accomplish one of the most critical milestones in our transformation journey, including our engineering and operating teams, the State of Iowa and the City of Shenandoah, enabling Green Plains to serve new markets in industrial fermentation and food production, sustainably leading the way in powering the bio-economy in the U.S. and abroad.” The dextrose and glucose corn syrups produced with CST™ have proven successful in trials as feedstocks for fermentation of various bio-products and bio-chemicals, in addition to food ingredients. Green Plains is in advanced negotiations and going through final product approvals with multiple offtake partnerships, and interest for these dextrose and glucose corn syrups exceeds the current production capacity of the Shenandoah facility. “Clean Sugar Technology unlocks the corn kernel to produce products similar to a corn wet mill but with a lower carbon-intensity as the demand for dextrose and glucose corn syrups continues to grow,” added Becker. “These sustainable ingredients are enabling a new path for the bio-based economy to achieve breakthroughs in renewable chemicals and beyond.” Bulk shipments of commercial quantities to end-use customers will commence in the coming weeks. The facility has achieved 3rd party certification for current Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) with FSSC 22000 certification expected to be completed in the next quarter. Over the next several quarters the facility will be optimized to increase production. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2484/enko-chem-inc-develops-a-new-mode-of-action-discovery-capability-to-accelerate-development-of-sustainable-new-crop-protection-compounds.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2484/enko-chem-inc-develops-a-new-mode-of-action-discovery-capability-to-accelerate-development-of-sustainable-new-crop-protection-compounds.html Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:24:07 +0530 New MOA’s are vital to the development of new categories of innovative, safe, pest fighting solutions. Enko Chem, Inc., an AI-informed crop health company, announced that the company has validated a unique capability to rapidly discover novel modes of action (MOA) using a systems approach that can effectively unlock solutions for nagging pest resistance problems for growers worldwide. “There are simply not enough alternatives on the market today,” says Jacqueline Heard, CEO and Co-founder, Enko. “Farmers face the harsh reality of losing 40% of their crops to weeds, insects and disease annually and are stuck using decades-old products that no longer work effectively and where continued reliance is not sustainable." Enko’s discovery platform, ENKOMPASS™, recently identified a new mode of action, a novel weed control target, and biologically active chemical inhibitors in just 4 months using AI-assisted data analysis techniques. The capability can be applied to discover new MOAs for many crop health needs. Enko’s rapid rate of target discovery has the potential to help the world get ahead of the rate of failing crops, stay abreast of the negative effects of climate change, and feed its growing populations safely. Enko (Enko Chem Inc.) designs safe and sustainable solutions to farmers’ biggest crop threats today, from pest resistance to new diseases. By applying the latest drug discovery and development approaches from pharma to plants, Enko is bringing an innovation model to agriculture and meeting farmers’ evolving needs. Founded in 2017, and led by a team of proven scientists, entrepreneurs, and agriculture industry veterans, Enko is backed by investors including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Anterra Capital, Finistere Ventures, Nufarm, Novalis LifeSciences, Germin8 Ventures, TO Ventures Food, and Rabo Food & Agri Innovation Fund.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2483/bioscience-association-manitoba-marks-global-biotech-week.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2483/bioscience-association-manitoba-marks-global-biotech-week.html Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:20:29 +0530 Official Proclamation at the Canadian province Manitoba Legislature The Bioscience Association Manitoba (BAM) successfully held Global Biotech Week with an official proclamation at the Manitoba Legislative Building. The event brought together 80 Manitoba industry leaders, and government officials, celebrating the province’s thriving biotech industry and its contributions to global innovation. The formal proclamation of Global Biotech Week, presented by The Honourable Renee Cable Minister of Advanced Education and Training, recognizes the pivotal role biotechnology plays in addressing critical challenges, from healthcare innovations to sustainability solutions. The event highlighted the critical impact on biotechnology in areas such as health, agriculture, and sustainability. The event also provided Global Biotech Week is celebrated across 16 countries, showcasing the transformative power of biotechnology. With Manitoba leading the way in bioscience research and development, BAM remains committed to fostering the growth and advancement of the local industry, while highlighting the global impact of biotech. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2333/philippines-explore-potential-public-private-collab-to-boost-regional-agri-food-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2333/philippines-explore-potential-public-private-collab-to-boost-regional-agri-food-industry.html Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:24:28 +0530 DA and PCFMI, the regional agriculture and food industry departments aims to to strengthen public-private partnerships With the shared vision of a prosperous Philippine agriculture and food industry, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc. (PCFMI) discussed possible areas for collaboration at the DA Central Office, Quezon City. To achieve nationwide food access, affordability, and security, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the government to strengthen public-private partnerships. “Definitely, we look forward to partnerships with private corporations especially with the expansion of our Kadiwa Program as well as the expansion also of our institutional partners for farmer- and fisherfolk-cooperatives that we are supporting. And maybe we can also welcome the farmers and fishermen who have not yet formed or are not yet part of organizations because mostly, the ones we give subsidies to, we would like them to be organized" said Assistant Secretary Velicaria-Guevarra. There were several potential areas for cooperation identified, including developing market links between local food producers and PCFMI member companies, conducting training sessions for agri-youths and cooperatives through DA's Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) Program, and promoting healthy eating habits. The two institutions also explored the potential expansion of the DA’s Kadiwa Program by tapping PCFMI member-companies as suppliers of affordable, safe, and nutritious produce, thus allowing for a wider variety of products to be sold at the Kadiwa Centers nationwide. Should this materialize, the partnership will be crucial in attaining the Department’s goal of establishing 1,500 Kadiwa Centers nationwide by 2028. “We really would like to help these public-private partnerships especially since agriculture is an input to our processes,” PCMFI Chairman and President Marites Director expressed. The PCFMI envisions to be the lead and voice of the food industry and advocates for safe, nutritious, and sustainable supply of food that are compliant to local, national, and international laws and regulations. To date, it is composed of 102 member-companies that are engaged in the local manufacture and distribution of essential commodities of various food categories. With its strategic focus being on innovation, food safety and nutrition, robust and scientifically-based regulations, and sustainability and food security, the PCFMI has been partnering up with different stakeholders including the government sector for a more sustainable and resilient food industry. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2239/ravindra-boratkar-publisher-mm-activ-media-awarded-exemplary-leadership-award-of-exhibition-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2239/ravindra-boratkar-publisher-mm-activ-media-awarded-exemplary-leadership-award-of-exhibition-industry.html Tue, 25 Jun 2024 10:34:31 +0530 Boratkar’s remarkable contributions and visionary leadership has left an indelible mark on the industry: Award citation Ravindra Boratkar, Publisher & Managing Editor, BioSpectrum (India and Asia), NUFFOODS Spectrum and AgroSpectrum (India and Asia) was presented the Exemplary Leadership Award in the Exhibition Excellence Awards in the Editor’s Choice category in his capacity as Managing Director of MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Pvt Ltd., the parent company of all the media brands. Exhibition Excellence Awards are presented annually for various events, exhibitions, conferences seminars, venues and personalities to recognise their contribution and felicitate the distinguished achievers of the sector. The awards are Asia’s iconic, only recognition initiative for the exhibition and convention industry. The awards are given by the Exhibition Showcase, Asia's most comprehensive media platform for exhibitions. This was the 8th edition of the Exhibition Excellence Awards and Summit 2024, held at the CIDCO exhibition and convention centre in Navi Mumbai. The award citation said, “Boratkar’s remarkable contributions and visionary leadership has left an indelible mark on the industry, shaping its trajectory for the better. Boratkar is a driving force in the organisational consulting, marketing, management and event organisation.” MM Activ Sci Tech Communications, the publishing company of BioSpectrum (India and Asia), NUFFOODS Spectrum and AgroSpectrum, received awards for two of its shows. Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023, encapsulating Biotechnology, bagged the award as the Grand Conference, while the Start Up Mahakumbh 2024 received awards as Top Start-Up India Promotion Show and 1st runner up in the category Top New Show (B2C). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2226/agwa-and-believer-meats-to-develop-cultivated-meat-capabilities-in-abu-dhabi.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2226/agwa-and-believer-meats-to-develop-cultivated-meat-capabilities-in-abu-dhabi.html Mon, 17 Jun 2024 02:25:48 +0530 AGWA aims to capitalize on technological advancements to address shifting dietary patterns and support global food security AGWA (AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance), Abu Dhabi’s new food and water cluster, and Believer Meats, a global leader in the cultivated meat industry, announced their collaboration to develop capabilities in cultivated meat, including an opportunity for the company to establish a presence in Abu Dhabi, aiming to leverage the Emirate's strategic location and resources to further its growth in the Middle East & North African (“MENA”) region. Believer Meats will pursue establishing a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi that can support commercial operations for regional market expansion, product manufacturing, and research and development. Bringing these industry-leading capabilities and job opportunities to the region will play a key role in supporting AGWA’s goal to lead global efforts in tackling food security and water scarcity. AGWA aims to capitalize on technological advancements to address shifting dietary patterns and support global food security for a reliable and resilient supply chain. The cluster will lead the sector, driving advancements in areas like alternative proteins, functional ingredients, algae farming, and reverse osmosis membranes, while enhancing traditional food and water production and supply. A leader in the growing cultivated meat industry, Believer Meats is focused on developing the world’s most efficient and scalable cell-cultivation production technology to make safe, healthy, and delicious cultivated meat products. The company is currently constructing the largest cultivated meat production facility in the world in North Carolina, USA, after its series B fundraise in 2021, which was supported by ADM, S2G Ventures and others. The factory will feature a state-of-the-art innovation center and tasting kitchen, and is set to be operational by the end of 2024. This strategic collaboration with AGWA aligns with Believer Meats' vision for a global platform, offering an opportunity to demonstrate a scalable, replicable model to effectively enter and thrive in additional markets. AGWA and Believer Meats will also explore establishing a Believer Meats Innovation Academy dedicated to sustainable food technologies and developing future talent in collaboration with Abu Dhabi-based universities and research centers. AGWA will also work with Believer Meats to establish a regulatory pathway and halal certification standards for cultivated meat products in Abu Dhabi. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2179/brazils-fs-set-to-produce-the-worlds-first-carbon-negative-corn-ethanol.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2179/brazils-fs-set-to-produce-the-worlds-first-carbon-negative-corn-ethanol.html Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:33:17 +0530 First carbon-negative industry, that only uses second-crop corn as a raw material and renewable biomass from planted forests as an energy source FS, one of the largest producers of ethanol and animal nutrition in Brazil, has just completed technical studies that prove suitable geological conditions for injecting carbon dioxide (CO2), emitted in the fermentation phase of biofuel production, in the subsoil. Hence, the company can become the world's first ethanol producer with a negative carbon footprint and the first to develop BECCS technology (acronym in English for bioenergy production with carbon capture and storage) in the production of ethanol outside the U.S., as announced by the Brazil's Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, during the 3rd Energy Transition Working Group, G20 meeting, which took place in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. The adoption of the technology will prevent the release of approximately 423 thousand tons of CO2 into the atmosphere per year by the industry's operation in Lucas do Rio Verde (MT). Subsequently, the solution can be implemented in other industrial units of the company, reaching a potential for removing CO2 from the atmosphere of more than 1.8 million tons of carbon per year. The technology is an innovative solution for capturing carbon, one of the main causes of the greenhouse effect, and injecting it underground into deep geological layers, where it will be safely stored for thousands of years, without influencing global warming. Currently, there are only two ethanol producers in the world with BECCS technology in operation, both in the United States. Mato Grosso's industry, however, will be the first carbon-negative industry, as it only uses second-crop corn as a raw material and renewable biomass from planted forests as an energy source. FS CEO, Rafael Abud. "In addition to utilization in automobiles, ethanol produced with the technology can be used to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and marine fuel, making Brazilian ethanol increasingly one of the largest contributors to the world's energy transition". As soon as the senate approves the regulation of the activity – included in the bill for the Fuel of the Future program –, FS will invest an additional R$350 million in the implementation of equipment to capture, dehydrate, compress and inject CO2 underground. Work could begin later this year, with completion scheduled for the end of 2025. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2146/innovative-hydrosome-labs-technology-poised-to-usher-in-new-era-of-precision-fermentation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2146/innovative-hydrosome-labs-technology-poised-to-usher-in-new-era-of-precision-fermentation.html Fri, 17 May 2024 11:18:55 +0530 Research Shows New Process Doubles Precision Fermentation Yields and Decreases Production Time A new research with innovative technology from Chicago-based Hydrosome Labs is poised to solve multiple problems faced in precision fermentation, a process that involves the customization of yeast and/or bacteria to produce specific molecules for use in a wide variety of applications including food, ingredients, biofuels, industrial enzymes, and pharmaceuticals. This new technology also has the potential to help solve a global industry bottleneck in fermentation capacity and equipment, allowing for the production of dramatically higher yields in the same size or previously unsuitable tanks. The breakthrough comes through Hydrosome Labs’ development of a natural and chemical-free process improving the power of water through the emerging science of ultrafine bubbles. The clean, green technology delivers active ingredients to cells more efficiently and completely. In addition to more efficient precision fermentations, commercial applications include helping plants grow faster and healthier with less fertilizer, improving nutrient uptake in skin care, and delivering faster, longer lasting, and enhanced hydration in performance drinks. "It’s truly exciting to see how easily the ultrafine bubbles produced by Hydrosome’s technology integrated into our pilot scale reactors and showed immediate benefit to microbial growth,” said Brian Jacobson, Associate Director of Strategic Operation at the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Laboratory (IBRL) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. “While there have been significant advances in synthetic biology resulting in a tremendous number of new products capable of being made through fermentation, we have seen very little innovation in the fermentation process or equipment to assist in scaling these discoveries. This technology has the potential to positively impact the economics of new products in a wide range of industries and can also be applied to existing processes or retrofit last generation fermentation equipment currently unsuitable for these new products,” said Jacobson. Hydrosome’s preliminary evaluation at IBRL showed that substituting Hydrosome H2O for regular water in an example fermentation resulted in: 2X faster cell doubling rate 25% less overall fermentation time 2X higher peak cell biomass The bottom-line benefits to the industry include faster fermentations, higher yields, lower energy and nutrient inputs, lower labor costs, higher efficiencies, no added chemicals, and no regulatory impact. Paul Gadbut, CEO of Hydrosome Labs said the “future is now” and called the breakthrough “a win for manufacturers, consumers, and investors alike.” He also noted the sustainability benefits of allowing manufacturers to do more with less, use fewer chemicals, fewer nutrients, reduce environmental impact, and shorten supply chains. Precision fermentation encompasses a portion of a nearly $200 billion-dollar biomanufacturing industry spread across contract manufacturers and vertically integrated global companies. Hydrosome Labs completed a seed funding round last year and expects to close a Series A Round this summer. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2143/gea-begins-construction-of-technology-center-for-alternative-proteins-in-the-usa.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2143/gea-begins-construction-of-technology-center-for-alternative-proteins-in-the-usa.html Fri, 17 May 2024 10:57:58 +0530 New technology center will develop industry-ready alternatives to meat, dairy, seafood and egg GEA has begun construction of its technology center for alternative proteins in Janesville, WI (USA). Scheduled to open in 2025, the center will scale up the production of novel plant-based, microbial, and cell-based foods. Here, GEA aims to support manufacturers in meeting the demand for complementary proteins and ingredients to traditional animal-based products. “This investment underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability in the food industry,” said Arpad Csay, who leads GEA’s new food activities in North America, at the groundbreaking ceremony on May 8, 2024. The center will house pilot lines for cell cultivation and precision fermentation, bridging the gap between benchtop and commercial production of alternative proteins. “The technology center will offer foodtech businesses a platform to develop and derisk their processes to ensure technological and commercial viability. It helps startups in the sector implement a business strategy that requires little upfront investment. This way, we help accelerate the development of market-ready products.” Educational cluster for food technology and the local economy Senior GEA representatives have emphasized the importance of this project as an engine for future growth and innovation in the Midwest, a region with a strong agricultural tradition. Arpad Csay: “Novel food production methods are going to gain prominence in the coming decades. This development will require a diverse pool of skilled professionals from operators in the plants to bioprocessing engineers designing production systems and scientists pushing boundaries through research and development. Our technology center will help develop this future workforce by educating students and young professionals about the underlying biology and bioprocesses. We are excited to work with community colleges and universities to build these competencies in the region.” Pioneering project aligned with sustainability goals All of the energy needed for the 1,200-square-meter building will be obtained from renewable sources. For instance, heat pumps and systems powered by electricity will replace the natural gas conventionally used for building technology and process equipment. A ground-mounted photovoltaic system is to generate 290 MWh of electricity per year, exceeding the energy requirement by at least a quarter. The surplus energy will be fed into the grid. This photovoltaic system is expandable, so that green energy can continue to be generated when process demands increase in the future. This setup underscores GEA’s strategy to become a net-zero operation by 2040. Ongoing commitment to resource-efficient food tech The new plant, which will complement an existing production facility in Janesville, underscores GEA’s commitment to innovative, sustainable technologies. It is slated to be fully operational in 2025. By diversifying the industries based locally, the center is expected to strengthen the grassroots economy as well as enhance the region’s attractiveness for collaborative research projects and other services. As a scaling partner for market players in this field, GEA will contribute to reducing the environmental impact of food production and improving food security. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2141/slurryforsoil-new-formulation-reduces-cost-and-carbon-footprint-from-dairy.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/2141/slurryforsoil-new-formulation-reduces-cost-and-carbon-footprint-from-dairy.html Fri, 17 May 2024 10:50:26 +0530 SlurryForSoil’s new concentrated formula will lower costs for dairy farmers while reducing the product’s carbon footprint The new formulation is four times more concentrated, giving users the same performance at a fraction of the cost while also reducing the packaging required, and lowering the weight.  It will be launched at Dairy Tech on 7th February 2024 at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. “The new formulation has enabled us to reduce the cost of production and we’re passing that saving onto our customers,” explains Sylgen Animal Health Director, Romney Jackson. “Farmers will save 37% per treatment. Which, when combined with the reduced need for fertiliser and improved grass growth, gives an average return on investment of £9.50 to £24 for every £1 spent on SlurryForSoil.  “With less packaging and reduced weight for transport, the new formulation lowers the product’s environmental impact too.”  The award-winning slurry inoculant contains 18 different fungi and bacteria, selected for their abilities to improve soil and plant health.  Proven to increase grass quantity and quality, SlurryForSoil™ has been recognised for its contribution to both the bottom line and the environment. “SlurryForSoil does far more than break down slurry and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from stores,” says Romney. “It’s designed to turn slurry into a highly-effective biologically-active fertiliser. SlurryForSoil™ captures nutrients in slurry in a microbial form, when the slurry is spread on grassland, it inoculates the soil with key plant and soil beneficial microbes. All of the microbes in the product have been independently proven to increase plant growth – whether that’s through the provision of nutrients as and when plants need them, improved tolerance to stress or increased defence against pests and pathogens.  “When it comes to slurry inoculants, SlurryForSoil™ is leading the way and we’re now seeing others follow,” he says. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1833/veolia-water-technologies-redevelops-brownfield-site%C2%A0for-its-first-ion-exchange-regeneration-facility-in-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1833/veolia-water-technologies-redevelops-brownfield-site%C2%A0for-its-first-ion-exchange-regeneration-facility-in-china.html Tue, 26 Mar 2024 23:36:22 +0530 Water purification for strategic industries Veolia Water Technologies, a subsidiary of Veolia and a leading specialist in water treatment technologies and services, is redeveloping a brownfield site for its first ion exchange regeneration facility in China. The plant will be an integral part of its service deionization and mobile water treatment ecosystems and will improve supply chain resilience, regenerating and recycling the resins used in water treatment processes. This reliable source gives industries with the need for treated and ultrapure water — such as microelectronics, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, power and food and beverage — assurance of supply without compromising sustainability.  An investment of €10 million for the development of this new ion exchange regeneration service center and expansion of Veolia’s mobile assets in China signifies the company’s commitment to advancing the capabilities of its mobile fleet in Asia Pacific. Strategically located in the densely populated Changshu industrial zone, the plant will function as an operation and maintenance center for all associated assets. The Changshu regeneration facility is expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2024. This new plant is part of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), which aims to develop a circular economy and resource recycling. It will complement Veolia’s current resin regeneration and recycling service center in Penang, Malaysia, enhancing support to customers within the Asia Pacific region. The facility will span approximately 6,000 square meters, the size of four football fields. The investment is inline with Veolia’s commitment to sustainable redevelopment and ecological transformation. Built upon a brownfield site, the completed plant will boast a production capacity of 60 kL/d for mobile water services and 5 kL/d for service deionization, and will be Veolia’s first ion exchange regeneration facility in China. Similar plants are available in the Middle East, Latin America, North America and Europe. From a sustainability perspective, the plant will incorporate ingenious water recycling systems, reducing city water consumption by up to 60%, preserving water for residents. Plans for a photovoltaic power supply and efficient transformers are in progress, and the facility will adopt state-of-the-art technology to efficiently recycle spent ion exchange resins, promoting resource optimization and sustainability. These actions accelerate decarbonization efforts by reducing power consumption and therefore lowering the site’s carbon footprint. In addition to environmental benefits, the plant's operation will create employment opportunities for the local community, and Veolia will focus on knowledge transfer and the upskilling of the local team as part of the company’s commitment to talent development. The implementation of these initiatives reflects Veolia’s commitment to achieving a multifaceted performance, which includes fostering economic growth and providing valuable resources to the communities in which it operates. The strategic investment is poised to bring multifaceted benefits to manufacturers and customers in the country. With the capability for swift mobilization and turnaround, Veolia aims to minimize operational disruptions, offering a reliable partnership for business continuity and security of treated water supply. The plant’s continuous production capacity ensures resilience against operational challenges, from supplier shutdowns to climatic conditions impacting installed equipment. Daniel NOGUEIRA, Chief Executive Officer of Veolia Water Technologies China, said: "This investment represents a crucial step forward for Veolia Water Technologies, highlighting our dedication to both technological advancement and sustainability. It also demonstrates that our dedication to sustainability is not mere rhetoric but rather a tangible action that makes a meaningful difference at the core of our operations. We are committed to growing sustainably, aligned with China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), which aims to develop a circular economy and resource recycling." ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1882/biomar-appoints-new-vp-for-asia-to-lead-animal-nutrition-and-aquaculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1882/biomar-appoints-new-vp-for-asia-to-lead-animal-nutrition-and-aquaculture.html Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:03:25 +0530 To lead the growth strategy for the Asian markets BioMar appoints Cedric van den Bossche as Vice President for the Asia division to operate from business units in Vietnam and China Cedric van den Bossche is joining BioMar as the new Vice Presidents to build up businesses in the Asian markets. As VP for Asia, he will be working out of China, developing the product portfolio and the market strategies for the Asian markets together with the local teams. Furthermore, he will take lead looking into new opportunities for developing BioMar across Asia. “BioMar has built a solid position in the Chinese market, created a strong global market position within the shrimp feed segment, and started the penetration of the Vietnamese market. There is huge potential for further growth in Asia and I am sure Cedric is bringing both the right entrepreneurial spirit and the solid management experience we need to accelerate the further growth in the region”, explains Carlos Diaz CEO BioMar Group and continues. Currently François-Marie LOUBERE is serving as the Vice President for the Asia division at BioMar. After a transition period, Cedric van den Bossche will take over from Francois Loubere, who will be retiring after more than 30 years in BioMar. BioMar is a leading high performance diets producer for more than 45 different fish and shrimp species in more than 80 countries. The Danish fish farmers, BioMar’s heritage is committed to developing the aquaculture industry in a responsible and sustainable way. The EMEA Division covers Europe, Middle East & Africa region, and involves all operations in business units in Denmark, France, Spain, Greece and Turkey. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1905/evonik-manufactures-first-product-from-worlds-first-industrial-scale-rhamnolipid-biosurfactant-plant.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1905/evonik-manufactures-first-product-from-worlds-first-industrial-scale-rhamnolipid-biosurfactant-plant.html Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:11:00 +0530 Industrial-scale facility for sustainable biosurfactants that has been completed ahead of schedule at its site in Slovakia Evonik has manufactured the first product from its industrial-scale facility for sustainable biosurfactants that has been completed ahead of schedule at its site in Slovakia. The new plant is the first worldwide to produce sustainable rhamnolipid biosurfactants. Evonik’s rhamnolipids are exceptionally high quality and provide the company with a unique market position due to the IP-protected, fermentation-based manufacturing process. Rhamnolipids and other sustainable biosurfactants in Evonik’s portfolio draw on the company’s biotechnology platform in its life sciences division, Nutrition & Care. Driven by sustainability, the division is using innovative biosolutions to address the challenges of biocircular care through closed-loop carbon systems, while maintaining high functionality and preserving biodiversity. “Our high-performance rhamnolipids are setting a precedent, not only at Evonik, but as part of a broader sustainable chemicals revolution. We are excited to be leading the way with our biosolutions,” said Johann-Caspar Gammelin, president of Evonik’s Nutrition & Care division. “Completing this plant ahead of schedule is a milestone for our business and a testament to our technical expertise, but most importantly, it enables our customers to bring more sustainable cleaning and personal care products to market faster,” said Yann d'Hervé, head of Evonik's Care Solutions business line. Rhamnolipids are a class of biosurfactants that are sustainably manufactured via a fermentation process using European corn sugar as the main raw material. This biogenic, carbon-based process does not require petrochemical feedstocks or tropical oils. Rhamnolipids are fully biodegradable and offer a sustainable alternative to conventional surfactants due to their biobased raw materials, and low toxicological and ecotoxicological profile. Their exceptional foam-forming properties and mildness make them ideal for use in household cleaners and personal care products such as shampoos and micellar waters. They also offer superior performance for industrial applications such as coatings, mining and oil and gas. Evonik Fermas, located in Slovenská Ľupča in Slovakia, was founded in 1992 as a joint venture between Degussa AG and Biotika a.s. The company initially produced amino acids for animal feed using biotechnology, but in 1998 became a 100 percent subsidiary of Evonik, expanding its expertise to include the production of fermentation-based products for animal nutrition, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care. In 2016, Evonik Fermas ran the first pilot plant for the production of sustainable biosurfactants via fermentation. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1663/international-fertilizer-association-ifa-and-agri-benchmark-launch-major-global-fertilizer-consumption-project.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1663/international-fertilizer-association-ifa-and-agri-benchmark-launch-major-global-fertilizer-consumption-project.html Wed, 27 Dec 2023 09:47:35 +0530 The global project aim is to make the use of fertilizers in global crop production transparent to the public and to all stakeholders, The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) and agri benchmark Cash Crop have announced the start of a joint project aimed at collecting data on the quantity of fertilizer used in key crops within all major fertilizer-consuming countries. The project represents a significant move to further monitor fertilizer usage in crop production around the world. Following the completion of a successful pilot project to test and refine a methodology across seven countries in six continents, the global project roll-out will now begin. Its aim is to make the use of fertilizers in global crop production transparent to the public and to all stakeholders, using agri benchmark’s bottom-up approach to data collection to understand at a sub-regional level how a country’s key crops contribute to the national quantity of fertilizer consumed.] Fertilizer use in crop production is a topical and important issue: on the one hand, fertilizers are the cornerstone of improved crop growth and an important means to ensure global food security. On the other hand, inefficient use of fertilizers can be harmful to the environment. Furthermore, nitrogen is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. The new project will deliver the following key outputs: Regional and national averages in nutrient application per hectare of the key field crops and perennial crops that make up >70% of arable land use. Regional and national averages in nutrient application per hectare of grassland. Estimates for national fertilizer use in crop production and grassland in total. Specific fertilizer use per ton of crop output. The global roll-out of the project will be phased over three years with a focus on different global regions in each year. Dr Yelto Zimmer, head of agri benchmark, said, "We are very excited to be expanding our collaboration with IFA to work on the global roll-out in monitoring fertilizer use in crop production. Our aim is to become a hub for knowledge in global crop production, and this project will certainly strengthen the breadth and depth of data that we collect in that regard.” Achim Dobermann, Chief Scientist at IFA, commented, "This project will systematically collect information on fertilizer use and other important agronomic practices, which we urgently need for improving global and national databases on nutrient use, balance and efficiency". ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1661/syngenta-opens-its-technology-rd-hub-in-latin-america-to-develop-new-corn-hybrids.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1661/syngenta-opens-its-technology-rd-hub-in-latin-america-to-develop-new-corn-hybrids.html Tue, 26 Dec 2023 12:07:37 +0530 The facility includes 14 new greenhouses that simulate the same temperature, humidity, and light conditions Syngenta announced that its Aracati facility in Brazil has become the primary technological hub for research and development of new corn hybrids in all of Latin America.  This innovation powerhouse in the interior of Ceará is responsible for supplying corn hybrids to the North American market, and it will make new technologies available in the region in a shorter timeframe. Alongside a laboratory and two netted areas, the facility includes 14 new greenhouses that simulate the same temperature, humidity, and light conditions as the region where the new seeds are being developed. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1660/china-held-two-agricultural-forums-on-modern-agricultural-development-in-nanjing.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1660/china-held-two-agricultural-forums-on-modern-agricultural-development-in-nanjing.html Thu, 21 Dec 2023 20:14:00 +0530 Wu Kongming, President of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences calls for improving overall arrangements for basic research, technology R&D, support facilities, and the promotion and application of R&D results Chinese agriculture and rural affairs 2023 Forum was held in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. The Forum was followed by the Forum on Modern Agricultural Development in China. The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences President, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and President of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, attended the event.   Wu pointed out that to achieve the goal of building up China’s agricultural strength at a faster pace, it is imperative to improve overall arrangements for basic research, technology R&D, support facilities, and the promotion and application of R&D results; coordinate the integrated allocation of systems, projects, talent, and funds; and apply advanced technologies in agriculture and rural areas to ensure the stable and safe supply of grain and major agricultural products, propel all-round rural revitalization, and achieve high-quality agricultural development.  Wu put forth the following proposals:  1) Make breakthroughs in key technologies and strive to develop a group of core technologies and products with independent intellectual property rights in areas such as seed resources  2) Stick to demand-oriented development and strengthen grassroots systems and teams responsible for agricultural technology promotion  3) Work hard to improve the overall performance of innovation systems and address challenges in agricultural S&T development such as fragmented or duplicate efforts and a low commercialization rate  4) Focus on establishing platforms and training talent, and push for building agricultural labs, observation and experimental stations, and testing bases 5) Continuously stimulate innovation, further promote the classification and evaluation of talent and achievements, and establish an institutional system with effective incentives and forceful constraints.   The forums included themed events such as announcements of agricultural achievements, presentations and high-level dialogues with academicians, exchanges among universities co-sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and a youth report on soybean breeding.  A total of five special reports were released at the forums, including  Major Progress in Agricultural Sciences in China, 2023; Analysis of China's Global Competitiveness in Agricultural S&T Papers and Patents, 2023; Major New Technologies, Products and Equipment in Chinese Agriculture and Rural Affairs, 2023; Research Hotspots and Frontiers in Global Agriculture, 2023; and Report on Innovation in Chinese Agricultural Enterprises, 2023.   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1433/iot-driven-supply-chain-management-and-smart-storage-gain-greater-farm-efficiency.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1433/iot-driven-supply-chain-management-and-smart-storage-gain-greater-farm-efficiency.html Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:32:36 +0530 The pandemic has made the limitations and unreliability of the previous model more evident. The lead time needed to guarantee shipping, for example, jumped from around three weeks to five months. Convinced of the opportunity to update its processes, Blue Diamond Growers began implementing the SAP Transportation Management and SAP Business Network for Logistics solution with XpertMinds, an SAP implementation partner for supply chain and logistics, enhanced with an integration between SAP Business Network Global Track and Trace and project44's platform to connect critical visibility data.  The new capability, combined with the previously adopted SAP Integrated Business Planning solution, provided Blue Diamond with a complete planning solution from demand and supply to logistics to deliver an enhanced customer experience. Before adopting the digital solution, Blue Diamond Growers managed $300 million in supply chain and logistics functions using a collection of independent documents, spreadsheets and processes. This complicated system relied on time-consuming and error-prone manual operations, offered extremely limited opportunities to run scenarios or simulations, and made it nearly impossible for customer service representatives to gain accurate visibility into critical order information. As a result, the organization achieved not only $1 million in annual transportation cost savings, but also targets such as a 20% reduction in on-hand inventory and a 99% fill rate on customer orders (vs. 89% average in your sector of activity). The success story shows how Blue Diamond Growers, founded in 1910, is able to combine tradition and innovation, using new technologies to increase operational efficiency. With the new solution for the supply chain, the company can now count on unified, flexible and dynamic planning; real-time cargo visibility; resource optimization; and better human capital management, with the elimination of tedious processes for filling out/updating electronic spreadsheets. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1382/beno-relaunches-oil-free-compressed-air-systems-to-benefit-fish-farms-and-agriculture-sectors.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1382/beno-relaunches-oil-free-compressed-air-systems-to-benefit-fish-farms-and-agriculture-sectors.html Mon, 11 Sep 2023 08:08:00 +0530 BOGE re-issues EO series for food & beverage, pharmaceutical, medical water treatment, fish farms, electronics, automotive and agriculture sectors BOGE, manufacturer of compressed air systems, has re-issued its tried-and-tested EO series and expanded its performance range to 30 kW. This means these very quiet and compact models can now be used for more applications including in fish farms and agriculture sectors. The EO series is very popular in sensitive work environments in particular with high demands for oil-free use and process safety. In the small to medium output performance range, they press hometheir advantage with their oil-free, quiet and low-vibration scroll compressors. In order to meet the demand for compact scroll compressors with higher performance, BOGE has introduced a 30 kW model. There are three sizes of compressors for performance ranges of 4 to 7 kW, 11 to 23 kW, and 30 kW. The design principle ensures totally oil-free compressed air generation. “This smart control concept as well as the quiet, efficient and oil-free operation in connection with a small footprint, make the EO series particularly attractive for use in medical technology as well as agriculture where a high level of availability is required,” says Nalin Amunugama, General Manager, BOGE Kompressoren Asia Pacific. Flexible adjustment to compressed air requirements While two compressors are integrated in the EO 11 and EO 15 types, the EO 23 type has three and the EO 30 type has four compressors that can be individually controlled using focus control 2.0. In this way, the system can be perfectly adapted to the relevant requirements. Furthermore, it ensures process safety and creates redundancies because compressors can be flexibly added or turned off. The compressor can also be equipped with a compressed air receiver, as a duplex system as well as with an integrated or external refrigerant dryer. The changes in compressor performance and dimension result in lower purchasing costs and higher efficiency, which is partly explained by the reduction in mechanical losses. Compressor type EO 7, for example, is available with a smaller housing and includes a scroll compressor, while two compressors were integrated in a medium-sized housing in the previous EO 8 type. Two-stage aftercooling ensures optimised outlet temperatures. The compressors have been designed for a pressure dew point of 3°C. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1357/iotechworld-avigation-partners-swiss-company-pix4d-offering-precision-farming-solutions-in-india.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1357/iotechworld-avigation-partners-swiss-company-pix4d-offering-precision-farming-solutions-in-india.html Fri, 01 Sep 2023 12:50:51 +0530 Collaboration aims to foster awareness around drone-enabled crop health monitoring and enhance on-farm drone application skills among the rural youths Drone manufacturer IoTechWorld Avigation has collaborated with Switzerland headquartered company Pix4D that specializes in photogrammetry software technology to jointly offer precision farming solutions in the India. The agreement also aims to create employment opportunities for rural youth by preparing them to use drones on farms. IoTechWorld is the manufacturer of India’s 1st DGCA Type certified agri-drone ‘AGRIBOT’ and is the pioneer in this segment. Whereas, Switzerland-headquartered Pix4D is recognized for its Pix4Dfields Software, a cutting-edge solution designed for advanced agricultural mapping. The software process RGB and multispectral data for aerial crop analysis and digital farming. Pix4D has offices in 7 countries across multiple continents meeting the requirements of these as well as neighboring countries. Deepak Bhardwaj, Co-Founder and Director, IoTechWorld Avigation said, “We are witnessing agri-drone revolution in the country and gradually we are moving towards precision farming. Our association is to foster awareness about drone-enabled crop health monitoring.” Anoop Upadhyay, Co-Founder and Director, IoTechWorld Avigation said, “Initially our approach involves creation of awareness among Industry, Researchers, and Academia. Subsequently, we will create awareness among farmers as well.” Expressing the rationale behind the association, Mitul Arora, Business Development Lead - India & South Asia, Pix4D said, “IoTechWorld has drone technology and multi-spectral sensors by the name Sequoia and now they will have our photogrammetry technology too. So, through this association, a one-stop solution will be provided to all, and this will be beneficial for the govt research institutes, crop insurance and other associated specialized tasks.” IoTechWorld and Pix4D collaboratively orchestrated the "India’s largest Workshop for Crop Health Monitoring using drones, with Cody Sokkappa of Pix4D Japan as the lead instructor. Earlier this year, the company got into a partnership with Syngenta India Pvt. Ltd. (SIPL) for the introduction of drone spraying in the agriculture sector across the country.  The agriculture sector in India is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, and technology adoption is at an unprecedented rate, thus this association will allow technology to be integrated more deeply and faster in a variety of agricultural spheres. The Government of India is planning to soon launch a scheme through which women in around 15,000 self-help groups (SHGs) would be trained to fly and repair drones. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1266/australian-ramps-up-agri-trade-relationships-with-asian-international-markets.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1266/australian-ramps-up-agri-trade-relationships-with-asian-international-markets.html Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:14:01 +0530 In 2022, Australia recorded 107 technical market access achievements worth a potential $5.47 billion and 2023 is continuing to advance; Strengthens trade partnership with India, Thailand and China As part of its efforts to ensure Australian farmers, processors, and exporters have access to international markets as much as possible in 2023, Australia is garing up with new initiatives. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the first half of this year had been very successful in opening the sector to new markets, improving and maintaining existing markets, and restoring access if it has been lost. Government is making efforts to protect and grow the agricultural trade market. “Across Australia one in four jobs relies on trade so access to international markets is essential for the profitability of Australia’s export-focussed agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors. We are growing trade and market access for agriculture as key priorities with incredible progress in a short time” said Minister Watt. Minister Watt said India continues to be a fruitful trading partner for Australian agriculture. “The recent Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) has seen improved conditions and new market access opened to enable trade of Australian Hass avocados and Indian okra fruit between the countries. Under the AI-ECTA, we have also successfully removed tariffs on Australian sheep meat, rock lobster, wool, most woods and pulps, and hides and skins.” Market access for Australian products is improving in a number of different countries around the world, according to Minstrel reports. “The recently signed UK-FTA is already proving beneficial to Aussie farmers. The first shipment of raw sugar was loaded in Townsville and sent to the United Kingdom last month, with that new market worth more than $74 million to the sugar industry alone. We have also had success with Thailand opening market access for Australian avocados from Western Australia and for Thai cooked duck meat. Most recently there have been positive developments in the reinstatement of trade in timber and the removal of tariffs from Australian barley to China. We have also improved access for dairy to Chile through the removal of periodic in-country audits, and new access for seafood to Israel” explained Minister Watt. In 2022, Australia recorded 107 technical market access achievements worth a potential $5.47 billion and 2023 is continuing to advance these successes. Recent key achievements include:  Gaining new market access for Australian peaches and nectarines to Vietnam, resulting in more than $1 million of exports. Stonefruit exports to Vietnam are expected to grow in coming years. This achievement complements the 0% tariff now available to Australian exporters under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. Working with industry to safeguard Australia’s $14.7 billion red meat export industry. Supporting Australian infant formula exporters to access the United States, leading to more than $19 million of infant formula exports. Improving access for Australian poultry meat exports to Singapore, which contributed to a 106% increase in exports. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1113/angel-yeast-strikes-deals-with-hubei-academy-of-agri-sciences-to-boost-agricultural-industrialization.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1113/angel-yeast-strikes-deals-with-hubei-academy-of-agri-sciences-to-boost-agricultural-industrialization.html Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:18:01 +0530 Collaboration will help Angel Yeast make solid breakthroughs in the organic agriculture sector Angel Yeast  a world leader in yeast manufacturing, recently signed agreements with the Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences to conduct research and development initiatives in agricultural microbiology and plant and animal nutrition. The two parties will work together to stimulate agricultural industrialization that will improve efficiency and provide substantial benefits to farmers. Since 2016, beginning with research to set standards and conduct product evaluations, Angel Yeast has conducted a series of cooperative projects with the Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences . In 2022, they have intensified their efforts in R&D of microbial products in agriculture based on yeast sources. With its advanced yeast fermentation technologies, Angel Yeast is the forerunner in plant and animal nutrition products that has pioneered many innovations in the industry, from yeast-based organic fertilizers to microbial foods, produced by the company. Qin Xianwu, Chief Engineer of Angel Yeast, said, "This collaboration will help Angel Yeast make solid breakthroughs in the organic agriculture sector while striving to actively integrate into regional, national agricultural development. and global. The recent collaboration builds on Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences ' significant talent and technology platform advantages and Angel Yeast's strengths in commercial operation and integration into the sector, with a focus on: The development of microbial and probiotic products in the field of fertilizers and products intended for animal and aquaculture nutrition. Pursuing innovation in media culture products to diversify the food supply to build a more balanced and resilient food system. Expand the application of organic yeast-based fertilizers in rice, citrus fruits, tea leaves and upland vegetables to ensure food security. In addition to this collaboration, Angel Yeast has also put in place a strategic plan to expand its activities in organic farming to include: Agricultural Food Safety : Leveraging the advantages of yeast fermentation technology, the Company will focus on the development of new, safe and effective feed additives, biostimulants and biopesticides. Alleviating Resource Scarcity : Angel Yeast will rely more on fermentation and pre-treatment technologies to improve raw material efficiency, better utilize industrial and agricultural waste, and increase crop yield. Improving the nutrition of agricultural products : more products will be developed to improve the flavor and nutrition of meat and vegetables while expanding the range of bioproducts through new technologies such as synthetic biology (SynBio). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1018/indonesia-is-strengthening-agri-operations-for-a-better-sustainable-future.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/1018/indonesia-is-strengthening-agri-operations-for-a-better-sustainable-future.html Thu, 01 Jun 2023 11:23:24 +0530 Kelvin Tio, Managing Director at Indonesia's Asian Agri, explains Vietnam’s Asian Agri 2030 (AA2030) commitments and contribution to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) With the growing impact of climate change, Asian Agri acknowledges our responsibility of ensuring the transparency of our business. Throughout our history, apart from focusing our attention on environmental aspects, we have always placed social and economic development at the heart of our business. We are committed to performing the sustainable transformation of our industry, providing opportunities for our people and surrounding communities. Indonesia has made great strides in cementing its role as a key player in the palm oil industry. It is our commitment to deliver positive impacts beyond compliance. We believe that is our contribution to shaping sustainability in the market and society, transcending the impacts as we do not merely focus on our company. We are working towards Increasing Interest in Sustainability and the host nation’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)3, there is an urgency for industries relying on natural capital to integrate sustainability and climate considerations into their overall business strategy. As countries ramped up their climate pledges, there are expectations for the private sector to support and follow suit. For instance, Indonesia has identified the land use, land use change, and forestry (LULUCF) sectors as key focus areas in achieving this target. Furthermore, understanding that palm oil is a major commodity in Indonesia, we recognize increasingly stringent government regulations on the sector. Consequently, our key stakeholders are placing greater scrutiny on Asian Agri’s sustainability and climate strategy, targets, and performance. As a company that has long embraced sustainability, we see this growing interest as an opportunity to drive innovation within our operations. We believe that AA2030 is able to contribute to addressing the challenges in securing sustainable development. Embarking on AA2030 Journey We proudly launched AA2030 in early 2022. They consist of our commitments and targets to positively contribute to our local community, country, global climate, smallholders and to our company. AA2030 was developed with careful consideration in the hope that we can continue to make positive contributions when conducting our business. We believe that holistic and balanced endeavors in both environmental and social aspects are key to achieving a successful contribution. 2022 was our first year in delivering greater progress and embarking on our AA2030 journey. We strive to make our way in moving forward with sixteen targets that are classified under four pillars that we set in AA2030. •  Under the Smallholder Partnership pillar, we are intensifying the replanting program for smallholders and aiming to double the smallholders’ income through the replanting program. Besides replanting, we focus on supporting smallholders to get certification towards sustainability standards such as ISPO for scheme smallholders and RSPO for independent smallholders. •  For the Inclusive Growth Pillar, we are working closely with the local government to make programs in eradicating poverty surrounding our operational area by empowering SMEs, and providing vocational trainings and educational scholarships. As part of our commitment to our consumers, we also separate food and non-food grade oil to ensure food safety of our products. •  Following the success of the One-to-One Partnership program, we are making progress in our One-to-One Restoration program in Climate Positive Pillar. The program is our own initiative to contribute positively to the global climate. We also put our efforts into achieving Net Zero Emissions from our operations, aligning our company to contribute to the global agenda. One among our initiatives is to increase our use of renewable energy to 100% in 2030. •  We also aspire to enhance our operational excellence under the Responsible and Sustainable Production Pillar, by reducing our pesticides uses in our plantations and promoting environmentally friendly measures in controlling pests and diseases. Asian Agri also strives to enhance our long-standing commitment to intensify our productivity without opening up new land and to implement circular economy best practices. Integrating Climate Science into Our Business In line with our commitment to transform Asian Agri into a Climate Positive business, we strengthened the foundations of our climate journey this year by conducting a carbon footprint assessment. The assessment was done for our Scope 1 and 2 emissions in accordance with ISO 14064-1 and the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, covering 30 of our own estates, 22 mills, and 4 offices. The findings helped us understand the trends of our emissions within our operations, where we were able to develop a roadmap of reduction and mitigation initiatives to help us reach our net zero emissions from the land-use target by 2030. Strengthening Our Operational Management We understand that we need to have gradual and transformational changes in our operation to succeed in our purpose of improving lives by developing resources sustainably. On the plantation side, the replanting program is one of the key changes we focus on these years. Besides, we are also adapting digital transformation using emerging technologies available today such as GPS-enabled tablets to gain real time production and Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) transport monitoring, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) like drones, and Remote Sensing to extend our reach and analysis effectivity. Alongside this, we increase the capability of our people to adapt to the use of information technology to better manage our operation areas. On the mill side, we have equipped our mills with waste and residue oil recovery facilities to segregate our food-grade oil and non-food-grade oil for biodiesel and biofuel. This strategy is part of our commitment to consumer health and safety. In addition, we invested a lot in terms of retrofitting and modernizing our mill, including constructing and operating a biogas facility. In our case, the biogas facility is not only to capture methane emissions but also to replace biomass utilization for energy production through biogas combustion. In this case, we increase our efficiency in utilizing biomass and contribute to carbon reduction by selling the biomass to the open market as a fossil fuel substitution. In the future, we aim to build a biogas facility in each of our mills. These efforts are part of our take on circular economy practices. On the Research and Development (R&D) side as our key enabler, apart from continuing the optimization of traditional plant breeding, now we are also focusing on producing superior ramets through tissue culture techniques to speed up plant breeding and yield enhancement. We are proud to be among the few companies that can adopt this breakthrough in the palm oil industry. Paving the Ground Ahead Moving forward, Asian Agri will accelerate our work in integrating sustainability into our business and operational strategy, striving to live our vision to generate value for the Community, Country, Climate, Customer, and Company. We recognize that there will be challenges to overcome as we continue to realize our AA2030 targets and commitments, but we are confident in translating them into opportunities to grow our business sustainably. At Asian Agri, we are excited about this prospect, and we look forward to continuing working with our dedicated teams, business leaders, and partners to improve the livelihoods of our people and local communities toward a low-carbon future. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/993/tecnicas-reunidas-to-develop-worlds-first-zero-emission-nitrogen-fertiliser-plant.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/993/tecnicas-reunidas-to-develop-worlds-first-zero-emission-nitrogen-fertiliser-plant.html Mon, 29 May 2023 09:46:57 +0530 New plant to establish in USA with approx. $1 billion investment using proprietary technology that utilizes only air, water, and zero-carbon electricity as raw materials. Técnicas Reunidas has signed a contract with the green fertilizer company, Atlas Agro, for the development of a zero-carbon fertilizer plant, Pacific Green Fertilizer (PGF), in Richland, Washington, US. The plant will be the first of a series that Atlas Agro plans to build in multiple regions across the world. The estimated total investment is close to $1 billion. The nitrogen fertilizer plant will use proprietary technology for the main process units and will be one of the world’s first full scale zero-carbon nitrogen plant, using only air, water and zero-carbon electricity as raw materials.  Técnicas Reunidas will start the execution of the plant through an EPC contract. It will have the capacity to produce 650 000 tpy of calcium ammonium nitrate and will be composed of the following main units: ammonia, nitric acid, ammonium nitrate, calcium ammonium nitrate, calcium nitrate, electrolyzers and air separation. Atlas Agro is building a series of plants to provide the farmers with truly sustainable zero-carbon nitrogen fertilizer, made locally. Atlas Agro’s fertilizers not only improve crop yield and quality and help farmers care for their land and reduce their environmental impact, but also earns farmers premiums for their crops thereby increasing their incomes.  The Spanish company Técnicas Reunidas dominates in the sector internationally, with a presence in 25 countries and a track record of more than 1,000 industrial plants throughout its 60 years of experience. Técnicas Reunidas’ is mainly focused on the development of engineering projects, design and construction of industrial plants for the production of clean fuels, natural gas and chemical products, and solutions linked to the energy transition, circular economy and decarbonization (renewable hydrogen, biofuels, waste recovery, CO2 capture and storage, etc.). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/972/indonesian-fertilizer-giant-pupuk-kaltim-timur-pkt-to-invest-4b-on-expansion.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/972/indonesian-fertilizer-giant-pupuk-kaltim-timur-pkt-to-invest-4b-on-expansion.html Tue, 23 May 2023 09:27:00 +0530 Enters a multiorganisational partnership over a joint study on green ammonia production aimed at building a facility that can produce 1 million tones of green ammonia annually Pupuk Kalimantan Timur (PKT), the fertilizer giant with five Ammonia plant units and five Urea plant units in Indonesia has entered into a multiorganizational partnership on a research project investigating green ammonia production. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), PKT marks a significant milestone in efforts to achieve carbon-free ammonia production. PKT has collaborated with Copenhagen Atomics, Topsoe, Alfa Laval, Aalborg CSP, and Pertamina New & Renewable Energy to study green ammonia production by signing the MOU in Copenhagen, Denmark.The joint study will focus on building a facility that can produce 1 million tonnes of green ammonia per year, with an estimated investment of $4 billion.Green ammonia production involves the use of 100% renewable and carbon-free processes to manufacture ammonia. With the use of green hydrogen generated via water electrolysis, ammonia is produced without harmful carbon emissions. This breakthrough technology promises to transform ammonia production, ushering in a new era of sustainability and eco-friendliness. The study aims to overcome the challenge of energy intensity in producing green ammonia. Conventionally, the separation of ammonia from its reactants involves significant temperature and pressure fluctuations that rely on the use of fossil fuel energy. However, the study seeks to ascertain whether the use of Thorium-based nuclear technology can enable the production of ammonia without the use of hydrocarbon raw materials while remaining competitive in price.In line with its commitment to sustainability and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, PKT aims to replace all grey ammonia products produced using hydrocarbon raw materials with green ammonia, creating a more sustainable future for all. The President Director of PKT, Rahmad Pribadi stated that: "PKT views the joint study as an essential step towards achieving our sustainability goals. We are honoured to work with industry leaders to promote sustainable practices and contribute to a greener planet. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our focus on innovation to revolutionise the agricultural sector. As consumers increasingly prefer sustainable and eco-friendly products, PKT is proud to be at the forefront of this movement." ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/949/start-up-nation-central-partners-with-microsoft-to-promote-israeli-agrifood-tech-startups.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/949/start-up-nation-central-partners-with-microsoft-to-promote-israeli-agrifood-tech-startups.html Thu, 18 May 2023 07:39:00 +0530 Collaboration aims to integrate innovative agricultural data companies with core technologies of AI, Cloud & Machine Learning with Microsoft's AI tools to develop models for optimal, sustainable agriculture across the value chain Start-Up Nation Central has collaborated with Microsoft to promote Israeli AgriFood Tech startups in the international marketplace. The collaboration focuses on connecting AI, data, cloud, and machine learning technologies from agricultural information to Microsoft's AI tools. In the first phase of the collaboration, Start-Up Nation Central and Microsoft will promote a series of tech challenges to propel mapping Israeli startups and relevant technologies within the AgriFood Tech sector. Together, Start-Up Nation Central and Microsoft will work to identify global AgriFood Tech challenges, with an emphasis on connecting AI technologies that can help develop durable models for optimal and sustainable agriculture across the entire value chain. Led by Microsoft AgriFood CTO Ranveer Chandra, the collaboration will identify relevant innovative companies in Israel that are using agricultural data for cutting edge applications. It will also examine how these technologies can be integrated into Microsoft's cloud-based agriculture-focused business tools. Israeli AgriFood Tech entrepreneurs will benefit from exposure to global opportunities through Microsoft's network of connections. Potential opportunities include collaborations with strategic partners, access to new markets, and showcasing market-ready technologies on a global scale. Start-Up Nation Central CEO, Avi Hasson said "Israel boasts over 250 leading cloud agriculture startups that offer fertile ground for innovation in this rapidly developing sector. The Israeli AgriFood Tech industry is well advanced in data, software, and connectivity, and offers incredible potential for Microsoft in the growing field of data-driven agriculture". The first two tech challenges are already underway with a focus on water management and sustainable agriculture. As part of these challenges, over 40 relevant Israeli startups were mapped, and two Israeli AgriFood-Tech companies– Projini (developers of innovative pesticide solutions) and Saturas (developers of a breakthrough sensor-based precision system for optimized irrigation) – were selected to collaborate with Microsoft at this event and have the opportunity to collaborate with Microsoft's global technology and investment teams. Start-Up Nation Central is a non-profit organization that connects Israeli innovation to the world in order to help international entities solve global challenges. Supported by the Israeli technology ecosystem, the organization provides a platform that nurtures business growth and generates partnerships with corporations, governments, investors, and NGOs to strengthen Israel's economy and society. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/947/danish-innovation-to-convert-shrimp-and-fish-farming-derivatives-into-edible-seaweed.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/947/danish-innovation-to-convert-shrimp-and-fish-farming-derivatives-into-edible-seaweed.html Wed, 17 May 2023 07:50:00 +0530 Nutrients and CO2 from land-based aquaculture to be converted to a green protein and valuable high-fiber seaweed species The University of Copenhagen has launched an innovative project co-funding by Innovation Fund Denmark, which has developed a sustainable method to produce fish, shrimp, and seaweed together. Instead of polluting the sea and contributing to global warming, nutrients and CO2 from land-based shrimp and fish farming will be used to produce sea lettuce – a green protein and valuable high-fiber seaweed species – for human consumption. An innovative project called SeaFree, has been launched at the University of Copenhagen in association with Aarhus University and a range of companies who will collaboratively develop a closed, sustainable cycle on land that utilizes residual nutrients and CO2 from shrimp and fish farming to grow high-value seaweed for the food and healthcare industries. The project is expected to reap results in 4 years. "The project aims to use seaweed production to absorb and convert emissions from land-based aquaculture into a high-value product. Among other things, the seaweed will be used for dietary supplements that can prevent diabetes and sustainable foodstuffs innovations. In addition to capturing emissions that would have otherwise been emitted into the atmosphere and aquatic environment, the seaweed produced is both healthy and rich in umami flavour," says Professor Marianne Thomsen from the Department of Food Science at the University of Copenhagen. The project, funded by Innovation Fund Denmark with DKK 14.4 million (€1.9m), is being carried out in a collaboration among the companies Pure Algae, DryingMate, Food Diagnostics, Sigrid Therapeutics, XOventure GmbH/Rigi Care, KOST, SOF Odden Caviar and HanseGarnelen. The project’s starting point is a 40ft container setup equipped with eight one-thousand-liter tanks. The container solution is a so-called Plug’n’Play technology with great export potential. By combining salt water, CO2 and nutrients with LED lights, the unit can produce a full batch of seaweed in just one week, resulting in an extremely short harvest period. "SeaFree represents the latest in recycling technology for land-based shrimp and fish farming. Besides capturing emissions, the system also recirculates surplus heat from the plants to the Plug'n'Play technology. The project includes the development of a new technology that makes it possible to use surplus heat to dry the seaweed which is then sold to the healthcare industry. In this way, SeaFree contributes to a more sustainable and efficient production process," says Marianne Thomsen.   The final product consists of climate-friendly fish, shrimp and sea lettuce – a healthy, fiber and protein-rich seaweed species. In addition to the production of various dietary supplements, sea lettuce is also used as an edible accompaniment when people buy seafood. According to Thomsen, there is huge potential in farming fish and seaweed in the manner envisioned by SeaFree. If all of the world's land-based shrimp and fish farms implemented the method, it could significantly reduce the CO2 footprint of global food systems. "As such, the combination of aquaculture and seaweed cultivation in closed systems may well develop into a new Danish export market. On a global level, it will be possible to implement the technology, marketed as "SeaFree Synergy Solutions", anywhere in the world. As for the technology’s environmental benefits, they are unequivocal. We are already in contact with South Korea, which is very interested in the technology and the project’s development," adds Marianne Thomsen. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/937/shanghai-cooperation-organization-sco-member-countries-adopts-the-smart-agriculture-project.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/937/shanghai-cooperation-organization-sco-member-countries-adopts-the-smart-agriculture-project.html Mon, 15 May 2023 14:02:35 +0530 Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, China, and Pakistan, adopted the Smart Agriculture project under the Chairmanship of India On 12 May 2023, the 8th meeting of Agriculture Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member countries was held under India's Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar's chairmanship. A number of SCO member countries, including Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, China, and Pakistan, adopted the Smart Agriculture project. The discussions among SCO Agriculture Ministers strengthened the multinational cooperation in food security and nutrition. India's Union Minister Tomar said "India values its relations with SCO in promoting multilateral, political, security, economic and people-to-people interactions. In order to maintain the normal functioning of the food supply chain in the present conditions, there is a need for close contact and cooperation between various countries for food and nutrition security. India is the largest employer globally in the agriculture sector, where more than half of the population engaged in agriculture and allied sectors." India has increased its budget allocation in the agriculture and allied sectors by over 5 times in 10 years from 2013-14. Simultaneously, India is registering significant growth in exports of agricultural and allied products, which crossing ₹4 lakh crore. India is a leading producer of many commodities like cereals, fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, fish. India is also promoting organic farming and natural farming with emphasis on sustainable productivity, food security and soil health. To increase the economic potential of small and marginal farmers, India is initiating 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). For rural infrastructure ₹1 lakh crore fund has been allocated. Indian agriculture ecosystem has been adopting digital technologies in order to help farmers access these and take advantage of them. Most of the agricultural schemes are being digitized and brought on a single platform, such as Agristack and India Digital Eco-system for Agriculture, National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture, and more. Further, India is making persistent efforts in building a self-reliant agriculture sector coupled with innovation, digital agriculture, climate-smart technologies, the development of high-yielding, biofortified varieties, and agricultural research. Efforts are being made to improve the life and livelihood of the farmers by making their agriculture sustainable and friendly. In addition, India has launched an Electronic National Agriculture Market to increase market access for farmers besides programs to create new irrigation infrastructure, conserve soil fertility including balanced use of fertilizers, providing farm-to-market connectivity, ICT linkages, and more. ** ₹ 1 lakh crore = USD $ 1 trillion ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/934/evonik-boosts-probiotic-production-to-enhance-animal-nutrition.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/139/934/evonik-boosts-probiotic-production-to-enhance-animal-nutrition.html Mon, 15 May 2023 09:39:50 +0530 Aiming stabilization of farm animals’ gut health, company has doubled the capacity for producing the leading probiotic portfolios such as Ecobiol®, Fecinor® and GutCare®. Evonik, the global leader in specialty chemicals, with a dedicated portfolio of animal health nutrition, has modernized and expanded probiotics production at its site in León, Spain. This lays the foundations for further growth in the Gut Health Solutions business for the company. Company has doubled the capacity for producing the leading probiotic portfolios such as Ecobiol®, Fecinor® and GutCare®. The León site can now produce 6,000 metric tons of blended final probiotic product per year. The new facilities and improved processes not only increase production capacity, but also improve sustainability. In 2022, Evonik has invested in state-of-the-art fermentation capacities, a new cooling circuit system and a new warehouse at the site, which became operational recently. Evonik Animal Nutrition has developed an innovative portfolio of Gut Health Solutions based on probiotics for swine, poultry and aquaculture. Its probiotics line – from the fermentation of active microorganisms to the finished feed additive and pre-blends – have been manufactured in León since 2016. The site has been developed and optimized continuously. With a stronger focus on probiotic-based alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters, Evonik’s Animal Nutrition business line aims to provide solutions that ensure the well-being and performance of the animal while protecting human health and supplying a growing world population with high-quality animal protein. Probiotics are living microorganisms added to animal feed to maintain or restore the microbial balance in the animals' intestines. “As long as there are enough 'good' bacteria to keep potential pathogens at bay, an animal remains healthy,” explains Torben Madsen, head of Sustainable Healthy Nutrition at Evonik Animal Nutrition. “A stable gut microbiota also strengthens the animal's immune system, helping to prevent disease.” Since January 2023, the site has been exclusively using renewable energy sources for electricity and has significantly reduced energy, fresh water, and raw material usage per product. ]]>