https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/rssfeed/agri-business/trade trade https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4747/brazil-advances-anti-dumping-case-against-chinese-food-grade-phosphoric-acid.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4747/brazil-advances-anti-dumping-case-against-chinese-food-grade-phosphoric-acid.html Tue, 29 Sep 2026 09:08:08 +0530 Brazil has moved closer to potential trade restrictions on food-grade phosphoric acid imports from China, Morocco and Mexico, after the country’s Secretariat of Foreign Trade (SECEX), under the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, issued Announcement No. 88/2026 on September 11, 2026. The authority issued an affirmative preliminary anti-dumping determination covering food-grade phosphoric acid with concentrations above 55 per cent and below 105 per cent. However, it recommended continuing the investigation without imposing provisional anti-dumping measures at this stage. The products covered by the case fall under Mercosur tariff code 2809.20.11. The decision keeps the immediate trade flow unchanged, but increases uncertainty for exporters as Brazil moves towards a final determination. The final decision deadline has also been extended to within 18 months from the initiation of the investigation. A Case That Has Already Been Reopened The current proceedings follow a series of developments stretching back to 2024. Brazil initially launched an anti-dumping investigation on December 18, 2024, following an application submitted by domestic producer ICL Aditivos e Ingredientes Ltda. (ICL) on July 31, 2024. That investigation examined dumping during April 2023–March 2024 and injury to the domestic industry during April 2019–March 2024. The case was subsequently terminated on June 26, 2025, after an on-site verification found that the domestic industry's submitted information was insufficient. According to the case record, the deficiencies affected the accuracy and reliability of the application and supplementary information, weakening the evidence supporting the injury allegations. ICL filed a fresh application on July 30, 2025, leading Brazil to initiate a new investigation on November 21, 2025. The second investigation covers food-grade phosphoric acid with concentrations between 55 per cent and 105 per cent from China, Morocco and Mexico. Its dumping investigation period runs from April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025, while the injury period covers April 2020 to March 2025. No Provisional Duties—For Now The September 11 preliminary determination does not introduce provisional anti-dumping duties, meaning imports covered by the investigation are not immediately subject to an additional trade measure on the basis of this ruling. The absence of provisional measures nevertheless leaves exporters facing a potentially more restrictive outcome at the final stage. Potential Implications for China’s Export Flows The key market question now shifts from whether the investigation will continue to what duty rates, if any, could emerge from the final determination. If Brazil ultimately introduces anti-dumping measures, Chinese food-grade phosphoric acid exports to the Brazilian market could face greater cost pressure. Depending on the final duty structure and market response, exporters may need to reassess pricing, destination markets and shipment volumes. A significant reduction in Chinese exports to Brazil could also redirect some volumes towards other markets, including China’s domestic market. Such a shift could add marginal supply pressure domestically and exert a mildly bearish influence on spot prices, although the eventual impact would depend on the scale of redirected volumes and broader phosphate-market fundamentals. The effect should therefore be viewed as a potential secondary supply-side development rather than an immediate price signal. Final Ruling Becomes the Market Focus For phosphate traders, producers and downstream users, the next critical milestones are the final determination, the potential anti-dumping duty rates and the timing of implementation. The preliminary affirmative finding establishes a more uncertain trade environment but does not itself determine the final outcome. Until Brazil concludes the investigation, the precise impact on Chinese exports, competing suppliers and regional phosphoric acid prices remains difficult to quantify. What is clearer is that Brazil’s latest move has put food-grade phosphoric acid trade under closer scrutiny—and could reshape sourcing economics if definitive measures are ultimately imposed. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4575/c-p-vietnam-sends-vietnams-first-processed-chicken-shipment-to-south-korea.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4575/c-p-vietnam-sends-vietnams-first-processed-chicken-shipment-to-south-korea.html Mon, 31 Aug 2026 13:16:56 +0530 C.P. Vietnam Corporation has exported Vietnam’s first shipment of processed chicken to South Korea, opening a new market for the country’s poultry industry after more than five years of preparation and a detailed regulatory approval process. The shipment was announced on August 25 at the CPV Food Binh Phuoc integrated chicken processing complex. It is the first time processed chicken produced in Vietnam has entered the South Korean market, following the two countries’ decision earlier this year to open their markets to processed chicken products. C.P. Vietnam is the first Vietnamese company to meet the requirements for exports to South Korea. The development is significant not only for C.P. Vietnam but also for Vietnam’s ambitions to increase the value of its livestock and food-processing exports. South Korea is a highly regulated food market, requiring exporters to demonstrate strict controls over animal health, food safety, processing, traceability and transportation. Duong Tat Thang, Director of the Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health under Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, said the opening of the two markets to processed chicken represents an important milestone in agricultural cooperation between Vietnam and South Korea. He expressed hope that C.P. Vietnam’s entry would encourage more eligible Vietnamese businesses to qualify for the market and contribute to higher export value for the livestock and food-processing industries. For C.P. Vietnam, the shipment is the result of a substantial investment in integrated poultry production. The company has invested approximately $250 million in the CPV Food Binh Phuoc complex, which operates through a connected Feed-Farm-Food system covering an animal feed mill, hatchery, farming system, slaughtering facility and processing plant. The integrated structure gives C.P. Vietnam control over multiple stages of production and allows it to monitor quality, food safety and product origins from the beginning of the supply chain through to the finished product. That level of control has become increasingly important as international food markets demand more detailed information about where products come from and how they are produced. The company’s investment also reflects a broader shift in Vietnam’s agricultural export strategy. Moving from raw or lightly processed commodities towards processed food products can provide companies with greater opportunities to capture value within the country. But doing so requires investment in production systems, processing capacity and compliance with the requirements of individual export markets. South Korea’s approval process provided a particularly demanding test. C.P. Vietnam underwent an eight-step assessment by South Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency and Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The company was required to complete two detailed sets of questionnaires, each approximately 1,000 pages long, covering virtually every part of its production chain. The assessments examined farming areas and disease status, veterinary inspections before and after slaughter, processing operations, heat treatment, packaging and transportation. The process was designed to establish that the company could maintain the required standards throughout its entire operation rather than simply produce a compliant finished product. South Korean inspection teams also carried out an extensive on-site assessment between July and December 2025. The teams examined the integrated system from the feed mill and farms through to the processing facility. Among the requirements, poultry must be healthy and pass pre- and post-slaughter inspections carried out by competent veterinary authorities. The processing system must also meet specific heat-treatment conditions, with the core temperature of the product exceeding 80°C for at least one minute. The physical layout of the processing facility was another important consideration. Areas before and after heat treatment must be separated, with separate personnel, entrances, changing rooms and auxiliary areas to reduce the possibility of cross-contamination. The scale of the assessment illustrates the cost and effort involved in gaining access to highly regulated food markets. For exporters, meeting international standards is not simply a matter of upgrading the final processing line. It requires systems that can demonstrate control across the entire chain and maintain those standards consistently. Vietnam and South Korea announced the opening of their markets to processed chicken products on April 22. Initially, two companies from each country were authorised to export processed chicken products to the other market. C.P. Vietnam became the first Vietnamese company to complete the approval requirements for South Korea, following years of preparation linked to the development and operation of the CPV Food Binh Phuoc complex. The approval process also involved close cooperation between authorities in both countries. C.P. Vietnam received guidance from Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, particularly the Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health, on technical standards, quarantine requirements and export procedures. South Korean authorities participated in the assessment and inspection process in Vietnam. Pawalit Ua-amornwanit, CEO of C.P. Vietnam, thanked the authorities, technical agencies, local administrations, customers and partners involved in the process. The first shipment gives C.P. Vietnam another market for its processed chicken products. The company’s products are now available in eight international markets, including Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and Russia. South Korea could become an important addition to that export network because the market has stringent requirements and a strong emphasis on food quality and safety. Successfully meeting those requirements can also provide an indication of whether a producer has the systems necessary to compete in other tightly regulated markets. For C.P. Vietnam, the company sees the shipment as a reason to continue investing in technology and processing rather than an endpoint. Pawalit said the export would encourage the company to strengthen its deep-processing capabilities, increase product value and become more deeply involved in the global food supply chain. He also described the shipment as a reflection of the company’s commitment to producing food that meets increasingly demanding expectations among consumers in Vietnam and overseas. That strategy is supported by the company’s existing production network in Vietnam. C.P. Vietnam operates 12 animal feed mills, including four aquaculture feed mills, two pork slaughterhouses and six food-processing plants. It also maintains a network of farms across provinces and cities throughout the country, with the Binh Phuoc facility serving as one of its major integrated chicken processing operations for export. The first processed chicken shipment to South Korea also has significance beyond C.P. Vietnam. Vietnam has been seeking to expand agricultural exports while increasing the share of processed and higher-value products in its export basket. Access to markets with strict technical requirements can help demonstrate that domestic producers are capable of competing beyond traditional commodity trade. The immediate challenge will be turning market access into regular shipments and, more importantly, encouraging additional Vietnamese producers to make the investments needed to qualify.   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4352/us-finalises-anti-dumping-countervailing-duties-on-chinese-l-lysine-raising-trade-barriers-for-amino-acid-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4352/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/143/4262/philippines-rice-imports-hit-record-high-as-food-security-concerns-drive-aggressive-procurement.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4262/philippines-rice-imports-hit-record-high-as-food-security-concerns-drive-aggressive-procurement.html Mon, 13 Jul 2026 13:35:06 +0530 The Philippines imported a record 2.75 million metric tonnes of rice during the first half of 2026, underscoring the country's continued dependence on overseas supplies as policymakers seek to stabilise food prices amid production challenges and mounting climate risks. Government data show imports between January and June increased by just over 20 per cent compared with the same period last year, marking the highest first-half import volume since official monitoring began in 2019. The six-month total has already surpassed half of the government's annual import projection, signalling sustained procurement momentum for the remainder of the year. Officials attributed the higher import volumes to efforts to secure adequate domestic inventories while cushioning consumers from inflationary pressures linked to higher fuel and fertiliser costs. Authorities are also building supply buffers ahead of the potential impact of El Niño, which could further disrupt local rice production. Despite stronger import flows, domestic output continues to face structural and weather-related constraints, reinforcing the need for overseas purchases to bridge the gap between production and consumption. Policymakers maintain that ensuring sufficient rice availability at affordable prices remains central to the country's food security strategy. The current global market environment has also supported the import drive, with relatively softer international rice prices allowing buyers to secure supplies at more competitive rates. Officials indicated that any future adjustments to import policies, including potential restrictions, will depend on evolving domestic supply conditions and market assessments. International forecasts suggest the Philippines is likely to retain its position as the world's largest rice importer this year, with import volumes expected to rise further as climate uncertainty and slowing domestic production continue to widen the supply deficit. The import surge reflects a broader challenge confronting many rice-importing nations across Asia, where governments are balancing food affordability with long-term investments aimed at improving agricultural productivity and strengthening resilience against increasingly volatile weather patterns. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/views/143/4183/canola-prices-rally-on-biofuel-boom-trade-shifts-and-energy-markets-before-june-pullback.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/views/143/4183/canola-prices-rally-on-biofuel-boom-trade-shifts-and-energy-markets-before-june-pullback.html Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:35:30 +0530 The global canola market has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past year, illustrating how oilseed markets are increasingly shaped by far more than agricultural fundamentals alone. Once driven primarily by weather, acreage and export demand, canola prices are now responding just as strongly to renewable fuel policies, geopolitical trade negotiations, energy markets and the broader vegetable oil complex. Between June 2025 and June 2026, canola futures on the ICE Futures Canada exchange recorded one of their strongest annual performances in recent years. Prices climbed from approximately 692.26 Canadian dollars (CAD) per tonne at the end of June 2025 to a peak of 798.00 CAD per tonne on June 3, 2026, before easing to 745.14 CAD per tonne by June 30, 2026. Although the market corrected from its June highs, prices remained substantially above the previous year's levels, reflecting strong structural demand rather than a temporary speculative rally. The twelve-month period tells the story of a commodity increasingly positioned at the crossroads of food security, climate policy and energy transition. A volatile but fundamentally bullish market The past year can broadly be divided into three distinct phases. The first phase witnessed weakness through the second half of 2025, when improving global oilseed supplies, subdued vegetable oil demand and cautious export buying pushed prices steadily lower. Canola ultimately closed 2025 at 589.40 CAD per tonne, representing one of the lowest levels seen during the twelve-month period. The second phase began almost immediately in early 2026. Prices recovered sharply as a series of supportive factors aligned almost simultaneously. Trade policy changes, particularly easing tensions surrounding Canadian exports, coincided with rising demand from the renewable diesel sector and stronger soybean oil prices. These developments fundamentally altered market sentiment, shifting expectations from oversupply toward tightening demand. The third phase emerged during May and June 2026, when canola approached 800 CAD per tonne, only to retreat modestly as crude oil prices softened and markets began pricing in improved production prospects. Rather than signalling the end of the rally, however, the June correction appeared to represent a healthy consolidation following one of the strongest price advances in recent years. Trade policy reshapes export expectations Perhaps the single most important catalyst behind the 2026 recovery was changing trade dynamics between Canada and China. China remains one of the world's largest consumers of vegetable oils and one of Canada's most critical export destinations for canola seed, oil and meal. Consequently, any change in bilateral trade relations tends to have an outsized influence on market psychology. Earlier concerns regarding trade barriers and tariffs had weighed heavily on Canadian exporters. However, adjustments in tariff policies during early 2026 significantly improved expectations regarding Canadian market access. For exporters, the implications were immediate. Greater certainty over Chinese demand translated into improved export projections, stronger crusher margins and increased purchasing by domestic processors. Since Canada exports a substantial proportion of its annual canola production, even modest changes in Chinese buying behaviour have the potential to move global prices significantly. Markets responded accordingly. The renewed optimism surrounding exports helped propel prices beyond 690 CAD per tonne by February 2026, laying the foundation for the sustained rally that followed. Biofuel demand transforms canola's value proposition While trade policy initiated the recovery, renewable fuels arguably became the dominant structural driver throughout the remainder of the year. Canola oil has emerged as one of the preferred feedstocks for renewable diesel and biodiesel production, particularly across North America. Unlike conventional diesel, renewable diesel offers substantially lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and qualifies under numerous low-carbon fuel standards implemented across Canada and the United States. As governments continue tightening decarbonisation targets, refiners have increasingly sought vegetable oil feedstocks capable of meeting renewable fuel mandates. Canola has benefited enormously from this transition. Throughout early 2026, expanding renewable diesel capacity across North America significantly increased demand for canola oil. Crushing plants responded by purchasing larger quantities of seed, tightening supplies available for traditional food markets. The result was a powerful structural shift. Increasingly, canola is no longer priced solely as a food commodity but also as an energy commodity. This dual-demand profile has fundamentally altered long-term market dynamics. Every increase in renewable fuel production now creates additional demand for canola seed, while higher crude oil prices improve renewable diesel economics, reinforcing canola's attractiveness as a biofuel feedstock. The vegetable oil complex remains tightly interconnected Canola rarely moves independently. Instead, it forms part of the broader global vegetable oil complex alongside soybean oil, palm oil and sunflower oil. Price movements in any one of these commodities frequently spill over into others through substitution effects. Throughout much of 2026, soybean oil markets remained exceptionally strong, supported by expanding renewable diesel production in the United States and firm edible oil consumption globally. This strength naturally spilled into canola markets. Food manufacturers routinely substitute among vegetable oils depending on relative prices, while biodiesel producers similarly adjust feedstocks based on economics and availability. Consequently, rising soybean oil prices increased demand for canola oil, amplifying the rally already underway. Palm oil prices also provided intermittent support, although production recoveries in Southeast Asia occasionally tempered gains. Overall, the vegetable oil complex remained broadly bullish throughout the first half of 2026, creating an exceptionally supportive environment for canola. Energy markets become an increasingly important influence Perhaps the most striking evolution in recent years has been the growing relationship between canola and crude oil. Historically, agricultural commodities were only loosely connected with energy markets. That relationship has changed dramatically. As renewable diesel capacity expands globally, vegetable oils have effectively become alternative energy feedstocks. Higher crude oil prices improve renewable fuel margins, encouraging refiners to purchase greater volumes of vegetable oils. During early 2026, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East contributed to stronger crude oil prices, increasing the profitability of renewable diesel production. The resulting boost in canola demand added further momentum to already strengthening prices. However, the relationship also works in reverse. When crude oil prices retreated during June following easing geopolitical tensions and improving supply expectations, renewable diesel margins narrowed. Canola consequently surrendered part of its earlier gains, falling from its June peak of 798.00 CAD per tonne to approximately 745 CAD per tonne by month-end. Although relatively modest, this correction highlighted just how closely agricultural and energy markets have become intertwined. Supply expectations continue to influence market sentiment Despite stronger demand fundamentals, supply-side developments remained an equally important component of price discovery. Throughout the year, markets closely monitored planting conditions across Canada's Prairie provinces, where the majority of global canola production originates. Delayed planting, weather uncertainty and periodic concerns over moisture availability created intermittent production risks that supported prices. At the same time, global rapeseed production forecasts—including Australia and Europe—were carefully scrutinised for signs of tightening supplies. Whenever production estimates weakened, futures strengthened. Conversely, improving crop prospects periodically moderated bullish enthusiasm. The market therefore spent much of the year balancing exceptionally strong demand against uncertain production expectations. This balance ultimately prevented prices from sustaining levels above 800 CAD per tonne, despite extremely supportive demand conditions. Monthly price evolution The monthly progression clearly illustrates the market's changing fundamentals. Following weakness throughout late 2025, prices bottomed at approximately 589.40 CAD per tonne at year-end. January 2026 saw the first signs of recovery as prices improved to around 603.90 CAD per tonne. By February, renewed optimism surrounding Chinese trade policies and stronger renewable diesel demand pushed prices back above 693 CAD per tonne. Momentum accelerated further during March and April. By April, canola traded around 763.80 CAD per tonne, supported by strengthening energy markets, expanding crusher demand and firm vegetable oil prices. May brought relative stability, with prices consolidating around 760.90 CAD per tonne, suggesting markets were assessing whether further upside remained justified. The rally ultimately culminated in 798.00 CAD per tonne on June 3, before softer crude oil prices, improved supply expectations and routine profit-taking triggered a moderate correction toward 745.14 CAD per tonne by the end of June. Outlook: Structural support remains intact Although the June decline attracted attention, it has done little to undermine the broader bullish narrative. The structural drivers supporting canola remain firmly in place. Renewable diesel capacity continues expanding. Low-carbon fuel policies remain supportive. China remains a critical source of demand. Vegetable oil markets remain fundamentally tight. These factors suggest canola is likely to remain considerably more sensitive to developments in trade policy, biofuel regulation and crude oil markets than in previous decades. Weather will, as always, remain critical. Growing conditions across Canada, Australia and Europe will determine whether supply can keep pace with expanding industrial demand. Meanwhile, geopolitical developments affecting energy markets will continue influencing renewable diesel economics and, by extension, canola prices. Beyond food: Canola's evolving strategic importance The past year demonstrates that canola has evolved far beyond its traditional identity as simply another oilseed crop. Today, it occupies a strategic position within three interconnected global systems—food security, energy transition and international trade. For policymakers, the crop has become increasingly important for achieving renewable fuel targets. For processors, it represents a valuable industrial feedstock. For farmers, it offers access to expanding premium markets driven by sustainability objectives. For commodity markets, it has become one of the clearest examples of how agriculture and energy are converging. The rally from 692.26 CAD per tonne in June 2025 to nearly 800 CAD per tonne in June 2026 was therefore more than just another commodity cycle. It reflected the emergence of a new pricing paradigm in which agricultural commodities increasingly derive value not only from feeding the world, but also from helping power it. As renewable energy policies mature and global trade patterns continue evolving, canola's role within the global bioeconomy appears set to become even more significant—ensuring that its future price trajectory will be shaped as much by climate policy and energy economics as by rainfall and harvests. -- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/features/143/4173/palm-oils-rally-hits-wall-as-oil-crashes-below-70-and-markets-reprice-the-biodiesel-story.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/features/143/4173/palm-oils-rally-hits-wall-as-oil-crashes-below-70-and-markets-reprice-the-biodiesel-story.html Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:01:51 +0530   Just days ago, the global palm oil market appeared poised for another leg higher. Exports were holding firm, supply concerns linked to El Niño remained alive, Indonesia was preparing to launch its ambitious B50 biodiesel mandate, and India—the world's largest palm oil buyer—continued to absorb significant volumes. Prices had climbed to multi-week highs and market sentiment was firmly constructive. Then crude oil collapsed. The result has been a sharp reversal in palm oil's near-term trajectory. Malaysian palm oil futures are currently trading at 4,551 MYR per tonne, down 1.77 per cent on the day, extending losses to more than 2 per cent for the week. Yet the broader picture remains more nuanced than the recent decline suggests. Prices are still 1.22 per cent higher over the past month and remain 13.43 per cent above year-ago levels, reflecting the underlying strength that has characterized the market throughout much of 2026. The current correction is less a story of collapsing demand and more a story of competing narratives. On one side stands a market supported by structural demand growth, biofuel policies and weather-related supply risks. On the other stands a rapidly changing macroeconomic backdrop in which falling energy prices are reshaping expectations across the commodity complex. At the heart of the selloff lies the palm oil market's increasingly close relationship with crude oil. Over the last decade, palm oil has evolved from being primarily a food commodity into a critical component of the global energy transition. Biodiesel mandates across Southeast Asia have tied palm oil demand more closely than ever to developments in energy markets. When crude oil rises, biodiesel blending becomes more attractive, increasing demand for palm-based fuels. When oil falls, that equation begins to change. That relationship is now being tested. Crude oil is trading at $ 69.71 per barrel, down 0.9 per cent on the day, 8.1 per cent over the past week, and an extraordinary 25.8 per cent over the month. While oil remains 6.8 per cent higher than a year ago and 21.4 per cent higher year-to-date, the recent speed of the decline has dramatically altered market sentiment. The catalyst has been a rapid easing of geopolitical tensions that only weeks ago were fueling fears of supply disruptions across the Middle East. Progress in US-Iran diplomatic negotiations has improved the global supply outlook. Tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has increased, reducing concerns over shipping disruptions. Iran has reportedly been granted a temporary US license to sell oil, while Gulf exporters, including the UAE, are steadily restoring shipments toward pre-conflict levels. The consequence has been swift and decisive. Oil prices have retreated toward levels seen before the recent geopolitical flare-up. Headlines over the past week have captured the magnitude of the move: crude oil falling below $ 70 per barrel, Brent slipping back under $ 73, and the broader oil complex erasing much of the war-related risk premium that had accumulated earlier in the year. For palm oil traders, the message was clear. If crude oil no longer provides strong support for biodiesel economics, one of the market's most important bullish pillars becomes less secure. Adding to the pressure is the Malaysian ringgit. A stronger ringgit makes Malaysian exports more expensive for overseas buyers, reducing competitiveness in global markets. Currency movements may not generate headlines like geopolitical conflicts, but they often exert a powerful influence on commodity trade flows. In the current environment, the stronger ringgit has become another obstacle for palm oil bulls. Weakness in rival edible oil markets has compounded the challenge. Softer prices in Dalian and Chicago have reduced support across the vegetable oil complex. Palm oil rarely trades in isolation; buyers and processors continuously compare it with soybean oil, sunflower oil and other alternatives. As competing oils weaken, palm oil's ability to maintain premium pricing becomes increasingly difficult. Malaysia's decision to lower its July crude palm oil reference price has further reinforced perceptions of a softer near-term market. Although the export duty remains unchanged at 10 per cent, the reduction in the reference price reflects a recognition that market conditions have shifted since the rally earlier this year. Yet despite the growing list of headwinds, palm oil has not entered a freefall. The reason lies in a set of underlying fundamentals that continue to provide meaningful support. Export demand remains surprisingly resilient. Buyers continue to return to the market even as prices fluctuate, suggesting that underlying consumption remains healthy. Nowhere is this more important than in India, which remains the world's largest palm oil importer. Indian demand continues to serve as one of the most important stabilizing forces in the global market, helping absorb supplies even during periods of volatility. Supply concerns have also not disappeared. El Niño-related weather risks continue to hover over Southeast Asian production forecasts. While the worst-case scenarios have not materialized, traders remain cautious about potential impacts on yields and output growth. In a market where small changes in production can have outsized effects on pricing, weather remains a critical variable. Then there is Indonesia. Beginning 1 July, the world's largest palm oil producer is set to implement its B50 biodiesel mandate, requiring a 50 per cent palm oil blend in biodiesel fuel. The policy is expected to significantly increase domestic consumption, diverting additional volumes away from export markets and tightening global supplies. For many analysts, this remains one of the most compelling bullish arguments for palm oil over the medium term. The market's recent price action illustrates the ongoing battle between these opposing forces. Earlier in the week, palm oil climbed to a two-week high as export optimism, a weaker ringgit and stronger edible oil markets lifted sentiment. Prices subsequently advanced toward a three-week high, supported by expectations of stronger Indonesian biodiesel demand and persistent supply concerns. But each rally was ultimately capped by profit-taking and renewed weakness in crude oil. The latest decline, which pushed futures to a one-week low and below MYR 4,600 per tonne, reflects the growing dominance of macroeconomic factors over crop-specific fundamentals. The implications extend beyond the palm oil market itself. The collapse in crude oil prices is already creating ripple effects across asset classes. Lower energy prices have reduced inflation concerns, helping European equities advance, with the STOXX 600 rising 0.4 per cent. Safe-haven demand has also softened, contributing to gold prices slipping below $ 4,000 per ounce. Across markets, investors are increasingly pricing in a world where energy-driven inflation risks are receding. For palm oil, however, the story remains more complicated. Unlike pure energy commodities, palm oil continues to benefit from food demand, industrial use and government biofuel policies. That diversified demand base provides a degree of insulation from the volatility currently sweeping through oil markets. It is also why prices remain comfortably above year-ago levels despite the recent correction. If Middle Eastern supply routes continue to normalize and geopolitical risks keep fading, crude oil could remain under pressure, limiting one of palm oil's key sources of support. But if Indonesia's B50 mandate delivers the expected increase in domestic consumption, and if export demand from India remains firm, the market could regain its footing surprisingly quickly. For now, palm oil finds itself caught between two powerful stories: a commodity market losing momentum as oil prices tumble, and an agricultural market still supported by strong demand and tightening structural fundamentals. Which story ultimately prevails will determine whether the current retreat becomes a temporary pause in a longer-term uptrend—or the beginning of a more prolonged period of adjustment. -- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4160/philippinesegypt-agricultural-partnership-gains-momentum-through-fertilizer-and-export-trade-talks.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4160/philippinesegypt-agricultural-partnership-gains-momentum-through-fertilizer-and-export-trade-talks.html Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:25:46 +0530 The Philippines and Egypt are intensifying efforts to deepen agricultural trade and investment cooperation, with upcoming ministerial discussions expected to accelerate collaboration on fertilizer supply, market access, and new export opportunities. At the center of the negotiations is a potential long-term fertilizer supply arrangement, reflecting the Philippines' push to diversify sources of critical farm inputs and strengthen food production resilience. Egypt, one of the world's leading fertilizer producers, is exploring supply partnerships with Philippine stakeholders as Manila evaluates procurement opportunities to support domestic agriculture. The talks are also creating fresh export opportunities for Philippine producers. Egypt has expressed interest in importing Philippine tuna, opening a potential new market for one of the country's most valuable agricultural export commodities. Philippine authorities are expected to facilitate connections between Egyptian buyers and local suppliers as discussions progress. Beyond tuna, the Philippines is promoting a broader basket of agricultural products, including bananas, mangoes, coconuts, durian, tobacco, pomelo, and dragon fruit, while Egypt has shown interest in sourcing papaya and pineapple. Efforts are also underway to secure market access approvals for fresh banana and mango exports, alongside negotiations on a proposed Specific Commodity Understanding. The expanding agenda further includes cooperation on halal development and related agricultural initiatives, underscoring a broader strategy to strengthen food security, diversify trade channels, and build more resilient agricultural value chains. As global food systems face increasing pressure from supply disruptions and input cost volatility, the growing partnership between the Philippines and Egypt highlights how strategic agricultural cooperation is becoming a critical tool for securing long-term growth and supply chain stability. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4161/philippines-laos-deepen-agricultural-partnership-to-boost-trade-food-security-and-iinvestment.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4161/philippines-laos-deepen-agricultural-partnership-to-boost-trade-food-security-and-iinvestment.html Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:32:38 +0530 ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4026/china-plus-one-meets-hormuz-risk-perfect-storm-reshaping-agrochemical-trade.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/4026/china-plus-one-meets-hormuz-risk-perfect-storm-reshaping-agrochemical-trade.html Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:07:59 +0530 Exclusive AgroSpectrum interview explores how geopolitical tensions are accelerating procurement diversification across Asia, Africa and Latin America In this interview, Siddharth Gupta, Co-Founder of Atomgrid, argues that the ongoing Hormuz crisis is accelerating a global realignment of agrochemical supply chains, with buyers increasingly prioritising reliability over lowest-cost sourcing. He notes that while India is steadily advancing towards greater domestic manufacturing of active ingredients, deep dependencies on Chinese technicals and intermediates remain a long-term challenge rather than a short-term fix. Gupta highlights emerging opportunities for Indian agrochemical exporters in markets such as Vietnam and Latin America, where concerns over supply disruptions are driving procurement diversification. He also warns that African markets are facing a “double pricing squeeze” from both rising input costs and weakening local currencies, intensifying pressure on smallholder farmers. According to Gupta, the current geopolitical volatility is reinforcing a simple market reality: Suppliers that can guarantee consistent quality, availability and delivery schedules stand to gain significant market share in the years ahead. Is “China+1” no longer a diversification strategy, but an execution test where India is being evaluated less on intent and more on operational reliability? Yes, the qualification bar has shifted. Global buyers are no longer asking "can India supply?" but "can India supply consistently as per required product specifications, on time, and with complete documentation?"In agrochemicals specifically, this is visible in the inquiries that Atomgrid receives: customers want reliable supply in terms of product quality, specifications, packaging, etc., not just product samples. Reliability of the supply chain is now a precondition for even entering the conversation. To what extent is the Hormuz crisis fundamentally reshaping global agrochemical supply chains, given that Gulf-origin sulfur, ammonia, and urea constitute critical upstream inputs across emerging markets? The upstream exposure is real but often misframed. Sulfur, ammonia, and urea are fertilizer inputs — the direct agrochemical active-ingredient supply chain is more affected by gas costs, solvent cost, and freight economics than by Gulf chemical flows specifically. Freight disruption is the most immediate effect for exporters. Rerouted shipping, higher insurance premiums, and unpredictable lead times translate directly into working capital pressure — longer transit windows mean longer cash cycles, especially painful for companies scaling into multiple geographies simultaneously. The crisis accelerates a bifurcation already underway: buyers everywhere are reducing single-corridor dependency. India, which manufactures formulations and active both, is structurally better positioned than most to absorb this shift — provided it can pair supply reliability with competitive pricing. Is India’s agrochemical sector witnessing a structural shift toward import substitution and domestic active-ingredient manufacturing, or merely a temporary margin compression cycle? This is a structural shift on which Indian companies have been working since long and is not only related to the crisis.  But there is a long way to go. Indian companies will have to invest heavily in technical R&D and then setting up manufacturing at scale with the government subsidising the overhead manufacturing costs in order to compete with China.  The honest answer : most technicals and intermediates still have deep Chinese dependency that India cannot replace in the near term. It will have to be done product by product with a very long term view.  How exposed is Vietnam’s export-oriented agriculture to upstream fertilizer and pesticide disruptions, particularly in rice and aquaculture-linked input systems dependent on imported intermediates? Vietnam market is heavily dependent on imports of technicals ( not intermediates ) Vietnam's technical supply chain is overwhelmingly China-sourced. The rise of input prices has led to the market being in  a wait and watch mode.  However, looking at the last 6 months, in our Vietnamese customer conversations we are seeing an opportunity to take market share in certain technical products where India is competitive.  The opportunity for Indian suppliers is not to be the cheapest option but the most reliable alternative.  In Latin America, where large-scale monoculture dominates, does Hormuz-driven volatility amplify systemic risk in soybean, sugar, and maize input economics more than in Asia or Africa? Yes, and the scale is very different. Industrial-scale monoculture — soy in Argentina and Brazil, sugar, maize — operates on thin margins with high input intensity. A 15–20 per cent input cost increase doesn't just squeeze one season; it affects planting decisions, acreage allocation, and forward contract economics in ways that cascade globally. The buyer profile in LatAm is also different — large agribusinesses and cooperatives with sophisticated procurement, not smallholders. These buyers have the scale to demand supply chain diversification and the ability to switch at volume. That makes them high-value early adopters for Indian exporters who can demonstrate reliability. Atomgrid has a deep focus on Latin America markets and we are applying for our product registrations aggressively.  When a crisis creates urgency in buyer procurement, having existing registrations is the difference between being a credible supplier and being invisible. Are African agrochemical markets facing a dual shock of availability constraints and currency depreciation, effectively creating a “double pricing squeeze” on smallholder agriculture inputs? Yes, currency depreciation against the dollar compounds the dollar-denominated freight and availability premium simultaneously. The result is a landed cost squeeze that smallholder agriculture cannot absorb through price increases at the farm gate. In practice, availability matters as much as price. Farmers and distributors will pay a premium for a product they can actually get over a cheaper product with an unpredictable schedule.  A bulk formulation from India with predictable lead times and the right quality is what our customers need when they are looking for an alternative to China.  How critical is execution speed—land acquisition, regulatory clearance, logistics integration—in determining whether India can convert China+1 intent into sustained industrial migration? For chemicals specifically, regulatory clearance speed, both in India (pollution clearances, CPCB compliance) and in destination markets (product registrations) — is the single biggest bottleneck. Land and logistics matter, but they're problems to be tackled later.The companies gaining ground right now are those that started their international registration pipelines 5-10 years ago. That lead time is structural—you cannot compress a 12–18 month registration process with capital alone. Speed advantage is baked in ahead of time, not at the moment of demand.With the agrochemical market seeing a patent cliff in the next 5 years, the above becomes even more important. To what extent does fragmented infrastructure across Indian states dilute the “execution premium” required to fully absorb China+1 manufacturing shifts? Significantly, yes, particularly for companies trying to operate multi-state manufacturing networks. The absence of harmonized GST administration, inconsistent state-level regulatory timelines, and logistics cost variance between clusters all erode the margin advantage India should theoretically hold. In practice, the best-run Indian specialty chemical companies have compensated by concentrating their manufacturing footprint rather than distributing it. Deep presence in one or two clusters beats shallow presence across many. Fragmentation is a problem you solve by design, not by waiting for policy. At what point does “India + execution” become a structural global supply chain standard rather than a transitional narrative in the post-China manufacturing era? When Indian companies stop being described as "China alternatives" and start being the first call, when customers build their global supply chain architecture around India rather than as a hedge against China. That transition happens molecule by molecule, category by category, as Indian companies build the registration moats and customer relationships that make switching costs real.The structural inflection point is probably 5–7 years away at the sector level, but individual companies can achieve it much sooner. The marker is when a global buyer's India supplier is on their approved vendor list for new product launches, not just for existing products sourced from China. For agrochemicals specifically, product registrations are the moat that is irreversible. Once an Indian company holds 50+ active registrations across regulated markets, it becomes structurally embedded in global supply chains in a way that outlasts any geopolitical narrative. That's the transition from transitional to structural. -- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3934/mhp-engages-wto-on-sps-barriers-and-food-trade-modernisation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3934/mhp-engages-wto-on-sps-barriers-and-food-trade-modernisation.html Fri, 22 May 2026 17:00:29 +0530 The recommendations focused on facilitating market access for exporters, streamlining audit and equivalence procedures MHP has called for greater transparency and efficiency in international agricultural trade procedures during a high-level meeting with World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in Geneva. Mykhailo Bno-Airiian, Vice-President for Global Affairs at MHP, met with WTO leadership alongside representatives of the Federation of Employers of Ukraine to discuss challenges linked to sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations and their impact on global agricultural exports. During the discussions, the Ukrainian delegation presented proposals aimed at improving the transparency, predictability, and efficiency of international SPS procedures. The recommendations focused on facilitating market access for exporters, streamlining audit and equivalence procedures, and reducing delays that businesses say increasingly function as indirect trade barriers. According to the participants, lengthy and unpredictable approval timelines for market access applications remain a major challenge for exporters, with some procedures remaining unresolved for years without formal decisions. The issue, they argued, is affecting not only Ukrainian exporters but also broader global food supply chains. The meeting also addressed the potential for remote and hybrid audit mechanisms, along with the development of international approaches for digital verification and modern compliance tools within global food trade systems. In addition, representatives from the Ukrainian business community proposed the creation of a regular international dialogue platform involving the WTO, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), governments, and agricultural industry leaders. The initiative would focus on addressing global food security challenges and modernising international trade procedures. “Today, regulatory and phytosanitary requirements are an integral part of global trade in food products,” said Mykhailo Bno-Airiian. “At the same time, we are increasingly seeing situations where certain regulatory or SPS mechanisms are used not only as a tool for quality or safety control, but also as a means of restricting market access for certain products.” He added that the proposed initiative aims to create constructive dialogue between governments and businesses regarding the application of SPS measures and regulatory procedures in international agricultural trade. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3932/nrtc-holding-group-and-dava-agricultural-partner-to-strengthen-gcc-food-security-and-sustainable-agriculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3932/nrtc-holding-group-and-dava-agricultural-partner-to-strengthen-gcc-food-security-and-sustainable-agriculture.html Fri, 22 May 2026 16:41:56 +0530 The partnership reflects a growing regional focus on food resilience, sustainable agriculture, and integrated supply-chain ecosystems NRTC Holding Group has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DAVA Agricultural to strengthen collaboration across fresh produce sourcing, agricultural trade, sustainability, and supply chain development within the GCC region. The partnership reflects a growing regional focus on food resilience, sustainable agriculture, and integrated supply-chain ecosystems as GCC countries work to enhance long-term food security and agricultural innovation. According to the companies, the collaboration aims to support the development of technologically driven agricultural ecosystems while addressing increasing demand for fresh produce across the region. The GCC fresh produce market is projected to exceed USD 27 billion, creating new opportunities for regional sourcing partnerships and cross-border agricultural cooperation. The MoU establishes a framework for both organisations to explore initiatives related to sustainable sourcing practices, agricultural trade expansion, and supply-chain optimisation. The alliance is also expected to contribute to regional food-security priorities through improved operational integration and long-term collaboration across the agri-food sector. The signing ceremony was attended by senior representatives from both organisations. Representing DAVA Agricultural were Mohamed Kafafy, Export Manager, and Osama Nasser, Head of Public Relations, on behalf of CEO Faisal Al Battal and Deputy CEO Wissam Abdul Samad. The agreement highlights the increasing importance of strategic partnerships in transforming the GCC’s agricultural and fresh produce sectors, where sustainability, supply-chain resilience, and advanced farming practices are becoming key priorities for governments and industry stakeholders alike. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3762/philippines-resets-import-quotas-amid-rising-costs.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3762/philippines-resets-import-quotas-amid-rising-costs.html Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:55:34 +0530 Revised MAV rules aim to stabilise food supply, ensure fair allocation, and address global input price pressures In a calibrated policy response to mounting global uncertainties, the Philippine government has introduced a revised framework for the Minimum Access Volume (MAV) mechanism, aimed at enhancing transparency, ensuring equitable stakeholder participation, and safeguarding domestic food security. The move comes against the backdrop of rising input costs linked to geopolitical tensions, prompting a reassessment of import allocation strategies across key agricultural commodities. Through Joint Department Circular 1—signed by six key government agencies—the revised guidelines mandate the cancellation of all existing MAV allocations and licenses, consolidating them under the MAV Secretariat for fresh distribution in MAV Year 2026. The updated framework also introduces a performance-linked eligibility criterion, requiring MAV holders to achieve a minimum utilisation threshold of 70 percent to qualify for participation in subsequent allocation cycles. A notable shift has been introduced in the allocation structure for pork imports, a critical component of the country’s food supply chain. Under the revised scheme, 50 percent of allocations will be directed towards meat importer processors (MIPs) with verified local processing facilities, 30 percent to other qualified licensees, and 20 percent to state trading enterprises (STEs). This rebalancing is designed to strengthen domestic processing capacity while ensuring price stability and consistent supply. The MAV mechanism continues to offer preferential tariff treatment, with in-quota imports attracting a reduced tariff of 15 percent, compared to a higher 25 percent levy for out-quota shipments. At the same time, the government has introduced provisions for flexibility, including the potential invocation of a “MAV Plus” allocation in response to supply shortages or abnormal price movements—even before existing quotas are fully utilised. To reinforce accountability, the revised guidelines stipulate strict compliance requirements. Licensees failing to utilise their annual allocation risk exclusion from future distribution cycles, unless such failure is attributable to force majeure or circumstances beyond their control. Instances of misrepresentation, falsified documentation, or technical smuggling may result in suspension or permanent cancellation of licenses. The updated framework also requires all interested stakeholders—both existing and prospective—to submit fresh applications for MAV licenses, ensuring a level playing field under the new regime. Agricultural products covered under the scheme include pork, poultry meat, corn, chipping potatoes, coffee beans, and coffee extract. Officials emphasised that the revisions follow extensive stakeholder consultations and remain aligned with the Philippines’ international trade commitments under the World Trade Organization’s Uruguay Round framework. By recalibrating the MAV mechanism, the government aims to strike a delicate balance between supporting domestic producers, managing import flows, and mitigating price volatility in an increasingly uncertain global environment. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3750/south-korea-vietnam-deepen-agricultural-partnership-push-trade-smart-farming-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3750/south-korea-vietnam-deepen-agricultural-partnership-push-trade-smart-farming-cooperation.html Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:46:43 +0530 Talks focus on market access, disease control and ODA-Backed sector development South Korea and Vietnam have moved to deepen their strategic agricultural partnership, with both sides agreeing to expand trade engagement, strengthen development cooperation and explore collaboration in emerging areas such as smart farming and agri-processing. The discussions took place during a bilateral meeting between Song Miryung, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs of South Korea, and Trinh Viet Hung, Vietnam’s Minister of Agriculture and Environment, where both leaders emphasised the need to build a more robust and mutually beneficial agri-food trade ecosystem. South Korea sought an extension of the permitted export window for its melons to Vietnam until June, from the current May deadline, citing rising consumer demand. Both sides acknowledged that differing climatic conditions between the two countries create complementary trade opportunities and agreed to continue dialogue to facilitate smoother market access. The ministers also reviewed ongoing cooperation under official development assistance (ODA), with South Korea having supported Vietnam’s agricultural and rural sector since 2011, including initiatives such as the National Centre for Veterinary Diagnostics. Both countries agreed to further strengthen collaboration under ODA frameworks to support sectoral development. Looking ahead, the two sides proposed convening the second meeting of the South Korea–Vietnam Agricultural Cooperation Committee, aimed at broadening bilateral engagement into high-growth areas such as smart agriculture, digital farming technologies and agricultural product processing. Amid rising global concerns over animal health, particularly the spread of African swine fever, both ministers stressed the importance of coordinated efforts in vaccine research and the establishment of joint response mechanisms for transboundary animal diseases. During his visit, Minister Miryung also assessed consumer trends in Vietnam’s retail market, engaging with stakeholders to better understand demand patterns for fresh produce and Korean food products, signalling growing interest in expanding agri-food trade ties. The engagement reflects a broader effort by both countries to strengthen agricultural collaboration, enhance market linkages and build resilient, technology-driven farming systems. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3698/researchers-from-chiba-university-reveal-synergistic-light-heat-mechanism-to-boost-coe28282-to-methane-conversion-efficiency.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3698/researchers-from-chiba-university-reveal-synergistic-light-heat-mechanism-to-boost-coe28282-to-methane-conversion-efficiency.html Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:50:22 +0530 Breakthrough study uncovers how photocatalytic and photothermal processes work together, setting the stage for next-generation carbon recycling technologies As global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions continue to rise, scientists are intensifying efforts to develop technologies that can transform greenhouse gases into useful fuels. Researchers at Chiba University have now reported a significant advance by uncovering how light-driven and heat-driven processes interact to dramatically improve the conversion of CO₂ into methane (CH₄), a key step toward sustainable energy systems. In a study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, a team led by Yasuo Izumi achieved one of the highest methane production rates reported to date using a Ru–Ni–ZrO₂ catalyst system. Beyond performance, the research addresses a long-standing challenge in the field by clarifying whether CO₂ reduction is driven primarily by true photocatalytic effects—where light excites electrons—or by photothermal effects, where light generates heat that accelerates reactions. To resolve this, the researchers designed controlled experiments in which catalysts were exposed to ultraviolet–visible light under carefully regulated temperature conditions. By maintaining the system at low temperature in some cases and allowing it to heat naturally in others, they were able to distinguish the contributions of each mechanism and observe how they interact under different conditions. Their findings show that CO₂-to-methane conversion proceeds through two distinct yet interconnected pathways. Under cooler conditions, the reaction is dominated by photocatalysis, where light excites electrons on the zirconia surface, creating reactive intermediates that are subsequently converted into methane through hydrogenation steps at nickel sites. In contrast, under higher temperature conditions without cooling, photothermal effects become dominant, enabling CO₂ molecules to be directly activated and dissociated on ruthenium–nickel active sites with significantly lower energy barriers. Crucially, the study reveals that these two processes do not operate in isolation but instead reinforce each other. Under strong light irradiation, localized hotspots form on the catalyst surface, where elevated temperatures and active charge separation coexist. At these sites, methane production rates exceed what would be expected from purely thermal reactions, demonstrating a synergistic effect that enhances overall efficiency. Using this combined mechanism, the Ru–Ni–ZrO₂ catalyst achieved methane production rates of up to 10 millimoles per gram per hour, placing it among the most efficient systems developed so far. The results also show that the balance between photocatalytic and photothermal contributions can be tuned by adjusting light intensity and temperature, offering a practical pathway for optimizing performance. With global CO₂ emissions reaching record levels, technologies that can convert carbon dioxide into usable fuels are increasingly important for enabling a circular carbon economy. Methane produced through such processes can serve as an energy carrier while simultaneously reducing atmospheric carbon levels, making this approach particularly attractive for sustainable energy strategies. Looking ahead, the research team aims to extend their methodology to produce more complex and valuable chemicals, including multi-carbon compounds and alcohols, using sunlight-driven catalytic systems. By providing a clear understanding of how light and heat work together in CO₂ conversion, this study offers a foundation for designing next-generation catalysts that are both more efficient and more scalable. This work marks a critical step forward in bridging the gap between laboratory research and practical carbon recycling technologies, highlighting the potential of integrated photocatalytic and photothermal systems in addressing global climate and energy challenges. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3689/edc-announces-cad360-million-financing-package-for-sk-ecoplant-focusing-on-canada-and-south-korea.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3689/edc-announces-cad360-million-financing-package-for-sk-ecoplant-focusing-on-canada-and-south-korea.html Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:45:50 +0530 EDC announces CAD$360 M financing package for SK ecoplant focusing on Canada and South Korea Export Development Canada (EDC) has anounced KRW 390 billion (approximately CAD$360 million) in financing to SK ecoplant, SK Group's AI infrastructure solution provider. This marks EDC's first financial guarantee transaction with SK ecoplant and builds on EDC's broader strategic relationship with SK Group. It is the first transaction following the Market Leader Partnership (MLP) memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed with SK Inc. in 2024. As part of the SK Inc.–EDC MOU, EDC and SK ecoplant recently concluded a MLP MOU to formalize their collaboration and advance export trade between Canada and South Korea in key sectors of focus, including advanced manufacturing, digital technology, infrastructure, energy and critical minerals. SK ecoplant's parent company, SK Group, is South Korea's second‑largest conglomerate, after Samsung, with operations across semiconductors, energy, telecommunications and digital infrastructure, including AI‑related data centres. Maninder Sidhu, Canada's Minister of International Trade said, "Today's news represents a key milestone in strengthening Canada–South Korea commercial ties. This collaboration is creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses while supporting sustainable growth and resilient supply chains." As bilateral trade continues to grow, new opportunities are emerging for Canadian companies in agri‑food, seafood, advanced manufacturing, energy and clean technology. EDC is committed to deepen relationships with market leaders like SK Group in priority Asia-Pacific markets such as South Korea. South Korea is Canada's seventh-largest merchandise trading partner and third-largest in Asia. For 2025, bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Korea remained robust at CAD$24.36 billion. Canada exported CAD$7.1 billion in merchandise to Korea in 2025. This transaction with SK ecoplant includes a KRW 292.5 billion (approximately CAD$270 million) EDC guaranteed facility with its banking partner, Standard Chartered as an ECA coordinator and a covered lender, who will also provide an additional KRW 97.5 billion (approximately CAD$90 million) commercial facility to SK ecoplant. The financing is set to support SK ecoplant's general corporate purposes including investments and projects focused on semiconductor manufacturing and data centre development. "Our partnership with SK group is founded on joint recognition of the tremendous potential for trade growth between our countries, and this first transaction with SK ecoplant is a concrete example of how we can help realize that potential," said Alison Nankivell, President and CEO of Export Development Canada. "Canada has significant capabilities in the advanced manufacturing and digital infrastructure space, and this financing will create supply chain opportunities with a leading company in one of the Asia-Pacific's most promising markets." The Canada–Korea Free Trade Agreement, Canada's first free trade agreement with an Asia‑Pacific nation signed in 2015, and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2022 have strengthened bilateral ties and supported greater market access for Canadian exporters in South Korea. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3654/the-eu-and-australia-strengthen-free-trade-cooperation-boosting-agri-food-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3654/the-eu-and-australia-strengthen-free-trade-cooperation-boosting-agri-food-exports.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:39:11 +0530 The free trade agreement ends eight years of bilateral negotiations Australia and the EU have strengthened their partnership by finalizing negotiations for a balanced free trade deal. A formal discussion initiated to associate Australia with Horizon Europe, the world's largest research and innovation funding program, reinforcing their close ties in a period of geopolitical uncertainty. Canberra between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese represented the formal agreement signing ceremony. The free trade agreement (FTA) after eight years of negotiations, marking a significant milestone in bilateral trade relations. The EU has a positive trade balance for agri-food products with Australia, worth €2.3 billion in 2024. The agreement will   eliminate tariffs on major EU exports such as cheeses, meat preparations, wine and sparkling wine, some fruits and vegetables including preparations, chocolate, and sugar confectionary. The agreement takes into account the interests of EU agricultural producers. For sensitive agricultural sectors such as livestock, sugar, some dairy products and rice, the agreement will allow zero or lower tariff imports from Australia only in limited amounts, through carefully calibrated Tariff Rate Quotas.   In addition, the agreement includes a bilateral safeguard mechanism allowing the EU to take measures to protect sensitive European products and their producers in the unlikely event of a surge in imports from Australia causing injury to the EU market. As an additional layer of protection for farmers, the bilateral safeguard mechanism will be operationalised in a self-standing EU regulation that will see swift and effective protections kick into gear, in the unlikely event of an unforeseen and harmful surge in imports or an undue decrease in prices for EU producers. Moreover, the Agreement will protect 165 agricultural and food Geographical Indications (‘GIs') and 231 spirit drink GIs including some of the most renowned ones such as Comté, Irish Whiskey, Queso Manchego, Salam de Sibiu, Istarski pršut ham, Lübecker Marzipan and Masticha Chiou.   The EU and Australia have also agreed on a modernised bilateral wine agreement, updating the full list of EU wine GIs and traditional terms protected in Australia. Building on the previous successful agreement, it will offer protection for all EU wine GIs (representing 1,650 names), including the addition of 50 new wine GIs from 12 different Member States.     Response from the farmers community The EU has long been a key market for Australian canola, purchasing 3.65 million tonnes of canola seed in the year to September 2025 out of total exports of 5.4 million tonnes. The FTA will set the tariff on Australian canola oil to zero, down from 5.1-9.6 %, benefiting the biodiesel market and creating value for Australian growers. However, farm bodies have expressed disappointment, arguing the deal offers limited agricultural market access gains and questioning the EU's potential use of subsidies to support its producers. Critics, including the National Farmers Federation and Victorian Farmers Federation, contend that the FTA fails to address the challenges Australian farmers face, such as global trade headwinds from conflicts, tariffs, and rising costs. They argue that no deal would have been preferable to the current terms, which they see as offering subpar access for key agricultural commodities. Despite these concerns, the FTA is set to remove most Australian tariffs on EU imports, including wine, spirits, and machinery, while also providing Australian exporters with duty-free access for 98 % of the current value of their exports to the EU. The agreement also clarifies geographical indicators, preserving Australian winemakers' rights to produce and sell Prosecco domestically and allowing phased-out use of certain terms like Feta and Gruyere. Economic Impact: Beyond agriculture, the FTA is expected to enhance trade and investment between Australia and the EU, the world's second-largest economy. It will improve access for Australian service providers in sectors like financial services, education, and tourism, while also streamlining professional mobility and qualifications recognition. The deal supports Australia's ambition to become a renewable energy superpower by eliminating EU tariffs on critical minerals and hydrogen. Additionally, Australian businesses will gain better access to lucrative EU government contracts, valued at approximately $845 billion annually. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Trade Minister Don Farrell have hailed the agreement as a strategically important step that will deliver long-term benefits for both parties, despite the challenges and criticisms raised by some sectors. By Hithaishi Bhaskar ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3648/regulatory-win-positions-bioprime-for-scale.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3648/regulatory-win-positions-bioprime-for-scale.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:36:56 +0530 Renuka Diwan, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, BioPrime AgriSolutions, says full portfolio approval marks a shift from regulatory clearance to scalable growth and stronger market credibility In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Renuka Diwan, highlights that securing regulatory approval for its entire biostimulant portfolio marks a major strategic milestone for the company. She emphasizes that this achievement validates BioPrime’s strong scientific foundation and positions it ahead in an increasingly regulated and competitive biologicals market. The company differentiates itself through proprietary bioactive compounds and a science-led approach, avoiding commoditization. With approvals in place, BioPrime is now focused on expanding in India while building global partnerships and demonstrating clear return on investment for farmers. Looking ahead, the company aims to drive innovation in next-generation biologicals, including biofungicides and climate-resilient agricultural solutions. Regulatory Breakthrough as Strategic Inflection Your full portfolio has now secured regulatory approval across biostimulant categories. Beyond compliance, how does this milestone fundamentally change BioPrime’s competitive positioning in India’s fast-evolving biologicals market? India has established a substantial and evolving agriculture regulatory ecosystem, characterized by a mix of long-standing, tradition-based regulations, modern digital initiatives and specialized agencies aimed at ensuring food security, safety, sustainability and technology adoption. For BioPrime to secure approvals for our biostimulant portfolio in this stringent and robust regulatory environment, is more than just compliance – it is a strategic validation of the science behind our innovations. The fact that our entire portfolio has secured the requisite approvals demonstrates that our products meet the desired standards for characterization, efficacy and safety. This milestone creates a clear differentiation. While the market has historically witnessed a large number of loosely defined products, the new regulatory ecosystem favours companies that have invested in scientific rigour and product validation. BioPrime’s portfolio of biostimulants are based on new active ingredients with novel modes of action and are IP protected. Consequently, this approval grants BioPrime the capacity to scale with assurance, cultivate deeper alliances with premier agri-input companies and strategically enter new markets supported by comprehensive compliance and defensibility. From Lab to Licensed Product India’s regulatory regime for biostimulants has tightened considerably in recent years. What were the most complex scientific or compliance hurdles you had to overcome, and what does this approval signal about the maturity of India’s biologicals ecosystem? The journey from laboratory discovery to regulatory approval is complex, particularly in biologicals. One of the key challenges has been the need to characterize bioactive compounds precisely while maintaining the complexity inherent to biological extracts. India also has strict residue – heavy metal, insecticide pesticide limits and requires extremely strict adherence to these requirements. For us at BioPrime, the most demanding aspect was aligning advanced scientific discovery—such as secondary metabolite profiling and plant response validation—with regulatory documentation requirements under the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO) framework. This process required extensive field validation, analytical characterization and standardization of manufacturing processes. The successful approvals signal the broader maturation of India’s biologicals ecosystem. This progress should aid the sector move away from loosely defined inputs and towards scientifically validated products that deliver consistent performance at scale. Science vs. Commodity Play The biostimulants market often risks commoditization. With over 20 differentiated products featuring proprietary active ingredients, how do you ensure BioPrime remains science-led rather than competing on price alone? The risk of commoditization in biostimulants is real, especially in segments dominated by generic seaweed or humic products. BioPrime has thus made a deliberate choice to follow a distinct path. Our approach is centered on discovering and developing specific secondary metabolites that trigger defined physiological responses in plants—whether related to stress tolerance, nutrient efficiency or reproductive performance. This science-led development allows us to build products with clear modes of action and differentiated outcomes. With proprietary active ingredients, our strategy is to build strong IP barriers .Farmers and institutional partners ultimately value predictable outcomes and that is where science-driven innovation creates long-term differentiation. Defensible Innovation and IP You’ve emphasized developing novel active ingredients from unconventional raw materials. How critical is intellectual property and defensible science in building long-term enterprise value in biologicals? In biologicals, defensible innovation is essential for building long-term enterprise value. Many products in the market rely on broadly available raw materials, which makes differentiation difficult. At BioPrime, we focus on identifying novel bioactive compounds from unconventional natural sources and translating them into functional agricultural solutions. Protecting these discoveries through Intellectual Property (IP)—combined with proprietary extraction and formulation processes creates a defensible moat. IP, however, is only one component. True defensibility comes from integrating scientific discovery, regulatory approval, manufacturing capability and field validation. When these elements come together, the result is a platform that can continuously generate differentiated product. Market Expansion Strategy With regulatory clearance in place, what is your immediate commercial roadmap? Are you prioritizing deeper domestic penetration, export markets, or strategic partnerships with larger agri-input companies? With regulatory approvals in place, BioPrime’s focus now is on scaling adoption through a combination of domestic expansion and strategic partnerships. India remains a key market for us, given the increasing farmer interest in biological solutions and the strong distribution networks of agri-input companies. At the same time, we are actively expanding collaborations with global agribusiness partners who are looking to incorporate biological technologies into their portfolios. BioPrime’s strategy is therefore two- fold: deepen penetration in key domestic crop segments while leveraging partnerships to accelerate global market access. Biologicals in the Era of Regenerative Agriculture As sustainability transitions from aspiration to operational necessity, where do you see biostimulants fitting within regenerative agriculture frameworks? Can biological inputs meaningfully reduce dependence on conventional agrochemicals at scale? Biostimulants play a critical role in enabling regenerative agriculture by improving plant resilience, nutrient use efficiency and soil health interactions. Rather than replacing conventional inputs entirely, biologicals can complement them by making nutrient delivery more efficient and helping plants withstand environmental stress. This integration reduces input intensity while maintaining productivity. As agriculture moves towards sustainability-driven models, biological solutions will increasingly become part of integrated crop management systems that combine nutrition, crop protection and soil regeneration. Farmer Economics and ROI In a market where farmer margins remain tight, how do you communicate measurable return on investment? What data points or field outcomes best demonstrate the economic case for adopting differentiated biostimulants? Ultimately, adoption is driven by economics. Farmers need to see clear and consistent return on investments. At BioPrime, we focus on outcomes that directly translate into economic value —improved crop vigour, higher flower-to-fruit conversion, better yield realizations and enhanced quality parameters.One often ignored aspect is reduction in crop/ yield loss due to climatic fluctuations. This is a tricky parameter as loss is always not apparent and visible. BioPrime’s field validations across multiple crops helps generate the data needed to demonstrate these benefits. Equally important is communicating these results in a simple and practical way through field demonstrations, institutional trials, and partnerships with agribusiness companies. When farmers see the impact in their own fields, adoption follows naturally. The Next Frontier Now that the regulatory foundation is secured, what is the next frontier for BioPrime —next-generation bioactives, carbon-linked agriculture solutions, precision biological delivery, or global expansion? With regulatory foundations now in place, BioPrime’s focus is on advancing the next generation of biological innovation. This includes discovering new bioactive molecules through our research platforms, exploring opportunities in areas such as climate resilience and carbon-linked agricultural solutions. We have a very strong pipeline in biocontrol segment and will soon we launching several Biofungicides. At a broader level, BioPrime has evolved from being just a product-focused company into a science platform for agricultural biologicals, capable of delivering differentiated solutions for farmers and partners across global markets. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3625/cme-group-expands-south-asia-edible-oil-industry-stability-with-industry-support.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3625/cme-group-expands-south-asia-edible-oil-industry-stability-with-industry-support.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:39:02 +0530 New contracts enhance price discovery and risk management for vegetable oils market CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, has introduced four new South Asia edible oil futures contracts, enhancing price discovery and risk management for the region's market participants. Launched on March 2, 2026, these cash-settled products include two outright contracts—South Asia Soybean Oil (Fastmarkets) Futures and South Asia Crude Palm Oil (Fastmarkets) Futures—and two spread contracts that reference Fastmarkets' Soyoil CFR India and Crude Palm Oil CFR West Coast India assessments. The contracts provide tools for better hedging and investment strategies in the volatile edible oils market. The first trade of 100 contracts of the South Asia Crude Palm Oil (Fastmarkets) Futures occurred on March 5, 2026, brokered by ICAP between Avere Commodities and Olam Agri. This early activity signals strong industry support for the new offerings. John Ricci, Managing Director and Global Head of Agricultural Products at CME Group, emphasized the significance of the launch, stating, “The addition of these contracts provides South Asian market participants with enhanced price discovery and risk management capabilities and will further support their investment and hedging strategies.” Preston MacKenzie, Senior Trader at Avere Commodities, noted, “CME Group's exchange-cleared products that represent cash markets are great tools to add to our portfolio.” Similarly, Rix Hufman, Senior Tropical Oils Trader at Olam Agri, highlighted the value for major shippers like Olam Agri, saying, “We embrace the addition of another tool to optimize our hedging strategies.” ICAP, as the first firm to broker the new product, underscored its role in advancing risk management solutions. James Mckay, Co-Head of APAC Ags, Softs & Biofuels at ICAP, remarked, “We're proud to be the first firm to broker this new product. It's an important first step in developing new and innovative ways for our customers to manage their risk in these volatile and ever-changing markets.” The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers' Association (IVPA) also expressed enthusiasm for the contracts' potential impact. Sudhakar Desai, IVPA President, stated, “We envision these becoming the global benchmarks that other major destinations adopt for buying and selling CIF India contracts.” This sentiment reflects the broader industry view that these futures could set a standard for effective risk management in the Indian vegetable oils sector. With these new products, CME Group has taken a significant step in supporting South Asia's agricultural and commodity markets, providing participants with innovative tools to navigate price volatility and optimize their trading strategies. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3618/24-mile-chokepoint-that-moves-world.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3618/24-mile-chokepoint-that-moves-world.html Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:17:20 +0530 Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are rattling oil markets, disrupting shipping networks and exposing fragile fertilizer supply chains that underpin global food production The narrow waters of the Strait of Hormuz have long been one of the world’s most strategically sensitive maritime corridors. Now, as tensions flare across the Middle East following unprecedented joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, the waterway has once again emerged as the epicenter of a rapidly escalating global economic shock. Oil prices are climbing. Shipping companies are scrambling to reroute vessels. Freight costs and insurance premiums are surging. And fertilizer markets—already fragile—are bracing for another wave of volatility. For countries like India, which depend heavily on both Middle Eastern energy and imported agricultural inputs, the repercussions could ripple far beyond energy markets, touching everything from food production and agricultural costs to inflation and trade logistics. The crisis underscores a stark reality of the global economy: a sliver of water barely 24 miles wide can still dictate the fortunes of nations. A Strategic Chokepoint Under Pressure Stretching roughly 100 miles between Iran in the north and the coastlines of Oman and the United Arab Emirates in the south, the Strait of Hormuz has long occupied a singular place in the architecture of the global energy system. Few geographic features exert such disproportionate influence over the world economy. On a map it appears as little more than a thin ribbon of water separating the Persian Gulf from the open ocean. In reality, it functions as one of the most consequential arteries of global commerce. Disruption or heightened risk in the Strait of Hormuz can significantly affect India’s agri trade flows, as fertilizers, sulphur, phosphoric acid and other critical inputs face longer transit times, higher freight rates and insurance premiums. Sulphur prices are especially vulnerable, since a large share of global sulphur is recovered from Middle Eastern oil and gas processing; any slowdown or shipping disruption can tighten supply and spike prices for sulphur-based fertilizers. For India, this translates into higher nutrient costs, pressure on fertilizer subsidies, and potential delays during key sowing seasons. The overall risk is not a shortage-driven crisis, but a cost- and timing-driven shock to agricultural supply chains. --- Dr Rahul Mirchandani, Chairman, Aries Agro At its narrowest point, the strait measures just 24 miles across—barely the distance of a short highway commute. Yet through this slender maritime corridor flows close to 20 percent of the world’s crude oil supply, an extraordinary concentration of energy trade passing through a single chokepoint. Every day, vast fleets of tankers carrying millions of barrels of oil move through these waters, transporting crude from the Persian Gulf’s dominant producers—Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates—toward energy-hungry economies in Asia, Europe and beyond. The significance of the strait lies not only in the volume of oil that moves through it, but in the absence of credible alternatives. Pipelines exist that bypass the corridor, including routes across Saudi Arabia and the UAE, yet their combined capacity falls far short of replacing the immense flow handled by maritime tankers. The geography of the region has effectively locked the global energy system into dependence on this narrow passage. That dependence transforms the strait into something more than a shipping lane—it becomes a pressure point where geopolitics and economics intersect. Any disruption, whether from military confrontation, maritime blockades, sabotage or even heightened security threats, reverberates far beyond the Gulf. Traders, insurers and shipping companies monitor developments in the strait with extraordinary sensitivity because even small risks can translate into immediate market reactions. “Exports to the Middle East are effectively on hold for now as shipping companies reassess security risks in the Gulf. Carriers are likely to impose additional insurance and war-risk surcharges, which will inevitably make imports more expensive. If the situation persists, the combined effect of higher freight costs, longer transit times and elevated insurance premiums could significantly raise the cost of fertilizers and other agricultural inputs for countries like India.” ---- Rajib Chakraborty, National President, SFIA History has repeatedly shown how fragile this equilibrium can be. Periods of tension in the Gulf—from the tanker wars of the 1980s to more recent confrontations between regional powers—have demonstrated how quickly shipping routes can become contested and how rapidly energy markets respond. Today, that sensitivity remains acute. Analysts warn that even the threat of closure—without a single tanker being physically blocked—could push crude prices sharply higher as traders price in the possibility of disrupted supply. Some estimates suggest that oil could surge toward $108 per barrel if shipments through the strait were significantly curtailed. Recent movements in energy markets suggest investors are already factoring in that risk. The mere possibility of instability in the Strait of Hormuz is enough to ripple through futures markets, insurance premiums and freight rates, underscoring how profoundly the global economy still depends on the safe passage of ships through a corridor barely two dozen miles wide. In an era defined by complex supply chains and interconnected markets, the world’s energy lifeline still runs through one narrow stretch of water—and the consequences of instability there rarely remain confined to the region. Oil Markets React Global crude markets wasted little time registering the shock. As geopolitical tensions escalated across the Gulf, oil prices moved almost instantly, reflecting how sensitive energy markets remain to developments around the Strait of Hormuz. Futures linked to West Texas Intermediate crude surged more than 6 percent, climbing above $71 per barrel—their highest level in over eight months. At one stage during trading, prices spiked nearly 10 percent, a sharp intraday surge that underscored the market’s growing anxiety about potential supply disruptions. Yet traders say the rally is not driven by immediate shortages of crude. Rather, it reflects a rapidly expanding geopolitical risk premium—the additional cost markets attach to the possibility that instability in the Persian Gulf could threaten one of the world’s most vital energy corridors. The Gulf remains the epicenter of global oil exports. When tensions rise in a region responsible for such a large share of global supply, markets react with remarkable speed. Shipping data already suggests that tanker operators are recalibrating their strategies—adjusting routes, revising security protocols, and factoring higher risk into charter rates. As insurers reassess exposure in a potential conflict zone, maritime insurance premiums are also beginning to climb. For oil-importing economies, the implications are immediate and unavoidable. Rising freight costs, higher insurance charges and a swelling geopolitical risk premium combine to push energy bills upward, transmitting the shock from the Gulf directly into global inflation and trade flows. India’s Energy Vulnerability Few economies illustrate the stakes of Gulf instability more starkly than India. Roughly half of India’s crude oil imports—between 2.5 and 2.7 million barrels per day—move through the Strait of Hormuz, making the narrow corridor one of the most critical arteries in the country’s energy supply chain. These shipments originate largely from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait—producers that together anchor India’s long-standing energy relationship with the Persian Gulf. Any sustained disruption to maritime traffic through the strait would therefore reverberate quickly through India’s economy. The country’s vast refining sector remains deeply intertwined with Middle Eastern crude flows. Although New Delhi has diversified supply in recent years—most notably by ramping up purchases from Russia—the Gulf continues to form the backbone of its energy strategy. A surge in crude prices would ripple through the economy with speed. Fuel costs feed directly into transportation networks, manufacturing supply chains and logistics, amplifying inflationary pressures across sectors. In a country where energy prices carry both economic and political sensitivity, volatility in the Gulf rarely remains confined to commodity markets for long. Yet oil is only one layer of the vulnerability. The same sea lanes that carry crude tankers also support a sprawling web of container shipping, agricultural commodities and fertilizer shipments—cargoes that are just as critical to India’s economic stability and food security as energy itself. Shipping Lines Pull Back Long before any formal closure of sea lanes, the global shipping industry has begun behaving as though the risk is already real. As tensions rise around the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Persian Gulf, some of the world’s largest container carriers are quietly redrawing their maritime maps—suspending cargo bookings, rerouting vessels and issuing emergency advisories to fleets navigating one of the world’s most critical trade corridors. The response has been swift and coordinated. The Geneva-based shipping giant MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company announced on March 1 that it was suspending all bookings for worldwide cargo bound for the Middle East until further notice, a move that effectively freezes a significant portion of container traffic headed toward Gulf ports. Meanwhile, Danish logistics powerhouse Maersk confirmed that two of its major shipping services—ME11 and MECL, which connect the Middle East and India with Mediterranean and U.S. markets—would be rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope. While safer, the diversion dramatically extends sailing distances between Asia, Europe and the Americas, adding days—sometimes weeks—to global shipping schedules. France’s maritime heavyweight CMA CGM has taken an even more sweeping step. Citing escalating operational and security constraints, the company halted all refrigerated container bookings for a wide swath of Middle Eastern destinations including Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Yemen, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt (Port of Ain Sokhna), Djibouti, Sudan and Eritrea. Across the Gulf itself, caution has hardened into operational directives. China’s state-backed carrier COSCO Shipping has instructed vessels already inside the Gulf to proceed to safer waters and remain on standby until security conditions stabilize. German shipping line Hapag‑Lloyd—the world’s fifth-largest container shipping company—has gone further still, suspending all transit through the strait. Ships already operating within the Gulf have reportedly been ordered to seek shelter and await further instructions. Taken together, these moves amount to a quiet but profound shift in global maritime behavior. Without a single official blockade being declared, the shipping industry is already acting as though one of the world’s most vital trade corridors has become dangerously uncertain. Freight Costs Begin to Spike As vessels quietly alter their routes and insurers reassess the risks of operating in a rapidly militarizing maritime corridor, the financial consequences are already rippling through global shipping markets. Freight rates are beginning to climb. Shipping companies have introduced what is known as an Emergency Conflict Surcharge (ECS)—a temporary levy designed to compensate carriers for the sharply elevated risks of operating near the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Persian Gulf. The new charges are steep and immediate. Current ECS levels include $2,000 per 20-foot container, $3,000 per 40-foot container, and $4,000 for refrigerated or specialized containers, the latter particularly significant for food, pharmaceutical and agricultural shipments that depend on temperature-controlled transport. These surcharges are only part of the emerging cost structure. Maritime insurers are simultaneously recalibrating risk assessments for ships entering Gulf waters, prompting additional War Risk Surcharges across multiple routes. German carrier Hapag-Lloyd has already confirmed the introduction of such fees, setting charges at $1,500 per TEU for standard containers and $3,500 per container for refrigerated units and specialized equipment. For exporters and importers, the financial arithmetic escalates quickly. Every additional surcharge compounds the cost of moving goods through already strained supply chains. Longer detours around the Cape of Good Hope increase fuel consumption and voyage durations, while rising insurance premiums add another layer of expense. The result is a mounting logistical squeeze that many trade analysts say is beginning to resemble the cascading disruptions witnessed during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic—when shipping delays, container shortages and freight inflation reverberated across the global economy. In today’s case, however, the trigger is not a virus but geopolitics—and a narrow maritime corridor whose instability can still reshape the economics of global trade. Port Disruptions and Regional Bottlenecks The stress is not confined to oil tankers and container vessels navigating the narrow waters of the Strait of Hormuz. It is increasingly visible across the wider logistics architecture of the Gulf, where some of the world’s most important trade hubs are beginning to feel the strain. At the center of this network lies Jebel Ali Port—one of the largest container transshipment complexes on the planet and a crucial redistribution gateway linking Asia, Africa and Europe. Reports indicate that the port has experienced temporary operational halts following conflict-related blasts and debris incidents in the region, forcing precautionary pauses in port activity. Even short disruptions at such strategic hubs can send shockwaves through global supply chains. Ports like Jebel Ali operate as the logistical heartbeat of the Gulf’s “free-zone” trade ecosystem, where cargo arriving from Asia is redistributed onward to markets across the Middle East, Africa and the Mediterranean. When these nodes slow down—even briefly—the consequences propagate outward through shipping schedules, container availability and delivery timelines. For exporters thousands of miles away, the effects can be immediate. Indian exporters who rely heavily on Gulf transshipment routes warn that the growing instability could lengthen transit times and inject fresh uncertainty into key export corridors connecting South Asia with Europe and Africa. Delays at a single hub can cascade through multiple supply chains, forcing cargo to wait for connecting vessels, rerouted containers or alternative port calls. Air logistics may offer little relief. With parts of regional airspace subject to potential restrictions or heightened security oversight, cargo flights could face longer routes or operational constraints—tightening supply chains even further. Yet amid the turbulence engulfing oil markets and container shipping, one of the most consequential ripple effects may emerge in a sector far removed from tankers and port cranes. The next shock could arrive in the global fertilizer market. Fertilizer Markets Brace for Impact Beyond oil tankers and container vessels, another critical supply chain runs quietly through the waters of the Persian Gulf—one that ultimately feeds the world. The Middle East plays a pivotal role in global fertilizer production, particularly for nitrogen-based fertilizers such as urea. Countries across the region have built vast petrochemical complexes that convert natural gas into fertilizers shipped to agricultural markets around the world. Among them, Iran occupies a significant position. The country has a urea production capacity of roughly 9 million tonnes per year, exporting around 5 million tonnes annually to international markets. Iranian urea is frequently among the lowest-priced supplies globally, making it an important source for fertilizer-importing countries—including India. Any disruption to these exports—whether triggered by shipping constraints, sanctions pressure, or logistical bottlenecks across the Strait of Hormuz—can quickly ripple through global fertilizer markets. Analysts warn that instability along these maritime routes could push prices higher across the entire fertilizer spectrum: urea, MOP (muriate of potash), DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) and NPK fertilizers. For India, the implications are particularly significant. The country is among the world’s largest consumers of agricultural nutrients, and its food security is deeply intertwined with the reliability of international fertilizer supply chains. In the fiscal year 2024–25, India imported 160.29 lakh metric tonnes of bulk fertilizers, underscoring the enormous scale of its dependence on global trade. These imports underpin the productivity of one of the world’s largest agricultural systems—supporting everything from wheat and rice cultivation to oilseeds and horticulture. But a closer examination of India’s fertilizer import structure reveals something more consequential. Many of these supply lines run directly through the same geopolitical fault lines now emerging across the Gulf. Urea Imports and Gulf Dependence Urea dominates India’s fertilizer import basket. Total imports amount to 56.47 LMT, making it the largest category in the country’s fertilizer trade. The supply structure reveals a striking concentration in Gulf producers. Oman supplies 26.13 LMT, making it India’s largest supplier by far. Russia provides 9.23 LMT, while Saudi Arabia contributes 5.38 LMT and Qatar exports 3.70 LMT. Taken together, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar account for 35.21 LMT—around 62.35 percent of India’s total urea imports. This means that nearly two-thirds of India’s most critical fertilizer flows from countries located in or near the Gulf region. If shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz were disrupted, the consequences for India’s fertilizer supply chain could be immediate. MOP Import Patterns Muriate of potash (MOP) is the second-largest fertilizer import category at 45.69 LMT. Major suppliers include Saudi Arabia (19.05 LMT) and Morocco (10.74 LMT), alongside smaller shipments from China and Jordan (2.39 LMT). Imports from Saudi Arabia and Jordan together total 21.44 LMT, representing 46.92 percent of India’s MOP imports. While this share is lower than that of urea, it still reflects a substantial reliance on suppliers connected to West Asia. DAP Supply Structure DAP imports total 35.41 LMT, and the supply structure is more geographically diversified. Russia dominates with 18.00 LMT, while Jordan supplies 3.01 LMT and Israel contributes 2.80 LMT. Gulf-region contributions are relatively smaller—5.81 LMT, or 16.41 percent of total DAP imports. This diversification provides a measure of resilience, though it also highlights Russia’s expanding role in global fertilizer supply chains. NPK Fertilizer Imports NPK fertilizer imports amount to 22.72 LMT, the smallest category among the four. Here again Russia dominates with 18.27 LMT, followed by Saudi Arabia with 3.40 LMT, while China supplies a minor share. The Gulf contribution therefore totals 3.40 LMT, accounting for 14.96 percent of India’s NPK imports. Structural Vulnerabilities in the Supply Chain Viewed together, the import data reveals a set of structural vulnerabilities that extend far beyond simple trade statistics. Beneath the numbers lies a complex web of geopolitical exposure linking India’s agricultural system to two of the world’s most strategically sensitive regions—the Persian Gulf and Russia. The most striking dependency appears in urea, where India’s reliance on Gulf suppliers exceeds 62 percent. Countries such as Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar together account for the overwhelming share of shipments, tying India’s most critical fertilizer directly to the stability of trade routes that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. A similar—though slightly less concentrated—pattern emerges in MOP (muriate of potash) imports. Nearly 47 percent of India’s supply originates from Gulf-linked producers, notably Saudi Arabia and Jordan. While additional supplies arrive from producers such as Morocco and China, the Gulf remains a crucial pillar of the supply chain. The picture shifts somewhat for DAP and NPK fertilizers, where the sourcing base is more geographically diversified. Here, Russia has emerged as the dominant supplier, particularly in NPK and a substantial share of DAP imports, reflecting Moscow’s growing footprint in global fertilizer markets. Yet diversification does not necessarily eliminate risk. Instead, it redistributes it across multiple geopolitical fault lines. In practical terms, India’s fertilizer supply chain now sits at the intersection of two volatile arenas. Tensions in the Gulf can disrupt maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic shifts or sanctions regimes can reshape exports from Russia. Meanwhile, the mechanics of global shipping—freight rates, insurance premiums and vessel availability—can change almost overnight when conflict alters maritime risk calculations. Each of these pressures ultimately converges in a single place: fertilizer prices. If vessels are forced onto longer routes, if insurers impose war-risk premiums, or if supply chains fragment under geopolitical strain, the cost of nutrients essential to agricultural production rises accordingly—transmitting geopolitical instability directly into the economics of farming and food production. The Global Stakes The world has faced crises in these waters before—from the tanker wars of the 1980s to the recurring standoffs between Iran and Western powers. Yet the stakes today may be even higher. Global supply chains are now more tightly interwoven than at any point in modern economic history. Energy markets respond instantly to geopolitical tremors, while food systems—often overlooked in strategic debates—depend heavily on the uninterrupted movement of fertilizers and agricultural inputs across oceans. At the center of this delicate architecture lies the Strait of Hormuz. Should tensions escalate further—or should the passage become unsafe for commercial shipping even temporarily—the consequences would extend far beyond the Middle East. Oil prices could spike sharply as traders scramble to price in supply risks. Shipping lanes could remain disrupted as vessels reroute around conflict zones, driving up freight costs and insurance premiums. Fertilizer markets, already sensitive to logistics disruptions, could tighten rapidly, amplifying pressure on global food production. The resulting shock would not remain confined to commodity markets. It would ripple outward—through inflation, trade balances and food security—reverberating across economies already strained by geopolitical fragmentation and fragile supply chains. For now, the world’s attention remains fixed on a narrow corridor of water where geopolitics, energy security and global trade converge. History offers a clear lesson: what unfolds in the Strait of Hormuz rarely stays there. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3615/usda-initiates-a-trade-mission-to-indonesia-aimed-at-boosting-exports-cutting-costs-and-supporting-american-farmers.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3615/usda-initiates-a-trade-mission-to-indonesia-aimed-at-boosting-exports-cutting-costs-and-supporting-american-farmers.html Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:49:17 +0530 The delegation included 41 agribusinesses, trade organizations, and representatives from four state departments of agriculture. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg met in Jakarta, Indonesia, to lead an agribusiness trade mission to expand market access and boost U.S. agricultural exports. The delegation includes 41 agribusinesses, trade organizations, and representatives from four state departments of agriculture. “While Indonesia was our 11th largest market in 2024, the opportunities here in the world’s fourth most populous nation cannot be overstated,” said Under Secretary Lindberg. “We are here to showcase the strength and diversity of U.S. food and agricultural products – and to demonstrate how recent commitments from Indonesian officials will translate into new sales that drive dollars back into the pockets of America’s farmers, ranchers and communities. When producers can reach more customers abroad, they can spread costs, operate more efficiently, strengthening their bottom line and making goods more affordable at home.”  Indonesia is an upper-middle-income country with a real GDP of $4.1 trillion, an annual growth rate of 5%, and a large, rapidly expanding middle class, the country offers strong demand for high-quality imported food and agricultural goods. Its young population is also driving a growing interest in innovative and convenient food products, reflecting new opportunities for U.S. exporters. This trade mission is happening at a critical time thanks to the landmark U.S.–Indonesia Agreement on Reciprocal Trade. This agreement eliminates tariffs on nearly all U.S. agricultural exports and reduces longstanding non‑tariff barriers, unlocking more than $1.6 billion in U.S. agricultural exports and helping to rebalance trade. In 2025, USDA trade missions connected more than 200 U.S. companies with buyers in Hong Kong, Thailand, Peru, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and Mexico, generating projected 12-month sales of $125 million. Building on that success, USDA will lead missions in 2026 to the Philippines, Türkiye, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3607/korea-strengthen-bilateral-agriculture-cooperation-with-brazilil.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3607/korea-strengthen-bilateral-agriculture-cooperation-with-brazilil.html Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:27:48 +0530 Revision of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural cooperation, as well as food security and the expansion of agricultural input exports. H.E. Song Miryung, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK), held a bilateral meeting in Seoul with H.E. Carlos Henrique Baqueta Fávaro, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of the Federative Republic of Brazil, on the occasion of the State Visit to the Republic of Korea by H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil. During the meeting, the two sides discussed practical measures to expand bilateral cooperation in agriculture. The discussions covered the revision of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural cooperation, as well as food security and the expansion of agricultural input exports.  Held alongside the ROK–Brazil Summit, the bilateral meeting provided an opportunity for the ROK to strengthen its food security through cooperation with Brazil, a major global agricultural producer, and to promote the entry of Korean smart farming technologies and agricultural inputs, including agricultural machinery and agrochemicals, into Latin America and the Caribbean.   The ROK and Brazil agreed to reorganise the Agricultural Cooperation Committee, established in 2005, into a platform for comprehensive cooperation encompassing food security, digital agriculture, agricultural machinery, pesticides, private sector investment, and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures. In particular, the two sides agreed to convene the Committee annually, rather than biennially, thereby establishing a more regular and structured mechanism for dialogue. Through strengthened partnership with Brazil, one of the world’s largest grain producers, the ROK aims to further reinforce its national food security framework.   In addition, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) will seek to enhance substantive cooperation with Brazil by leveraging the technological expertise of Korean companies in areas such as smart farming, agricultural machinery, and agrochemicals. This is expected to contribute to the expansion of export opportunities for Korean agricultural inputs across the wider Latin American region.   With regard to K-Food exports, the two ministers had in-depth discussions on facilitating the entry of Korean red ginseng into the Brazilian market. Minister Song noted that the lengthy review period by the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) posed challenges for Korean exporters and requested Brazil’s cooperation in expediting the relevant quarantine inspection procedures. The two sides also agreed to address key quarantine matters, including those related to the export of Korean grapes, in accordance with international standards within the framework of the reorganised Agricultural Cooperation Committee. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3603/taiwans-dragon-fruit-jujubes-and-lychees-approved-for-export-to-the-eu.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3603/taiwans-dragon-fruit-jujubes-and-lychees-approved-for-export-to-the-eu.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:42:07 +0530 Builds on bilateral agricultural trade relation The Plant Health Unit of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), has approved the export of Taiwan-produced dragon fruit, jujubes, and lychees to the EU market. This marks another significant milestone in bilateral agricultural trade, following the successful entry of Taiwanese guavas and mangoes into the EU market last June 2025. According to EU guidance, import requirements for these items are detailed in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2072. Taiwanese exporters must strictly comply with the relevant provisions in Annex XI of this regulation. They must also accompany shipments with phytosanitary certificates issued by Taiwanese authorities to ensure products meet EU plant health standards. Regarding occasional time lags in the administrative process of EU Member States, and based on past experience, the detailed quarantine conditions and operational specifications for individual fruits still require final confirmation with the actual importing EU Member State. If the latest quarantine regulations or implementation status of the target country (specific EU Member State) cannot be fully confirmed before formally launching exportation, Taiwanese exporters must consult the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency (APHIA). The official agency will fully assist in contacting and confirming details, providing the industry with the strongest technical support. This EU market opening not only demonstrates the competitiveness of Taiwan's premium fresh fruits but also underscores the international recognition of our nation's robust animal and plant quarantine capabilities. The APHIA urges exporters to ensure that orchard and packing facilities carefully inspect and select fruit prior to shipment. Beyond supplying high-quality produce, it is essential to verify that the goods are free from quarantine pests of concern to EU countries to facilitate smooth customs clearance. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3602/the-22nd-konya-agriculture-fair-to-convene-agriculture-sectors-in-turkiye-and-middle-east-and-north-africa-mena-on-7-11-april.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3602/the-22nd-konya-agriculture-fair-to-convene-agriculture-sectors-in-turkiye-and-middle-east-and-north-africa-mena-on-7-11-april.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:24:57 +0530 The 22nd Konya Agriculture Fair, taking place on 7–11 April 2026 in Konya, Türkiye’s agricultural capital, positions the country as a strategic trade and technology bridge for MENA’s evolving agricultural needs As water scarcity, productivity pressure and food security concerns intensify across the Middle East and North Africa, the 22nd Konya Agriculture Fair offers a solution-oriented meeting point for technology, trade and long-term cooperation. Held on 7-11 April 2026 at the Tüyap Konya International Fair Center, the event brings together regional buyers, global manufacturers, importers, and distributors seeking practical responses to structural agricultural challenges. Organized by Tüyap Konya Fairs Inc. in cooperation with TARMAKBİR (Turkish Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers Association), the fair will span 96,000 square meters, hosting a comprehensive spectrum of agricultural mechanization and technologies from tractors and harvesting machinery to irrigation systems, precision agriculture tools, smart farming applications and automation solutions. With strong international participation expected, the event continues to reinforce Konya’s position not only as Türkiye’s agricultural capital but also as one of the region’s most established agricultural trade platforms. Türkiye is a logistical and industrial hub Beyond equipment display, the 22nd Konya Agriculture Fair functions as a technology transfer environment. Exhibitors will showcase solutions designed to reduce water consumption, improve fuel efficiency, enable precision planting and harvesting, and integrate automation into farm management systems. These capabilities align closely with national modernization agendas across MENA. Geographically, Türkiye offers a natural advantage. Positioned at the intersection of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, it serves as a logistical and industrial hub capable of supplying neighboring markets with shorter lead times and flexible production models. This accessibility strengthens the fair’s role as a practical meeting ground for procurement discussions, distributorship agreements and joint ventures. A regional dialogue platform As agricultural systems across MENA adapt to climate stress, resource constraints and growing consumption demands, platforms that combine technology, trade and strategic dialogue gain new relevance. The 22nd Konya Agriculture Fair is positioned not merely as an exhibition, but as a working arena for solutions supporting sustainable productivity, strengthening supply chains, and advancing long-term cooperation between Türkiye and the wider MENA region. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3601/vitafoods-europe-to-gather-global-nutraceutical-functional-food-beverage-and-dietary-supplement-industries-in-barcelona-5-7-may-2026.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3601/vitafoods-europe-to-gather-global-nutraceutical-functional-food-beverage-and-dietary-supplement-industries-in-barcelona-5-7-may-2026.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:48:31 +0530 Barcelona, 5-7 May 2026 Vitafoods Europe 2026 expands with enhanced networking and new features Vitafoods Europe, the leading global event for the nutraceutical, functional food and beverage, and dietary supplement industries, returns to Barcelona, between 5-7 May 2026 with enhanced opportunities to connect and inspire – including double the dedicated networking floor space. As the show continues to grow in line with the needs of the nutraceutical industry, the 2026 edition – the show’s largest to date – will expand into a new exhibition hall, increasing total floor space by 22%. This expansion aims to provide a vibrant community platform built around deeper collaboration and even more opportunities to connect and learn. Even more ways to connect with the community With community and collaboration at the heart of Vitafoods Europe, the 2026 event will see double the available networking space, with several new dedicated areas opening across the show floor. New for 2026 is a purpose-built networking area and an additional VIP lounge, creating an improved environment to facilitate planned and spontaneous meetings across the industry. As part of the enhanced networking focus for 2026, the Community Lounge will introduce a dedicated space for small associations and industry groups to partake in intimate networking sessions, and spark conversations in a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. This will include organisations such as the Spanish Food Supplements Association (AFEPADI) and European specialist sports nutrition alliance (ESSNA), helping bring together key voices from across the European supplements landscape. In addition to these new networking features, returning favourites such as Lunch & Learn sessions and the Women’s Networking Breakfast will offer focused, insight-led discussions in an informal setting, while the popular Coffee & Churros and Sunrise Yoga are back to encourage relaxed, authentic connections on and off the show floor. Smarter, more accessible experiences To complement the expanded networking opportunities at Vitafoods Europe 2026, attendees will also benefit from enhanced digital tools designed to make connecting easier than ever. The upgraded event platform allows visitors to browse exhibitor profiles, shortlist suppliers, and use online matchmaking to set up meetings – either in person or virtually. Paired with an improved event app, these tools will help attendees navigate the show floor efficiently and plan their meetings and personal agendas to make the most of every opportunity. Innovation on display Reflecting the strong consumer interest in pet health, Vitafoods Europe 2026 will expand the Pet Nutrition Hub, a space that will showcase the latest innovations in pet health and nutrition through curated display pods on the show floor. This will join returning favourites - like the Tasting Centre, New Products Zone, and New Ingredients Zone - creating focused areas where visitors can explore the newest innovations, sample products, and connect directly with suppliers. New for 2026: spotlight sessions Day 3 of the show will incorporate new spotlight sessions on weight management and nutricosmetics, highlighting some of the most dynamic areas shaping the market. These sessions will examine how the sector is adapting to the seismic shift in healthy weight strategies driven by the 1.6 million adults in Great Britain1 and 13% of the U.S. population2 now using GLP-1 medications and explore how the industry must evolve to meet rapidly changing consumer behaviours. Nutricosmetics will also take centre stage, reflecting the growing beauty-from-within market. Attendees will be able to explore the key drivers, emerging ingredients, and functional foods shaping this fast-growing global market, and discover how nutrition is increasingly understood to impact skin health and more. These sessions will complement the broader programme and extensive learning opportunities offered by the Vitafoods Insights Theatre and Vitafoods Europe Conference across the entire course of the show. Rewarding innovation Finally, returning for its second year, the Vitafoods Europe Innovation Awards will once again celebrate industry excellence by recognising groundbreaking products, ingredients and technologies shaping the future of nutrition. The awards aim to provide a platform for companies to showcase the forward-thinking solutions, creativity, and science driving the nutraceutical sector forward. A global meeting place that shapes what’s next "There’s a renewed energy across the nutraceutical industry right now, fuelled by the pace of innovation and rapid shifts in consumer health priorities – and Vitafoods Europe 2026 is designed to channel that momentum into real connection," says Gareth Baguley, Brand Director, Vitafoods Europe, Informa Markets. "As our largest event to date, with new features and significantly expanded networking spaces, we’re creating the environment for more meaningful conversations and stronger partnerships that will define the industry’s next chapter. As new areas of innovation continue to emerge, Vitafoods Europe remains where the global community comes to discover what’s next and find more to connect with across the industry." Registration for Vitafoods Europe 2026 is now open, with tickets available at a 40% discount until 22 March. To find out more, visit: https://www.vitafoods.eu.com/en/home.html   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3597/thailand-and-south-korea-collaborate-to-boost-thai-fruit-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3597/thailand-and-south-korea-collaborate-to-boost-thai-fruit-exports.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:41:53 +0530 Strengthening agricultural trade through market expansion and innovation Thailand’s Department of Agriculture and the Thai Ambassador to Seoul are intensifying efforts to enhance the export of high-value Thai agricultural products to South Korea. In a recent meeting with South Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA), both sides discussed strategies to overcome trade barriers and expand market access for Thai fruits such as mangoes, pomelos, longans, and green papayas. Addressing Trade Barriers and SPS Measures The meeting, led by Rapibhat Chandarasrivongs, Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, and Tanee Sangrat, Thai Ambassador to Seoul, focused on tackling sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures that impact trade. Both countries are working to open new agricultural markets while increasing the volume of Thai exports to South Korea. In 2026, Thailand submitted a request to open South Korea’s pomelo market, while South Korea sought access for fresh paprika to Thailand. This ongoing cooperation highlights the shared goal of fostering agricultural trade between the two nations. Promising Growth in Pomelo Exports Thailand’s pomelo exports have shown significant potential. In 2025, the country exported over 31,832 tons of fresh pomelos worth 1.42 billion baht. With South Korea’s anticipated approval to import Thai pomelos, exports are projected to rise to 32,000 tons, valued at approximately 1.5 billion baht. Additionally, Thailand has requested market access for longans and green papayas, two high-potential products. By 2026, Thailand aims to export 514,000 tons of longans worth 18.3 billion baht and 372 tons of fresh papayas worth 30 million baht to South Korea, aligning with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives' "market-driven production" policy. Innovations in Mango Export Practices Thailand currently exports four mango varieties—Nang Klang Wan, Nam Dok Mai, Rad, and Mahachanok—to South Korea. These mangoes are treated with Vapour Heat Treatment (VHT) to control fruit flies of the Bactrocera genus. However, the Director-General proposed an alternative method, Hot Water Immersion Treatment (HWIT), which has been approved by the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM) since 2025. This method has been successfully used for exporting mangoes to the European Union for over five years without reports of pest contamination. Moreover, HWIT offers significant cost advantages. While a 3-ton steam oven for VHT costs around 11 million baht, a 600-kilogram hot water immersion tank costs only 350,000 baht, making it a more economical option for Thai exporters. Enhancing Cooperation and Market Competitiveness The meeting with APQA represents a key step in strengthening collaboration between the National Plant Protection Organisations (NPPOs) of Thailand and South Korea. This partnership is expected to unlock new trade opportunities, add value to Thailand’s agricultural products, and reinforce confidence in food safety and plant health standards. The long-term goal is to improve the competitiveness of Thai agricultural products in the South Korean market. By addressing trade barriers and adopting cost-effective treatment methods, Thailand is positioning itself to meet growing demand while ensuring the high quality of its exports. Outlook for Thai Agricultural Exports The collaborative efforts between Thailand and South Korea are set to drive growth in the agricultural sector. With innovative treatment methods, expanded market access, and a focus on high-value products, Thailand is poised to strengthen its position as a leading exporter of premium fruits to South Korea. This initiative not only benefits Thai farmers and exporters but also enhances bilateral trade relations, paving the way for sustainable agricultural growth. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3594/china-outlines-measures-to-enhance-agricultural-modernization-and-rural-revitalization.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3594/china-outlines-measures-to-enhance-agricultural-modernization-and-rural-revitalization.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:53:17 +0530 To strengthen the development of high-standard farmland and capacity-building for the prevention and mitigation of natural disasters China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs issued an implementation plan, detailing measures to promote agricultural modernization and rural revitalization. The plan outlined measures to ensure stable production of grain and edible oil, modernize the livestock sector, foster high-quality growth in fisheries, secure output of key commercial crops such as cotton, sugar, rubber, fruit and vegetables, and develop a diversified food supply system. Efforts are also made to strengthen the development of high-standard farmland and capacity-building for the prevention and mitigation of natural disasters, enhance the overall safety and quality of agricultural produce, and improve international agricultural cooperation, the plan said.  To consolidate and expand the achievements of poverty alleviation, measures will be taken to improve regular support policies, strengthen more precise and timely assistance, improve the effectiveness of industrial and employment support programs, and adopt tiered, differentiated measures for underdeveloped areas.  The plan also pledged measures to strengthen agricultural science and technology and equipment support, promote a comprehensive green transition in agriculture, develop and expand rural industries to boost incomes, accelerate improvements in modern living conditions in rural areas, and deepen rural reform.  In Feb 2026 China unveiled its "No. 1 central document", outlining plans to advance agricultural and rural modernization and to promote all-around rural revitalization. As the first policy statement released by China's central authorities each year, the document is seen as an indicator of policy priorities. The document called for efforts to shore up weak links in agriculture and rural areas, and secure faster progress in building up China's strength in agriculture over the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030).  The country must give top priority to the issues related to agriculture, rural areas, and rural residents, promote integrated urban-rural development, and ensure that policies aimed at strengthening agriculture, benefiting farmers, and enriching rural areas deliver greater outcomes, according to the document. It is imperative to safeguard national food security, continue to consolidate and expand the achievements in poverty alleviation, strive to build agriculture into a modern pillar sector, basically ensure modern living conditions in rural areas, and enable farmers to enjoy more prosperous and better lives, the document said.  The document comprises six parts covering six key areas: the enhancement of the overall production capacity, quality and performance of agriculture; the implementation of regular and targeted assistance measures; the promotion of stable income growth for farmers; the building of a beautiful and harmonious countryside that is desirable to live and work in based on local conditions; the strengthening of institutional innovation; and the reinforcement of the Party's overall leadership over work related to agriculture, rural areas and farmers.  The country will work to ensure the stable production of grain and edible oil, improve the quality and efficiency of the "vegetable basket" industry, and strengthen the protection and quality improvement of arable land. According to the document, efforts will also be made to enhance the efficacy of agricultural sci-tech innovation, to strengthen capacity-building for the prevention and mitigation of agricultural disasters, and to promote better coordination between the trade and production of agricultural products.  To consolidate and expand poverty alleviation achievements, the document urged improving regular supportive policies, for more precise and timely support, for the increased efficacy of industrial and employment assistance, and for the adoption of tiered and differentiated measures for underdeveloped areas.  China will promote steady income growth for farmers by safeguarding and incentivizing their engagement in grain production, cultivating county-level industries that benefit rural residents, stabilizing employment for rural migrant workers, and implementing multiple measures to expand rural consumption.  The document urged efforts to coordinate and improve the rural spatial layout, enhance infrastructure construction and maintenance, coordinate the provision of basic public services at the county level, promote holistic ecological conservation and restoration, deepen the campaign to foster civilized rural customs, and build safe and law-based villages.  To strengthen institutional innovation, the document called for the accelerated improvement of a modern agricultural management system, the orderly revitalization and leveraging of rural resources, the innovation of investment and financing mechanisms for rural revitalization, and the promotion of the two-way flow of urban and rural factors.  In terms of reinforcing the Party's overall leadership over work related to agriculture, rural areas and farmers, the document urged efforts to strengthen the implementation of the accountability system for rural revitalization, as well as efforts to enhance primary-level Party organizations in rural communities, and to improve the methods and approaches for rural work.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3588/indonesia-and-us-finalize-trade-deal-with-19-reciprocal-tariff-intact.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3588/indonesia-and-us-finalize-trade-deal-with-19-reciprocal-tariff-intact.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:10:34 +0530 US will eliminate tariffs on key Indonesian products including palm oil, rubber, coffee, cacao, spices  Indonesia and the United States (US) have concluded a landmark trade agreement under which Washington will maintain a 19 % reciprocal tariff rate on Indonesian imports. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and US President Donald Trump signed a document on Friday 20th Feb 2026, confirming their strong commitment to implementing the agreement. Under the deal, the White House said Indonesia has agreed to eliminate tariff barriers on over 99 % of US exports across all sectors, including agricultural and health products, seafood, ICT goods, automotive products, and chemicals. Certain identified products from Indonesia will receive a 0% reciprocal tariff rate, including selected textile and apparel goods for a tobe-specified import volume. The White House said Indonesia would also address and prevent barriers to US agricultural products by exempting food and agricultural goods from all import licensing regimes and ensuring transparency and fairness in geographical indications, including for meats and cheeses. Both countries will also cooperate to increase supply chain resilience, address duty evasion, and ensure adequate export controls and investment security. In addition, Indonesia will address a range of non-tariff barriers by exempting US companies and goods from local content requirements, recognising US federal motor vehicle safety and emission standards. Indonesia will also remove burdensome certification and labelling requirements, eliminating pre-shipment requirements, and take steps to resolve longstanding intellectual property issues. The White House said that both countries also welcomed commercial agreements valued at approximately US$33 billion in agriculture, aerospace, and energy in the US, which are expected to further increase US exports to Indonesia. President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing of 11 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) worth US$38.4 billion between Indonesian and US businesses on Wednesday, 18th Feb 2026. The agreements were signed during a Business Summit roundtable organised by the US-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC) at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce building in Washington DC. The commitments include purchases of approximately US$15 billion in US energy commodities, procurement of commercial aircraft and aviation-related goods and services worth about US$13.5 billion, including from Boeing, and over US$4.5 billion in US agricultural products. The US currently runs its 15th-largest goods trade deficit with Indonesia, totalling US$23.7 billion in 2025. Before the agreement, Indonesia’s simple average applied tariff stood at eight per cent compared with 3.3 per cent in the US. “The signing of these 11 MoUs represents concrete collaboration between the public and private sectors of both countries across various fields,” the State Secretariat said in an official statement. Notably, the total value of the 11 agreements exceeds the USD 7 billion previously cited by US-ABC, which included Indonesia’s planned purchases of 1 million tonnes of US soybeans, 1.6 million tonnes of corn and 93,000 tonnes of cotton. The council said Indonesia would also buy 1 million tons of wheat this year and up to 5 million tons by 2030. Some of the notable MoUs included; An agriculture (corn) MoU between PT Cargill Indonesia, PT Arena Agro Andalan and Cargill Inc; A cotton MoU between Busana Apparel Group and the U.S. National Cotton Council; A cotton MoU between Daehan Global and the U.S. National Cotton Council; A furniture and wood products MoU between HIMKI and the American Hardwood Export Council. Indonesia's imports from the US included soybeans valued at US$685 million, wheat at US$1.25 billion, cotton at US$122 million, and US shredded worn clothing for recycling at US$200 million. Between 2015 and 2024, it imported an average of 2.3 million metric tons of soybeans, nearly 800,000 tons of wheat, around 180,000 tons of cotton, and less than 100,000 tons of corn annually, per US Census Bureau data. In recent years, Indonesia has spent approximately US$3 billion yearly on US agricultural products, ranking as the 11th-largest market for US farm goods. In July 2025, Indonesia revealed business agreements with the US totaling US$34 billion as part of tariff negotiations, which included wheat and soybean import deals similar to those finalized on Wednesday. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3587/japan-backs-use-of-satellite-imagery-in-lao-rice-cultivation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3587/japan-backs-use-of-satellite-imagery-in-lao-rice-cultivation.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:53:31 +0530 To provide accurate and timely information for agriculture and forestry development plans, particularly in gathering agricultural statistics, could greatly benefit Laos and other ASEAN member countries. Lao and Japanese agricultural experts have discussed the use of satellites in rice farming and the evaluation of rice harvests in Laos using space-based technologies. The application of satellite technology is an efficient way to assess rice planting areas, cut costs, and gather useful data. Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries partnered with Laos’ Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to organise a workshop on the topic. The workshop took place in Vientiane on Tuesday and was attended by agriculture officials from across the country. Director General of the Lao ministry's Planning and Cooperation Department, Dr Boundeth Soutthavilay, thanked the Japanese government agencies and experts for their generous support in organising the workshop and sharing valuable information. “The next step will be for the Department to report to higher ministry authorities to ask for guidance in rolling out this system,” Dr Boundeth said. He was hopeful that the technology could be used to provide accurate and timely information for use in agriculture and forestry development plans, especially in the gathering of agricultural statistics. This could be of immense benefit for Laos and other ASEAN member countries, he added. In 2023, the Japanese government advised Laos to use the ASEAN Food Security Information System (AFSIS) to assess the area of land under cultivation. Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency have provided technical assistance and funding for many agricultural statistics projects together with food security information systems in ASEAN member countries. In 2023, they organised a meeting on the assessment of rice cultivation areas in the provinces of Vientiane and Champasak using satellite imagery. Thanks to the application of modern science, the system is fast and reliable and can predict rice planting areas in a timely manner. A meeting was later held to assess the rice planting area in 2023 using satellite imagery and the INAHOR programme, involving key technical staff throughout Laos. The workshop was based on an assessment of the rice planting area in 2025 using satellite images. The gathering enabled participants to share comments face-to-face, in the expectation that satellite imagery could be used to effectively evaluate various aspects of rice cultivation and be incorporated in planning polices in the future. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3586/cofco-brings-certified-argentine-soy-to-vietnam-feed-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3586/cofco-brings-certified-argentine-soy-to-vietnam-feed-sector.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:31:20 +0530 COFCO International plans to increase certified sustainable soy supply to Southeast Asia COFCO International, a global agri-business, has delivered its first COFCO Responsible Agriculture Standard-certified soy cargo into Vietnam, marking the entry of its certified South American supply into one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing feed markets. The shipment also represents the first export of COFCO Responsible Agriculture Standard-certified soy or soymeal from Argentina to any international destination. The cargo originated from COFCO International’s Argentina operations and was transported by MV El Juniper to Phu My Port, near Ho Chi Minh City. It follows recent certified COFCO International deliveries to Asia, including China, Thailand and Bangladesh. Sold to a leading Vietnamese provider of animal feed ingredients, the cargo will supply Vietnam’s export-oriented poultry and aquaculture sectors, where traceability and sustainability standards are increasingly tied to market access and global customer requirements. “Vietnam’s feed industry is closely connected to global markets where sustainability and traceability are increasingly important,” said Vu Chanh Ly, Commercial Director Vietnam at COFCO International. “This shipment demonstrates that competitively sourced South American soy can meet robust, independently recognised sustainability standards at scale, supporting customers’ export competitiveness.” The certified volumes are verified under Module 2 of the COFCO Responsible Agriculture Standard, which requires third-party on-site farm audits to verify compliance with environmental and social criteria and a 2020 no-deforestation and no-conversion cut-off date. COFCO International plans to increase certified sustainable soy supply to Southeast Asia to meet rising demand for traceable and responsibly produced commodities. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3584/apf-canada-hosts-canada-in-asia-conference-2026-in-singapore.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3584/apf-canada-hosts-canada-in-asia-conference-2026-in-singapore.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:04:46 +0530 Promoting Canada–Asia Collaboration on Food Security, Energy Security, and Infrastructure The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) successfully concluded the Canada-in-Asia Conference 2026 (CIAC 2026) in Singapore, bringing together more than 700 senior policymakers, business leaders, investors, and experts from Canada and across the Asia Pacific.  Held against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and economic transition, CIAC 2026 centred on three key pillars: food security, energy security, and infrastructure, exploring how Canada and Asia can develop resilient, future-ready partnerships through policy alignment, investment, and cross-border collaboration.  The conference was attended by senior government representatives, including Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade (Canada) and Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry (Singapore), reflecting the strategic importance of Canada-Asia engagement at both the regional and bilateral levels.  From Dialogue to Delivery in a Changing Indo-Pacific Opening the conference, Jeff Nankivell, President and CEO of APF Canada, emphasised the importance of long-term, trust-based partnerships between Canada and Asia.  “Across the Indo-Pacific, governments and businesses are addressing shared challenges, from food and energy security to supply-chain resilience and infrastructure financing,” said Nankivell. “CIAC 2026 provided a platform to move beyond superficial dialogue and concentrate on practical collaboration that provides mutual benefit for Canada and our Asian partners.”  Throughout keynote addresses, ministerial discussions, and sector-specific panels, speakers explored how Canada’s expertise in sustainable resource management, clean energy, agrifood innovation, and infrastructure planning can complement Asia’s scale, market dynamism, and technological leadership.  Key Sessions Addressing Regional Priorities The Hon. Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry (Singapore) Several headline sessions at CIAC 2026 explored cross-cutting regional challenges shaping Canada–Asia relations.  A high-level session on geopolitics and economic fragmentation examined how middle powers can navigate rising strategic competition, trade realignments, and supply chain disruptions. Speakers discussed the implications for investment flows, industrial policy, and regional co-operation, emphasising the importance of diversified partnerships and dependable regulatory environments.  Another session focused on investment and infrastructure financing, bringing together policymakers, investors, and project developers to discuss how to mobilise private capital for large-scale infrastructure across Asia. Panellists examined blended finance models, risk-sharing mechanisms, and the role of development finance institutions in unlocking bankable, sustainable projects.  The Hon. Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade (Canada)  Discussions on energy security and the energy transition examined ways to increase the deployment of clean energy while maintaining affordability and reliability. Speakers highlighted opportunities for collaboration in renewables, energy storage, grid modernisation, and critical minerals, positioning Canada as a complementary partner in Asia’s shift to low-carbon energy systems.  A dedicated discussion on food systems and supply-chain resilience examined how climate pressures, demographic changes, and geopolitical shocks are reshaping food security across the region. Participants emphasised innovation in agri-technologies, sustainable production, and regulatory co-operation as key drivers of long-term resilience.  Spotlight on Key Country Relationships CIAC2026 also included country-specific sessions, with particular emphasis on India, China, and Indonesia, reflecting their increasing importance in Canada’s Indo-Pacific engagement.  Canada–India and Canada-China: Expanding Engagement in a Changing Economic EnvironmentDiscussions on Canada’s relations with China and India explored how the three nations can strengthen co-operation amid shifting geopolitical and economic circumstances. Speakers emphasised India and China’s increasing demand for food security, energy diversification, and large-scale infrastructure investment, and examined how Canadian companies, institutions, and investors can contribute to these key sectors.  Canada–Indonesia: Turning Alignment into ActionSessions on Canada–Indonesia relations explored opportunities to deepen collaboration across agrifood systems, clean energy, critical minerals, and infrastructure development. Speakers highlighted Indonesia’s emergence as a regional manufacturing and resource centre, and the role Canadian expertise can play in supporting sustainable production, regulatory development, and supply-chain resilience.  Panellists stressed the importance of turning policy alignment into commercial partnerships, especially in downstream processing, agri-tech, and investment support, positioning Canada as a long-term partner in Indonesia’s economic transition.  Vina Nadjibulla, Vice-President Research & Strategy at APF Canada, who led the Canada–India session, emphasised the importance of going beyond transactional engagement.  “Canada–India relations are entering a phase where strategic alignment must be matched by sustained, sector-led collaboration,” said Nadjibulla. “What we heard at CIAC2026 was a clear interest in building partnerships that combine investment, technology transfer, skills development, and mutual security, areas that will be critical to delivering long-term value for both economies.”  The Hon. Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry (Singapore) and Barrett Bingley, Asia Regional Director for the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Across the country-focused discussions, participants emphasised that successful partnerships must extend beyond trade flows to include knowledge exchange, workforce capability building, and people-to-people relations, aligning closely with CIAC2026’s core pillars of food security, energy security, and infrastructure.  Sustaining Momentum Beyond CIAC 2026 In closing remarks, Barrett Bingley, APF Canada’s Asia Regional Director, noted that CIAC2026 marked a transition from conversation to sustained collaboration.  “CIAC is not a standalone event,” said Bingley. “It is part of a longer-term effort to connect governments, businesses, and institutions that are shaping the future of Canada-Asia relations. The relationships and ideas advanced here in Singapore will continue through follow-up engagements and concrete partnerships across the region.”  The outcomes emerging alongside the conference underscore this momentum in action. One such example is the newly announced exclusive North American distribution agreement between TradeWorks Environmental Inc. and Singapore-based GoCircular. TradeWorks’ President and CEO, Meni Mancini, is both a past and current delegate of APF Canada’s Women’s Executive Series (WES), having participated in missions designed to foster strategic connections across Asia. Through sustained engagement and market access support facilitated by APF Canada, these introductions contributed to the partnership now formalised between TradeWorks and GoCircular. The agreement demonstrates how CIAC and APF Canada’s broader Canada-in-Asia initiatives help catalyse commercial outcomes, strengthen cross-border collaboration, and advance Canadian innovation in key sectors such as cleantech.   In a parallel development reinforcing Canada’s commitment to sustainable economic partnerships in Asia, Canada’s bilateral development finance institution, FinDev Canada, announced the signing of a USD 30 million loan to PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF), marking FinDev Canada’s first investment in Indonesia. This financing will expand access to capital for renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects that bolster climate mitigation, strengthen infrastructure capacity and resilience, and unlock economic opportunities. Leveraging IIF’s deep country expertise and advisory role in Indonesia’s infrastructure sector, the commitment builds on the memorandum of understanding signed in 2025 and advances the bilateral agenda by supporting key projects that enhance trade, drive low-carbon growth, and foster long-term sustainable development outcomes.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3574/from-domestic-strength-to-global-influence-brazils-bioinput-playbook.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3574/from-domestic-strength-to-global-influence-brazils-bioinput-playbook.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:12:41 +0530 Mauro Heringer tells Agrospectrum how regulatory coordination, tropical biotech and sovereign innovation are positioning Brazil at the center of regenerative agriculture In an exclusive interview with Agrospectrum, Mauro Heringer, Director of International Relations at ABINBIO and Member of the National Bioinputs Export Committee (ApexBrasil), outlined how Brazil’s dominance in tropical bioinputs is reshaping global agricultural markets. He emphasized that Brazil’s competitive edge lies in its “Proof of Tropical Resilience,” with biological solutions tested across six biomes under extreme climatic and pest pressures—conditions that validate their robustness for global deployment. Heringer highlighted regulatory harmonization, living logistics, and institutional coordination under Law 15,070/2024 as central to accelerating exports while positioning Brazil as a benchmark for sustainable agricultural biotechnology. Framing bioinputs as a matter of national security and technological sovereignty, he asserted that Brazil’s ambition extends beyond exports to leading a global transition toward high-performance regenerative agriculture. From Domestic Success to Export Strategy Brazil has built a large and sophisticated domestic bio-inputs market. What specific capabilities or lessons from domestic adoption give Brazilian companies a competitive edge when entering highly regulated international markets? Brazil’s success in the bioinputs sector is not merely a function of sales volume—it reflects deep biotechnological and institutional maturity that has given rise to a true “tropical innovation ecosystem.” The country’s competitive advantage rests on what can be called the Proof of Tropical Resilience. Unlike competitors operating in temperate climates, Brazilian companies develop bioinputs for an environment defined by six distinct biomes within a single territory, continuous year-round cultivation cycles, intense pest pressure and high temperatures. These are among the most challenging agricultural conditions in the world—and Brazil has learned to innovate within them. This is where the real advantage lies: the tropicalization of biotechnology. Brazil does not simply “sell the bottle.” It exports the expertise required to replace or complement synthetic chemistry in highly productive agricultural systems under extreme biological stress. As a result, Brazilian companies are not commodity suppliers. They are holders of strategic intellectual property essential to advancing sustainable global food security. The lesson is straightforward: if a biological solution performs consistently across Brazilian biomes—particularly in the Cerrado—it possesses more than enough robustness for virtually any other agricultural region in the world. Brazil exports resilience, not just microorganisms. Regulatory Asymmetry Across Markets How does the export committee plan to navigate starkly different regulatory regimes for biological inputs in the EU, the United States, and Latin America, and where do you see the greatest bottlenecks to market access? I will start from the end of the question. In my view, the biggest bottlenecks are regulatory alignment and what I call “Living Logistics.” Exporting chemicals is relatively straightforward. Exporting living organisms—bacteria and fungi—is fundamentally different. It requires cold-chain infrastructure, precision logistics and strict control over viability and shelf-life throughout transit. Maintaining biological stability over long international distances remains the most significant technical and commercial challenge. On the regulatory front, asymmetries between countries create additional complexity. Rules, compliance standards and legal frameworks vary widely, making harmonization a strategic priority. To address this, a formal partnership was established in mid-2025 between ApexBrasil and CropLife Brasil, which recently welcomed ABINBIO (Brazilian Association of Bioinput Industries). Together, they formed the National Bioinputs Export Committee, a platform designed to coordinate international expansion and regulatory strategy. Navigating global markets requires differentiated approaches, as regulatory cultures are not uniform. In the European Union, the framework is guided by the Precautionary Principle, which emphasizes intrinsic hazard. There, our strategy is centered almost entirely on demonstrating toxicological safety, purity and the absence of contaminants. We do not sell “productivity” to Europe—we sell food safety and the elimination of chemical residues. The positioning should resemble an “Intel Inside” for agriculture: if it carries Brazilian bio-technology, it represents sustainability and safety. In the United States, the regulatory philosophy—led by the EPA—is pragmatic and risk-based. The focus must therefore be on agronomic efficacy. Our dossiers emphasize large-scale performance data generated across millions of Brazilian hectares under tropical conditions. This industrial-scale validation offers something that controlled laboratory trials alone cannot replicate. In Latin America, the priority should be regional harmonization. Here, the challenge is largely political and institutional. Alignment within Mercosur is essential, with Brazil’s regulatory approval—already subject to rigorous scrutiny by MAPA, ANVISA and IBAMA, under one of the world’s most advanced bioinput frameworks—serving as a regional quality benchmark. The objective is mutual recognition: if a product has been approved by the tropical leader, Brazil, it should qualify for fast-track registration in neighboring markets such as Paraguay, Colombia and Bolivia. In short, the pathway to global expansion requires regulatory intelligence, logistical innovation and geopolitical coordination—not just technological excellence. Branding “Brazil” in Sustainability-Driven Markets The project emphasizes brand positioning around sustainability and bioeconomy. How do you reconcile Brazil’s leadership in bio-inputs with ongoing international scrutiny of its broader environmental record, particularly in land use and deforestation? This is a fundamental question. First, it is important to adjust the premise of the question with data. Often, the narrative imposed on the sustainability issue is a distorted and uninformed view. Brazil is an agro-environmental powerhouse: we preserve more than 60 per cent of our territory with native vegetation and possess the most rigorous environmental legislation in the world (the Forest Code) and, now, modern Bioinput legislation. No other major food producer delivers these numbers.Our leadership in Bioinputs is not an attempt to "compensate" for a problem, but rather the natural evolution of this preservationist mindset. Thanks to our tropical biotechnology (such as Biological Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Fixation and no-till farming), we have managed to increase production by 400 per cent in recent decades while expanding the land area by only 40 per cent.Therefore, Brazil needs to be emulated. By exporting bioinputs, we are offering the world the same technology that allows us to be the only country feeding 1 billion people while preserving the majority of its forests. Innovation vs. Standardization Tension Biological inputs often require localized formulations and application protocols. How does Brazil balance the need for market-specific adaptation with the efficiencies required for scalable global exports? We solve this dilemma through a "Platform Biology" strategy. The common mistake is thinking that one exports a "ready-to-use final product" just like a chemical pesticide. Brazil has learned to export the Base Technology and Application Know-How.In Industry Standardization (Upstream): Brazil has achieved global excellence in industrial development. Our factories produce spores and metabolites with very high concentration and purity and extended shelf-life. This is standardizable and scalable worldwide. It is the biological "hardware."In Field Adaptation (Downstream): The "software" (how to use it) is adaptable. Our companies don’t just sell the jug; they sell the agronomic protocol. We have formulation technology that allows the same tested robust strain to be activated or applied differently depending on Indian or American soil. Thus, efficiency comes from the industrial scale of our fermentation; adaptation comes from the robustness of our tropical strains. If a bacterium survives the stress of Brazilian soil, it performs easily in less hostile environments.Brazil does not export a "medicine," but rather a "treatment system." By separating the biological asset (standardized) from the application intelligence (localized), companies achieve the benefits of mass production without the risk of inefficacy in foreign soils. Domestic Ownership as Strategic Advantage With over 80 per cent of bio-input companies being Brazilian-owned, how does domestic ownership shape innovation, capital formation, and long-term export competitiveness compared to multinational-dominated ag-input sectors? The fact that Brazil’s bioinput sector is predominantly national in capital structure—historically over 80 per cent —is a positive anomaly within Brazilian agribusiness, which has traditionally been dependent on multinational chemical and seed companies. This domestic foundation has fostered a form of biotechnological sovereignty that significantly reshapes Brazil’s export competitiveness. However, intellectual honesty requires a distinction between the sector’s historical structure and its current market dynamics. The premise that the sector remains mostly national is still statistically defensible when measured by number of companies. Brazil has hundreds of registered bioinput firms—many of them small and medium-sized regional agritechs. If one counts by tax ID (CNPJ), the majority are indeed Brazilian-owned. But when the metric shifts from number of companies to revenue concentration and market share, the picture is evolving rapidly. Multinational giants such as Bayer, Syngenta, Corteva and UPL—as well as foreign investment groups—have accelerated acquisitions of leading Brazilian bioinput firms. Once a Brazilian company is acquired, it continues operating locally, but capital allocation decisions and long-term strategic direction shift to a global headquarters. Why is this happening? Because the Brazilian bioinput sector has become one of the most profitable and dynamic segments in agribusiness, turning it into a primary target for mergers and acquisitions. Many companies that began with 100 per cent national capital were acquired precisely because multinationals struggled to replicate the speed of Brazilian innovation or navigate Brazil’s complex regulatory and agronomic landscape as effectively as local players. This creates a strategic paradox. Brazil risks becoming an exceptional “nursery of biological startups”—a global laboratory for innovation—whose most successful companies are absorbed by foreign capital once they achieve maturity and export scale. At the same time, the very factors that attract multinational interest explain Brazil’s competitive edge. In global chemical conglomerates, biological products are often treated as complementary or defensive tools—designed to protect or extend the lifecycle of synthetic molecules. In contrast, for national Brazilian companies, bioinputs are not an add-on; they are the core business. That structural difference matters. When biology is the central strategy, 100 per cent of R&D investment is directed toward biological performance. There is no internal conflict of interest, such as the risk of cannibalizing sales of high-margin synthetic fungicides. In large chemical corporations, a disruptive biological innovation can threaten existing revenue streams. In Brazilian bioinput companies, disruption is the objective. The result is faster innovation cycles, greater technological boldness and a development pipeline focused purely on biological efficiency under tropical conditions. This strategic clarity—biology as mission, not supplement—is what transformed Brazil into a global reference in bioinputs. The challenge now is ensuring that this innovative sovereignty is not diluted as consolidation accelerates. Competition with Established Multinationals As global agrochemical and biotech firms rapidly expand their biological portfolios, where does Brazil see its most defensible competitive moat—cost, performance in tropical systems, speed of innovation, or something else? Our defensive moat is, without a doubt, Proven Performance in Tropical Systems. While multinationals compete by buying startups to build a portfolio, Brazil has an advantage that cannot be bought: decades of natural selection in the field.The 'Tropicalization' Factor: Biology is context-dependent. A fungus developed in a laboratory in Europe might die in two hours under the sun in Mato Grosso (or Maharashtra). Our strains were isolated and selected under extreme thermal and water stress. They are "elite athletes" of survival.Real Scale vs. Greenhouse: Multinationals test in controlled greenhouses. Brazil tests on 40 million hectares of commercial crops. We have the world’s largest database on how bioinputs interact with the real environment.Cost-Benefit: Since we master large-scale fermentation (on-farm and industrial), we can deliver this elite biology at a cost that makes its use viable in commodities (soybeans, corn, cotton, sugarcane, etc.), not just in expensive fruits.Application Science and Coexistence (Compatibility): Foreign multinationals usually sell the "bottle." Brazilian companies sell the management. Brazil has learned to mix biologicals with chemicals in the same spray tank without inactivating the microorganism. This knowledge regarding formulation stability and chemical compatibility is what global producers want most today to reduce costs.The Brazilian "Pipeline": Brazil possesses the greatest microbial biodiversity in the world. The ability to isolate, test, and register new assets with agility creates an innovation cycle that multinationals, with their global bureaucratic structures, struggle to match. Institutional Coordination and Governance What concrete mechanisms will ensure that the export committee translates coordination into measurable outcomes—such as export growth or regulatory approvals—rather than remaining a symbolic platform? The Committee began its work at the end of 2025. To ensure the export committee does not become a "symbolic platform" without practical delivery, the governance of the bioinput sector in Brazil is being structured on technical execution mechanisms and commercial diplomacy.Law No. 15,070/2024 provides the legal basis, but the translation into measurable results depends on three pillars of institutional coordination. The committee does not act only in commercial promotion, but in the convergence of standards. The concrete mechanism is the creation of joint working groups with bodies such as EFSA (Europe) and the EPA (USA), aiming to reduce registration time abroad through the acceptance of data generated in Brazil (mutual recognition).The committee utilizes the rigor of the new legal framework to advocate that biological efficacy dossiers approved by MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture) be accepted as technical proof in other countries, eliminating the need to repeat field tests that last years.Institutional coordination involves ApexBrasil, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply in a market segmentation program. Examples such as the creation of an export "Bio-Pipeline" can be cited. The committee identifies biotechnological bottlenecks in partner countries and can directly connect Brazilian companies that have the specific solution through diplomatic missions, trade fairs, events, and through agricultural attachés at Brazilian embassies in key countries.Another aspect to prevent Brazilian products from being blocked by subjective sustainability issues is the implementation of Certification and Traceability Support within a Bioinput Conformity Seal system. Audits will ensure that the exported input meets bioeconomy and low carbon emission requirements, integrating them into the national bioinput program. Long-Term Market Transformation Do you view Brazil’s push into biological inputs primarily as an export opportunity, or as part of a broader effort to reshape global crop protection and fertility markets away from synthetic inputs—and how does that ambition influence policy and investment priorities? This is the question that defines the "endgame" for Brazil. The strategic answer is that export is merely the vehicle, but the global paradigm shift is the destination. Brazil doesn’t just want to be the largest exporter of bioinputs; it intends to be the architect of the new era of world agriculture.This is, undoubtedly, a global paradigm shift. Export is just the economic consequence; the cause is the survival necessity of modern agriculture. Brazil doesn’t just want to sell a substitute for chemicals; we want to lead the transition to the Era of High-Performance Regenerative Agriculture.We are positioning ourselves to be the "Saudi Arabia of Green Chemistry." Just as the Middle East was indispensable in the oil era, Brazil will be indispensable in the bioeconomy era. We are not just "moving away" from synthetics; we are integrating biological tools to create a smarter and more resilient system.This vision changes everything. Our investment priorities have shifted from the logic of "technology importation" to "technological sovereignty." The National Bioinput Plan and the APEX Brasil Bioinput Export Committee Project are proof that the Brazilian State has decided that biotechnology is strategic for national and global security.The Brazilian offensive aims to reposition synthetic inputs (especially fossil-based nitrogen fertilizers and high-toxicity pesticides) as high-risk assets with high environmental costs. The vulnerability revealed by global crises (such as the fertilizer shortage in 2022) accelerated the National Fertilizer Plan and the Bioinput Legal Framework (Law 15,070/2024). Brazil treats bioinputs as a matter of national security. The ambition is to reduce external dependence on mineral fertilizers by up to 50 per cent in the coming decades.By proving this is possible on a continental scale, Brazil creates a "demonstration effect" for the rest of the world, leading a movement for biotechnological food sovereignty. We are redesigning the architecture of food production. The future is biological, and Brazil is the laboratory where this future has already begun.I invite India to join us on this journey. Together, as leaders of the Global South, we have the responsibility and the capacity to define how the world will feed itself over the next 50 years: with more biology, more biotechnology, and more respect for our tropical soils and the people who are here and their future generations. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3554/fourth-industrial-revolution-at-sea-why-technology-adoption-is-real-test-for-sustainable-fisheries.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3554/fourth-industrial-revolution-at-sea-why-technology-adoption-is-real-test-for-sustainable-fisheries.html Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:29:27 +0530 SAFET Executive Director Inga Wise explains how proven ocean technologies, if adopted at scale and tailored to local contexts, could mark a tipping point for sustainable ocean management under the UN Ocean Decade At the midpoint of the UN Ocean Decade, progress toward sustainable fisheries remains uneven—not because of a single missing piece, but due to the need for context-specific combinations of technologies, adoption pathways, and incentives, a challenge SAFET addresses through its SEA-TECH-IN-MOTION mapping tool. In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Inga Wise, Executive Director of SAFET, describes the current moment as a “Fourth Industrial Revolution at Sea,” marked by the availability of proven technologies and a critical shift from pilots to real-world adoption. Inga notes that tools such as satellite surveillance, AI-driven behavioral analysis, and in-situ sensors are already demonstrating impact against IUU fishing, though broader deployment is still constrained by structural, economic, and governance barriers. Ultimately, she emphasizes that SAFET’s role is not to dictate priorities or metrics, but to enable informed decision-making by showing how technology can support measurable progress toward established global frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14. At the midpoint of the UN Ocean Decade, progress appears uneven. From SAFET’s vantage point, where is the gap largest today—technology availability, adoption by industry, regulatory alignment, or political will—and what evidence most clearly supports that assessment? From SAFET’s perspective, there is no single gap that, if overcome, will unblock progress. Every context is different, and each situation requires a different solution or combination of technologies to be successful. This is why SAFET’s SEA-TECH-IN-MOTION map exists, to highlight as broad a cross section of solutions in different contexts as possible to enable implementers to find the most relevant parallels to their situation to learn from.  Your report frames this moment as a “Fourth Industrial Revolution at Sea.” What differentiates this technological wave from earlier digitization efforts in fisheries, and why should decision-makers believe this time will deliver systemic change rather than incremental improvements? Whilst the Fourth Industrial Revolution at sea has been building for some time with technologies being developed and tested in various situations, we are now approaching a critical point where there are sufficient proven technologies available and the focus now needs to shift to support regarding adoption. By highlighting where technologies have been most successfully used, SAFET aims to enable faster adoption and reduce the need to reinvent the wheel. Giving potential adopters of solutions examples that relate to their challenges and pathways that relate to their goals enables informed choices that are right for their requirement. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing remains stubbornly pervasive. Which technologies highlighted in the report have demonstrated the strongest real-world impact against IUU fishing, and what structural barriers still prevent their wider deployment? There are a wide range of technologies now in use that have been proven effective against IUU fishing, including satellite surveillance, AI behavioural analysis, in-situ sensors, and many more. To date, many deployments have been of a pilot nature. We are now seeing a more widespread adoption, which in turn will reduce opportunities for IUU catch to enter the supply chain.  SEA-TECH-IN-MOTION emphasizes real-world case studies over theoretical promise. In reviewing deployments globally, what patterns separate successful implementations from those that underperform or stall—and what lessons should governments and industry leaders draw before investing? One of the main lessons we have seen is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution.  Each context and challenge area is different and what worked for a technology deployment in one situation may not work in another. Hence, with our new tool, SEA-TECH-IN-MOTION, we provide filters where the viewer can choose desired outcome, species, geographic location, and more to find projects that relate to their needs.  Consumer trust and traceability are central themes, yet mislabeling rates remain high. Is the challenge primarily technological, economic, or cultural within supply chains—and how realistic is full transparency at scale by 2030? The factors contributing to mislabelling vary across seafood supply chains, which are often complex and fragmented. As a result, the challenge is not confined to a single dimension, but reflects an interaction between technological, economic, and cultural elements.Technology can significantly improve traceability by reducing manual data entry, improving data accuracy, and enabling better data sharing across supply chain segments, but it is not sufficient on its own. Its impact depends on consistent use, data quality, and alignment across diverse actors. At the same time, economic and cultural factors — such as incentives, governance, and standardised data sharing practices — shape how effectively technology is integrated into daily operations. Looking to 2030, full transparency at scale represents an ambitious objective, with progress likely to depend on continued alignment across technological, economic, and cultural factors. Sustainability goals often collide with short-term commercial pressures. How can SAFET’s work help align economic incentives for fishers and seafood companies with long-term ecosystem health, particularly in developing coastal economies? We approach this primarily as an independent, information-sharing role rather than as an implementer. Our work focuses on raising awareness of solutions that contribute to broader sustainability goals and on improving understanding of what tools and approaches are available, how they can be adopted, and where they may be most relevant. By bringing together this information in one place, we aim to make it easier for fisheries, seafood companies, and other industry stakeholders to explore options that align operational needs with sustainability concerns. In many cases, it is already clear that some kind of technology solution is required, but it can be difficult to navigate the various options and understand how a given solution relates to the outcomes required. Our work aims to help clarify those options and outcomes, so those seeking solutions can make informed decisions that fit their local context and commercial realities.   The report highlights more than 10 enabling technologies. If forced to prioritize, which two or three technologies should receive immediate global focus—and which widely discussed solutions do you believe are currently overhyped? As an independent organisation, SAFET’s goal is not to prioritise but to provide the information about where and when these technologies have been successfully deployed to support sustainability initiatives. Given that every situation is different, it is more important that implementers have access to the information we gather to find technologies relevant to their own initiatives and make decisions accordingly.  Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, success will be judged by outcomes, not intent. What specific, measurable changes would convince you that the seafood and fisheries sector has truly crossed a tipping point toward sustainable ocean management? This is a good question, but we would be cautious about defining specific metrics ourselves. Progress toward sustainable ocean management is already framed through established, measurable indicators, particularly those set out under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 14.  The role of SAFET is not to define success, but to highlight how different technologies can contribute to demonstrable progress against these shared frameworks as more implementation examples emerge.  ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3553/vietnams-coffee-exports-surpassed-us8-billion-in-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3553/vietnams-coffee-exports-surpassed-us8-billion-in-2025.html Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:53:00 +0530 Vietnam is world’s second-largest coffee exporter Vietnam’s coffee industry has entered a new phase of growth and strategic repositioning as export revenues surpassed US$8 billion in 2025, driven by strong prices and rising demand for processed products. Approximately 1.5 million tonnes of coffee were shipped, while roasted and processed exports generated more than US$1 billion in just eight months, signaling gradual movement up the value chain beyond raw green bean exports. This momentum reinforces Vietnam’s status not only as the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, but its future direction will increasingly be defined not by volume alone, but by the ability to demonstrate verified origin, emissions transparency, and sustainability performance in high-value markets. The EU Market: From Price and Quality to Proof and Accountability: Farmer in plantation coffee berries harvest in farm.harvesting Robusta and arabica coffee berries Vietnam’s free trade agreements, including EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), the UKVFTA, and the CPTPP have reduced tarrifs and expanded market access for coffee. Among these partners, the European Union remains Vietnam’s most strategic premium destination due to its market size and its influence on sustainability expectations across global supply chains. While price competitiveness and quality historically defined EU buyer decisions, import standards are now shifting toward traceability and accountability. This transition has accelerated with the introduction of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which requires coffee placed on the EU market to be traceable to specific farm plots, verified as deforestation-free, and supported by appropriate due diligence documentation. Compliance deadlines are set for 30 December 2026 for large operators and 30 June 2027 for micro and small enterprises. For Vietnamese exporters, this phased timeline represents a strategic inflection point. Companies that integrate digital traceability and verification systems early are better positioned to maintain uninterrupted EU access, strengthen buyer trust, and secure premiums. Those that delay preparation face rising risks, including compliance bottlenecks, higher verification costs, and potential exclusion as European buyers rationalize sourcing toward lower-risk, data-ready origins. Structural challenges at origin complicate this transition. Vietnam’s coffee sector remains overwhelmingly smallholder-driven, with hundreds of thousands of producers cultivating relatively small, fragmented plots, particularly in the Central Highlands. While this structure has historically enabled scale and resilience, it also presents challenges for consistent data capture, land-use verification, and plot-level traceability—capabilities now required to meet EU due diligence standards. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3551/india-and-eu-seal-landmark-free-trade-agreement-fta-boosting-the-agri-food-sphere.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3551/india-and-eu-seal-landmark-free-trade-agreement-fta-boosting-the-agri-food-sphere.html Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:44:43 +0530 Significant elimination of agri-food tariffs, opening India's vast market to European farmers and food producers The European Union and India have concluded negotiations on a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that promises to reshape agricultural trade between the two economic giants. A key highlight of the deal is the significant reduction or elimination of agri-food tariffs, opening India's vast market to European farmers and food producers. The agreement will slash often prohibitive Indian tariffs on EU agri-food exports, which currently average over 36%. For instance, tariffs on wines will drop from 150% to 75% upon implementation and eventually to as low as 20%. Olive oil tariffs will fall from 45% to 0% over five years, while processed agricultural products like bread and confectionery will see tariffs of up to 50% eliminated. However, the deal also ensures the protection of sensitive European agricultural sectors. Products such as meat, rice, and sugar are excluded from liberalization, maintaining safeguards for these industries. Additionally, all Indian agri-food imports into the EU will continue to comply with the bloc's strict health and food safety standards. This FTA marks India's most ambitious trade opening to date, offering European agri-food businesses unparalleled access to the world's most populous country and fastest-growing large economy, with a GDP of €3.4 trillion and 1.45 billion consumers. In parallel, the EU and India are negotiating a separate agreement on Geographical Indications (GIs), aimed at protecting traditional EU farming products from imitations in the Indian market. This move is expected to further enhance opportunities for iconic European agricultural goods. The deal underscores the EU and India's joint commitment to economic openness and sustainable trade, with a dedicated chapter on trade and sustainable development addressing environmental protection, climate action, and workers' rights. This historic agreement positions European agri-food producers to capitalize on new opportunities while reinforcing the EU-India partnership in a time of global economic challenges. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3539/turkiyes-gateway-to-international-agriculture-opens-its-doors-for-the-middle-east-and-north-africa-mena-and-global-partnerships.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3539/turkiyes-gateway-to-international-agriculture-opens-its-doors-for-the-middle-east-and-north-africa-mena-and-global-partnerships.html Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:37:42 +0530 Konya Agriculture 2026 offers global agricultural innovation to MENA and global markets, highlighting Türkiye’s industrial capability, smart agriculture technologies, and strengthened agri-business partnerships With the theme “Türkiye’s largest agriculture fair and the gateway to global mechanization”, Konya Agriculture 2026 | 22nd Konya Agriculture, Agricultural Mechanization and Field Technologies Fair will take place from April 7–11, 2026, at the Konya Chamber of Commerce - Tüyap Konya International Fair Center. Known for its unmatched role in agricultural mechanization and innovation, the fair invites decision-makers, buyers, and stakeholders from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to engage in strategic dialogue and new business development. The event explores the full breadth of agricultural mechanization from tried-and-true classics to avant-garde smart farming tools. MENA: A pivotal market for agricultural machinery The most prestigious gathering of the Turkish agricultural sector is organized by Tüyap Exhibitions Group in collaboration with the Turkish Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers Association (TARMAKBİR) in the city of Konya, Türkiye's agricultural production hub. In 2025, 251,000 people from 80 countries visited the fair, which was attended by 432 exhibitors from 20 countries. Türkiye’s agricultural sector has increasingly served as a dynamic link between global technology and regional demand. MENA countries, home to some of the world’s most water-stressed economies, are prioritizing agricultural efficiency, technology adoption, and food security solutions. Growing populations, rising consumption patterns, and increased emphasis on sustainability make the region a pivotal market for agricultural machinery and smart farming solutions. Agriculture remains vital to economic resilience, while evolving consumption and supply chain dynamics forecast continued growth opportunities in farming technologies and mechanization solutions across MENA. A showcase of Türkiye’s advanced industrial capabilities Covering a total exhibition area of 96,000 square meters, Konya Agriculture 2026 celebrates its motto “Türkiye’s largest agriculture fair and the gateway to the international agriculture” by assembling global manufacturers, innovators, and suppliers of agricultural machinery and technologies. The fair’s portfolio features a wide range of products including tractors, harvesters, seeding and planting equipment, cutting-edge precision agriculture systems, irrigation technologies, fertilization and crop protection solutions, and renewable energy applications tailored for sustainable farming practices. This comprehensive showcase highlights the advanced industrial capabilities of Türkiye’s agricultural sector and its alignment with MENA’s modernization goals. Efficient forum for trade partnerships The Konya Agricultural Fair, backed by the strong support of institutions such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Turkish Chamber of Agriculture (TZOB), brings together all stakeholders in the sector under one roof with the contributions of the Konya Metropolitan Municipality and the Konya Chamber of Commerce. The event is set to host an expanded roster of exhibitors and buyers, reflecting the sector’s expanded role in global trade and the increasing relevance of technological innovation for resilient food systems. Industry professionals, distributors, agricultural investors, and public sector representatives from Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, the UAE, and Yemen are especially encouraged to attend. Through structured match-making, product demonstrations, and focused B2B sessions, the fair delivers an efficient forum to explore trade partnerships, technology transfer, and scalable mechanization solutions. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3537/thai-pomelos-and-mangoes-set-for-expanded-access-to-japanese-markets-through-collaborative-efforts.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3537/thai-pomelos-and-mangoes-set-for-expanded-access-to-japanese-markets-through-collaborative-efforts.html Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:20:32 +0530 Forge agricultural trade partnership ties with Mie Prefecture, a major agricultural and food-producing region in Japan Thailand is stepping up efforts to boost the export of its pomelos and mangoes to Japan, with a new focus on cooperation with Mie Prefecture. On January 16, 2026, Permanent Secretary of Agriculture and Cooperatives Winarot Sapsongsuk met with Yukitoshi Noro, Vice Governor of Mie Prefecture, Japan, at the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to discuss enhanced trade collaboration. The meeting, which included Deputy Permanent Secretary Narumon Sanguanwong and representatives from key agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Extension, Department of Cooperative Promotion, Department of Fisheries, Office of Agricultural Economics, and the National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards, underscored the importance of strengthening agricultural trade ties. Winarot highlighted the significance of Mie Prefecture as a major agricultural and food-producing region in Japan, emphasizing that prefectural-level cooperation would complement broader national frameworks like the Japan–Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA) and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). He noted that such localized partnerships could open new avenues for economic, social, cultural, and trade collaboration. During the discussions, the Vice Governor of Mie Prefecture proposed a fruit exchange initiative, which the Ministry welcomed as a promising strategy to expand market access for Thai fruit exports to Japan. Both sides agreed to pursue further technical and operational discussions to make this initiative a reality. The meeting also identified specific agricultural products for mutual promotion, including mandarin oranges from Mie Prefecture and Thai pomelos and mangoes. Mie Prefecture expressed its readiness to work closely with Thai national agencies to facilitate the entry of Thai pomelos and mangoes into the Japanese market. This initiative reflects Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance its agricultural exports by leveraging regional partnerships within Japan. By focusing on Mie Prefecture, the Ministry aims to build on the existing frameworks of JTEPA and CSP to create more targeted opportunities for Thai farmers and exporters. The collaboration is expected to not only benefit Thai fruit producers but also strengthen bilateral agricultural trade relations between Thailand and Japan. With Mie Prefecture’s support, Thai pomelos and mangoes could see increased visibility and demand in Japanese markets, paving the way for further trade diversification. Both parties expressed optimism about the potential of this partnership to foster closer ties in agriculture and trade, signaling a step forward in Thailand’s efforts to position its high-quality fruits in the competitive Japanese market. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3535/canada-china-trade-agreement-eases-canola-tariffs.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3535/canada-china-trade-agreement-eases-canola-tariffs.html Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:02:21 +0530 Improved trade Relations are increases competition for Australian exports Australia is set to face heightened competition in the canola market following a significant improvement in trade relations between China and Canada. The Canola Council of Canada (CCC) and Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA) have welcomed a bilateral agreement announced in Beijing, which will see China reduce its tariffs on Canadian canola seed from 84% to 15% starting March 1, 2026. Additionally, the 100% tariff on canola meal is expected to be removed until at least the end of 2026. In exchange, Canada will lower tariffs on up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles from 100% to 6.1%, a move signaling broader trade cooperation. The agreement comes after a visit by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to China and represents a major step in restoring market access for Canadian canola farmers. CCC president and CEO Chris Davison described the deal as "an important milestone" in Canada's trading relationship with China. He emphasized that the tariffs, initially a political issue, required a political solution. While the agreement restores some predictability for Canadian canola farmers, Davison noted that the industry would continue working toward permanent and complete tariff relief, including for canola oil. The trade disruption had significantly impacted Canadian canola exports to China. With most of the 2025 canola crop stored on farms and planting for the 2026 crop only months away, Canadian farmers have been seeking market stability. CCGA president and CEO Rick White highlighted the importance of this progress, stating that farmers are looking forward to the resumption of canola movement. China was traditionally Canada's largest market for canola seed and its second-largest for canola meal before the imposition of tariffs. The trade measures had halved the value of Canadian canola exports to China in 2025 compared to 2024. The CCC and CCGA jointly acknowledged the efforts of Prime Minister Carney and the Canadian government, including Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald, in re-establishing bilateral trade with their second-largest export market. The agreement also aligns with the establishment of a Canada-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Roadmap and the revitalization of the Canada-China Joint Agriculture Committee. These frameworks are expected to address remaining canola tariff issues and support industry innovation. For Australia, the restored access for Canadian canola into China introduces new competitive pressures. Lachstock Consulting noted in its Supply and Demand Report that Canada's large canola crop, combined with record yields and ample supply, has shifted export dynamics. While Australian canola faces a standard import tariff of around 9% in China—equivalent to roughly $30/t—Canadian seed remains about 6% less competitive even after the tariff reduction. However, Canadian canola meal tariffs will revert to 5%, increasing competition for Australian meal exports. Australia recently resumed canola exports to China in November 2024, the first such shipment since 2020, seemingly in response to the earlier trade tensions between China and Canada. However, Lachstock observed that Canadian export flows remain subdued, with crop-year-to-date shipments of 2.8Mt trailing last year's 4.7Mt, underscoring the oversupply challenge unless trade improves materially. Europe, a key market for Australia's non-GM canola, has also seen subdued demand due to a large domestic crop. While Australian canola has seen improved December flows into Europe, Ukraine remains the largest supplier, with Australia in second place. Lachstock noted that rapeseed oil prices have softened despite firmer futures, as higher meal values support crush margins and pressure oil prices. The restored Canada-China trade flows are expected to reshape canola market dynamics, with Australia closely monitoring the evolving competition and opportunities in key export destinations. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3533/the-u-s-partners-with-viet-nam-to-modernize-food-safety-system.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3533/the-u-s-partners-with-viet-nam-to-modernize-food-safety-system.html Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:04:38 +0530 The U.S. prioritized Viet Nam as a key partner in the agricultural and food safety cooperation programme for the 2026 - 2030 period. Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Hoang Trung received and held a working meeting with U.S. Agricultural Counselor Ralph Bean on a new phase of cooperation in food safety and agricultural trade. At the meeting, Deputy Minister Hoang Trung highly appreciated the close cooperation of the U.S. side in providing technical support for agricultural production, as well as in helping address obstacles related to trade and tariffs. In particular, a number of projects funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), such as the FertilizerRight Project, have helped improve the effectiveness and efficiency of fertilizer use, increase farmers’ incomes, and reduce emissions, thereby supporting market access. According to Ralph Bean, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture has selected Viet Nam as one of the priority countries for the implementation of the Food for Progress. This is a key U.S. initiative aimed at supporting global food safety and improving market information. Accordingly, two major project components on food safety, which is known as the Agricultural Trade and Food Safety Expanded and tilapia aquaculture will be implemented in Viet Nam starting in 2026. The projects focus on four main objectives: strengthening the food safety system; enhancing supply chain capacity and cold logistics; expanding access to trade finance for businesses; and supporting Viet Nam in achieving its goals on innovation, private sector development, and international integration. Assessing the U.S. proposal, Deputy Minister Hoang Trung said the project’s objectives are in line with Viet Nam’s development orientation. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment stands ready to coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies to implement the project, and has designated the Agricultural Projects Management Board as the focal point to work closely with specialized units. A representative of IESC (Improving Economies for Stronger Communities), the project implementing organization, affirmed that the project aims to support Viet Nam in strengthening its food safety system for livestock, crop, and processed products, modernizing supply chains, and facilitating bilateral agricultural trade with the United States. The project is expected to be implemented nationwide, with a focus on major urban centers and key seaport areas. Agricultural Counselor Ralph Bean expressed his hope that the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment would serve as the lead agency, coordinating and connecting with other ministries and sectors to ensure the effectiveness of the long-term project. IESC also noted that it would work jointly on developing the project document, conducting initial baseline assessments, gathering feedback from relevant stakeholders, and designing activities aligned with Vietnam’s practical needs. Food for Progress has two principal objectives: to improve agricultural productivity and to expand trade of agricultural products in developing countries and emerging economies.  “We aim to support Viet Nam in modernizing registration, inspection, and certification processes through digitalization; strengthening animal disease surveillance capacity; training quarantine officers; and improving food safety in traditional markets,” the U.S. Agricultural Counselor Ralph Bean shared. Deputy Minister Hoang Trung highly appreciated the multi-sectoral scale and substance of the U.S. project in supporting Viet Nam’s goals of ensuring food safety and promoting sustainable agricultural development, and affirmed that units under the Ministry would coordinate with the Agricultural Projects Management Board to effectively implement the cooperation program. Speaking at a press briefing at the US Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York on November 25, Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs USDA Lindberg said American farmers were enthusiastic about the prospect of expanding exports to Vietnam. He noted that Vietnam is already one of the largest agricultural exporters to the US to be a priority country for Food for Progress Programme.  "The U.S. would continue to prioritise support for emerging and developing economies in modernising agriculture and transitioning towards market-oriented growth", he stated.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3522/from-estate-to-algorithm-how-canopy-is-turning-coffee-farms-into-climate-ready-intelligence-systems.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3522/from-estate-to-algorithm-how-canopy-is-turning-coffee-farms-into-climate-ready-intelligence-systems.html Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:15:10 +0530 A second-generation planter and AI researcher explains how lived plantation wisdom, satellite intelligence, and public–private collaboration are reshaping Indian coffee from the ground up In an exclusive interview with Agrospectrum, Sooraj Kandathil Babu, Founder & CEO of NeuBiom Labs and a second-generation coffee planter with a deep research background in AI, explains how lived estate experience shaped Canopy, a satellite- and AI-driven crop intelligence platform built for real plantation decisions. He discusses how Canopy converts traditional field intuition into digital twins that strengthen climate resilience, improve quality consistency, and enable traceability and collective bargaining for growers and FPOs. The conversation also highlights why affordable deep tech, public–private collaboration, and long-term data partnerships are essential to stabilising incomes and future-proofing Indian coffee amid increasing climate volatility. From Estate to Algorithm You are a second-generation coffee planter building a deep-tech platform rooted in satellite intelligence and AI. What specific pain points from your own plantation experience shaped Canopy’s architecture, and how did you translate traditional field intuition into a scalable digital “crop intelligence” model ? Most people experience coffee only as a finished product, something ordered at a café or picked off a supermarket shelf. What remains largely invisible is the one-year crop cycle that shapes that cup. When you spend time on plantations, the contrast becomes stark. I have seen two adjacent estates, with similar soil and climate, produce vastly different outcomes, one yielding 15 bags per acre, the other nearly double. The difference is rarely geography; it is almost always practice. How growers observe their farms, when they intervene, and how consistently they follow scientific cultivation principles. That gap in outcomes was the first pain point that shaped Canopy’s architecture. Traditional plantation wisdom is rich, but it is often unrecorded. We began by digitising this intuition through what we call a plantation journal, a structured cultivation diary that captures day-to-day farm activities. These records are then analysed alongside local weather patterns and satellite-derived plantation health indicators, allowing us to correlate practices with outcomes and provide context-specific advisories rather than generic recommendations. The second challenge is climate resilience. Coffee is a climate-sensitive crop grown predominantly in regions already exposed to significant climate risk. Multiple studies indicate that many current coffee-growing regions could become unsuitable by 2050 if cultivation practices remain unchanged. This makes climate-resilient growing not optional, but essential. Canopy maps how each grower approaches cultivation and aligns those practices with globally recognised sustainable frameworks, translating abstract climate principles into actionable, plot-level guidance. Quality and market value form the third pillar. Our goal is not to turn every grower into a specialty coffee producer overnight, but to enable clusters of growers to achieve uniform, reliable quality over time. Through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), a standardised package of practices can be deployed across hundreds of farms, improving outturn, grading consistency, and ultimately bargaining power in trade. Canopy supports this with transparent, traceable data that builds credibility across the value chain. Finally, there is technology adoption itself. Agriculture has long lagged behind other sectors in leveraging data and digital tools, despite being one of the most foundational industries. We believe technology, when applied sensibly and with a low barrier to entry, can only strengthen farming systems. Data-driven agriculture has proven its value globally; our focus is on adapting it to Indian conditions, starting with coffee, and earning trust gradually as growers see tangible benefits on their land. Canopy is, at its core, an attempt to translate field-level intuition into scalable crop intelligence, bridging the gap between estate wisdom and algorithmic insight, while keeping the grower firmly at the centre of the system. To add to that, both the founders of NeuBiom Labs come from a strong research background in artificial intelligence and user-centered engineering. My co-founder, Dr. Sooraj Krishna, holds a PhD in AI from Sorbonne University in France, and I am in the final stages of completing my PhD in AI at the University of Würzburg in Germany. In many ways, NeuBiom Labs is the outcome of applying rigorous academic research to the foundational problems we encounter every day on the ground, bridging deep science with real-world agricultural challenges. The Digital Twin Question Canopy creates a “digital twin” of each coffee plot. For growers and industry stakeholders, what decisions become materially better with this digital twin, yield forecasting, pest management, climate risk, or input optimisation, and where have you seen the strongest early impact? The real value of a digital twin is not in any single metric, but in how it improves decision-making across the crop cycle. For growers, Canopy’s digital twin functions as a living health report of each plot. It brings together local weather patterns, satellite-derived vegetative indices, soil indicators, and on-ground cultivation practices into a single, coherent view of plantation health. This allows growers to clearly understand what is affecting their crop and where intervention is needed. Based on this, the system recommends context-specific practices and provides short-term weather forecasts that help growers time their operations more effectively. For FPOs and grower collectives, the digital twin operates at a different scale. Instead of managing farms in isolation, FPOs gain a portfolio-level view of member plantations through comparable health and activity scores. This makes it possible to benchmark performance across growers, identify gaps early, and align field activities with organisational goals. For example, an FPO aiming to promote organic or low-input cultivation can push standardised practices across its members and monitor adoption over time. This structured approach significantly improves consistency in quality and outturn, which directly strengthens collective bargaining power in the market. At this stage, our strongest early impact has been in plantation visibility, practice standardisation, and operational planning for growers and FPOs. Coffee’s annual crop cycle means that advanced outcomes such as yield forecasting, early disease detection, and precise input optimisation require longitudinal data. As we complete full-cycle datasets across a growing number of plantations, these capabilities naturally become more robust and predictive. Ultimately, the digital twin evolves from a monitoring tool into a decision-confidence layer, supporting not just growers and FPOs, but also future stakeholders across trade, finance, and compliance, once the system is grounded in real, season-long plantation intelligence. Affordable Deep Tech: The Rs 2,999 Disruption Enterprise-grade crop intelligence globally is often priced far beyond the reach of smallholders. How did NeuBiom Labs engineer a platform that delivers satellite, AI and hyperlocal insights at Rs 2,999 per crop cycle without compromising data accuracy or depth? Affordability was not an afterthought for us; it was a design constraint from day one. If we want meaningful outcomes such as early disease detection or reliable yield forecasting, the system has to achieve wide-scale adoption. That simply isn’t possible if enterprise-grade crop intelligence remains priced beyond the reach of small and mid-sized growers. A large part of how we achieve this is through ecosystem leverage. NeuBiom Labs is incubated at the Atal Incubation Center at the Coffee Board of India, and the Agri Business Incubator at Kerala Agriculture University, and we are also part of the Google for Startups India. These institutions provide critical support in the form of infrastructure, cloud credits, research access, and grants, which allow us to subsidise costs during the adoption phase without compromising on data quality or analytical depth. Equally important is how we’ve engineered the platform itself. We made a conscious decision not to over-engineer the stack. Instead of building complex, expensive systems that look impressive on paper, we focused on crisp, purpose-driven tools that directly serve agronomic decision-making. This keeps compute costs low, workflows efficient, and insights actionable, ensuring the stakeholders pay only for value they can actually use. User-centred engineering is the third pillar. Over the past year, we co-developed Canopy alongside 23 progressive coffee growers, spending extensive time on plantations to understand how decisions are made in real conditions. This helped us strip away unnecessary complexity and design interfaces and insights that align with how growers think and operate, rather than forcing them to adapt to technology. Ultimately, the Rs 2,999 pricing is not about undercutting the market, it’s about building trust and momentum. Once growers experience the tangible benefits of data-driven cultivation, we see compounding impact: better practices, improved quality and yield, richer datasets, and increasingly powerful intelligence across seasons. That virtuous cycle is what allows deep tech to remain both affordable and scalable in Indian agriculture. Climate Volatility and Coffee’s New Risk Curve Indian coffee faces increasing stress from erratic rainfall, temperature spikes and pest outbreaks. How does Canopy move beyond reactive advisories to predictive risk management, and can it realistically stabilise incomes for small and marginal coffee growers? True, climate volatility has fundamentally altered the risk curve for coffee in India. Erratic rainfall, temperature spikes, and shifting pest dynamics are no longer exceptions, they are the new normal. Yet, despite these changes, a large proportion of small and marginal growers continue to rely on traditional calendars and inherited practices that were designed for a far more stable climate. Canopy moves beyond reactive advisories by anchoring decision-making in context. Each plantation is geo-tagged, allowing advisories to be localised rather than regional averages. More importantly, like we discussed before, the system continuously maps the grower’s cultivation practices through a structured plantation journal and correlates these actions with evolving local weather patterns and plantation health indicators. Advisories are generated not just based on “what the weather is,” but on how the grower is farming under those conditions. This is where predictive risk management begins. Instead of responding after damage occurs, growers start to see patterns, how certain practices amplify climate stress, while others buffer against it. Our systems are trained on authenticated and certified coffee cultivation practices relevant to Indian conditions, ensuring that recommendations are agronomically sound and locally applicable. The impact is not instantaneous. Climate resilience is built over a crop cycle, not in a single intervention. But as growers become more aware of ground realities and begin making data-driven decisions, timing operations better, adjusting inputs, and avoiding unnecessary stress on the plant, we see measurable improvements in crop health, consistency, and outturn. Over time, this translates into better quality and more predictable volumes, which directly strengthens growers’ bargaining power. Income stabilisation, especially for smallholders, becomes far more realistic when this approach is adopted at scale, ideally through FPOs or farmer collectives. At the collective level, risk is no longer borne by isolated individuals. Uniform practices, shared intelligence, and aggregated quality enable more stable market positioning, even in volatile climatic conditions. NeuBiom Labs or Canopy does not claim to eliminate climate risk. What it does is convert uncertainty into informed action, helping growers shift from reactive survival to proactive resilience, one crop cycle at a time. From Farm to Federation: Scaling Beyond the Plot Farmer Producer Organisations, cooperatives and boards need aggregated intelligence, not just farm-level dashboards. How does Canopy translate dispersed plot-level data into decision-grade insights for institutions managing thousands of growers across regions? We see this challenge very clearly, and addressing it is central not just to Canopy, but to the broader mission of NeuBiom Labs. If you look at a region like Wayanad alone, there are over 60,000 coffee growers. Yet how they cultivate, the practices they follow, the health of their plantations, and their evolving responses to climate stress remain largely undocumented and fragmented. This makes coordinated intervention at an institutional level extremely difficult. As a side note, this also means, the traditional and indigenous knowledge our seniors developed with their years of experience on the ground are undocumented. These insights exist largely in memory and practice, not in records. If this knowledge is not captured now, an entire generation of experiential wisdom risks being lost. In parallel with building Canopy, we are consciously working to document and structure this lived knowledge, so future growers have a foundation to build on rather than starting from scratch. Canopy is intentionally designed as a layered intelligence stack, not just a farm dashboard. The mobile app and institutional dashboard are only the visible interfaces. Beneath them sits a core AI layer that includes domain-specific GIS inference engines and a language model fine-tuned exclusively for coffee cultivation. This layer synthesises dispersed plot-level data, activities, health indicators, weather exposure, and spatial patterns, into structured, comparable signals. As adoption scales, this enables institutions such as FPOs, cooperatives, and boards to move from anecdotal understanding to evidence-backed decision-making. Instead of asking what is happening, they can ask why it is happening, where intervention will have the highest impact, and which practices consistently produce better outcomes. This allows for region-wise benchmarking, optimisation of input distribution, targeted extension efforts, and early identification of systemic risks affecting quality or yield. More importantly, this intelligence operates upstream. Institutions can intervene at the practice level, well before harvest, by pushing standardised packages, adjusting advisory focus, or aligning growers toward specific quality or sustainability goals. Over time, this can raise average yield per region, improve uniformity of produce, and significantly strengthen market positioning. What Canopy offers today is the foundation, bringing stakeholders into a shared, data-driven framework for farming. The stack is deliberately built to evolve. As datasets mature across full crop cycles and adoption deepens, the intelligence shifts from descriptive to predictive, and from operational support to strategic planning. In that sense, scaling beyond the plot is not an add-on feature; it is the natural outcome of designing agriculture as a system rather than a collection of isolated farms. Traceability as a Trade Weapon With Europe and other premium markets tightening sustainability, deforestation and origin norms, traceability is fast becoming non-negotiable. How does Canopy’s end-to-end tracking position Indian coffee against competitors like Brazil, Vietnam and Colombia in compliance-heavy global markets? India is currently classified as a low-risk origin under emerging regulations such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). However, low risk does not automatically translate into market access, especially in premium and compliance-heavy export markets that are increasingly dominated by large, vertically integrated players. For India’s predominantly smallholder-driven coffee sector, traceability becomes the key enabler to participate on equal footing. Canopy positions traceability not as a post-harvest paperwork exercise, but as a cultivation-first system. Wide adoption of the Canopy stack allows FPOs to standardise coffee cultivation practices across hundreds of small growers, while ensuring farm-level quality control and transparent activity records. This creates verifiable evidence of how coffee is grown, not just where it comes from. From a global trade perspective, this is critical. Competing origins like Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia benefit from scale, mechanisation, and consolidated supply chains. India’s strength lies elsewhere, in shade-grown systems, biodiversity-friendly cultivation, and smallholder domination. Canopy translates these inherent advantages into structured, auditable data that buyers and regulators can trust. By maintaining traceable records from plot-level practices through harvest, the platform will soon support compliance with EUDR and other sustainability frameworks, while simultaneously building credibility for certifications and responsible sourcing claims. Over time, this shifts Indian coffee from being viewed as a fragmented supply to a verified, institutionally backed origin, capable of commanding premium pricing rather than competing purely on volume. As the Canopy ecosystem matures, its stakeholders naturally expand, from growers and FPOs to exporters, buyers, financiers, and compliance bodies, each drawing value from the same shared source of truth. In that sense, traceability becomes more than a regulatory requirement; it becomes a strategic trade instrument that allows Indian coffee to compete, differentiate, and negotiate from a position of strength in global markets. Public–Private Synergy in Agri-Tech Canopy’s launch at the CCRI centenary, with backing from the Coffee Board, AIC-CCRI and global ecosystem partners, signals a rare convergence of science, policy and start-ups. What role should public institutions play in accelerating the adoption of crop intelligence platforms at scale? The support we’ve received so far has been exceptional and deeply collaborative. Institutions such as Kerala Startup Mission, the Agri Business Incubator at Kerala Agricultural University, the Atal Incubation Center at the Coffee Board, Google for Startups, Wadhwani Foundation, EarthOn Foundation, our academic institutions, and, most importantly, the growers and FPOs we work with, have all contributed meaningfully to Canopy’s evolution. This convergence of policy, science, and entrepreneurship is exactly what agriculture needs at this moment. At a broader level, public institutions play a pivotal role in accelerating adoption of crop intelligence platforms by acting as trusted intermediaries. For most farmers, especially smallholders, technology adoption is not just a cost decision, it is a trust decision. When awareness and capacity-building programmes are led or endorsed by public institutions, it significantly reduces hesitation and shortens adoption cycles. Messaging around why data-driven cultivation matters, both in the short term for productivity and in the long term for climate resilience and market access, carries far greater credibility when it comes from institutional voices. Beyond awareness, public institutions can act as scale catalysts. Financial support in the form of grants, pilot subsidies, or outcome-linked incentives for using intelligent farming systems can dramatically accelerate adoption without burdening growers. This is particularly important in early phases, where benefits accrue over a crop cycle rather than immediately. Central bodies such as the Coffee Board of India and regional agricultural research centres can also serve as nodal intelligence hubs. By aggregating anonymised, region-level insights from platforms like Canopy, they can monitor ground-level deltas, identify systemic risks, refine extension strategies, and feed real-world data back into policy and research. Ultimately, public institutions don’t need to build technology themselves, but they can create the conditions for it to scale responsibly. By combining trust, standard-setting, financial support, and feedback mechanisms, they can ensure that crop intelligence platforms move from isolated pilots to national agricultural infrastructure. The Long View: Canopy Beyond Coffee Is Canopy a coffee-specific solution, or the foundation of a broader plantation intelligence stack? Over the next five years, how do you envision NeuBiom Labs evolving, across crops, geographies, or even into climate-linked finance and sustainability certification ecosystems? Today, Canopy is intentionally coffee-specific. Coffee is a climate-sensitive, globally traded crop with a long production cycle and complex stakeholder dynamics, which makes it an ideal starting point. But structurally, Canopy is designed as the foundation of a broader plantation intelligence stack, particularly for climate-sensitive cash crops where resilience, quality consistency, and traceability are becoming non-negotiable. For us, technology is not the end goal; it is the accelerator. The real determinant of success lies in operations, how deeply and effectively we work with growers, FPOs, and institutional stakeholders on the ground. Agriculture does not lend itself well to a simple “build-and-sell” software model. Our belief is that meaningful outcomes emerge only when platforms like Canopy are deployed as long-term partnerships, where data, practices, and incentives evolve together over time. Over the next five years, we see NeuBiom Labs expanding along three clear dimensions. First is geographic expansion, moving from regional depth to multi-region intelligence, where patterns and risks can be understood at landscape and corridor levels rather than isolated farms. Second is crop expansion, applying the same intelligence framework to other climate-sensitive plantation crops that share similar characteristics: long gestation periods, smallholder dominance, and exposure to climate and market volatility. The third dimension is ecosystem integration. As datasets mature across crop cycles, Canopy naturally becomes relevant to adjacent systems, climate-linked finance, sustainability certification, compliance reporting, and institutional risk assessment. When cultivation data is reliable, longitudinal, and traceable, it reduces uncertainty not just for growers, but also for buyers, lenders, insurers, and policymakers. In that sense, Canopy’s long view is not about becoming a one-size-fits-all platform, but about enabling a shared, data-driven workflow across agriculture. As stakeholders evolve, the stack evolves with them, ensuring that value is created collectively, and that the benefits of intelligence compound across the entire agricultural ecosystem. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3521/philippines-boosts-domestic-raw-sugar-export-to-the-us-to-tackle-the-trade-uncertainties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3521/philippines-boosts-domestic-raw-sugar-export-to-the-us-to-tackle-the-trade-uncertainties.html Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:06:18 +0530 Export 100,000 metric tons of raw sugar to the US The Department of Agriculture has approved the Sugar Regulatory Administration’s plan to export 100,000 metric tons of raw sugar to the US in an effort to reduce domestic raw sugar supply, which was a result of last crops 130,000 tons increase in local farmer production, and help lift sagging farmgate prices. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said allocating part of the record harvest for export under the US tariff-rate quota will help soak up excess raw sugar and ease downward price pressure that has plagued producers despite previous policy actions. “We will export raw sugar under the US quota system as soon as possible to provide the industry immediate relief,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel. The export plan comes as the DA and SRA extended the moratorium on sugar imports until December this year, maintaining protection for domestic producers as raw sugar output improves and inventories remain elevated. Even with the extended import freeze, however, local sugar prices continue to languish. The US import quota was originally set at around 143,000 metric tons, but this season’s available allocation was gradually reduced by the US Refiners to 100,000 tons due to delays in the country’s decision to participate. Quota prices under the US system are typically higher than world market levels, giving Philippine exporters a more lucrative outlet compared with selling on global spot markets. Sugar Regulatory Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said the export approval reflects significantly higher output this crop year and is a timely step in balancing supply and demand. “Since the new administration entered, our raw sugar production has been increasing, and we have activated the US exports. It will be the third year now, and the volume exported is growing as well, from 33,000 tons to 66,000, and now 100,000 tons. The last two years exports of raw sugar has helped increase our farmer prices, and this year, this is a much needed step that our farmers need. We cannot take the suggestion of just sitting and doing nothing. Our farmers are the backbone of this industry, they need our intervention.” Azcona explained. Azcona also flagged a surge in artificial sweetener and other sugar substitute imports, which have effectively doubled to volumes equivalent to roughly more than 500,000 metric tons of raw sugar. Officials warn these substitutes are diluting demand for locally produced sugar and further contributing to price softness. Secretary Tiu Laurel said the DA will closely monitor the importation of artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes and might consider regulating the entry of such, as chemical sweeteners—whose sweetness is 200 times that of regular sugar–if market disruptions persist. He also plans to ask the Department of Health to review potential public health implications of widespread use of intense sweetening agents, which are often hundreds of times sweeter than sugar. Recent guidance from the World Health Organization suggests non-sugar sweeteners may not offer clear long-term benefits for weight control and could carry health risks. The export approval is viewed as a pragmatic short-term response to rebalance supply and demand while tapping relatively higher U.S. quota prices. But broader policy adjustments—such as managing substitute sweetener inflows and strengthening domestic demand—may be needed to achieve sustainable price stability for the sugar sector going forward. “There are a lot of long term solution suggestions, but we need a short term solution to quickly help the farmers now. All the suggestions sent to us will be looked into and considered, as it entails time, and our farmers cannot wait” Azcona added ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3519/taiwan-smart-agriweek-2026-to-unveil-smart-solutions-and-technology-for-asian-agricultural-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3519/taiwan-smart-agriweek-2026-to-unveil-smart-solutions-and-technology-for-asian-agricultural-industry.html Mon, 12 Jan 2026 12:13:28 +0530 Agri-technology market hub, from 8–10 September 2026 Taiwan Smart Agriweek, one of the leading smart solutions and technology expos for the agricultural industry in Asia, will be held in TaiNEX 1, Taipei , a strategic gateway to Asia’s agri-technology market hub, from 8–10 September 2026. The event brings together innovators and solutions providers—from agriculture and aquaculture farming, animal health and nutrition, processing, distribution, to waste recycling—connecting them with industry stakeholders, including government agencies, industry associations, and research institutions. Building on recent momentum—with over 770 booths, 21,000 visitors from 69 countries, generating USD 88 million in procurement—Taiwan Smart Agriweek continues to attract both local and international audiences, creating a platform to connect, engage and network across Asia’s agricultural sector. A Practical Hub for Smart Agriculture in Asia Known for its strong technology and manufacturing ecosystem, Taiwan is increasingly applying innovation to tackle current farmers' challenges. As the farming workforce continues to age and rising labour shortages, farms are adopting mechanisation, sensors, and automation to improve productivity, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability. This progression is further supported by the government through smart agriculture programmes, including IoT deployment and demonstration initiatives that help farmers test, adapt, and scale new solutions. In addition, subsidy programmes aimed at increasing farmers’ adoption of data-driven farm management, precision irrigation, and environmental monitoring are accelerating technology uptake across agricultural operations. As agri-tech adoption accelerates, Taiwan is emerging as a practical reference point for neighbouring Asian countries—demonstrating how smart agriculture solutions are integrated into daily operations, from AI-based weather monitoring and precision irrigation to feed milling technology, precision nutrition, processing and packaging, and IoT-enabled distribution systems. These developments also create opportunities for overseas companies to engage and connect with potential buyers from local farmers, agribusiness owners, and government officials through government supported programmes and subsidies.  6-in-1 Show for the Full Farm-to-Fork Experience With six focused zones in one event, Taiwan Smart Agriweek offers exhibitors a platform to showcase innovative solutions across the agri-industry ecosystem: AGRITECH — Smart Farming Systems; Agriculture IoT; Agricultural Big Data; Smart Greenhouse Systems; Labour-saving Farm Machinery AGRILIVESTOCK & FEED — Smart Livestock Farming Systems & Equipment; Precision Feeding Equipment; Alternative Proteins & New Feed Ingredients AQUATECH — Smart Aquaculture Systems; Aquafeed & Additives, Aquatic Seedlings; Cage Aquaculture Technology; Water Quality Management Equipment AGRIFRESH — Smart Postharvest Processing Technologies; Cold Storage Warehousing; Smart Grading and Sorting Systems; Smart Cold Chain Energy-Saving Technology AGRIGREEN — Organic Farming; Agricultural Waste Recycling; Carbon Sequestration and Emission Reduction; Renewable Energy for Agriculture AGRIFOOD — Local Agri-food Excellence; Food Innovations; Functional Food & Nutrition; Sustainable Food  Combined with on-site forums and collaborations with key institutions, associations, and government bodies, the event will bring together 100+ industry experts and key players to share insights on current market trends and opportunities that are shaping the future of farming. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3505/thailands-capi-and-aitia-hold-high-level-meeting-to-advance-agricultural-trade-and-belt-and-road-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3505/thailands-capi-and-aitia-hold-high-level-meeting-to-advance-agricultural-trade-and-belt-and-road-cooperation.html Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:56:00 +0530 China and Thailand refine the collaborative framework The China Association for the Promotion of International Agricultural Cooperation (CAPI) received a delegation from the Asian-International Trade and Investment Association (AITIA). Mr. Jia Guangdong, President of CAPI, alongside key department heads, engaged in productive discussions regarding China-Thailand agricultural trade and synergy between international exhibitions. During the meeting, AITIA presented plans for a major Agricultural Excellence Expo scheduled to take place in Thailand in 2026. The association expressed a strong desire to deepen strategic ties with CAPI to facilitate market access for agricultural enterprises from both nations. AITIA also reaffirmed its commitment to participating in CAPI-led initiatives to foster resource sharing and bilateral exchange. Furthermore, AITIA consulted with the Executive Chair of the China Food Import and Export Expo regarding the inaugural “Belt and Road” Agriculture and Food Trade Roving Exhibition. The first stop is tentatively planned for Bangkok, Thailand. Given the alignment in positioning and scheduling with the aforementioned agricultural expo, both parties agreed to further refine the collaborative framework. President Jia Guangdong concluded by emphasizing CAPI’s role as a vital bridge, pledging to actively promote these events to member companies and provide comprehensive support for participation. This meeting marks a significant milestone in establishing a solid foundation for future substantive cooperation between the two organizations. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3509/from-additives-to-spices-cac48-redraws-rules-of-global-food-trade.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3509/from-additives-to-spices-cac48-redraws-rules-of-global-food-trade.html Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:50:16 +0530 Codex and FAO officials detail how updated standards aim to protect consumers without triggering disproportionate trade disruption for export-dependent economies In an exclusive Agrospectrum and NUFFOODS Spectrum interview with global food-standards leaders — Sarah Cahill, Codex Secretary; Lingping Zhang, Food Standards Officer, Codex Secretariat; Markus Lipp, Senior Food Safety Officer, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO); Gracia Brisco, Food Standards Officer, Codex Secretariat; and Hilde Kruse, Senior Food Standards Officer, Codex Secretariat — CAC48 emerges as a decisive moment for Codex amid rising geopolitical fragmentation. The experts reaffirm Codex’s science-based, consensus-driven mandate, which shaped major reforms including additive reviews, aflatoxin updates, pesticide-residue reference guidelines and new maximum lead levels for spices. They underline how improved Codes of Practice, surveillance support and harmonised quality parameters enable consumer protection while minimising trade disruption for export-reliant economies. Looking ahead, they highlight the Codex Strategic Plan 2026–2031, which places digital traceability, climate-risk foresight, and advanced analytical technologies at the core of modernising global food safety governance. Edited excerpts; Codex at a Geopolitical Crossroads The 48th Session saw critical standards adopted across additives, contaminants, and fresh-produce quality. At a time when food systems face geopolitical fragmentation, supply-chain shocks, and rising protectionism, how does Codex ensure these standards remain science-led, globally harmonized, and insulated from political pressure? The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is a Member-driven body with its commitment to a science-based approach to standard setting enshrined in its procedures. Its work is guided by its strategic goals, and its core values of collaboration, inclusiveness, consensus building and transparency. Codex texts are the benchmark for food safety under the World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) and are relevant to the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement) where WTO members refer to harmonization with international standards such as the Codex Alimentarius for food-related issues such as labelling. Codex standards play an important role in addressing specific trade concerns or for dispute settlement cases. Wherever you are, whatever you do, safe food is an everyday need. And it is a global commodity. These aspects are integral to every discussion in the Codex Alimentarius Commission. “Together” was also the theme of CAC48, which served to highlight that when it comes to food safety and quality it is only by working together that we can effectively and efficiently ensure food is safe and of good quality.  The GSFA Overhaul: Science, Safety, and Consumer Trust More than 500 food additive provisions were reviewed, leading to revocations and new inclusions. What principles guided the reassessment—particularly for colourants like annatto extracts—and how does FAO ensure regulators and industry transition smoothly to these updated provisions without disrupting product availability or trade flows? All Codex work is conducted following approval by CAC. Thus, the decision for reassessment was taken by Members. In the case of annatto extracts, this decision was based on: The need to align the General standard for food additives with relevant sections of commodity standards. In this case, for example, there was a need to align with the Standard for fermented milks, which does not provide for the addition of annatto extracts in plain milk. Codex texts are developed through consensus by all its Members in a deliberate manner that often spans a timeframe of several years. The national Codex contact points serve as a primary node to disseminate all applicable information to national stakeholders. In addition, FAO provides support when requested by Member Countries to strengthen national Codex structures, thereby enhancing national capabilities in disseminating all relevant Codex texts to national stakeholders. Aflatoxins in Peanuts: New Science, New Responsibilities The revised Code of Practice on aflatoxins integrates updated agronomic science, maturity-stage tables, and roasting effects. How will FAO help producing countries—especially smallholder-dependent economies—translate these best practices into field-level change? Are new surveillance, extension, or capacity-building mechanisms planned? FAO stays ready to support its members needs and will respond to requests by its members for additional capacity building measures correspondingly. FAO and Codex furthermore have published numerous guidance documents, codes of practice and related texts that is publicly available, ready to be used by any other organization that would like to use this information in order to support producers of peanuts. Lead Limits in Spices: Balancing Public Health and Trade facilitation With new maximum levels now set for dried bark (cinnamon) and culinary herbs, exporting nations such as —India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia—face compliance pressure. How does Codex balance the dual mandate of protecting consumers health while ensuring fair practices in trade, in this case, preventing trade disruptions for economies reliant on spice exports? The mandate to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in the food trade is the statutory purpose of CAC. This means that, when it comes to food safety standards such as maximum levels for contaminants in foods, CAC will not establish more stringent measures than necessary to protect consumers health so that the measures themselves do not become a technical barrier to trade which may then translate in trade disruption that may impact economic growth and ultimately food security.   Although spices and culinary herbs are consumed in small amounts, as opposed to other foods, it remains important to assess the safety of lead levels in these foods due to the impact of lead toxicity on human health that may include neurodevelopmental effects such as decreases in Intelligence Quota (IQ) and attention span in children, impaired renal function, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, impaired fertility, and adverse pregnancy outcomes and therefore the ALARA continued to apply when CCCF discusses risk management considerations related to health and trade so that while ensuring the safety of the food, this does not imply high rejections rate of lot consignments, at import control point. CCCF does provide support to Codex Members to enable them to comply with MLs, by developing codes of practice, a compendium of risk management measures and practices to assist in reducing food contamination, in this case CAC40 adopted in 2017 the Code of practice for the prevention and reduction of mycotoxins in spices (CXC 78-2017). FAO does have a role to play in assisting countries with the implementation of the CoP, helping them to identify specific risk management measures that may not be included in the CoP, as they are usually overarching texts, that can complement the measures applicable worldwide that are described in these CoPs. The Codex Alimentarius Commission has now adopted MLs for lead in spices and culinary herbs, specifically, dried bark (cinnamon) and dried culinary herbs. The MLs are 2.5 mg/kg for lead in spices, dried bark and 2.0 mg/kg for lead in culinary herbs, dried and will now be added to the General Standard for contaminants and toxins in food and feed (CXS 193-1995).  Pesticide Reference Materials: A Quiet but Critical Reform The guidelines allowing extended use of pesticide reference materials beyond labelled expiry dates could significantly reduce laboratory costs and waste. What drove this reform? And how does FAO envision it strengthening residue monitoring systems in low- and middle-income countries where testing infrastructure remains limited? Pesticide residues in food are a subject of particular concern for consumers and in the food trade. To ensure the safety of food, the regulation of pesticide use, and relevant residues, must be enforced and guaranteed. Part of the process of testing for pesticide residues relies on laboratories being able to access what are known as reference materials, or RMs. But these are costly and sold with 2-to-5-year short-term expiry dates, though there is no requirement to find maximum shelf life. This can force laboratories to buy new RMs more frequently than potentially necessary. This leads to additional work and additional costs, and that can hinder how much testing can be done.  The Codex Alimentarius Commission has now adopted guidelines that provide a scientifically sound framework to monitor the purity and stability of reference materials under defined conditions, which, if implemented correctly, may allow continued use of RMs beyond their expiry date - where purity remains within acceptable limits. This reduces recurring costs, minimizes waste, and ensures confidence in the reliability of pesticide residue analysis.  The work on the development of guidelines for monitoring the purity and stability of reference materials of pesticides during prolonged storage commenced at CCPR51 in 2019, when some delegations expressed concerns regarding the limitation of the use of reference materials beyond the expiry date, leading to significant recurring costs for laboratories. As chair of the electronic working group (EWG), India led the work to develop these guidelines. FAO stays ready to support its members needs and will respond to requests by its members for additional capacity building measures correspondingly.  Read more about this work in the 2025 edition of the CODEX magazine   Standard for Fresh Dates: Trade Enablement for Climate-Stressed Regions The new standard comes after a decade of negotiations and is deeply important for date-producing regions across the Middle East and North Africa. How will harmonized quality parameters—size, colour, uniformity, defects—reshape global trade? Can such standards help climate-stressed producers secure better prices in high-value retail markets ? By adopting the new Standard for fresh dates, Codex Members now have an international reference that provides the baseline for international trade of this commodity upon which trading partners can agree on additional quality provisions based on their consumers’ preferences. For producing countries, this opens up trade possibilities across the globe, which, in many cases, will support the livelihoods of small producers, bolster economies and provide a safe, good quality product for consumers worldwide. Castilla Lulo (Naranjilla): Regional Standards as a Strategic Tool This new regional standard reflects the fruit’s cultural importance and emerging trade value in Latin America. What criteria does Codex use to decide when a product merits a regional rather than global standard? And do regional standards serve as testbeds for potential future global adoption? When considering new work proposed by FAO/WHO regional coordinating committees, CAC considers, amongst other things, whether the new work is justified on the grounds that the product in question is significantly traded intraregionally and that there is no significant trade between or within other regions When a commodity for which there is a regional standard, sees increased trade at a global level, the coordinating committee concerned, or a Member, can propose extension of the territorial application of the standard. This involves new work, which has to be approved by CAC. CAC48 approved, for example, new work on converting the Regional standard for laver products (Asia) to a worldwide standard, work that will be carried out by the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products (CCFFP). The Next Frontier: Modernizing Codex for a New Era of Food Risks From AI-driven food systems to precision fermentation, novel ingredients, and climate-linked contaminants, food safety risks are evolving faster than many national regulatory systems. What are FAO’s top priorities for modernizing Codex over the next decade? How will future standards incorporate digital traceability, climate risk modelling, and new analytical technologies? FAO is a parent organization of Codex, together with the World Health Organization (WHO). However, work prioritization in Codex is the remit of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. CAC47 adopted the Codex strategic plan 2026–2031 and CAC48 its monitoring framework. The purpose of the Codex strategic plan and its renewal and renegotiation every five years is to ensure that Codex work is aimed at achieving the most appropriate objectives. FAO has a very long-standing tradition to inform the Codex Alimentarius Commission and its subsidiary bodies with all relevant information to facilitate forward looking workplanning. FAO continues to offer its support to all its members and the members of the Codex Alimentarius Commission to assist in national capacity building activities to strengthen food control systems, food safety governance and all related aspects. The new strategic plan has as its first Strategic Goal to: Respond to Members’ needs for protecting the health of consumers and ensuring fair practices in the food trade in an evolving global landscape, by developing science-based standards and related texts 1.1 Foresight and horizon-scanning activities are used to support the identification of issues likely to impact food safety, quality and trade. 1.2 Scientific advice that addresses the needs identified by CAC and its subsidiary bodies is primarily provided by FAO and WHO and their joint scientific advisory bodies, informed by globally representative data and appropriate international expertise and methodology. 1.3 Scientific advice is used by CAC and subsidiary bodies in line with Codex risk analysis principles. 1.4 Codex standards and related texts are developed, reviewed and adopted in a timely, transparent and inclusive manner. Thus, with reference to FAO’s foresight programme ( https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/foresight/en/ ), Codex will aim to keep ahead of emerging trends Codex work is already addressing some of the key emerging issues and adapting based on Members’ priorities: Digital traceability is already a key topic of discussion in the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems (CCFICS), and work is ongoing to develop texts for the digitalization of national food control systems. CAC47 adopted the Codex Committee on Food Labelling’s (CCFL’s) Guidelines on the provision of food information for pre-packaged foods to be offered via e-commerce New food sources and production systems have been discussed extensively in Codex in recent years. In this context several areas of new work are under discussion which will help define how codex addresses this emerging area moving forward. Changing climate is also impacting food safety and this is also impacting the standard setting work of Codex. For example, the Codex Committee on Contaminants in Food (CCCF) elaborated and CAC47 adopted the Code of practice for the prevention or reduction of ciguatera poisoning, in response to the evolving nature of this issue, which is related to climate factors. The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene developed and CAC46 adopted Guidelines for the safe use and reuse of water in food production and processing in response to Members concerns about the need to ensure that in the context of water resource challenges, the safety of food was not negatively impacted. There is a continued emphasis, particularly within CCCF, on the issue of mycotoxins, the threat of which is evolving and possibly expanding as climate factors change. —---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3504/union-budget-2026-expectations.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3504/union-budget-2026-expectations.html Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:40:55 +0530 Resilience, efficiency & prosperity As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveils Budget 2026, the nation demands more than routine allocations. Indian agriculture is at a historic inflection point. This Budget is expected to operationalise the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aiming to transform farming from a low-margin, input-heavy, staple-focused sector into a high-productivity, high-value, globally competitive engine. Economists, industry leaders, and multilateral agencies concur: Incremental tweaks have run out of runway, and structural reforms are imperative to bridge productivity gaps, restore soil and water health, and secure farmers’ livelihoods. “Budget 2026 must signal a decisive move from blanket input subsidies to outcome-linked support that rewards water-use efficiency, balanced fertilisation, and low-emission practices at the farm level,” asserts Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member (Agriculture), NITI Aayog.  Dr Ashok Gulati, Infosys Chair Professor for Agriculture at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER)and former Chairman, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), echoes the call for digitally verifiable, efficiency-led support: “Linking direct benefit transfers with soil health cards, precision nutrient management, and diversified cropping will reduce fiscal stress while lifting total factor productivity across both rainfed and irrigated systems.” The imperative is clear: Budget 2026 must transition from fragmented schemes to a coherent, science-led, productivity-centric agricultural strategy — a structural foundation for a globally competitive, climate-smart, and high-income Indian agriculture. The Foundation of 2025: From Intent to Implementation Budget 2025 laid important groundwork, signaling a shift from stop-gap support toward structural measures aimed at productivity and resilience. The launch of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, targeting 100 low-productivity districts, marked the start of district-level agricultural renewal. Coupled with a six-year protein security initiative under the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, it created stable procurement for tur, urad, and masoor, reducing India’s import dependence in key pulses. “Budget 2026 must accelerate India’s shift to a climate-resilient, value-enhanced agri-economy by scaling biologicals and unlocking the waste-to-wealth opportunity. Targeted fiscal support for biosolutions, soil health and circularity can boost productivity while reducing chemical dependence. ’’ — Krishna Mohan Puvvada, Regional President, (Middle East, India and Africa), Novonesis Experts argue the next step must embed climate intelligence into farm-level decisions. “Budget 2026 must fund monsoon-contingent nutrition advisories at scale — using rainfall analytics and soil data to dynamically adjust fertiliser recommendations — so farmers can shift from fixed schedules to climate-responsive feeding of crops,” says Dr Manish Singh, AVP–Technical & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited. He proposes a unified Nutrient Efficiency Index (NEI), integrating soil-test data, cropping patterns, water use efficiency, and fertiliser balance. “Budgets and subsidies should be allocated based on NEI improvement, not fertiliser consumption. This drives balanced nutrition and scientific fertiliser use rather than volume-driven demand,” he added. “Budget 2026 must signal a decisive move from blanket input subsidies to outcome-linked support that rewards water use efficiency, balanced fertilisation and low-emission practices at the farm level.”​ — Dr Ramesh Chand, Member (Agriculture), NITI Aayog Budget 2026 also sought to ease liquidity bottlenecks by raising Kisan Credit Card limits from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, supporting smallholders, dairy farmers, fishers, and allied producers. Sectoral reforms — from the National Mission on High-Yielding Seeds and a five-year cotton revitalisation plan to institutions like Bihar’s Makhana Board — aimed to modernise production, while allocations for storage, logistics, and market infrastructure addressed post-harvest losses. “Budget 2026 must prioritise digital infrastructure, credit linkages, and rural capacity building to scale precision agriculture. Agri-drones, IoT and data analytics can boost yields, conserve resources and strengthen climate resilience. Targeted subsidies, public–private partnerships and R&D incentives will accelerate adoption, integrate technology with national agricultural databases, and shift India from subsidy dependence to self-reliant, innovation-led farming.”  – Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace Yet, experts insist these gains must now converge into a coherent resilience architecture. “The next Budget should consolidate irrigation, watershed, soil health, and climate missions into a single ‘National Resilient Farms Mission’ with district-level targets for water productivity and soil organic carbon,” says Dr V. K. Singh, Director, ICAR–Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA).  “Linking direct benefit transfers with soil health cards, precision nutrient management and diversified cropping will reduce fiscal stress while lifting total factor productivity across rainfed and irrigated systems.”​ — Dr. Ashok Gulati, Infosys Chair Professor for Agriculture at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and former Chairman, Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), adds, “Every rupee for irrigation must be co-anchored with micro-irrigation, fertigation-ready soils, and climate-resilient varieties so public investment translates into real resilience on farmers’ fields.” Budget 2026 will ultimately be judged on whether it can convert these incremental foundations into a mission-driven, 2047-ready agricultural architecture that delivers genuine resilience, competitiveness, and prosperity for India’s farmers. Fixing the Foundations: The Budget That Must Rewire Subsidies, Markets and Science As Budget 2026 approaches, it is evident that Indian agriculture stands at a pivotal crossroads. The long-standing promise of doubling farmers’ incomes, once a political mantra, now demands a sober re-examination. Structural pressures—from climate volatility and shrinking margins to global competitiveness and rising nutritional expectations—have made incrementalism insufficient.  “The allocation of the budget should be done across three horizons: the immediate year, the next five years, and the long-term vision through 2047,” asserts Sandeepa Kanitkar, Chairman of BASAI and Managing Director of Kan Biosys, highlighting that India’s agricultural budget—barely 2 per cent of total expenditure—is glaringly inadequate for a sector that contributes 17 per cent of GDP, sustains 55 per cent of the population, and underpins the nutrition of 140 crore citizens. “The next Budget should consolidate irrigation, watershed, soil health and climate missions into a single ‘National Resilient Farms Mission’ with clear district targets for water productivity and soil organic carbon.”​ — Dr V. K. Singh, Director, ICAR–CRIDA The inefficiencies of current spending are stark when viewed through the prism of subsidies. India invests roughly Rs 1.75 – 2 lakh crore annually on fertilisers, electricity, MSP procurement, crop insurance, and other input-linked supports, yet the returns in productivity, soil health, water security, and farmer incomes remain worryingly low.  “Subsidies have historically encouraged consumption rather than efficiency,” Sandeepa notes. Cheap urea drives over-application, subsidised electricity has accelerated groundwater depletion, irrigation grants rarely incentivise precision water use, and MSP procurement entrenches cropping patterns that undermine soil regeneration. For sectoral leaders, Budget 2026 must mark a decisive philosophical pivot—from input-heavy, subsidy-driven policies to a science-led, technology-driven, and outcome-oriented framework.  Every rupee for irrigation must be co-anchored with micro-irrigation, fertigation-ready soils and climate-resilient varieties so that public investment translates into real resilience on farmers’ fields.”​ — Dr Himanshu Pathak, Ex- Director General, ICAR & Secretary, DARE S. Soundararadjane, CEO of HyFarm, points to the potato sector as a model: “India could build the world’s most advanced, predictable, and globally competitive potato ecosystem through a National Potato Innovation Mission. CRISPR-edited varieties, AI-powered breeding, drone-led phenotyping, and mass deployment of True Potato Seeds can transform production while reducing costs and disease risks. Region-specific varieties are not optional anymore—they are strategic imperatives.” “Budget 2026 must reform subsidies by shifting from consumption-based support to science-led, Package of Practice–linked incentives tied to production outcomes. Performance-based support will improve soil health, enhance resource efficiency, and raise farmer incomes. Mechanisation assistance should be delivered via DBT and limited to FMTTI/BIS-approved equipment to ensure quality, effectiveness, and measurable impact on the ground.”  - Ravindra Agrawal, Chairman, KisanKraft Ltd Sandeepa further advocates restructuring through Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT). “Subsidies must be given through DBT to farmers and allow them to use this money as per their wish. This has started with Kisan Samman Nidhi but must be extrapolated by diverting subsidies given for insurance, fertilisers, electricity, and water to DBT,” she explains. Such a shift would correct long-standing distortions, empower decision-making, sharply reduce leakages, and create the fiscal headroom necessary to invest in science, innovation, and climate resilience. “To truly raise farm incomes, storage, grading, logistics and digital marketplaces must be treated as core agricultural infrastructure, not peripheral add-ons.”​ — Sanjiv Puri, Managing Director, ITC Ltd “A key priority must be efficiency-driven subsidy reform. We need to shift from consumption-based subsidies to scientifically designed, Package of Practice (PoP)–linked incentives tied directly to production outcomes. Performance-based support improves soil health, enhances resource efficiency, and strengthens farmer incomes. Mechanisation support should be delivered through DBT and restricted strictly to FMTTI/BIS-approved equipment to ensure quality and impact in the field,” says Ravindra Agrawal, Chairman, KisanKraft Ltd, emphasizing that combining DBT with outcome-linked incentives can amplify impact across mechanisation, inputs, and farm management practices. “India’s next big leap will come from shifting towards processed, residue-compliant, traceable and climate-smart agri-exports rather than relying mainly on bulk commodity shipments.”​ — Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA Markets, too, are evolving in ways that demand more sophisticated production systems. The rising domestic and global appetite for residue-free food is already accelerating India’s biopesticide segment. Sandeepa emphasises that a formal residue-free label—jointly administered by the Ministries of Health and Agriculture—could unlock higher farmer incomes through premium market categories. “Blanket reduction on CIB-registered biopesticides must be done at the earliest to 5 per cent,” she cautions, noting that inconsistent GST categorisation is harming both growers and industry participants seeking safer input adoption. “Targeted support for FPOs, agri-startups and interoperable e-market platforms can cut post-harvest losses, stabilise prices and make climate risk more manageable for smallholders.”​ — Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Chairman, Board of Governors of the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC); Chairman, Karnataka Agriculture The export ecosystem is entering a decisive phase. “India must position itself as a trusted global supplier,” says Kuchibhotla Srinivas, Partner, Deloitte. Strategic export corridors, residue-free clusters, bilateral agreements, and harmonisation with global standards, he argues, can convert India’s scale into global influence.  “If India wants to lead in exports, supply chains must embed traceability, quality assurance, and sustainable input use,” adds Ankur Aggarwal, Executive Chairman, Crystal Crop Protection. The global opportunity is clear. “India’s next big leap will come from shifting towards processed, residue-compliant, traceable, and climate-smart agri-exports rather than relying mainly on bulk commodity shipments,” says Abhishek Dev, Chairman of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). “The agri sector needs a unified national framework, science-based standards, and simplified licensing to enable innovation in high-value micronutrients and specialty fertilisers. Streamlined regulation will accelerate advanced nutrition technologies, strengthen soil health, and unlock productivity and profitability gains essential for truly transformative agricultural reform.”  — Dr. Rahul Mirchandani, President, IMMA  Value addition must become central to India’s strategy, particularly in crops like sugarcane. “Exports of sugar quota have to be restricted to further increase production of alcohol for oil substitution. Value addition is the key. Targets of 20 per cent plus substitution have to be the new target for easing some oil dollars. The money thus freed up can be used to improve irrigation, research, and perfecting models which are customised for Indian agriculture,” adds Sandeepa. Circularity, too, must become integral. Krishna Mohan Puvvada, Regional President, (Middle East, India and Africa), Novonesis stresses, “Adequate support must be provided for harnessing the waste-to-wealth potential in agriculture, including robust logistics for storage and transportation of agricultural waste feedstocks that can be transformed into fertilizers and bioenergy.” “A direct benefit transfer model for fertilisers—sold at full cost with farmers claiming subsidy via POS authentication—can be a game-changer. It ensures manufacturers receive full value, the government gains full GST, markets maintain adequate supply, leakages and black-marketing are curbed, and subsidy outlay reflects actual use. Budget 2026 should prioritise this transparent, efficient reform.” – Vinod Goyal, CEO, Agricare Corporation Domestic market architecture requires equal attention. Dr Ashok Dalwai, Chairman, Board of Governors of the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) and Chairman, Karnataka Agriculture Price Commission, notes, “Targeted support for FPOs, agri-startups, and interoperable e-market platforms can cut post-harvest losses, stabilise prices, and make climate risk more manageable for smallholders.” Institutional strengthening, he stresses, is vital for farmers to remain competitive amid market volatility. Budget 2026, therefore, must reimagine subsidies, shifting from input-centric to outcome-centric frameworks. “Water, soil and climate must be planned as one ecosystem. Budget 2026 should institutionalise watershed-scale irrigation planning, incentivise soil regeneration, and embed climate-risk analytics into district planning. This is not sustainability for compliance; it is sustainability for survival,” says Srinivas.  “Budget 2026 can back a flagship ‘Sulphur- and Potash-Secure India’ initiative that promotes sulphate-based potash and balanced secondary nutrients, improving taste, colour, shelf-life and exportability of fruits, vegetables and plantation crops while reducing import vulnerability.”--Dr. Manish Singh, AVP-Technical & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited “For a water-starved nation like India, drip should be made compulsory. This would conserve soils along with improving the area of irrigation. The river-joining project must have allocation for short, medium, and long term. Bonds must be raised to mobilise domestic and World Bank funds,” adds Sandeepa. Structural gaps in specialised inputs also demand urgent attention. Dr Rahul Mirchandani, President, Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA) observes, “India’s agricultural ecosystem is at an inflection point, yet not structurally prepared for large-scale reforms. One major gap lies in the micronutrients and specialty fertilizer industry, which remains outside mainstream policy despite its direct link to soil health, crop quality, and farmer income. Fragmented licensing under FCO, uneven state compliance frameworks, and the absence of a unified national policy slow innovation, restrict ease of doing business, and prevent rapid scale-up of advanced nutrition technologies like chelates, water-soluble fertilizers, and fortified micronutrient blends.”  “Budget 2026 must anchor a long-term Viksit Bharat Kheti Vision 2047 by reforming fertiliser use. Mandating a 25:15:5 co-pack of chemical, organic and biofertilisers—and supporting OF/BF manufacturing through PLI—can strengthen soil health, raise nutrient-use efficiency, expand acreage coverage and build climate-resilient productivity. It is time subsidies drive transformation, not perpetuate inefficiency ” --- Sandeepa Kanitkar, Chairman of BASAI and Managing Director of Kan Biosys Dr Singh underscores the strategic imperative: “Budget 2026 can back a flagship ‘Sulphur- and Potash-Secure India’ initiative that promotes sulphate-based potash and balanced secondary nutrients, improving taste, colour, shelf-life, and exportability of fruits, vegetables, and plantation crops while reducing import vulnerability.” Complementing this, Vinod Goyal, CEO, Agricare Corporation advocates a pragmatic DBT-based reform: “Fertilizers shall be sold on full cost price at dealer shops—farmers register purchases on a Point of Sale (POS) machine at the time of pick-up, and subsidies are directly transferred to their bank accounts.”  “Budget 2026 must treat water, soil and climate as one ecosystem by institutionalizing watershed-scale irrigation, incentivising soil regeneration and embedding climate-risk analytics in district planning. Equally critical is a legally robust Digital Land Ledger, interoperable with crop and credit data, to unlock formal finance, insurance and market access for millions of farmers still excluded from the system ” — Kuchibhotla Srinivas, Partner, Deloitte Sandeepa adds, “Chemical fertilizers should be bundled with organic and biofertilisers—25 kg of CF, 15 kg of OF, and 5 kg of BF per bag. This allows fertilizer to cover 30 per cent more land with improved use efficiency. Organic and biofertilizer industries can be supported through PLI schemes to attract private investment, improve soils, and build climate resilience.” As multiple industry leaders emphasise, this reform will determine whether Indian agriculture can truly align with the aspirations of Viksit Bharat 2047, delivering prosperity, sustainability, and global competitiveness for generations to come. Tech, Traceability, and Transformation: Budget 2026’s Agri-Vision Budget 2026 is not merely a fiscal exercise—it represents a strategic inflection point for Indian agriculture, an opportunity to pivot from incremental measures to transformative, technology-driven reforms.  “Agri-drones are no longer a novelty; they are an important part of the agritech landscape. Subsidies, public-private partnership models, and targeted R&D incentives can accelerate manufacturing and deployment, creating rural employment while increasing productivity. We must also potentially look at integrating drone data with national agricultural databases to enable smarter crop planning, soil monitoring, and weather resilience strategies,” says Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace. “ Fertiliser purchases must be linked to a unified Digital Farm ID, which allows tracking of nutrient use efficiency, preventing over-application and enabling customised advisory. It builds India’s first data-driven nutrient intelligence system’’ --- Yogesh Chandra, VP-Sales & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited Echoing this vision, Soundararadjane, stresses that Budget 2026 should introduce a Digital Farming Acceleration Subsidy—shifting support from traditional inputs to IoT and automation tools such as soil moisture sensors, disease-warning IoT nodes, digital soil intelligence kits, smart irrigation systems, automated grading and sorting units, and low-cost climate stations for cold stores. “A 40–60 per cent capital subsidy will democratise access and unlock predictive, precision farming at scale,” he asserts. Equally critical is the foundation of clear land rights and reliable credit. “When a farmer has clear land ownership and predictable finance, they can finally shift from reactive decisions to planned, technology-led farming,” observes Ankur.  “Budget 2026 must accelerate digital land records and frictionless credit so farmers can plan, invest and adopt modern crop protection responsibly. To compete in global markets, India’s supply chains need embedded traceability, quality assurance and sustainable input use. Strategic public–private collaboration can fast-track safe pesticide practices, surveillance systems and next-generation, environmentally responsible formulations ” — Ankur Aggarwal, Executive Chairman, Crystal Crop Protection Srinivas adds, “The Budget should focus on the two biggest unlocks for farmer prosperity: clean digital land records and frictionless credit. A legally robust Digital Land Ledger, interoperable with crop data and credit scoring, can unlock formal finance, insurance, and market contracts for millions of farmers currently outside the system.” The systemic importance of logistics and digital marketplaces is reinforced by Sanjiv Puri, Managing Director, ITC Ltd: “To truly raise farm incomes, storage, grading, logistics, and digital marketplaces must be treated as core agricultural infrastructure, not peripheral add-ons.”  “Budget 2026 should launch a National Potato Innovation Mission to transform India into a globally competitive processing potato hub. A strong public–private R&D partnership must fast-track CRISPR-based climate-resilient varieties, AI-driven breeding, drone phenotyping, automated trials and True Potato Seeds. This science-led upgrade is essential for predictable supply, higher productivity and world-class processing quality.” – S. Soundararadjane, CEO of HyFarm Nutrient management, too, must be integrated. Yogesh Chandra, VP-Sales & Marketing, Transworld Furtichem Limited, explains, “Fertiliser purchases must be linked to a unified Digital Farm ID, allowing tracking of nutrient use efficiency, preventing over-application and enabling customised advisory. It builds India’s first data-driven nutrient intelligence system.” Budget 2026 must therefore deliver measurable, integrated reforms—embedding science, finance, technology, and policy into a unified, farmer-centric framework. It is the launchpad for the Viksit Bharat Kheti Vision 2047, enabling high-productivity, high-value, climate-smart agriculture and positioning India as a globally competitive agri-economy. ----- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3501/indian-food-revolution-in-america-street-fine-dining-and-beyond.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3501/indian-food-revolution-in-america-street-fine-dining-and-beyond.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 15:18:47 +0530 Once boxed into stereotypes, Indian food in the U.S. has exploded into fine dining, street culture, wellness, retail, and tech-driven delivery—just as tariffs and geopolitics put its resilience to the test. Indian cuisine in the United States is in the midst of a once-in-a-generation transformation. Long confined in the American imagination to “curry and naan,” it has broken free of stereotype and scale alike. Today, Indian food stretches confidently across formats—vibrant street food, Michelin-level fine dining, cloud kitchens, wellness beverages, premium snacks, and even spirits—claiming space in food halls, boardrooms, grocery aisles, and cultural conversations. This renaissance has been fueled by powerful forces: demographic growth, rising affluence, technological adoption, and a new American appetite for authenticity and global flavor. Yet just as Indian cuisine has reached critical mass, it faces an unexpected test—not from diners, but from geopolitics. The imposition of steep U.S. tariffs on Indian imports has begun to reshape cost structures, supply chains, and pricing strategies, forcing the ecosystem to prove its resilience. The story of Indian food in America today is therefore not just one of ascent, but of adaptation under pressure. Market Dynamics: Demographics, Affluence and Appetite The numbers tell the story. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 3.1 million Indians have migrated to—or been born in—the United States since 2000, a staggering 174 per cent increase in just over two decades. This demographic surge is accompanied by significant economic clout: Indian-American households report a median income of $151,000 in 2023, compared with $105,000 for Asian Americans broadly, positioning them as a high-spending, experience-driven consumer segment. The implications for the culinary landscape are profound. Affluent Indian-American households are demanding authentic regional flavors and quality ingredients, encouraging restaurateurs and brands to innovate. Beyond this diaspora, adventurous American consumers—particularly millennials and Gen Z—are increasingly willing to explore global cuisines. Datassential reports that new Indian restaurant openings reached 115 in December 2024, up from just 54 in September 2018. By 2025, 154 upscale Indian dining establishments were operating across the U.S., a sharp increase from 101 in January 2018. The result is a fertile environment in which Indian cuisine can thrive across multiple channels, from street food pop-ups to fine dining experiences and packaged products that land directly in consumers’ kitchens. Fine Dining: Regional Sophistication Meets American Palates Fine dining is emerging as one of the most visible arenas of Indian culinary evolution. Chefs are moving beyond generalized North-South categorizations, highlighting the hyper-regional diversity of India. Patrons may now find Rajasthani ker sangri, Konkani fish curry, Kashmiri nadru yakhni, and even tribal forest-based specialties on menus across New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Innovation and technology are central to this transformation. Precision cooking techniques, smart tandoors, and AI-enabled menu recommendations allow chefs to cater to gluten-free, plant-based, or low-carb dietary preferences, while AR-enhanced menus and open kitchens create immersive storytelling experiences. These strategies marry authenticity with experimentation, appealing simultaneously to high-income Indian-American diners and cosmopolitan food enthusiasts eager for global culinary adventures. Restaurants like Vikas Khanna’s Bungalow in New York exemplify this trend, reimagining Indian street food through a fine-dining lens. The plating may be modern, but the heart remains traditional: vibrant flavors, textures, and spices that connect diners to India’s culinary soul. This mirrors the evolution of global street foods such as ramen, sushi, and tacos, which transitioned from street stalls to table-service sophistication without losing authenticity. Street Food: Authenticity, Curiosity, and Cultural Impact American diners have become increasingly curious about authenticity. They want food with character, story, and place—not just a generic “Indian buffet.” Street food captures this perfectly: it is vibrant, democratic, and endlessly creative. Dishes like chaat, dosa, and pav bhaji deliver layered textures and complex spice profiles that align seamlessly with the modern palate’s love of contrast and global flavor. Celebrity chef Mariko Amekodommo, renowned for cooking for Hollywood A-listers, explains the trend: "The success of concepts like Chai Pani and Vikas Khanna’s Bungalow shows how Indian street food can evolve into fine dining without losing its soul. The plating may be modern, but the heart remains the same—food that connects people through joy, color, and spice. It’s authenticity redefined as sophistication, much like ramen or tacos once transitioned from street to table." Street food acts as both an entry point for new consumers and a proving ground for regional dishes that often migrate into premium restaurant offerings. It sits at the crossroads of comfort and innovation, giving Americans a new way to experience India that is playful, inclusive, and deeply rooted in tradition. From Queens to San Francisco, these establishments illustrate a clear trend: Indian cuisine is thriving coast-to-coast, balancing regional depth, street-level authenticity, and experiential dining. A Culinary Boom Meets a Trade Shock Just as Indian cuisine has achieved this cultural momentum, external forces have intervened. On July 31, President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on Indian exports, which came into effect on August 27—doubling duties on most Indian goods to 50 per cent. While the legality of the tariffs is now being debated , the economic impact has already rippled through New York City’s Indian food ecosystem. Restaurants that had become destinations for Wall Street executives and culinary tourists are now grappling with sharply higher ingredient costs. A 40-pound bag of basmati rice that once cost $30 now wholesales for $45. A 500-gram pack of chili powder has jumped from $7 to $10.50. Coconut milk cases have risen from $38 to $48. Arhar dal has surged from $62 to $82 per bag, while ghee—essential to countless dishes—has climbed more than 46 per cent, from $150 to $220 per case. Margins in restaurants are notoriously thin. For many owners, these increases are not easily passed on to diners without risking demand. Some are cautiously raising prices; others are absorbing costs or redesigning menus. Importers, facing pricing uncertainty, are scaling back shipments. The result is a rare moment where geopolitics directly shapes what ends up on the plate. Digital Adoption: Cloud Kitchens, Ghost Kitchens, and Delivery Technology is amplifying Indian cuisine’s reach. Cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens, and subscription-based tiffin services are delivering authentic flavors at scale. AI-powered ordering, multilingual voice menus, and integrated delivery platforms are meeting the expectations of tech-savvy consumers, while subscription models—offering rotating regional menus or street food specials—expand recurring revenue streams. High-income Indian-American households support premium ingredients, while younger, globally curious consumers explore novel regional flavors. Digital kitchens, ready-to-cook meal kits, and subscription services now bring Indian culinary traditions into American homes, deepening familiarity and loyalty. Indian Snacks and Beverages: Expanding Global Appeal Indian flavors are no longer confined to restaurants—they are rapidly infiltrating U.S. retail and wellness markets, reaching consumers through an increasingly diverse range of snacks, beverages, and functional foods. Traditional beverages, street food-inspired wraps, health-forward confectionery, and even premium spirits are all part of this expanding culinary footprint, signaling that Indian cuisine has become a multi-channel phenomenon. Take Choolaah’s Mango Lassi, for example. This Ohio-based fast-casual chain has leveraged the universal appeal of the Alphonso mango, offering a premium lassi that has quickly become a bestseller. Its success demonstrates that American consumers are not only willing to try Indian beverages but are actively seeking authentic flavors prepared with care and quality ingredients. Similarly, Skippi, originally known for its ice pops, has successfully diversified into savory snacks such as Cream & Onion and Lemon & Mint. By experimenting with Indian-inspired profiles in familiar snack formats, the brand is showing that traditional Indian flavor profiles can move fluidly into American taste preferences without alienating mainstream consumers. Children, too, are becoming part of this cultural exchange. ITC Sunfeast’s Super Egg & Milk Biscuits combine Indian flavors with Western snack formats, offering a product that balances taste, nutrition, and fun. At the same time, ADF Foods Roti Wraps are translating popular street food items like Paneer Biryani and Tandoori Aloo into convenient, on-the-go meals, enabling busy urban consumers to enjoy the vibrancy of Indian street food without leaving home or office. These products highlight a crucial point: accessibility and convenience are just as important as authenticity in driving adoption among new consumer segments. Health and wellness trends further amplify Indian flavors’ U.S. appeal. Confectionery and functional foods are integrating traditional spices and adaptogens into indulgent formats, a prime example being Turmeric Latte Chocolate and Van Houten’s Spiced Chocolate, which combine turmeric, chai, and other Indian spices to appeal to wellness-conscious yet indulgent consumers. Similarly, chai- and saffron-flavored protein bars are creating a niche where exotic flavors meet functional nutrition, appealing to fitness-oriented and health-conscious demographics that value both taste and wellbeing. Even traditional ingredients are finding modern applications. Good Phats Ghee has taken a centuries-old staple and repositioned it as a versatile spread and cooking ingredient suitable for contemporary kitchens, bridging heritage and innovation. Premium spirits, too, are entering this narrative. Paul John Indian Whisky, crafted from six-row barley and distilled in traditional copper pot stills, has positioned India as a rising player in the global whisky market, introducing consumers to both craftsmanship and provenance. Finally, the fusion of global inspiration with Indian soul is exemplified by Juicy Brick, which draws from East Asian juice and snack concepts while infusing Indian spices. Co-founder of Juicy Brick, Grace Bryan emphasizes the brand’s mission: “By blending Indian spices into our juice and snack offerings, we’re creating an entirely new flavor profile that appeals to the adventurous U.S. consumer. It’s East meets West, but with Indian soul.” Juicy Brick’s approach illustrates how Indian flavors are not just being transplanted but creatively reinterpreted to resonate with American tastes while retaining cultural authenticity. Together, these innovations underscore the synergy between restaurants, retail, and wellness products, demonstrating that Indian cuisine’s influence in the U.S. is broad, multi-faceted, and increasingly mainstream. By offering consumers a combination of authenticity, convenience, health, and creativity, these products are reinforcing Indian flavors’ visibility, accessibility, and adoption across American households, establishing a foundation for long-term culinary influence. Health, Sustainability, and Culinary Innovation The modern U.S. Indian dining scene is not only about flavor—it is increasingly defined by conscious choices that align with health, sustainability, and cultural authenticity. Restaurants across the country are embracing eco-friendly practices, from biodegradable packaging and compostable tableware to transparent carbon footprint labeling. By integrating sustainability into their operations, chefs and restaurateurs are responding to a growing segment of American consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility as much as taste. On the culinary side, Indian chefs are creatively reinterpreting traditional ingredients to meet contemporary health and wellness trends. Millets, once staples of Indian rural diets, are finding their way into pilafs, breads, and even desserts, valued for their high fiber content, low glycemic index, and climate-resilient cultivation. Similarly, adaptogens and Ayurvedic herbs such as ashwagandha, turmeric, and holy basil are being incorporated into drinks, snacks, and main courses, delivering functional benefits while retaining cultural authenticity. Gut-friendly foods, fermented ingredients like pickles, dosa batters, and probiotic lassis are also gaining traction, appealing to health-conscious diners interested in digestive wellness. This fusion of tradition and innovation resonates across consumer segments. Affluent Indian-American households appreciate that these culinary practices honor heritage while delivering modern nutritional value, while the broader mainstream audience increasingly seeks meals that are both flavorful and health-forward. By marrying authenticity with wellness and environmental consciousness, Indian cuisine is differentiating itself from other global cuisines, creating a unique competitive advantage in the U.S. market. Beyond nutrition and sustainability, this trend has cultural and experiential dimensions. Diners are engaging not only with taste but with the story behind each dish—the region it comes from, the locally sourced or sustainable ingredients it uses, and the wellness principles it embodies. In this way, health-conscious innovation becomes a vehicle for storytelling, deepening consumer connection and reinforcing the cultural credibility of Indian cuisine. In essence, Indian restaurants and brands in the U.S. are simultaneously safeguarding tradition, embracing innovation, and addressing the values of today’s conscious consumer—a strategy that ensures the cuisine’s relevance, resilience, and long-term appeal. Convergence of Trends: How Indian Cuisine is Taking Over U.S. Tables The rise of Indian cuisine in the United States isn’t just a trend—it’s a full-blown cultural movement, where flavors, technology, and storytelling collide to create a culinary ecosystem that’s impossible to ignore. What’s remarkable is how all the pieces—restaurants, snacks, beverages, and even wellness foods—feed off each other, each channel amplifying the others and bringing Indian flavors into more hands, hearts, and kitchens than ever before. Fine dining and street food, often seen as opposite ends of the spectrum, are actually partners in flavor. Upscale kitchens are exploring hyper-regional dishes with surgical precision—think Rajasthani ker sangri or Kashmiri nadru yakhni—while telling the stories behind every spice and ingredient. Meanwhile, street food is bringing that same authenticity to a wider audience: chaat, pav bhaji, and dosa that pop with texture, spice, and color, delivered in casual pop-ups, fast-casual kitchens, and food halls. Together, these two worlds create a delicious feedback loop: a street-favorite dish can graduate to fine dining stardom, while high-concept plating inspires casual chefs to experiment in playful, accessible ways. Driving this culinary surge is a demographic and economic engine. The Indian-American community has grown rapidly over the past two decades, and their median household incomes are well above the national average. They are demanding authenticity, premium ingredients, and regional nuance. But it’s not just the diaspora who are hungry—millennials and Gen Z are chasing food with story, spice, and personality. They want dishes that surprise the palate, ignite conversation, and transport them halfway across the world in a single bite. Chefs and brands that understand this are winning loyalty and shaping taste buds from coast to coast. Technology is the secret sauce that’s scaling this revolution. Cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens, and subscription meal kits are making it easier than ever to get authentic Indian flavors delivered to your door, while AI-powered ordering platforms allow for personalization—spice level, dietary preferences, or rotating regional menus. Virtual kitchens also provide a playground for experimentation, letting chefs test bold regional dishes or street food mashups before rolling them out at scale. A concept that once lived in one city can now travel digitally, reaching diners across the nation. And it’s not just about restaurants. Indian flavors are moving into every corner of the pantry. Turmeric-laced chocolates, chai-spiced protein bars, on-the-go Roti wraps, and Alphonso mango lassis are becoming household staples. These products make it easy for Americans to bring Indian cuisine into everyday life, creating a cycle where curiosity about restaurants fuels interest in retail, and vice versa. The result? A multi-channel culinary ecosystem where Indian flavors are always on display, always accessible, and always delicious. Sustainability and wellness give this story an extra layer of flavor. Restaurants and brands are integrating millets, Ayurvedic herbs, adaptogens, and gut-friendly foods into creative dishes, snacks, and drinks. Biodegradable packaging, compostable tableware, and ingredient transparency appeal to eco-conscious diners, while health-minded consumers embrace offerings that are both indulgent and functional. Indian cuisine, in other words, has found a way to be both soul-satisfying and value-driven, appealing to anyone who wants to eat thoughtfully without sacrificing taste. The end result is something rare: a dynamic, culturally rich phenomenon. Indian cuisine in America has moved beyond the immigrant corner of the market into a vibrant, multi-channel ecosystem, alive with flavor, story, and experimentation. It thrives where authenticity meets innovation, street meets fine dining, and restaurants meet retail shelves. For American diners hungry for spice, texture, and a story behind every bite, Indian cuisine isn’t just a meal—it’s a journey. And as it continues to evolve, it’s not merely keeping pace; it’s shaping the culinary imagination of a nation and redefining what it means to eat Indian. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3460/australian-agriculture-set-to-hit-record-100-billion-valuation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3460/australian-agriculture-set-to-hit-record-100-billion-valuation.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 09:08:00 +0530 Boosts trade opportunities, and biosecurity investments and Biofuel industry growth Australia’s agriculture industry is on track to achieve a record valuation of nearly $100 billion this financial year, according to the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES). The ABARES reports highlight the importance of continued collaboration between the Government and industry to address challenges and seize opportunities. The ABARES Agricultural Commodities Report for December 2025 forecasts the gross value of agricultural production to reach $99.5 billion in 2025-26, with the combined value of fisheries and forestry pushing the total to over $106.4 billion. This milestone underscores the resilience and innovation of Australian farmers, supported by strong demand for the nation’s world-class agricultural products. Exports are expected to hit a record $83.9 billion, highlighting the sector’s growing global competitiveness. With exports driving growth and domestic demand remaining strong, the future of Australian agriculture looks brighter than ever. Australia is driving this success, working closely with farmers and producers to create new economic opportunities. Efforts to expand export markets, streamline regulations, and strengthen biosecurity have played a crucial role in bolstering the industry’s performance. The industry’s competitiveness, combined with strategic government investments and partnerships, has positioned Australian farmers for sustained success. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP, stated “It’s been a significant year for our farmers and producers, and thanks to their hard work, innovation, and commitment to excellence, the value of our agriculture industry is on track to reach almost $100 billion this financial year.” Australia focused on diversifying market access to reinforce trade relationships with China, which is valued at $20 billion. Diversified market access and increased international demand provide a strong foundation for Australia's agricultural growth. Additionally, $2 billion investment in biosecurity has been pivotal in safeguarding the industry’s future. This funding ensures that Australian farmers can maintain their competitive edge on the global stage while protecting the nation’s agricultural assets from emerging threats. The Government is prioritizing climate resilience by supporting farmers through programs that enhance adaptation and sustainability while maintaining productivity. Addressing Challenges While the industry celebrates its achievements, the Government acknowledges that some farmers continue to face difficulties, particularly during periods of drought. To address these challenges, an additional $1 billion in concessional loan funding has been announced through the Regional Investment Corporation. This initiative provides critical financial support to farmers, enabling them to invest in their operations and manage hardships effectively. As the industry approaches this historic milestone, the Australia remains steadfast in its support for farmers and producers. By expanding trade opportunities, investing in biosecurity, and addressing challenges head-on, the Government is ensuring that Australian agriculture continues to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economy. With ongoing support and innovation, Australian agriculture is well-positioned to sustain its growth and meet the demands of both domestic and international markets. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3494/palm-oil-after-esg-is-golden-crop-losing-its-crown.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3494/palm-oil-after-esg-is-golden-crop-losing-its-crown.html Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:47:00 +0530 A 2025 Asia round-up on regulation, capital and the re-ordering of the world’s most contested commodity For decades, the ascendancy of palm oil within the pantheon of global vegetable oils seemed nothing short of immutable. Its unmatched land efficiency, coupled with unparalleled versatility, rendered it indispensable—fueling industrial food systems, underpinning the edifice of consumer goods, and more recently, energising biofuel markets. Southeast Asia constructed entire developmental paradigms around this verdant monoculture; India and China wove it seamlessly into their consumption matrices. Multinational corporations, with canny acumen, capitalised on the scale, reaping profits that seemed both inexorable and inexhaustible. Yet, as 2025 draws to a close, palm oil’s indispensability remains uncontested, but the modalities of its dominion have metamorphosed. The commodity, erstwhile governed predominantly by the vagaries of land allocation and price discovery, now finds itself under the aegis of regulation, traceability imperatives, capital discipline, and geopolitical choreography. Demand, though robust and structural, is increasingly contingent upon conditional access; compliance costs have proliferated, and supply chains are inextricably entwined with energy policy. Investors have commenced a meticulous repricing of risk, and regulators wield ESG as both cudgel and compass. This is not a narrative of obsolescence; it is, rather, a tale of a power transition—from hectares to governance, from sheer volume to verifiable authenticity, and from unbridled expansion to judicious credibility. From Golden Crop to Strategic Commodity The global ascendancy of palm oil is explicable, in large measure, by its biological efficiency. The oil palm’s oleaginous productivity per hectare dwarfs that of soy, rapeseed, or sunflower, enabling Indonesia and Malaysia to industrialise agronomy while sustaining burgeoning populations. Malaysia’s contribution, often overshadowed by Indonesia’s sheer volumetric supremacy, was seminal. The nation architected the institutional scaffolding of the industry: sophisticated plantation science, advanced refining and oleochemical capacity, futures markets, and stringent quality control systems. By the mid-2010s, Malaysia had pivoted decisively from mere land expansion to enhanced productivity and downstream value creation—a strategic recalibration that would later prove prescient. However, this ascendancy was not without profound environmental and social externalities. Plantation proliferation catalysed deforestation, peatland degradation, and socio-economic dislocations, occasionally precipitating community conflicts. Initially illuminated by NGOs, these challenges were amplified by consumer advocacy and shareholder activism, ultimately codified within regulatory frameworks. By 2025, the appraisal of palm oil transcended metrics of output and cost; it had become a crucible for ESG governance, regulatory fidelity, and geopolitical sagacity. ESG Crosses the Rubicon and Malaysia’s Strategic Advantage The inflection point of the decade materialised when sustainability transcended voluntarism to become a statutory imperative. The European Union’s Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR), inaugurated in 2023 and deferred in late 2025, profoundly recalibrated palm oil supply chain architecture. Though the deferral mitigated immediacy, the underlying objective remained incontrovertible: to preclude commodities implicated in deforestation from ingress into one of the world’s most consequential consumer markets. Palm oil, alongside selected derivatives—crude oil, kernel oil, and palm-derived chemicals—fell squarely within the regulation’s ambit. For multinational procurers, the implication was unequivocal: opacity was untenable. Commodities must be traceable to their point of origin, verified as legally produced, and demonstrably insulated from deforestation and ecological degradation. Pledges devoid of evidentiary substantiation were, quite simply, insufficient. Malaysia, presciently, seized upon this regulatory milieu, positioning itself as a low-risk, compliant supplier. The nation’s National Traceability System—an integration of the e-Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil platform, GeoSawit, and the Sawit Intelligent Management System—consolidates certification data, geolocation coordinates, and verified transaction records, enabling EUDR-relevant intelligence to be centrally accessed and disseminated to EU partners. By these measures, Malaysia emerges as one of the most prepared producer countries, ensuring smallholders are neither marginalised nor excluded due to onerous compliance thresholds. Indonesia, by contrast, accentuated sovereignty and domestic absorption through energy policy, revealing a bifurcation in strategic paradigms: Malaysia foregrounded compliance and transparency; Indonesia, volume-led energy optimisation. Traceability as a Balance-Sheet Variable By 2025, traceability had transcended reputational optics to become a quantifiable balance-sheet consideration. Corporations sourcing palm oil across packaged foods, personal care, and industrial applications faced intensifying scrutiny—not only from civil society or consumers, but increasingly from investors, credit agencies, and insurers. Land-use and biodiversity risk became measurable, incorporated into credit decisions, equity analyses, and ESG-linked investment frameworks. Platforms such as Morningstar Sustainalytics furnished investors with insights into company deforestation-management programmes, grievance mechanisms, and auditing efficacy. The findings revealed heterogeneity: while many corporations maintained formal protocols, traceability often concluded at the mill rather than the plantation; grievance systems were inconsistently implemented, and audit rigor varied. Exemplars—Unilever, Danone, and Colgate-Palmolive—invested in plantation-level verification, supplier engagement, and transparent reporting. In 2025, traceability ceased to be a mere compliance cost; it was a licence to operate and a strategic differentiator. Why Deforestation Persists Despite decades of advocacy, corporate commitments, and regulatory initiatives, deforestation associated with palm oil expansion endures. The sector’s scale renders it highly visible within ESG discourses. Since the mid-2000s, production has more than doubled, surpassing 78 million tonnes by the mid-2020s. Expansion, particularly in Indonesia, continues to impinge upon forested tracts, exacerbated by fragmented land tenure, smallholder pressures, and uneven local enforcement. Forest clearance, accelerating after periods of relative stabilisation, underscores the fragility of prior progress. With demand projected to multiply several-fold by mid-century, pressures on forest ecosystems will intensify unless sustainable intensification, yield enhancement, and smallholder integration are prioritised. Failure to reverse these trends imperils climate targets and supply chain stability alike. Investors Reprice Land-Use Risk Until recently, corporate linkages to deforestation were largely reputational. By 2025, financial consequences crystallised. Investors recalibrated portfolios to account for regulatory risk, supply chain disruption, and reputational exposure. Corporations with robust, traceable supply chains—particularly in Malaysia—garnered competitive advantage. Estate-based models, cooperative smallholder programmes, and national certification systems underpinned compliance at scale. Anti-deforestation programmes now functioned dually: regulatory shields and risk mitigants. They reduce the probability of shipment rejection, contractual disruption, or exclusion from regulated markets. In a tightening ESG milieu, corporations lacking rigorous programmes faced escalating operational and financial vulnerability. Indonesia’s Biodiesel Pivot and Smallholder Dynamics While ESG reshaped demand, energy policy and production structures redefined supply. Indonesia, the world’s premier palm oil producer, accounted for approximately 55 per cent of global output in 2025. Its aggressive biodiesel expansion redirected millions of tonnes of crude palm oil away from exports, delivering domestic benefits: diminished fuel imports, stabilised farmer income, and political capital in rural constituencies. For global markets, however, this constricted supply, elevated price floors, and intensified volatility. The production landscape is further complicated by smallholders, who constitute nearly half of output yet exhibit yields of merely two to three tonnes per hectare—substantially lower than the six to eight tonnes typical of larger estates. The yield disparity, coupled with restricted access to finance, technology, and certification mechanisms, introduces material risks to both smallholder livelihoods and national competitiveness. Multinational buyers and investors must factor this heterogeneity into assessments of supply reliability and compliance risk. Export Flows, Trade, and Price Dynamics in 2025 Indonesian palm oil maintained global competitiveness in 2025, underpinned by robust export flows and new trade arrangements, including a free trade pact with the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Malaysia’s exports rose 7.7 per cent month-on-month to 1.42 million tonnes in September, marking the strongest monthly performance in nearly a year, according to the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC). Gains were driven by most key regions, excluding EU27 and Asia-Pacific. South Asia, notably India, absorbed 312,000 tonnes—the highest level in 11 months. Exports to Sub-Saharan Africa, MENA, the Americas, and Central Asia also expanded appreciably. Despite export growth, inventories in Malaysia climbed to 2.36 million tonnes, the highest in 22 months, reflecting normalised domestic consumption after a record August of 499,000 tonnes. Imports increased by 20,000 tonnes, further swelling stocks. Palm oil reclaimed a premium over soybean oil in global markets. By mid-October, it traded $ 42 per tonne above soybean oil in Europe and $ 26 higher in India. The brief April–September discount reversed partly due to speculation surrounding Indonesia’s potential B50 biodiesel mandate, which would require an estimated 17 million tonnes of palm oil—3 million tonnes more than the existing B40 mandate—absorbing roughly 35 per cent of domestic output and leaving about 22 million tonnes for export. Global vegetable oil dynamics were also affected by constrained soybean and sunflower oil supplies. US and Brazilian soybean oil exports were projected to decline 41 per cent year-on-year, while Argentina’s temporary export tax exemption triggered forward sales to China, curtailing local crushing activity. Sunflower oil prices remained elevated, trading $ 75 above palm oil and $ 100 above soybean oil in Europe. The ongoing US–China trade conflict further accentuated supply uncertainty. MPOC forecasted continued firmness in vegetable oil prices, with palm oil expected to sustain levels above RM4,400 per tonne, although market sentiment remained circumspect due to crude oil volatility, inventories in key markets, and geopolitical tension. Investor Flows: Singapore Mid-Cap Initiative Capital markets, too, were active arbiters of sectoral trajectories. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) allocated USD5 billion to fund managers to seed investments in promising mid-cap companies, opening a conduit for capital into Southeast Asian agribusiness equities, including palm oil-related stocks. On 6 October, Fullerton Fund Management launched Fullerton Singapore Value-Up, the first retail fund under the MAS programme, investing across small-, mid-, and large-cap Singapore-listed securities. Although specific counters were undisclosed, UOB Kay Hian and Maybank Research projected that First Resources and Golden Agri-Resources would attract significant allocation. First Resources is a constituent of the iEdge Singapore Next 50 indexes, which track the largest 50 stocks by market capitalisation and liquidity after excluding the 30 blue-chip Straits Times Index components. Investors may also access palm oil exposure via Wilmar International, whose diversified portfolio encompasses cultivation, processing, and downstream integration. Collectively, these initiatives underscore the evolving interplay between regulatory compliance, supply-side dynamics, and financial capital in shaping the sector’s trajectory. Trade, Diplomacy, and Fragmentation By 2025, the geopolitics of palm oil had become a complex lattice of strategic alignments, regulatory signalling, and market-driven diplomacy. The commodity was no longer merely a trade good; it had become an instrument of soft power and economic leverage. Indonesia, cognizant of the increasing stringency of ESG-led frameworks in Western markets, consciously pivoted toward alternative trading partners less encumbered by regulatory rigor. The Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) emerged as a natural conduit for Jakarta, offering not only expanded market access but also alignment with nations prioritising volume and energy security over deforestation compliance. This move, while pragmatic, reflected a broader Indonesian strategy: to diversify market dependency, reduce exposure to punitive ESG regimes, and safeguard domestic policy autonomy, particularly for its biodiesel mandates. Meanwhile, China deepened its engagement with ASEAN producers through bilateral and regional sustainability frameworks that, while aligned with some ESG principles, emphasised pragmatism, market access, and domestic food security over the stringent verifications required in Europe. Beijing’s approach facilitated preferential supply agreements, capacity-building programmes, and technical partnerships, reinforcing its position as a reliable purchaser even when Western markets imposed conditionality. In effect, China was cultivating a parallel governance ecosystem, one that harmonised sustainability ambitions with commercial expediency and regional diplomacy. Malaysia, by contrast, exercised a strategy of calibrated optionality. Kuala Lumpur maintained robust engagement with Europe through the National Traceability System, signalling compliance and reliability to ESG-conscious markets. Simultaneously, it expanded trade with India, the Middle East, and select premium Asian markets, leveraging both volume and differentiated quality to maximise revenue capture. By maintaining dual-track diplomacy—regulatory alignment on one hand and diversified market cultivation on the other—Malaysia positioned itself as a stabilising hub in an increasingly fragmented global palm oil system. Trade flows in 2025 increasingly mirrored governance credibility and regulatory compliance rather than mere production scale. Buyers and investors were willing to pay premiums for traceable, verified supply, while markets perceived as opaque or non-compliant faced exclusion or price discounts. The result was a discernible segmentation of the global palm oil market: Europe and other ESG-driven markets demanded documented compliance; Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa prioritised reliability, cost, and availability, with flexibility on verification protocols. In this context, trade negotiations, bilateral agreements, and regional alliances were no longer ancillary; they were central to the strategic calculus of producers, exporters, and financiers. Ultimately, 2025 crystallised a geopolitical realignment in which the governance architecture of production—traceability systems, certification frameworks, and ESG adherence—became as critical as volume and price. Palm oil diplomacy had transformed from a commodity-driven exercise into a multidimensional contest of regulatory compliance, market access, and strategic hedging, where producers and consumers alike navigated a terrain defined as much by geopolitics as by supply and demand. The 2025 Inflection Point The year 2025 crystallised a structural inflection in the global palm oil sector, marking a decisive transition from a volume-centric commodity paradigm to a governance- and compliance-driven ecosystem. Several concurrent developments coalesced to create a new hierarchy in which risk management, regulatory adherence, and strategic market positioning became paramount determinants of success. Foremost among these developments was the advance of the European Union’s Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR) toward formal enforcement. While the regulation’s compliance timeline was deferred, the underlying imperative remained unambiguous: companies sourcing palm oil and related commodities must demonstrate traceable, deforestation-free supply chains. This regulatory shift transformed what had been largely voluntary sustainability commitments into non-negotiable operational requirements, compelling corporations to invest in verification systems, engage smallholders, and enhance plantation-level transparency. Failure to comply now carried not only reputational risk but the tangible prospect of market exclusion from one of the largest consumer blocs in the world. Simultaneously, traceability emerged as a critical commercial and strategic variable. Corporations with robust, transparent systems could command premiums, reassure investors, and secure long-term contracts, whereas opaque supply chains faced escalating scrutiny. Malaysia’s integrated traceability framework, underpinned by the National Traceability System, positioned the nation advantageously, allowing it to capture value in premium markets and establish itself as a benchmark for ESG-aligned supply. On the supply side, Indonesia’s biodiesel mandate—particularly the potential B50 programme—substantially tightened exportable volumes. By redirecting millions of tonnes of palm oil to domestic biofuel blending, Jakarta effectively altered global supply-demand balances, introducing volatility and reinforcing price floors. The policy simultaneously underscored the strategic interplay between domestic energy security, rural political considerations, and international trade, highlighting the multifaceted levers that now influence market dynamics. Capital flows further accentuated the structural pivot. The Monetary Authority of Singapore’s $5 billion mid-cap investment initiative and subsequent fund launches, including Fullerton Singapore Value-Up, enhanced liquidity and investor engagement in palm oil equities, particularly for companies demonstrating regulatory compliance, governance robustness, and operational scalability. Singaporean capital thus became an active arbiter of sectoral trajectory, incentivising transparency and risk mitigation alongside traditional commercial metrics. Taken together, these forces crystallised a paradigm shift. The sector no longer operates purely on supply and demand fundamentals; market leadership is now contingent on a confluence of regulatory compliance, traceable and resilient supply chains, capital access, and strategic diplomatic positioning. Malaysia’s emphasis on governance and traceability, Indonesia’s energy-driven production strategy, and Singapore’s investment facilitation collectively signal that the hierarchy of winners and laggards is defined as much by institutional sophistication and market foresight as by hectares under cultivation or tonnage produced. In essence, 2025 represents a structural inflection point where risk, governance, and access have supplanted volume as the primary arbiters of sectoral pre-eminence. The golden crop retains its centrality in global food and energy systems, but its stewardship is now measured not merely in production metrics, but in the rigour of its governance, the transparency of its supply chain, and the agility of its market and investment strategies. Conditional Leadership Palm oil retained its crown in 2025—but with a crucial caveat: the sovereignty of this dominion is now conditional. The commodity’s indispensability remains, yet supremacy must be earned through governance, traceability, policy foresight, and strategic alignment. Malaysia exemplifies conditional resilience via compliance, integration, and premiumisation. Indonesia demonstrates the benefits—and perils—of volume-led energy policy and smallholder reliance. Singapore’s investor mobilisation illustrates that financial capital is an increasingly potent arbiter of the sector’s future. In a post-ESG, post-2025 world, palm oil’s legitimacy is adjudicated not by hectares, yields, or sheer tonnage, but by proof of governance, verifiable traceability, sustainability credentials, and alignment with the exigencies of investors and regulators. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3491/tariffs-tradecraft-and-turbulence-how-2025-rewired-asias-agri-economy.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3491/tariffs-tradecraft-and-turbulence-how-2025-rewired-asias-agri-economy.html Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:14:23 +0530 By the end of 2025, Asia’s agricultural economy is no longer being shaped primarily by climate cycles, productivity gains, or technology adoption. It has been being shaped by policy—and more specifically, by tariffs wielded as instruments of economic power. What distinguished 2025 from earlier episodes of protectionism was not merely escalation, but intent. Tariffs were no longer episodic responses to domestic political pressure or trade imbalances. They became systemic tools of statecraft, used to discipline trading partners, signal geopolitical alignment, manage inflation, and re-engineer supply chains. Agriculture and agri-food—once treated as sensitive sectors to be insulated from trade wars—were pulled decisively into the crosshairs. The result was not a uniform slowdown across Asia, but a profound reallocation of growth, capital, and competitiveness. Some economies absorbed the shock through diversification and regional integration. Others—more exposed to Western demand or narrow growth engines—stumbled. At the center of this reset stood a single catalyst: the United States’ reciprocal tariff regime. When Reciprocity Turned Punitive: The U.S. Tariff Doctrine Expands In 2025, Washington aggressively expanded what it framed as a reciprocal tariff regime—a doctrine that justified punitive import duties as corrective responses to perceived protectionism abroad. What began as a manufacturing-centric strategy quickly widened. Agricultural and agri-food commodities—processed foods, spices, horticulture products, and value-added farm exports—were swept into the policy’s broad ambit. India and China emerged among the most exposed. Both faced double-digit tariff increases across a wide spectrum of agri and processed food exports to the U.S. market. For India, the shock was immediate. High-value categories such as tea, coffee, spices, tropical fruit concentrates, and essential oils suddenly faced duties as high as 50 percent, eroding competitiveness overnight. The policy logic in Washington was geopolitical. The economic fallout at home was inflationary. Rising food prices and higher input costs quickly fed into domestic pressure, forcing a partial recalibration. By mid-2025, the U.S. granted exemptions on over 200 food items, easing consumer inflation and offering selective relief to exporters. But the reprieve was tactical, not structural. The broader macroeconomic signal was unmistakable: tariffs were no longer tactical irritants. They had become structural levers of economic posture. Costs of capital goods, fertilisers, packaging materials, and intermediate inputs rose across supply chains. Demand in key Western markets softened just as financing tightened. Exporters were compelled to rethink market concentration, contract duration, and risk exposure—often simultaneously. Indian shipments of spices, coffee, and processed foods contracted sharply in the immediate aftermath of tariff escalation, stabilising only marginally after exemptions took effect. Pricing power remained constrained, compliance costs rose, and exporters increasingly treated the U.S. as a volatile rather than anchor market. For China, the moment marked a more decisive rupture. China’s Countermove: Retaliation Abroad, Re-Anchoring at Home Beijing responded to Washington’s tariff expansion not with restraint, but with design. As U.S. reciprocal tariffs widened through 2025, China escalated in parallel, lifting average tariffs on U.S. goods to above 50 percent, extending across nearly the entire import spectrum. Agriculture—once politically sensitive and strategically insulated—was decisively pulled into the contest. Soybeans, dairy, feed ingredients, and agri-processed goods were no longer collateral damage; they became leverage.The immediate effect was a sharp erosion of China’s price competitiveness in North America. Chinese agricultural exports lost ground, while U.S. farm commodities struggled to retain market share in China. But Beijing’s objective was not tactical retaliation alone. The deeper consequence was structural: a deliberate and accelerated de-risking of China’s agri-trade exposure to the United States.Rather than preserving U.S. trade volumes at escalating political and economic cost, Beijing pivoted toward regional realignment and supply-chain sovereignty. Agricultural sourcing diversified away from the United States—soybean procurement shifted toward Brazil and Argentina, dairy imports favored Oceania and Central Asia, and feedstocks moved toward multiple Latin American and Eurasian suppliers. On the export side, China prioritized Asia, the Middle East, and emerging markets, where tariffs were predictable, demand growth strong, and trade diplomacy aligned.The clearest evidence of this re-anchoring emerged in China’s agricultural trade with Southeast Asia. In 2025, China–ASEAN agri-food trade reached approximately USD 51 billion, rising close to 9 percent year-on-year, even as trade with OECD markets stagnated. Imports of rice and cereals surged by over 70 percent, plant oils rose roughly 17 percent, and seafood imports grew about 14 percent. Value-added products—starches, dried roots, and packaged foods—also expanded, reflecting a shift from raw input dependence to regional processing integration. Tariffs on intra-Asian trade were progressively reduced or eliminated under upgraded bilateral arrangements and RCEP-linked frameworks, allowing rice, fruits, seafood, coffee, and processed foods from ASEAN economies to flow into China with fewer barriers, even as access to Western markets remained restricted.A Tactical Truce: Managed Competition Replaces Open EscalationLate 2025 also brought a narrowly scoped, sector-specific recalibration in U.S.–China economic relations. The bilateral deal included renewed agricultural purchases, a reduction of fentanyl-related tariffs, and a pause on Chinese export controls, signaling a tactical easing of tensions without undermining China’s broader trade realignment.China committed to stop exporting fentanyl precursors to the United States and to effectively eliminate current and proposed export controls on rare earth elements and critical minerals. Beijing also agreed to end retaliatory tariffs and non-tariff measures on U.S. agricultural and other goods, resuming transactional flows in select sectors. In particular, China pledged to purchase at least 12 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans in the last two months of 2025 and 25 million metric tons annually from 2026 through 2028, reassuring American farm states and stabilizing global oilseed markets.In return, the United States agreed to reduce cumulative fentanyl-related tariffs on Chinese imports by 10 percent and suspend for one year Section 301 responsive actions related to maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. During this suspension, Washington will continue negotiations with China, while deepening industrial cooperation with South Korea and Japan to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding—underscoring that strategic competition, not reconciliation, remains the frame.Taken together, the agreement marked a temporary easing of tensions. While transactional flows resumed, China’s longer-term strategy—diversified sourcing, deeper ASEAN integration, and reduced reliance on any single corridor—remained intact. The truce stabilized volumes but did not restore dependency.Trade Realignment SolidifiesEven as U.S. soybean shipments were scheduled to resume, China’s agricultural trade had already been fundamentally restructured. ASEAN and intra-Asian trade became the primary stabilizer, with supply chains shortened, compliance costs lowered, and small-to-medium producers gaining access to markets previously hard to reach. Tariffs did not shrink China’s trade footprint—they redirected it, embedding resilience through diversification and regional integration.By the end of 2025, the outcome was unmistakable: agriculture had become both a lever of strategy and a barometer of resilience. Tariffs, once temporary instruments of pressure, were now permanent features in the architecture of global trade, shaping flows, redirecting supply chains, and compelling both the U.S. and China to recalibrate strategies across continents. India: Selective Protection, Strategic Diversification India’s agri-trade strategy in 2025 was defined by balancing domestic stability with global market access, navigating tariff disruptions while capitalising on structural export strengths.On the defensive front, New Delhi raised import duties on edible oils to support domestic oilseed growers, shielding rural incomes amid volatile global prices and chronic import dependence. Elevated edible oil duties helped contain import-induced price swings, but they also raised input costs for food processors and livestock producers that rely on imported feedstocks, squeezing margins just as exporters faced geopolitical tariff shocks in key Western markets.Simultaneously, India pursued liberalisation where export competitiveness mattered most. A case in point was rice. After years of export controls, the government fully dismantled long-standing rice shipment restrictions in late 2024 and early 2025, sending a powerful signal to global buyers. The payoff was immediate. In FY2024-25, India’s agricultural and processed food exports rose by over 13 percent, with rice shipments expanding sharply. Rice exports—including basmati and non-basmati varieties—reached $12.47 billion, up from $10.41 billion the year before, driven by stronger global demand following the removal of export curbs.Rice alone accounted for more than half of India’s agri-export value in that period, underscoring its structural importance and the impact of policy stability. In the first half of FY2025 - 26, rice exports continued to perform strongly: APEDA data show India’s agricultural exports climbed approximately 12 percent year-on-year to $13.93 billion in April–September 2025, with non-basmati rice rising nearly 28 percent by value and volume up more than 50 percent. Beyond rice, other hallmark commodities illustrated India’s export breadth in 2025: Spices, a traditional mainstay, crossed the $4 billion threshold in 2024-25 and continued to anchor export momentum into 2025, reflecting India’s leading global position in chilli, turmeric, cumin, and mixed spice blends. Coffee exports, including robusta and specialty Arabica beans, grew robustly—with early 2025 figures showing export values up nearly 48 percent year-on-year in April alone, as global supply tightness supported prices and shipments. Meat, dairy and poultry products also expanded in early 2025, with export values rising by roughly 15 percent in April compared to the year before, signalling diversification into higher-value protein shipments. These headline figures demonstrate that, despite tariff headwinds in the West, India’s agri-export portfolio remained both diverse and growth-oriented.To mitigate the tariff impact and broaden market access, India accelerated trade diversification—prioritising the Gulf, Africa, and select developed markets where agricultural concessions were feasible or where India has deep historical ties. Africa, historically a strong destination for Indian rice, pulses, and staples, continued to account for a significant share of agri exports, while India deepened engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including a landmark comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Oman granting zero-duty access to most Indian exports.Trade data from 2023 (the most recent detailed breakdown available) show that Asia accounted for roughly 58 percent of India’s agricultural exports, with Africa contributing about 15 percent and the U.S. roughly 13 percent. These regional patterns provided the basis for India’s strategic redirection in 2025 away from over-reliance on tariff-exposed developed markets toward near-region and Global South demand hubs. At the same time, India’s reliance on imported edible oils remained pronounced. Vegetable oils continued to dominate India’s farm import bill, reflecting deep structural demand. Domestic edible oil production lagged consumption, necessitating imports of palm, soy, and sunflower oils despite heightened tariffs—underscoring the limits of selective protection when underlying supply gaps persist.The strategic takeaway from 2025 was unambiguous: tariff protection can buy political stability, but export growth in an era of protectionist headwinds requires market access, diversification, and product upgrading. India’s calibrated approach—shielding vulnerable producers at home while restoring credibility in core export segments and pivoting toward growth markets abroad—reflected an evolving trade playbook tailored to a fractured global tariff landscape. ASEAN and RCEP: Tariffs Reduced, Resilience Built If 2025 proved anything, it was that regionalism worked—not as a shield against global disruption, but as a system for absorbing it.Under RCEP, intra-regional tariffs on agri goods, fertilisers, and processed foods continued to fall, while rules of origin were harmonized across 15 economies. Compliance costs dropped, supply chains shortened, and small-to-medium enterprises gained access to markets previously difficult to reach.Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand leveraged these preferences to maintain export momentum. Vietnam’s agri-food exports into Asia grew steadily, Malaysia sustained processed food and palm oil exports, and Thailand preserved rice, seafood, and agro-industrial export growth. Regional trade densification shortened supply chains, reduced intermediate import dependence, and embedded redundancy and resilience.RCEP did not eliminate volatility—but it re-routed trade rather than letting it collapse, providing predictability that offset shocks from U.S. and EU tariff policies. Southeast Asia’s Q3 Reckoning: Growth Under Tariff Pressure By Q3 2025, Southeast Asia was a live laboratory for tariff shocks: trade flows held firm, but growth split sharply across the region. According to " Southeast Asia quarterly economic review " by McKinsey & Company: Vietnam emerged as the standout performer, recording 8.2 percent GDP growth, the fastest in the region. Manufacturing and construction accelerated, services remained robust, and foreign investment flows stayed resilient. Even as tariff-exposed export segments slowed late in the quarter, Vietnam’s diversified industrial base cushioned the blow. Malaysia followed with 5.2 percent growth, supported by strong global demand for electrical and electronics products. Manufacturing and consumer-linked services drove expansion, while mining rebounded sharply on higher LNG and crude oil output. Agriculture moderated slightly, reflecting shifting policy priorities. Elsewhere, the picture darkened. The Philippines’ growth slowed to 4.0 percent, its weakest since 2021. Services momentum faded, industrial growth stalled, and agriculture suffered as typhoons disrupted harvests. Tariffs amplified existing vulnerabilities. Thailand’s slowdown was more severe. Growth fell to 1.2 percent, with tourism weakening, services slowing, and both manufacturing and construction contracting for the first time in 2025. Even strong electronics exports could not offset broader demand softness. Indonesia held steady at 5 percent, but warning signs mounted. Foreign direct investment fell 8.9 percent year-on-year, the steepest drop since early 2020, as tariff uncertainty and geopolitical risk dampened sentiment. Capital concentrated in strategic sectors such as mining and logistics, bypassing consumption-oriented industries. Singapore grew 4.2 percent, prompting an upward revision to its annual outlook. Yet non-oil domestic exports contracted unexpectedly as U.S. tariffs weighed heavily on shipments—one of the clearest illustrations of tariff transmission into real economic drag. The lesson was unmistakable: tariffs did not slow Southeast Asia uniformly—they sorted it. Agriculture in the Crosswinds In 2025, agriculture did not escape the crosscurrents of global economic turbulence—it absorbed them indirectly, persistently, and unevenly. While the majority of reciprocal tariffs and trade tensions initially targeted manufactured goods, their reverberations extended deep into the food and agri-allied sectors. Slower services growth, particularly in tourism, hospitality, and urban consumption hubs, dampened domestic food demand in several Southeast Asian markets. Investment pullbacks—especially in cold-chain infrastructure, warehousing, and logistics—delayed modernization efforts crucial for maintaining quality and export competitiveness. Even small fluctuations in fertiliser, pesticide, and seed import duties translated into meaningful input-cost volatility for farmers and processors, compressing margins at a time of rising energy and labour costs.Yet the sector demonstrated remarkable resilience in pockets, and the explanation lay less in national protective tariffs and more in regional trade architecture and integration. Frameworks such as RCEP, upgraded ASEAN bilateral agreements, and intra-Asian supply chain arrangements provided structural cushions. Vietnam and Malaysia, for example, leveraged RCEP preferences to maintain export momentum for rice, seafood, and processed foods even as U.S. and EU markets became less accessible. Compliance costs dropped, supply chains shortened, and SMEs gained access to large, tariff-preferential markets without negotiating separate bilateral agreements. In short, agriculture held up not because of border walls, but because trade corridors within the region were predictable, diversified, and embedded.Similarly, India’s experience highlighted the limits of unilateral tariff protection. Import duties on edible oils shielded domestic producers but raised costs for downstream food processors and livestock farmers, demonstrating that insulation alone cannot fully mitigate global shocks. Export-oriented commodities—rice, spices, coffee—flourished only where access to diversified overseas markets was available, from the Gulf and Africa to Asia, underscoring that trade resilience depends on integration, not isolation.The 2025 experience underscored a critical lesson: agriculture’s performance is structurally intertwined with trade networks, supply chain efficiency, and market diversification. Protective tariffs may provide temporary relief or political stability, but long-term resilience in a world of persistent trade shocks is built through regional frameworks, predictable rules, and strategic alignment, not through national walls. In this sense, agriculture in Asia was less a passive victim of global trade frictions than an adaptive system navigating the crosswinds through connectivity and institutional foresight. What 2025 Ultimately Changed 2025 Ultimately ChangedBy the end of 2025, three structural truths had crystallized across Asia’s agri-economy and broader trade landscape:First, tariffs are no longer episodic shocks—they are permanent instruments of economic strategy. What once appeared as sporadic trade friction became embedded in the calculus of production, investment, and supply-chain planning. U.S. reciprocal tariffs, China’s retaliatory levies, and selective import duties in India demonstrated that governments now treat border measures as tools to achieve geopolitical leverage, manage domestic constituencies, and signal strategic intent. Trade uncertainty is no longer a temporary phenomenon to hedge against—it is a structural feature of the new economic environment.Second, resilience comes not from insulation but from integration. Nations and sectors that relied on isolationist protectionism paid a cost. Conversely, economies leveraging regional frameworks, bilateral agreements, and adaptive supply chains buffered themselves from external shocks. RCEP-enabled flows, ASEAN intra-regional trade preferences, and India’s diversified export corridors to the Gulf, Africa, and Asia illustrate the principle: predictable, flexible, and diversified market access is more protective than any tariff wall. Resilience is increasingly measured in the ability to pivot supply chains quickly, reduce compliance complexity, and maintain volumes amid shifting global conditions.Third, agriculture can no longer be treated as a domestic policy silo. In 2025, farming, fisheries, fertilisers, and food processing were not merely economic sectors—they were instruments of diplomacy, leverage, and strategic signaling. Beijing used soy, dairy, and seafood flows as both bargaining chips and regional connectors. India balanced farmer protection with export credibility, shaping its trade posture to align domestic welfare with international market access. ASEAN producers relied on RCEP to preserve trade volumes, demonstrating that agricultural policy is inseparable from geopolitical and economic architecture.Taken together, these truths underscore a broader structural shift: Asia did not exit 2025 weaker—but it exited reordered. Growth favored economies combining industrial depth, trade agility, and policy clarity. Capital gravitated toward jurisdictions that offered certainty amid fragmentation. Agriculture, often the silent absorber of policy risk, became a barometer of strategic competence: who could maintain farm incomes, secure inputs, and sustain exports under layered tariff pressures became a marker of overall resilience.For investors, policymakers, and agribusinesses, the implications are profound. Predictability, diversification, and connectivity are no longer optional—they are core determinants of competitive advantage. Supply chains must be designed for agility, not just efficiency; trade corridors must be navigated as instruments of strategy, not as passive conduits.As 2026 approaches, one conclusion is unavoidable: in a world where tariffs are strategy, adaptability is destiny. Countries and firms that internalize this reality, leveraging integration rather than insulation, will capture growth, manage risk, and shape the contours of the next decade. Those that cling to old notions of protection or market complacency will find themselves exposed to the crosswinds of a permanently restructured global trade architecture.2025 was the year Asia recalibrated. The next decade will reveal who turned insight into advantage—and who became collateral in the era of tariffs as policy. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3484/this-is-not-dumping-this-is-demand-inside-indias-rice-trade-reality-as-u-s-tariffs-surge.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3484/this-is-not-dumping-this-is-demand-inside-indias-rice-trade-reality-as-u-s-tariffs-surge.html Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:16:45 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Dev Garg, Vice President of the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF), pushes back against U.S. allegations of dumping as tariffs on Indian rice rise sharply, asserting that India’s exports are fundamentally demand-driven, not subsidy-fueled. Garg explains that Indian basmati and select non-basmati varieties cater to distinct cultural and culinary segments in the U.S., making them non-substitutable by domestically grown American rice. He notes that despite tariffs increasing from 10 per cent to 50 per cent, demand has remained resilient, with higher costs largely absorbed by U.S. consumers due to basmati’s irreplaceable qualities and relatively low household consumption volumes. He highlights India’s structural advantages—varietal depth, ageing practices, and advanced milling infrastructure—which continue to anchor its global competitiveness. Looking ahead, Garg outlines IREF’s strategy of market diversification, value-added exports, and policy support in Budget 2026 to future-proof India’s rice export ecosystem against geopolitical and trade shocks. The U.S. President’s recent comments have brought Indo–U.S. rice trade into global focus. From IREF’s perspective, what are the biggest misconceptions that need correction regarding Indian rice exports to the United States ?The first and most fundamental misconception is the allegation of dumping. Indian rice exports to the United States are entirely demand-driven, not supply-pushed. Exporters ship rice only against confirmed orders from U.S. importers, retailers, and distributors. There is no scenario in which rice is “offloaded” into the U.S. market to suppress prices.The second misconception is that Indian rice competes directly with U.S.-grown rice. That assumption ignores basic market realities. Indian rice—especially basmati and select non-basmati varieties—serves a completely different consumer base, rooted in cultural, ethnic, and culinary preferences. U.S. rice is predominantly medium- and short-grain, designed for entirely different cooking applications. These are not interchangeable products.Finally, the MSP argument is deeply misunderstood. The U.S. has raised concerns around MSP-linked varieties such as PR-106 and IR-64. But Sona Masuri and basmati—India’s principal exports to the U.S.—do not fall under MSP at all. To suggest that MSP is distorting the U.S. market is simply incorrect.Despite tariffs rising sharply from 10 per cent to 50 per cent, Indian rice exports to the U.S. have continued. What explains this sustained demand, and how are U.S. consumers responding to higher retail prices ?The resilience of demand comes down to irreplaceability.Basmati rice is not a commodity; it is a culinary necessity for specific cuisines. The aroma, elongation, texture, and cooking behavior of Indian basmati—particularly for dishes like biryani—cannot be substituted. Even Pakistani basmati, often cited as an alternative, differs significantly in colour palette, taste profile, and ageing characteristics.India also has a strategic advantage in varietal depth. When tariffs rise, exporters can shift demand toward alternative Indian basmati varieties. For example, Pusa Basmati 1121 may be premium-priced, but newer varieties like PB-1718 or PB-1509 allow exporters to offer value options without compromising on authenticity. More recently, PB-21 (II-21) has emerged as a premium export variety, roughly priced around $ 1,000 per metric tonne, giving the market flexibility across price points.Crucially, the entire tariff burden is borne by U.S. consumers, not Indian exporters. But rice consumption volumes in the U.S. are relatively small—typically 5 kg per household annually. Given the high per capita income levels in the U.S., the absolute increase in household food expenditure is marginal. Consumers absorb the price increase without materially altering consumption behavior.Indian basmati and non-basmati rice cater to specific cultural and culinary segments in the U.S. How critical are these segments to long-term demand, and do you foresee any shifts in consumption patterns ?These segments are not niche anymore—they are structural. Indian food has become one of the most popular global cuisines, and the U.S. is no exception. The rise of Indian restaurants, ready-to-cook meal kits, ethnic food aisles in mainstream retail, and cross-cultural adoption of Indian cooking at home is driving sustained growth in basmati demand.From IREF’s perspective, the long-term trajectory is clearly upward. Basmati consumption in the U.S. is increasing not just among the Indian diaspora, but among mainstream consumers who associate it with premium quality, health, and superior taste. This is not a cyclical trend—it is a cultural shift.You mentioned that the tariff burden is largely passed on to U.S. consumers. What impact has this had on Indian exporters, millers, and farmers? Has it affected export realisations or supply-chain planning ? At present, Indian exporters remain largely insulated.There was a window of nearly one month between the announcement and implementation of the higher tariff. During this period, exporters front-loaded shipments into the U.S., ensuring continuity of supply. As a result, there has been no disruption to export flows, no inventory overhang, and no adverse impact on farm-gate prices.From a planning perspective, Indian rice exports are continuing as normal. Milling operations, procurement cycles, and shipping schedules remain intact. There is no evidence of stress transmission from U.S. tariff policy back to Indian farmers or millers at this stage.Given that U.S.-grown rice is not a like-for-like substitute for Indian basmati, how does this quality and culinary differentiation strengthen India’s competitive position globally ?India’s competitive advantage lies in quality, ageing, and processing sophistication.Indian exporters have a long-standing practice of supplying aged rice. Much like wine, rice improves with age—its cooking properties, aroma, and grain integrity enhance over time. This gives Indian rice a superior culinary experience compared to fresher alternatives from competing origins.Additionally, India’s milling infrastructure is significantly more advanced than many competing exporters, including Pakistan. Indian mills deliver consistent grain length, polish, and breakage control at scale. This consistency is critical for global buyers and foodservice chains.As a result, Indian rice is not just prevalent—it is becoming the reference standard in many global markets.Looking ahead, how is IREF working with the Government of India to diversify markets, mitigate tariff-related risks, and ensure stable growth for India’s rice export ecosystem ?Market diversification is a central pillar of IREF’s strategy.We have identified 26 high-potential international markets where competitors currently dominate rice consumption. The cumulative market opportunity across these geographies is estimated at Rs 1.8 lakh crore. These countries already import rice—it is simply sourced from non-Indian origins.Our approach is not generic. Countries like Japan, for example, are extremely particular about food quality. Sushi rice has specific textural requirements. IREF has identified Indian varieties—such as Nagri Dubraj, a GI-tagged rice from Chhattisgarh—that can technically and sensorially replace the rice currently used in sushi preparation.Beyond trade negotiations, large international events and food festivals are increasingly being used as export-promotion platforms. The goal is to demonstrate functional equivalence—or superiority—of Indian varieties in global cuisines.What recommendations would IREF like to see reflected in the Union Budget 2026 ?There are three clear priorities.First, an interest subvention scheme for rice exporters. Export financing costs in India remain high, and easing this burden would immediately improve competitiveness.Second, targeted incentives for setting up modern rice mills, especially those focused on value-added processing, ageing infrastructure, and export-grade packaging.Third, enhancing the existing export incentive framework from 0.9 per cent to around 3 per cent, coupled with a strong focus on export infrastructure—ports, logistics, and quality certification systems.These measures would not only strengthen exports but also future-proof India’s rice ecosystem against geopolitical and tariff-related shocks.Closing ThoughtAs the global trade narrative grows louder, IREF’s message is clear: India’s rice exports are not a distortion—they are a response to demand, culture, and culinary preference. Tariffs may rise, rhetoric may sharpen, but as long as food remains deeply tied to identity and taste, India’s rice will continue to travel the world—grain by grain, market by market. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3480/vietnam-prepares-for-agri-trade-market-expansion-to-build-a-strategic-pillar-of-the-economy.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3480/vietnam-prepares-for-agri-trade-market-expansion-to-build-a-strategic-pillar-of-the-economy.html Mon, 15 Dec 2025 12:03:55 +0530 “Application of Science and Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation in Agriculture.”  Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired the 2025 Dialogue Conference with Farmers under the theme “Application of Science and Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation in Agriculture.” The conference was jointly organized by the Central Committee of the Viet Nam Farmers’ Union, the Government Office, and relevant ministries, sectors, and localities, and was connected online to 34 provinces and cities nationwide. The Prime Minister commended the democratic, candid, and substantive dialogue between the Government and farmers. He directed the Government Office, in collaboration with the Viet Nam Farmers’ Union, to compile and submit conclusions for issuance, adhering to the "six clarities" principle: clear responsibilities, tasks, timelines, accountability, authority, and outcomes. Viet Nam is expected to fulfill all 15 out of 15 socio-economic targets, with agriculture, farmers, and rural areas making especially significant contributions. Prime Minister iterated that Vietnam aims to be a high-income developed country by 2045, science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation are an inevitable pathway, and agriculture must be one of the leading sectors in this process. The Prime Minister encouraged all stakeholders in agriculture to continue building momentum, strength, and positioning for the development of agriculture, farmers, and rural areas in the new phase - a phase of rapid, sustainable growth and deep international integration. The Prime Minister noted that, alongside the domestic market, expanding export markets is a long-term strategic task. Viet Nam has now signed 17 free trade agreements with more than 60 economies, creating vast opportunities for Vietnamese goods in general and agricultural products in particular. The long-term goal is to reach USD 100 billion in agricultural export turnover, linked to the development of national brands for each key product group. Along with market expansion, the Prime Minister called for continued diversification of products and supply chains to avoid overreliance on a limited number of traditional markets, while also boosting domestic consumption and strengthening effective linkages among production, processing, and distribution. Regarding infrastructure, the Prime Minister noted that around 50% of state development investment is currently allocated to strategic infrastructure, particularly transport. This helps reduce logistics costs, lower prices, and enhance the competitiveness of agricultural products, while opening up new development space for rural areas. In addition, he urged further improvement of mechanisms to promote green, low-emission production and a circular economy, alongside stronger management of food safety, traceability, anti–trade fraud measures, and intellectual property protection, thereby laying a solid foundation for sustainable agricultural development. Further, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and the Vietnam Farmers’ Union is set to strengthening the “three-party linkage” among the State, educational institutions, and enterprises in training human resources for modern, high-tech, and green agriculture. To achieve rapid and sustainable development, the Prime Minister stressed the need to mobilize all social resources in an integrated manner, including the state budget, private capital, credit, bonds, and public-private partnership (PPP) models such as BT and BOT. The State plays a role in creating enabling institutions, while enterprises must proactively propose investment projects, ensuring a harmonious balance of interests among the State, businesses, and farmers. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3469/vietnam-to-host-second-sa-dec-flower-ornamental-plant-festival-from-dec-27-to-jan-4.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3469/vietnam-to-host-second-sa-dec-flower-ornamental-plant-festival-from-dec-27-to-jan-4.html Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:02:46 +0530 With the theme “Colors of a new day" the The Sa Dec Flower & Ornamental Plant Festival aims to boost floriculture industry efforts to enhance trade prospects and increase the value of ornamental plants, gardening, and floral cultivation Vietnam will hosts the second Sa Dec Flower & Ornamental Plant Festival from December 27, 2025, to January 4, 2026 under the theme “Colors of a new day.” The festival will take place at Sa Dec Park, located on Ton Duc Thang Street in Tan Binh Quarter, Sa Dec Ward. Nguyen Van Tam, Chairman of the Sa Dec Ward People’s Committee, said the second edition of the festival will feature a variety of highlights. These include a vibrant flower space with 1,000 varieties of flowers and ornamental plants on display, a recreation of old Sa Dec, a creative space for young people, an exhibition of Dong Thap’s cultural heritage, a reality show-style opening performance, hot-air balloon rides over the floral landscape, international trade exhibitions, culinary and cultural showcases, and community-focused tourism experiences. Nguyen Thi Uyen Trang, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Dong Thap, stated that the 2025 festival is projected to attract around 500,000 visitors. This ambitious figure reflects high expectations for the event and highlights the opportunity to enhance the value of the flower and ornamental plant sector. It also opens new avenues for services, commerce, accommodation, high-tech flower production, and agriculture. "The festival’s theme, “Colors of a new day,” reflects Sa Dec's aspiration for innovation and its readiness to adapt to modern development needs. The Sa Dec Flower & Ornamental Plant Festival is not just a cultural and tourism event; it is also a strategic move to reinforce Sa Dec’s role as the “flower capital of the Mekong Delta.” says Trang. Trang emphasized three core objectives of this year’s festival. First is to honor the heritage of Sa Dec’s flower village as a vital pillar of the local economy. Second is to increase the value of ornamental plant products by standardizing production processes and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Lastly, the event aims to effectively promote the image of Dong Thap and Sa Dec. Through experiential and interactive displays, exhibitions, and contests, the festival also seeks to foster business connections and trade partnerships. Through the second Sa Dec Flower & Ornamental Plant Festival, Dong Thap aims to build a community of flower lovers and inspire wider appreciation for the art of gardening and floral cultivation. More than just a celebration of colors, the event represents a strategic step forward in the province’s vision to elevate the flower industry and affirm its place on the national and international stage. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3470/asian-international-trade-and-investment-association-aitia-convene-to-strengthen-cross-border-e-commerce-cooperation-between-guangxi-and-thailand.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3470/asian-international-trade-and-investment-association-aitia-convene-to-strengthen-cross-border-e-commerce-cooperation-between-guangxi-and-thailand.html Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:36:16 +0530 Thailand and Guangxi /Hunan provinces (China) to jointly explore the e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia in key sectors such as agricultural products trade, cross-border e-commerce, and investment. A delegation from the Asian International Trade and Investment Association (AITIA) paid a visit to the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Sub-Council. Both parties engaged in a practical exchange of views on strengthening cross-border e-commerce cooperation between Guangxi and Thailand. The discussions focused on new opportunities within the digital economy, emphasizing methods to promote the flow of Guangxi’s unique products and high-quality Thai goods through e-commerce channels. Representatives from AITIA provided a detailed introduction to the platform highlights, sales policies, and market opportunities of the Thailand E-Commerce Selection Expo 2026 (TESE 2026). Furthermore, the delegation officially invited CCPIT Guangxi Sub-Council to organize a group of leading local enterprises to participate and exhibit their products, with the aim of jointly expanding the Southeast Asian market. Recently on Nov 25th, The Asian International Trade and Investment Association (AITIA), along with high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the Kingdom of Thailand and the CEO of Farm Expo, paid a visit to the Hunan Provincial Department of Commerce. Both parties engaged in an in-depth exchange of views on promoting economic and trade cooperation across various industrial sectors between Hunan and Thailand. During the meeting, the two sides discussed the potential and strategies for enhancing collaboration between Hunan and Thailand in key areas such as agricultural products trade, cross-border e-commerce, and investment. The Thai delegation provided detailed information on the preparation status, platform highlights, and market opportunities of the Thailand E-Commerce Selection Expo 2026 (TESE 2026). Furthermore, the delegation formally invited the Hunan Provincial Department of Commerce to organize a group of high-quality enterprises within the province—especially those specializing in agricultural products, consumer goods, and e-commerce goods—to participate in the exhibition. The goal is to jointly explore the e-commerce markets in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Both parties reached a consensus on several important issues, including information sharing, business matching, and exhibition cooperation. This visit proved to be highly fruitful and laid a solid foundation for comprehensively strengthening future economic and trade exchanges between Guangxi /Hunan and Thailand. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3467/korea-to-build-agricultural-machinery-complex-in-the-philippines-to-serve-as-a-southeast-asian-export-hub.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3467/korea-to-build-agricultural-machinery-complex-in-the-philippines-to-serve-as-a-southeast-asian-export-hub.html Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:09:59 +0530 The joint collaboration aims to mechanize agriculture, and the domestic agricultural machinery industry, in order to expand exports to Southeast Asia  Korea held a groundbreaking ceremony for the 'Korea Agricultural Machinery Industrial Complex' in Cabanatuan City, Philippines, on December 10, 2025, marking a significant milestone in bilateral agricultural cooperation. The event, attended by Kim Jeong-wook, Director of the Agricultural Innovation Policy Office at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), celebrated the commencement of the complex's establishment and provided a platform to discuss collaborative plans in the agricultural machinery sector. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. , the Secretary of Agriculture , and the Chairmen of the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Director Kim Jeong-wook, Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa, Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative ( hereinafter referred to as the Korea Agricultural Machinery Association ) Chairman Kim Shin-gil, and representatives from nine agricultural machinery companies.  The project to establish the ' Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Complex ' was promoted through cooperation between the Philippine government and the Korea Agricultural Machinery Association based on the consensus between the Philippine government, which wants to mechanize agriculture, and the domestic agricultural machinery industry, which wants to expand exports to Southeast Asia . The Philippine Agricultural Machinery Research Institute requested cooperation from the Korea Agricultural Machinery Association in developing local agricultural machinery The Korea Agricultural Machinery Association proposed the establishment of a public corporation to the Philippine President and signed an MOU for the establishment of the public corporation. Signed an MOU containing Philippine support items such as tariff and local tax exemption and infrastructure construction. With domestic corporate investment, an agricultural machinery manufacturing plant will be established on a 60,000 -pyeong site in Caba. atuan City, Philippines, from 2026 to 2034. The Philippine government will provide benefits such as land lease (75 years ), infrastructure such as roads, electricity, communications, and water, and tariff and local tax exemptions. Construction will roll out in many phases, with he First Phase scheduled for 2026 - 28 ( 20,000 pyeong), Second Phase 2029 - 31 (20,000 pyeong), Third Phase 2032-34 (20,000 pyeong). The project is expected to contribute to expanding exports of Korean agricultural machinery to Southeast Asia , while also playing a major role in improving agricultural mechanization, productivity, and quality in the Philippines. Although agricultural machinery exports to Southeast Asia are low at 4.3% of the total (in 2024), the export volume is increasing (in 2023 from USD37 to USD52 million in 2024), indicating a market with great potential.  In particular, the Philippines has the highest export share in Southeast Asia at 60% (in 2024) and exports are rapidly increasing (since 2023 from USD9million to USD31 million in 2024 ), making it an advantageous country for Korean companies to advance into and settle in. Accordingly, the agricultural machinery industry plans to diversify its export market, which is currently concentrated in North America (73% as of 2024), to Southeast Asia and other regions by using the Philippine industrial complex as an export base. Meanwhile , agricultural machinery exports this year increased by 8.6 % year-on-year to $ 1,117 million as of October , despite particularly difficult external conditions such as the imposition of U.S. tariffs and rising logistics costs . Kim Jeong-wook, Director of the Agricultural Innovation Policy Office, expressed his expectations in his congratulatory speech at the groundbreaking ceremony, saying, “ This project will greatly contribute to the development of the agricultural and agricultural machinery industries for both countries .” He also said , “ The Korean government will also do its best to cooperate with the Philippine government and support companies advancing into the Philippine market so that the project can proceed smoothly . ” He also met with Philippine government officials and requested policy support to help Korean companies smoothly establish the industrial complex and settle in stably thereafter . ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3458/ntt-data-to-acquire-spro-strengthening-its-capabilities-in-sap-for-agribusiness-in-brazil.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3458/ntt-data-to-acquire-spro-strengthening-its-capabilities-in-sap-for-agribusiness-in-brazil.html Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:38:58 +0530 Key production chains including grain origination, animal protein, agricultural inputs, seeds, retail, and biofuels NTT DATA Business Solutions, a leading global IT service provider focused on SAP, has signed an agreement to acquire SPRO IT Solutions, a leading SAP provider in the agribusiness industry in Brazil. The terms of the acquisition have been finalized and will be completed following approval from the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE). SPRO is a national agribusiness leader, with expertise across key production chains including grain origination, animal protein, agricultural inputs, seeds, retail, and biofuels. Serving cooperatives, agro-industries, seed companies and trading firms across Brazil, the company promotes intelligent integration across all aspects of the agribusiness chain, from field to end consumer. As a SAP Gold Partner, SPRO collaborates with major global technology players including SAP, AWS, Microsoft, and Google, accelerating the strategic digitalization of its clients and solidifying its position as one of the leading references in innovation applied to Brazilian agribusiness. "Brazil is among the top ten global markets for IT services, with agribusiness playing a leading role across many regions of the country. By welcoming SPRO into our organization, we are not only strengthening our SAP capabilities in a key industry, but also deepening our commitment to innovation and sustainable growth in the region. SPRO's proven expertise and strong customer relationships will help us deliver greater value to our clients and accelerate our global strategy", said Norbert Rotter, CEO, NTT DATA Business Solutions AG.  SPRO is dedicated to driving end-to-end digital transformation for agribusiness, providing a software platform and services that support operational efficiency, governance, and productive sustainability. Operating in the South, Southeast, Midwest, and North regions of Brazil - where the sector's main players are concentrated - the company has become a technology leader in agribusiness. The company offers proprietary solutions on the SAP Store and holds various certifications and recognitions, such as the SAP Delivery Excellence Award, which reinforce its leadership, credibility, and commitment to innovation in the sector. "This acquisition creates new opportunities for cross-selling and upselling, leveraging the strengths of both organizations. SPRO will join our Global Centers of Excellence, fostering knowledge exchange and driving productivity. Agribusiness is a fundamental pillar of the Brazilian economy, representing around 29.4% of the national GDP and accounting for a significant share of the country's exports. With SPRO's expertise in SAP for key agribusiness production chains and global collaboration with other NTT DATA units, we will further enhance our ability to deliver innovative solutions and support our international expansion," said Ricardo Fachin, Managing Director, NTT DATA Business Solutions Brazil. The acquisition of SPRO will add around 70 customers to the portfolio of NTT DATA Business Solutions. The company will become a subsidiary of NTT DATA Business Solutions – Serviços de Tecnologia Ltda. in Brazil and will operate as an independent company after the acquisition, using the brand name 'SPRO, an NTT DATA Company.'  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3457/global-cereals-break-3-billion-tonne-barrier-as-wheat-maize-and-rice-drive-new-era-of-abundance.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3457/global-cereals-break-3-billion-tonne-barrier-as-wheat-maize-and-rice-drive-new-era-of-abundance.html Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:47:45 +0530 FAO’s latest outlook paints a picture of record harvests, buoyant stocks, and steady trade momentum heading into 2026 In a landmark moment for global agriculture, the FAO’s latest forecast places world cereal production in 2025 at 3 003 million tonnes—the first time global output is set to exceed the three-billion-tonne threshold. The upward revision, released this month, reflects stronger-than-expected performances across wheat, coarse grains, and rice, underscoring a year in which favourable weather, robust plantings, and resilient supply chains helped agriculture overcome persistent climate and geopolitical uncertainties. The biggest lift came from wheat. Argentina, buoyed by larger-than-anticipated plantings and likely record yields, is poised for a historic harvest, reshaping the global supply picture. Additional output upgrades for the European Union and the United States further strengthened the wheat outlook. Coarse grains also saw modest improvements—primarily from higher barley estimates—while the rice sector recorded a sharp upward adjustment after Indonesia confirmed continued area expansions that will support a larger-than-expected offseason crop. With improved prospects for Bangladesh and Japan, global rice production for 2025/26 is now projected at 558.8 million tonnes (milled basis), up 1.6% from last year and at an all-time high. Countries spearheading the rice surge include Bangladesh, Brazil, China, India, and Indonesia, more than offsetting anticipated declines in Madagascar, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, and the U.S. Solid Start for 2026 Winter Wheat Planting of the 2026 winter wheat crop is advancing steadily across the Northern Hemisphere. In the U.S., sowing remains on schedule, though only 45 per cent of the crop is rated good to excellent, down 10 percentage points from last year amid ongoing dryness. The EU’s planting campaign is progressing with largely favourable conditions despite localized rainfall deficits in Italy. Russia completed its winter wheat sowing by November under mostly beneficial weather, while improved soil moisture in Ukraine helped alleviate early-season concerns, supporting expectations of a larger—though still sub-pre-war—wheat area. Across South Asia, India and Pakistan are set for expansive wheat sowings, driven by remunerative prices and strengthened policy support. Southern Hemisphere Begins Maize Cycle with Optimism South America’s early signals for 2026 coarse grain production point to a rebound year. Regular early-season rains in Argentina have supported strong maize establishment, while Brazil, bolstered by firm domestic and export demand, is expected to expand maize plantings above its five-year average. In South Africa, a marginal increase in maize area—particularly for yellow maize—is anticipated amid expectations of a favourable rainfall season. Cereal Utilization to Hit a Fresh Peak Global cereal utilization for 2025/26 is forecast to rise 2.1 per cent to 59.2 million tonnes above last year, driven by increases across all major cereals. Ample supplies and stable prices are expected to encourage greater use of maize, barley, and sorghum in animal feed, with feed-quality wheat also becoming an attractive alternative. Rice consumption is projected to expand 2.4 per cent, reaching a new peak of 552.8 million tonnes, supported by comfortable availability in key producing and consuming regions. Record Stocks Strengthen Global Food Security Buffer World cereal stocks by the end of the 2026 seasons are now projected at a record 925.5 million tonnes, up 6.5 per cent from opening levels. China and India are expected to drive the largest increases in wheat reserves, while Brazil and the U.S. will anchor the growth in coarse grain stocks. Revisions this month include upward adjustments to: Wheat stocks in Argentina and the U.S. Maize inventories in Brazil, following an improved segunda safra outlook Rice stocks, which rose by 1.5 million tonnes due to enhanced expectations in Indonesia The ratio of major exporters’ stocks to disappearance is expected to climb to 22.3 per cent, the highest since the early 1990s—a robust cushion against market volatility. Global Cereal Trade Set for a Rebound FAO projects world cereal trade in 2025/26 at 500.6 million tonnes, a 3.3 per cent rise from last season. Wheat trade is forecast to rebound from the subdued levels of 2024/25, supported by renewed import demand from Pakistan and Türkiye and steady buying across Asia amid stable prices and abundant exportable supplies. Coarse grain trade is also poised to expand, with Brazil emerging as a new sorghum exporter. Wheat export forecasts for Argentina have been raised further, with its record harvest likely to find buyers in neighbouring markets such as Ecuador. Global rice trade for calendar year 2026 is estimated at 61.2 million tonnes, largely unchanged from last month but 1.4 per cent below 2025 levels, reflecting reduced import prospects across parts of Asia. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3454/vietnam-evaluates-reinforcing-legal-framework-and-sustainability-practices-to-attract-european-investments.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3454/vietnam-evaluates-reinforcing-legal-framework-and-sustainability-practices-to-attract-european-investments.html Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:08:58 +0530 EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) and the European Chamber of Commerce in Viet Nam (EuroCham) reviews legal framework, the circular economy, recycling, and agricultural and environmental cooperation Vietnam's Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Le Cong Thanh, held the meeting with a delegation from the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) and the European Chamber of Commerce in Viet Nam (EuroCham). The discussion focused on the legal framework, the circular economy, recycling, and agricultural and environmental cooperation. At the meeting, Ms. Li Chen, a Member of the EU-ABC Executive Board and Head of Public Affairs for ASEAN at HSBC, introduced the EU-ABC as an organization recognized by the European Commission and the ASEAN Secretariat to represent the European business community operating in Southeast Asia, with EuroCham representing the European business community in Viet Nam. The year 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and the European Union (1990-2025), a significant milestone opening up a period of deeper and more comprehensive cooperation between the two sides. On this occasion, EU-ABC and EuroCham expressed their appreciation towards Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment in drafting and amending key bills in 2025, such as the Land Law and the Law Amending and Supplementing a Number of Articles of Laws in the fields of agriculture and environment. According to Ms. Li Chen, the current legislative refinement process creates an important opportunity to enhance environmental protection and climate change response, while also promoting green transition, smart agriculture development, and increasing added value in agricultural production - areas of particular interest to the European business community, which is ready to accompany and provide support. European businesses are supporting Vietnam constantly including their recent contributions to disaster prevention and emergency relief, and continued cooperation in remote sensing, spatial data, renewable energy, water treatment, low-emission products, and biomass energy from agricultural by-products. European Business Mission to Viet Nam To realize their commitment to cooperate with the Vietnamese Government on these priorities, and to support their members in increasing investment by establishing a platform for constructive dialogue between the Government and businesses, EU-ABC and EuroCham co-organized a High-Level European Business Mission to Viet Nam from November 24 to 27, followed by the Green Economy Forum (GEF) 2025, which will be chaired by EuroCham. During the working session, representatives of the businesses in the delegation stated that the European business community is committed to long-term partnership with Viet Nam in sustainable development, with the desire to promote the circular economy model and efficient resource utilization. Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh affirmed that, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment continues to develop and amend legal regulations to develop agriculture not merely as a production sector, but as a high value-added commodity production sector capable of meeting the strict requirements of markets, including the European market. Regarding resource utilization, the Ministry is finalizing policies to ensure that resources such as land, water, minerals, and forests are strictly managed and used efficiently and sustainably, securing development opportunities for future generations. He noted that environmental regulations in recent years have changed significantly toward administrative procedure reform, shifting from pre-inspection to enhanced post-inspection, approaching the advanced management methods applied by the EU. The National Assembly is currently considering amendments to a number of articles in 15 laws related to agriculture and the environment; this is the initial step to address urgent issues, but there will be deeper amendments in the future, including to the environmental laws. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the comments and recommendations from businesses serve as important questions and suggestions for the policy refinement process, especially concerning the circular economy, recycling, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the carbon market, and carbon credits. The Ministry is researching how to make EPR regulations more favorable and plans to issue a decree soon; it is also considering learning from good European experiences, including regulations on mandatory recycling rates for certain products and packaging. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3450/fijis-agricultural-sector-to-unlock-bilateral-trade-opportunities-new-zealand.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3450/fijis-agricultural-sector-to-unlock-bilateral-trade-opportunities-new-zealand.html Fri, 05 Dec 2025 11:29:04 +0530 Explores new export opportunities, attract investments, and strengthen bilateral trade Fiji’s agricultural sector took center stage in the recent Fiji–New Zealand Business Mission 2025 event. This strategic mission aimed to unlock new export opportunities, attract investments, and strengthen bilateral trade, with a particular focus on agriculture. The delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, will include representatives from the agricultural sector, alongside manufacturing and services. Key events, including the Fiji Business Forum 2025, was held in Wellington and Auckland to promote trade and investment opportunities that benefited Fijian businesses and communities. Collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, Investment Fiji, the Fiji Trade Commission Australia & New Zealand, the New Zealand Fiji Business Council (NZFBC), the Fiji New Zealand Business Council (FNZBC), and the Fiji High Commission in New Zealand drove the mission. Support from Pacific Trade Invest New Zealand, Grant Thornton, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, and the Fijian diaspora in New Zealand has been instrumental in organizing this initiative. Building on a successful visit by a New Zealand trade delegation to Fiji earlier this year, this mission marks Fiji’s proactive step to deepen the economic partnership. The delegation engaged with potential buyers, investors, and trade partners, focusing on agricultural products such as kava, seafood, and other high-quality Fijian-grown goods that are increasingly sought after by New Zealand consumers. As of March 2025, two-way trade between Fiji and New Zealand stood at $1.39 billion, a figure the Fijian government and private sector aim to grow significantly. Investment Fiji’s Chief Executive Officer, Kamal Chetty, emphasized the mission’s role in fostering economic collaboration and creating opportunities that benefit both nations. Engaging the Fijian diaspora in New Zealand is a key priority, as their involvement is crucial for advancing agricultural development. By leveraging their skills and resources, Fiji seeks to build stronger partnerships and achieve mutually beneficial growth in trade and investment. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3448/global-soybean-and-vegetable-oil-market-volatility-and-climate-redefine-strategies-in-2026.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3448/global-soybean-and-vegetable-oil-market-volatility-and-climate-redefine-strategies-in-2026.html Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:31:22 +0530 Hedgepoint Global Markets points out how climate uncertainties and strategic adjustments in the main players (China, USA, Brazil and Argentina) will impact prices and trade flows next year. The global soybean and vegetable oil market is a critical sector in the agricultural and food industries, playing a pivotal role in global trade, nutrition, and economic development. Soybean oil, a key product in this market, is widely used in cooking, food processing, and as a biofuel, while other vegetable oils like palm, sunflower, and canola oil also contribute significantly to the market's diversity and demand. The market is influenced by various factors, including global production levels, trade policies, consumer preferences, and environmental concerns. With the growing demand for healthier and sustainable food options, the market has seen a shift towards non-GMO and organic soybean oil, as well as the development of alternative vegetable oils. Additionally, the market is impacted by fluctuating weather patterns, which affect crop yields, and geopolitical tensions, which can disrupt supply chains. As countries strive to meet the increasing demand for vegetable oils while addressing sustainability challenges, innovations in agricultural practices, biotechnology, and supply chain management are becoming increasingly important. This dynamic and evolving market continues to shape global food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, making it a vital area for both industry stakeholders and policymakers. Hedgepoint Global Markets specializing in providing tailored solutions for global markets and investment strategies shares its strategic observations. Brazil: record harvest and climate risks Brazil is heading for a record harvest of 178 million tons, despite the initial delay in planting and the climate risk associated with La Niña (approximately 69% probability of being active by January). Exports should close 2024/25 at 109 million tons, supported by Chinese demand. Low domestic margins limit crushing and put pressure on premiums, while marketing remains slow (only 25% of the new crop sold). The delay in planting could shift Chinese demand to the US by the end of January. "Brazil has the potential to consolidate its leadership, but the weather and slow marketing require strategic attention," says Luiz Fernando Roque, Market Intelligence Coordinator at Hedgepoint Global Markets. Argentina: leading role in derivatives Argentina surprised with high exports in 2024/25 (estimated at 12 million tons), benefiting from Chinese demand and temporary tax cuts. For 2025/26, a smaller area and lower production (48.5 million tons) are expected, but the country should maintain its leading position in exports of bran (around 30 million tons) and oil (around 7 million tons). "Argentina is strengthening its position in the derivatives market, even with lower grain production. Competition with Brazil and the US will be intense," says Luiz Fernando Roque. China: robust demand, but tight margins China continues to drive global demand, projecting record imports of 112 million tons and an increase in crushing to 108 million tons. However, the strategy of high stocks (approximately 44 million tons, guaranteeing four months of consumption) reduces the urgency of purchases. Negative crushing margins and port stocks at historic highs limit the pace of demand. Recent purchases of American soy indicate a political rather than an economic movement, since US soy remains less competitive than Brazilian and Argentinian soy. "China remains a key player in the global balance, but its policy of tight stocks and margins could change the pace of purchases, impacting prices and premiums," he says.  United States: lower production, but record crushing The US harvested a smaller crop than expected, revised to 115.8 million tons, due to a reduction in the area planted, despite record productivity. Exports fell to 44.5 million tons, around 7 million below the previous year, reflecting the absence of China until October. On the other hand, crushing remains strong, supported by bran and oil exports and the expectation of changes in biofuels policy (EPA proposal). If approved, this could reduce oil stocks and raise domestic prices. Chicago broke through the US$ 11.30-11.40/bu range, with room to reach US$ 12/bu. "The US market is showing resilience in crushing, but depends on China to sustain exports. The EPA's proposal could be a watershed for prices and margins," he says. Soybeans - USA - Production (M ton), Harvested Area (M ha) and Productivity (ton/ha) Palm Oil - Indonesia and Malaysia: stability with logistical risks Indonesia and Malaysia continue to be global leaders, with a tendency to increase production and exports in 2025/26. India and China should increase imports, while La Niña could affect logistics in Southeast Asia (possible above-average rainfall). The spread between soybean oil and palm oil has narrowed again, reducing the competitiveness of the palm by-product. Any logistical disruption can generate volatility in prices and spreads. "The palm oil market appears stable, but logistical risks and changes in spreads could generate global volatility," says the analyst.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3436/viet-nam-china-sign-protocol-on-fresh-jackfruit-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3436/viet-nam-china-sign-protocol-on-fresh-jackfruit-exports.html Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:20:05 +0530 On the occasion of 75th diplomatic relations anniversary both countries discussed import and export of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products between the two countries Vietnam Minister Tran Duc Thang, along with several leaders of units under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), held a working session with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), represented by Deputy Commissioner General Zhao Zenglian. At the outset of the meeting, Mr. Zhao Zenglian emphasized the long-standing, friendly, and good cooperative relationship between Viet Nam and China. "This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, with numerous important events and commemorative activities taking place," Deputy Commissioner General Zhao Zenglian said, while reviewing recent delegation exchanges between the two sides in recent times. According to Mr. Zhao Zenglian, the visit of Minister Tran Duc Thang and the MAE's delegation to work with Chinese partners demonstrates the effective cooperation between the two countries, including collaboration between the Ministry and GACC. "I believe that following the Minister's working trip, cooperative relationships between the two sides will develop further, particularly in two-way economic, social, and trade relations," the Deputy Commissioner General emphasized. To support his remarks, Mr. Zhao Zenglian cited several figures. For example, bilateral agricultural trade in 2025 has shown many positive indicators. As of the end of October 2025, China had imported USD 8.7 billion worth of agricultural products from Viet Nam. According to him, these results reflect the close cooperation between the two sides, as well as the support and connection of the Embassy of Vietnam in China. Mr. Zhao Zenglian affirmed that China always values trade with Viet Nam and is ready to open its market to high-quality Vietnamese agricultural products. With its mandate over quarantine and market access, GACC will make every effort to implement the shared goals set by the leaders of the two Parties and the two States in recent years. "This year, we have already signed four protocols on the export of chili peppers, passion fruit, rice bran, and raw bird’s nests. Today, we will sign the protocol on exporting fresh jackfruit from Viet Nam to China, which will create new momentum for agricultural trade between the two countries," Mr. Zhao Zenglian emphasized. The GACC representative also expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation with Vietnamese competent authorities to jointly achieve the shared objectives, contributing to building a Viet Nam–China community with a shared future. On the Vietnamese side, Minister Tran Duc Thang expressed his pleasure in working with GACC and affirmed that bilateral cooperation has been further strengthened in recent times. According to the Minister, the leaders of the Party and the State of Viet Nam always pay attention to consolidating and promoting cooperation with China across all fields, especially in the agriculture and  environment sector. With bilateral trade data in recent times, Minister Tran Duc Thang stressed that China is an extremely important import–export market for Viet Nam. Specifically, the Viet Nam–China trade turnover in the first ten months of 2025 has already surpassed the total turnover for the whole of 2024. From the perspective of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Minister Tran Duc Thang emphasized that cooperation with China in fields related to the sector should receive greater attention and be further promoted in the coming time. In addition to import–export cooperation, Minister Tran Duc Thang also highlighted investment promotion activities, noting that the two countries share the advantage of borders, which is highly favorable for trade and investment. "Therefore, I hope that the Ministry and GACC will continue to exchange and strengthen this relationship," the Minister stated, while expressing his gratitude to GACC for its coordination and support, which made it possible to sign today’s protocol on fresh jackfruit exports. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3435/fresh-del-monte-produce-inc-and-thaco-agri-sign-strategic-sourcing-partnership-for-bananas.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3435/fresh-del-monte-produce-inc-and-thaco-agri-sign-strategic-sourcing-partnership-for-bananas.html Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:10:24 +0530 New partnership strengthens Fresh Del Monte’s sourcing diversification strategy and expands banana production ties in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., one of the world’s leading vertically integrated producers, marketers, and distributors of high-quality fresh fruit and vegetables, announced it has entered into a strategic partnership with THACO Agri, the agricultural division of Vietnam’s THACO Group and a leading regional producer with large-scale farming operations in Vietnam and Cambodia. The agreement, signed during a ceremony at THACO Group headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City, establishes a long-term partnership for the sourcing of bananas from THACO AGRI’s operations and aligns with Fresh Del Monte’s strategy to broaden its global sourcing footprint and expand its presence in Southeast Asia. In addition, THACO AGRI will develop dedicated pineapple cultivation areas to meet Fresh Del Monte’s demand through a suitable and phased roadmap. “Partnering with THACO AGRI is an important step in strengthening our sourcing capabilities in Southeast Asia,” said Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Fresh Del Monte’s Chairman and CEO. “Their scale and integrated-circular operations align with our long-term strategy to build a more resilient and diversified supply network.” The partnership also supports Fresh Del Monte’s efforts to address rising global production challenges across the banana industry, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supply-chain stability and long-term resilience. THACO AGRI’s agricultural platform spans more than 85,000 hectares across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, applying a large-scale integrated-circular and organic production model—including fruit cultivation and livestock farming—in pursuit of its vision “to become the leading agricultural corporation in ASEAN by 2027.” The partnership further enables THACO INDUSTRIES, THACO’s mechanical engineering sub-holding, to work with Fresh Del Monte on mechanization and automation solutions, leveraging its work with THACO AGRI to enhance agricultural productivity and operational efficiency. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3428/can-africa-grow-what-it-eats-irris-dr-ismail-maps-new-blueprint-for-rice-self-sufficiency.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3428/can-africa-grow-what-it-eats-irris-dr-ismail-maps-new-blueprint-for-rice-self-sufficiency.html Thu, 27 Nov 2025 18:04:57 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Dr. Ismail Abdelbagi, Principal Scientist and Regional Representative for Africa at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) lays out a candid assessment of why Africa still imports $8–9 billion of rice annually despite holding the world’s largest reserve of untapped arable land. He argues that the continent’s core bottlenecks—underfunded seed systems, broken value chains, low government investment, and dominance of rainfed, low-productivity systems—must be fixed before any talk of self-sufficiency becomes realistic. Breakthroughs in drought, flood, salinity, and heat-tolerant varieties are finally progressing, but require African-specific breeding pipelines, stronger national programs, and serious funding to reach scale. With consumers shifting toward higher-quality, fortified and convenience rice, Dr. Ismail points to milling modernization, youth-led mechanisation services, and private-sector seed systems as Africa’s next billion-dollar opportunities. Looking ahead to 2035, he says Africa can be food-sovereign and even a net exporter—but only if political stability, modernized policies, and investment-ready ecosystems align to unlock the continent’s true rice potential. Africa’s rice imports have crossed $8–9 billion annually, despite strong policy rhetoric on self-sufficiency. Which structural weaknesses—seed systems, milling capacity, land productivity, or trade dependence—are most urgent to fix, and what would be the fastest win ? Africa has the potential to feed itself and even contribute substantially to global food production and security. The continent holds about 60 to 65 per cent of the global arable lands that has not yet been exploited, with diverse climates suitable for various crops. These vastly underutilized resources position the continent as a future safety valve for global food security. Several general issues are contributing to the inadequate use of these resources such as limited investment in infrastructure including irrigation, modern production and postharvest technologies and marketing platforms.   Several challenges need to be addressed to unlock this potential for the continent to effectively contribute to local and global food security. Governments’ investment in agriculture is still low compared with countries in Asia, mostly less than 1 per cent of their respective GDPs. This is despite the commitment to allocate at least 10 per cent of national GDP to agriculture and rural development, based on Maputo Declaration endorsed by all states in July 2003. Committing to invest in agriculture, including production, postharvest and marketing infrastructure, enabling policy frameworks, providing training and capacity building, and minimizing risks especially for smallholder communities will boost productivity and address food, nutrition and income security, and ensure food sovereignty to avoid dependence on imports in the increasingly becoming less reliable international food market trade. Rice lands and water resources are abundant in Africa, with an estimate of over 300 million ha suitable for rice production, with only about 12 per cent of it currently in use, with low productivity averaging less than half of the world mean production. This is because of dominance of traditional farming approaches, especially in rainfed farming systems that constitutes about 80 per cent of the current rice production areas. Implementing proper policy frameworks that support rapid growth of the rice sector, including adoption of new varieties and modern production practices such as mechanization, effective seed production and delivery systems, access to markets for smallholder farmers (SHFs) to vend their produce at prices that ensures sufficient profits and sustained income, and access to agrochemicals including fertilizers at affordable prices and in time. For this to be realized, rice-based value chains need considerable amendments to reduce intermediaries and provide access of farmers to competitive markets for better choices of prices and to motivate them to produce more. Consolidation of SHF into large fields managed through farmers’ cooperatives and communities will also facilitate implementation of efficient, scale-appropriate technologies to replace the current mostly manual and inefficient production methods being used by smallholders.    Engaging the private sector and other investors is critical for the success of rice-based systems in Africa for effective commercialization of new varieties, development of sustained seed systems and for market access. Intergovernmental arrangements and guidelines are mostly in place but largely not implemented, these agreements can help reduce dependence on import through regional and continental food security and sovereignty. Africa also deserve stronger and binding trade agreements independent of global food and trade instability, although this trade dependence is in part, a result of low production and poor quality of the produce, to meet local requirements. This is further aggravated by political instability and security leading to conflicting investment priorities. Climate shocks are hitting rice hardest in rainfed lowlands, where 80 per cent of Africa’s farmers operate. How close are we to a breakthrough in drought- and heat-resilient varieties that can stabilize yields without costly irrigation infrastructure ? Rainfed rice areas in Africa has not been given sufficient attention for rice production, and farmers still use traditional tools and technologies. This is contrary to the progress made in Asia, where most rainfed areas has been transformed into productive lands, with high and mostly stable yields. The transformation in Asia became feasible after the introduction of varieties that tolerate drought, floods and salt stress, both in coastal and inland areas. This is also coupled with modern production technologies, including water management, proper use of fertilizers, mechanized farming and other suitable cultural practices, with considerable success in increasing and sustaining productivity and income of SHFs in affected areas. Sub-Saharan Africa benefitted little from the stress tolerant varieties developed for South and Southeast Asia, and obviously more efforts need to be devoted to developing and delivering such varieties for Africa to help cope with the vastly worsening climate change adversities. This is only possible through dedicated and well-funded projects to ensure faster progress and impact, especially with the recent scientific developments and use of modern breeding strategies, including molecular tools for genotyping coupled with efficient phenotyping approaches using speed breeding facilities. IRRI started using these technologies in its centralized breeding facilities in Philippines and India, with the products targeting African environment being tested locally in African countries. We are expecting some good progress in the coming few years if resources permit.    IRRI’s Sub1 and salinity-tolerant varieties changed the game in Asia. What are the next frontier traits that Africa needs—especially along the Sahelian dry corridor and coastal deltas facing salinization from sea-level rise? Rice farmers in Africa are facing numerous challenges, including the same issues in Asia – drought, floods and excess salts in soil and water. Besides, other abiotic stresses like iron toxicity in lowlands and nutrient deficiencies due to soil conditions, like phosphorus and zinc deficiencies in uplands, are also serious in some areas. The soils are degraded and deficient in minerals and organic carbon due to continued mining with little replacement. Moreover, the unusual variation in temperatures being experienced, is also leading to considerable reduction in yields, with higher temperatures in some lowland areas and chilling temperatures in highlands. The dominant stains of common rice diseases are sometimes different from those dominating in Asia, making breeding stress tolerant varieties even more challenging.  For these reasons, the stress tolerant varieties released in Asia that made considerable contributions in increasing and sustaining productivity in some countries, like drought, flood and salt tolerant varieties, mostly do not work in Africa, due to variation in other factors, especially diseases and pests and soil conditions. This necessitates transfer of tolerance traits and genes into genetic backgrounds suitable for Africa, and significant efforts and resources need to be devoted to developing such varieties. Due to these and other factors, particularly lack of resources and breeding infrastructure for national breeding programs, our work on developing stress tolerant varieties for Africa has been slow.  The genetic factors responsible for tolerance of drought, floods, salinity and their combinations need to be transferred into varieties suitable for African climate conditions while meeting the consumer and local market requirements and preferences, before they can successfully be commercialized and adopted. This work has been ongoing with some success in releasing few flood-tolerant varieties (with SUB1 gene) in Nigeria and Madagascar, and salt tolerant varieties in Kenya and Tanzania. Some varieties with partial tolerance to drought were released in several countries across SSA. Work is also ongoing to develop varieties that tolerate temperature extremes, where heat waves are becoming common during the season in lowlands and low temperatures in highlands. Ideally, future varieties for Africa should combine tolerance of major abiotic stresses dominating in a particular target region, together with resistance to common diseases. Today’s African consumer is shifting from low-cost staples to quality, fortified, and convenience-driven rice. What innovations in processing, branding, and nutrition could unlock the next billion-dollar opportunity for domestic producers ? Rice is becoming the cereal food of choice in SSA, over the traditional coarse grains like sorghum, millets and teff, because of its palatability, ease of preparation and storage. This shift is driven by several demographic changes, including rapid population growth, with currently over 60 per cent of the population being young, below 25 yrs of age, with shifts in food preferences and conveniences. There is also an exodus of youth to urban areas, seeking better living conditions and opportunities, leaving older generations to deal with farming. This situation can be effectively reversed by providing attractive entrepreneurships through rice farming, such as service provision, especially mechanization, transport and storage, use of IT tools and Apps, seed production and marketing, etc., to make farming more attractive for younger generations. Enabling and supporting such enterprises for young men and women will significantly help in improving productivity and reducing cost of production, while providing employment opportunities for younger generations to stay on farms, reducing pressure on already struggling cities. Similarly, this is opening opportunities for investors and private sector to engage in support provision and even commercial production and marketing. Apparently, all steps along the value chain provide an investment opportunity in most countries. Rice produced locally is not yet competitive with imported rice in most countries, and that is because of many factors, including use of old varieties, poor seed systems to deliver new, improved and high-quality products, poor post-harvest and storage management. Modernizing rice production, including use of quality seeds and sufficient agrochemicals, as well as upgrading the whole value chain, especially postharvest (drying, cleaning, milling, packaging, storage, transport and marketing) will go a long way to make locally produced rice comparable with imported rice, which consumers prefer, especially in urban areas. Subsequently, this will provide good opportunities for investments in Africa. India, for example, could play major roles through bilateral engagements like the existing lines of credit for some countries and through South-South Cooperation and trade agreements. SSA countries can learn a lot from India, through its impressively short journey from being a net importer of rice to the largest exporter in the world within couple of decades. This also provide lots of opportunities for private sector to invest in these value chains, particularly commercial seed production, mechanization and all aspects of post-harvest management. SSA also need to build abilities and investments to adopt climate friendly operations with the expansion of rice industry, and to avoid the issues being experienced in major rice producing countries. The most obvious is the straw and husks burning under intensive rice production systems, involving 2-3 seasons per year, leaving little time to deal with solid wastes. Value addition and processing of these solid wastes can generate more income, e.g. biochar to enrich soil carbon, use in cement industry, mushroom farming, and processed fodder for livestock. Industries involving various products and value addition using rice can also help generate opportunities for commerce and for income. Fragmented national markets raise cost across the value chain. With AfCFTA slowly accelerating, which cross-border rice corridors (e.g., Senegal–Mali, Nigeria–Niger) could emerge as competitive agro-industrial hubs by 2035 ? Most of the intraregional trade in rice and other food commodities in SSA are informal and not well organized to reach their conceivable targets, leading to such fragmented and broken value chains and markets. However, if well-structured and regulated, can play major roles in reducing transaction costs, especially the cost of transport, and could help in resolving issues associated with other non-tariff barriers to encourage and support investments. Several countries in SSA succeeded in substantially increasing their annual rice production and some of them started trading with their neighboring countries. These countries include Tanzania, Madagascar, Nigeria, Mali, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast. These countries are also exporting rice to their neighboring countries through mostly informal means. Countries that already achieved self-sufficiency, like Tanzania will likely contribute substantially to its neighbors like Kenya and Uganda. If AI-based advisories, digital extension, and climate risk insurance can reduce production uncertainty, what would it take to mainstream data-led farming among smallholders—technology subsidies, telco partnerships, or new farmer-business models ? AI-based advisories, extension apps and climate risk insurance models are important tools that can help speed generation of relevant information, reaching to extension personnel and farmers and minimizing farmers risks by providing insurance against disastrous incidents. AI proved to be transformative in making difficult technologies accessible and convenient and is becoming increasingly useful in agriculture and environment research. Yet its fast and predictive power raises concerns over the likely risks of its use to benefit SHFs, despite its power to speed generating scientific knowledge for the public.   AI already proved its effectiveness in managing commercial farms in developed countries, and similarly could be adapted to farmers needs in SSA, to support decision making based on legacy data, which will considerably reduce investments and time to come up with bundles of interventions fitting specific local contexts, including forecast of catastrophic incidences, like droughts and floods, disease and pests outbreaks that are becoming more frequent with climate change progression. Climate risk insurance is also being accessed by farmers in Asia. Both AI and climate insurance has not been implemented to any scale in SSA to benefit SHFs, providing good business opportunities and new models for farming and food production. However, digital tools in the form of Apps provided through smart phones are being used by extension personnel and even farmers for training and access to information, including input and output market intelligence, nutrient and water management and for managing and forecasting yields, disease incidences etc.; and are likely to be mainstreamed faster than other digital farming technologies in SSA. The use of these tools, however, need to be carefully assessed and regulated to avoid any risks to farmers due to lack of awareness and capacity or due to risks associated with the technology. This is mainly because SHFs have very little resources to avert any incurred risks caused by erroneous or biased data used to generate such models. There are several ethical risks associated with these data-led tools, especially with AI, which has not been rigorously tested and regulated in Africa, including risks associated with data accuracy, availability and privacy, potential loss of jobs and displacement, biased access to information leading to unequal benefits, “digital divide” based on accessibility, etc. Strict ethical frameworks and transparency need to be in place to protect SHFs and reduce their vulnerability. Similarly, crop insurance requires strict guidelines and assessment to ensure accuracy of information and credibility of claims, which in most cases will be outside SHF‘s capacity. Government-led programs equipped with proper monitoring and data collection is necessary for the success of these advisory and support tools, for them to be successfully deployed in Africa, to mainstream data-led farming.  Africa also lacks an effective geospatial system for instantaneous generation of information on potential climate-related disasters, an area that will require infrastructure investment and training. This is critical to provide both farmers and governments with early warnings and to guide decisions that help mitigate any negative consequences. Successful use of these ventures will also require substantial investments in infrastructure and support services, which opens considerable opportunities for investors. Looking ahead to 2035: what does a climate-secure and investment-ready African rice ecosystem look like—and what is the single hardest political or economic barrier standing in its way ? Provided resources and stability within the coming ten years, I expect several countries in Africa to accomplish food self-sufficiency, and some become net exporters of various food staples, including rice. This will likely lead to continental food sovereignty and less dependence on the currently fragile international trade markets, especially exposure to price shocks that become inevitably frequent due to several triggers such as weather calamities, conflicts and political unrests, leading to panic hoarding in some cases. I believe reaching self-sufficiency will depend on how fast countries and regions make progress in critical areas that are currently holding them back, including the following: Significant and consistent government’s investment in food production and related infrastructure for processing, storage and transport. This should include provision of insurance and subsidy options to derisk and protect smallholder farmers, and to provide minimum farmgate prices to sustain farmers’ income and profit and keep them in the market. Fixing and strengthening rice value chains: Currently SHFs in Africa are getting less than half of the proceeds their counterparts are getting in Asia. This is mainly because the existing value chains are broken, mostly unregulated and dominated by intermediaries. Political stability is critical for sound progress and development of the rice agri-food systems. Fortunately, most countries are moving in that direction. This will encourage investors to take critical roles in financing to revolutionize the food value chains, including rice where relatively little is available in international trade market, and with increasing global demands.   Adjusting policies and guidelines to match those in other successful countries like India, to streamline the development and deployment of innovations faster. Current policies in most countries are outdated and are hindering progress, especially those related to release and scaling of new varieties, delivery systems for quality inputs and outputs, and for engaging private sector and investors to provide needed capital and capacity. This is probably the hardest political and economic barrier standing in the way of SSA to be investment ready and to assume its proper role as global food provider. Some countries are already making strides in this direction. Implementation of national and regional strategies that support growth of the rice sector: All major rice producing countries and few regional economic communities in SSA developed their national and regional rice development strategies that detailed the way to achieve their intended targets by 2030, these strategies are yet to be effectively implemented. The regional Economic Communities (RECs: EAC, ECOWAS, IGAD, COMESA, SADC) and the Associated Regional Agricultural Research Networks (e.g. CORAF, ASARECA, CCARDESA) also developed policies that assure and regulate collaboration across borders of neighboring countries, within regions and at the continental scales to allow free adoption of varieties released in a particular country, free cross-border movement of seeds, grains, agrochemicals and knowledge, with no non-tariff barriers. Engaging with countries in Asia through South-South Collaboration (SSC) is also being discussed to enhance learning and exchange, and to facilitate investments for faster growth. An example in this direction is the “Seed Without Borders (SWB) agreement facilitated by IRRI. Most countries in Africa already set policies and guidelines that encourages investments in agriculture and food production, others are on the way. There are dire needs for these investments, especially in upgrading infrastructure, facilitating aggregation of SHFs into commercial entities, provision of modern technologies particularly machinery, agrochemicals and marketing platforms --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3424/australia-records-exponential-growth-in-agri-trade-sector-for-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3424/australia-records-exponential-growth-in-agri-trade-sector-for-2025.html Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:58:50 +0530 Recorded 248 market access achievements, including 32 new markets and 118 improvements to existing markets Australia's agriculture, fisheries, and forestry production is forecast to reach a record value of more than $100 billion this financial year. This milestone is a credit to the hard work, resilience, and skill of farmers, backed by strong collaboration with Australia. On National Agriculture Day, Australia acknowledges and success of world-class farmers and producers as the industry heads towards a record-breaking year. Australia has partnered with industry to create new economic opportunities for farmers by expanding export markets, strengthening biosecurity, boosting productivity, and providing support for farmers facing hardship. Since coming to office, Australia has recorded 248 market access achievements, including 32 new markets and 118 improvements to existing markets, supporting Australian farmers to export more world-class produce to the world. In just the last three months, these achievements have included securing access for Australian blueberries to Vietnam, improving market access for apples to Canada, and signing a Mutual Recognition Arrangement for organic produce with India. Australia is developing a National Food Security Strategy, Feeding Australia. This strategy aims to provide a long-term, whole-of-system plan to boost the productivity, resilience, and security of our national food system. Australia has announced members of the National Food Council, which will advise the government on the development of the strategy. While many of our farmers and producers are succeeding, Australia will continue to back farmers who are facing hardship, including those recently impacted by drought. Australia has a range of national programs for farmers to access, including Farm Management Deposits, accessing the Rural Financial Counselling Service for support, seeking a concessional loan via the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC), and, when people have taken a significant financial hit, accessing the Farm Household Allowance. Earlier this year, Australia announced an additional $1 billion in new loan funding through RIC. This funding will ensure RIC can continue to support long-term viable farm businesses experiencing hardship. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Julie Collins MP said “Enabling farmers to access new markets, planning for a food-secure future, and making sure farmers have the right support when they need it mean our farmers can keep farming. We will keep delivering for our farmers, who deliver so much for Australia. It’s shaping up to be a record-breaking year for agriculture, fisheries, and forestry production, which is a real testament to the ingenuity of our farmers.” Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm said, "Australia’s food system is world-class, and we maintain a global reputation as a producer of safe, nutritious, and high-quality food. It’s thanks to farmers and primary producers right across our great country who work tirelessly to provide us with food and fibre every day. Backing our farmers, and through our National Food Security Strategy, we’re developing a roadmap that safeguards our agriculture and gets better outcomes for our farmers, consumers, and our regional communities.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3417/malaysia-boosts-national-seed-hub-initiatives-to-reduce-seed-imports-by-30-by-2040.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3417/malaysia-boosts-national-seed-hub-initiatives-to-reduce-seed-imports-by-30-by-2040.html Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:33:45 +0530 Aims to strengthening the competitiveness of the country's agricultural sector through the development and use of quality local seeds: National Seed Council meeting YB Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad bin Sabu, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, chaired second meeting of National Seed Council (MBN) 2025 held at MARDI Muadzam Shah, Rompin, Pahang. The meeting brought together various representatives from ministries, government agencies and seed industry experts from the private sector. This council serves as the main platform in strengthening the competitiveness of the country's agricultural sector through the development and use of quality local seeds, with a target of reducing seed imports by 30% by 2040. The establishment of the National Seed Hub is also among the strategic initiatives to strengthen the development of local seeds and breeds, thus ensuring the stability of supply and food security for the country. Among the strategic decisions of this meeting include: • Strengthening the direction of coconut seed development, with a target of achieving a Self-Sufficiency Ratio (SSR) of 100% by 2035, which will be implemented by the Malaysian Department of Agriculture; and • Implementation of domestic production of Golden Pochard fish seeds through collaboration with strategic partners, which will be led by the Malaysian Department of Fisheries to strengthen the country's aquaculture industry. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is committed to continuing to strengthen the sustainability of the local seed and breeding industry in an effort to reduce dependence on imports, while increasing the capability and competitiveness of the seed industry in the international market. This seed security agenda not only serves as a catalyst for the development of the country's agro-food industry, but also serves as the foundation for the preservation of national sovereignty and food security. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3410/digitizing-sugar-guillermo-medina-llarena-on-new-economics-of-agrobiodiversity-and-trade.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3410/digitizing-sugar-guillermo-medina-llarena-on-new-economics-of-agrobiodiversity-and-trade.html Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:54:42 +0530 Agrospectrum presents an exclusive interview with Guillermo José Medina Llarena, Chief Digital & Analytics Officer at Pantaleon (PSH) and Lead at Stomata Labs, a division of Findability Sciences. In this wide-ranging conversation, he explains how Pantaleon is navigating tightening U.S. tariff-rate quotas by doubling down on customer relationships and quality-driven value addition rather than reactive market shifts. Medina outlines why proximity to the U.S. premium market remains an advantage even as the company expands strategically into Africa and the Middle East, aiming for 20 per cent export share in emerging demand centers by 2030. He delves into Pantaleon’s transformation into a tech-powered sugar major—moving beyond commodity pricing through AI-enabled diversification, green chemistry, and precision fermentation—while strengthening digital traceability and logistics intelligence amid Panama Canal constraints and freight volatility. Looking ahead to 2030, he envisions Pantaleon as a resilient, low-cost regional champion that leverages sugarcane’s carbon-capture efficiency and deep data insights to thrive in a future of declining sugar consumption but rising trade and climate complexity. A. Trade Strategy & Geopolitical Balancing From a portfolio perspective, how is Pantaleon re-optimizing market exposure as the U.S. tightens tariff-rate quotas and renegotiates regional preferences? From a portfolio perspective, Pantaleon views sugar as a foundational commodity where clear, equitable trade rules are essential for all participants. Rather than reactive re-optimization amid U.S. tariff-rate quota tightenings — we emphasize enduring strategies like deepening customer relationships and enhancing product quality through value-added offerings. This ensures resilience without necessitating major shifts, allowing us to sustain exposure while exploring complementary markets. Does the industry need to hedge against structural over-dependence on the United States — or is proximity to a premium market still a net advantage? The sugar industry operates at the intersection of local efficiencies and global dynamics, where hedging against over-dependence on any single market, including the United States, must be weighed against its advantages. Proximity to this premium market—yielding prices around $500+ per ton versus the global average of $400—remains a net positive for swift delivery and higher margins. Our strategy focuses on low-cost production, superior quality, and composure during periods of turbulence, avoiding drastic directional changes that could disrupt established efficiencies. Which emerging demand centers — Asia, the Middle East, Africa — are realistic diversification targets for Central American supply chains? Emerging demand centers in Africa and the Middle East represent viable diversification targets for Central American supply chains, driven by above-average consumption growth and a preference for high-quality products. These regions, with urbanization fueling demand at 4-5 per cent annually, align well with our capabilities; Pantaleon is already active there and plans measured expansion to capture 20 per cent of our export share by 2030, leveraging reliable logistics and certifications to build long-term partnerships. B. Competitive Edge & Supply Chain Intelligence Pantaleon operates one of the most advanced export supply chains in the region. Is digital traceability now a cost of compliance — or a market differentiator capable of commanding premiums? Digital traceability is transitioning from a mere compliance requirement to an industry norm, potentially evolving toward on-chain transactions for enhanced security and collaborative efficiency. While it may not yield sustained premiums or act as a long-term differentiator, we plan to integrate it seamlessly at minimal cost to support operational smoothness, ensuring it complements rather than burdens our processes. How do port infrastructure risks, Panama Canal constraints, and rising freight volatility reshape your contracting strategy ? Port infrastructure risks, Panama Canal constraints (e.g., transits reduced to 33 per day in 2025 due to droughts), and freight volatility (up 20 per cent year-over-year) underscore the need for data-driven agility in contracting. Greater visibility into logistics variables enables superior competitiveness; our approach prioritizes optimizing known factors over predicting unpredictable geopolitical or climatic events, fostering consistent, assertive decisions with a long-term mindset to outperform peers. C. Market Power & Pricing Architecture The global sugar trade is still largely commodity-priced. What is Pantaleon’s strategy to escape the commodity trap through segmentation — such as low-carbon sugar, specialty sweeteners, or identity-preserved lots? To escape the commodity trap, we recognize sugarcane's potential as an efficient energy crop and are advancing diversification through AI-enabled innovations, green chemicals, materials & supplies, and precision fermentation. This positions us to command premiums for segmented products, transforming traditional trade into value-driven opportunities. With volatility accelerating, do you foresee greater mill-consolidation and regional champions emerging to counterbalance Brazil’s dominance? Accelerating volatility is likely to spur greater mill consolidation, as seen in past agricultural trends, while emerging technologies could balance this with tokenization for broader investor alignment. Regional champions may emerge to counterbalance Brazil's 44 million ton dominance, fostering more inclusive and scalable structures in the industry. D. Digital Transformation as Trade Armor Where does AI-driven risk management make the strongest business case today — crop yields, mill efficiency, or market intelligence? AI-driven risk management delivers the strongest business case through holistic value chain optimization—from enhancing crop yields and mill efficiency to securing margins—ensuring comprehensive risk mitigation in volatile environments. E. Security of Supply & Climate Risk The Gulf of Mexico and Central American corridor is increasingly disaster-prone. Could water scarcity force a regional pivot in planting zones — shifting the competitive map of cane production by 2035? In disaster-prone regions like the Gulf of Mexico and Central America, water scarcity (projected to rise by 2050) could necessitate pivots in planting zones by 2035. Enhanced anticipation capabilities will reveal optimal decisions, determining sustained competitiveness in a shifting production landscape. Climate is a non-controllable aspect of farming; thus we focus more in making the best optimization decisions with the given climatic conditions. Closing Vision What does Pantaleon 2030 look like in a world where sugar consumption is falling but trade complexity and technology intensity are rising? Pantaleon in 2030 envisions a resilient leader preserving core competencies in cane production, harvesting, sugar recovery, and logistics while embracing technology-driven diversification into AI, new chemistry, materials, and food innovations. In a world of declining sugar consumption but rising trade complexity, sugarcane's inherent carbon-capture efficiency will remain a planetary advantage, enabling harmony and efficacy in sustainable operations. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3408/azerbaijan-korea-explore-cooperation-between-universities-in-the-agricultural-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3408/azerbaijan-korea-explore-cooperation-between-universities-in-the-agricultural-sector.html Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:45:00 +0530 Explored opportunities for cooperation in the fields of agriculture, education, and innovation Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Kang Kymgu visited the Azerbaijan State Agrarian University (ASAU). The meeting focused on the collaboration between the Government of Azerbaijan and the World Bank in agriculture and irrigation, particularly the preparation and implementation of the "Competitive, Resilient Agriculture and Irrigation Services" (CRAIS) project. The rector of the university, Zafar Gurbanov, highlighted ASAU’s international cooperation, material and technical resources, and academic potential. He noted that the Republic of Korea has advanced technologies and innovative approaches in the agricultural sector, stressing the importance of establishing relations between universities in this field. Ambassador Kang Kymgu praised the university’s progress in training agricultural specialists. He expressed readiness to implement joint projects, training programs, and student-teacher exchanges with Korean universities in the future. The meeting also explored opportunities for cooperation in the fields of agriculture, education, and innovation. The parties emphasized the importance of experience exchange in agricultural education and scientific research. The discussion highlighted the project's goal to enhance the productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness of Azerbaijan's agricultural sector, with an emphasis on priority irrigation schemes. Following the meeting, the guests viewed the university’s modern laboratories, the ASAU-TV Internet studio, open and closed fish farms, and greenhouses. Azerbaijan's First Deputy Minister underscored the government's priorities, including modernizing agriculture, improving irrigation infrastructure, adopting climate-resilient technologies, and strengthening food security. Holger Kray, the World Bank's Regional Manager for Agriculture and Food in Europe and Central Asia, commended Azerbaijan's agricultural progress and noted that the CRAIS project would bolster the sector's sustainability, support economic activities, and create employment opportunities in rural areas. Both sides also discussed preparations for project implementation, expert involvement, and the acceleration of technical processes, among other mutual interests. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3403/climate-capital-and-control-dr-josephine-adebayo-calls-for-feminist-reboot-of-nigerias-blue-economy.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3403/climate-capital-and-control-dr-josephine-adebayo-calls-for-feminist-reboot-of-nigerias-blue-economy.html Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:33:11 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Josephine Oluseyi Adebayo, Lecturer in Fish Nutrition and Health Management, lays bare the gendered inequities shaping Nigeria’s blue economy. She explains how structural barriers — from patriarchal norms to skewed financing systems — confine women to low-margin post-harvest roles despite their centrality to coastal livelihoods. Josephine argues that climate adaptation funding, aquaculture innovation, and trade policy must be redesigned with women not just as beneficiaries but as decision-makers and enterprise leaders. She highlights the transformative potential of cluster farming, insect-protein feed systems, digital branding, and gender-intelligent finance to unlock women-led growth at scale. Looking ahead to 2040, she envisions a blue economy where Nigerian women are owners, innovators, and catalysts of economic resilience — provided the country acts boldly today. Nigeria’s blue economy could unlock billions in value — yet most women remain confined to low-margin post-harvest roles. What structural failures are stopping women from capturing value upstream? Nigeria's blue economy is incredibly promising, but women's participation is largely a function of societal and cultural dynamics rather than clear policy constraints. Normative gender expectations and patriarchal order historically relegated women to downstream roles as processors and traders, while men monopolized the more financially lucrative and capital-intensive fields of fishing and logistics. In several coastal settlements, women remain oblivious to upstream prospects, or if they do exist, they lack the resources to systematically pursue them. Transforming this situation necessitates more than just policy design. It requires a robust mix of responsiveness, training, gender aware investment and policy inclusion aimed at empowering women to navigate beyond traditional roles and occupy an equitable place throughout the entire value chain. Climate justice meets gender justice on Nigeria’s coastlines — women face salinity intrusion, fish stock collapse, and unsafe processing conditions first. How should climate adaptation funding be redesigned so women are not just recipients but decision-makers? Climate finance should be inclusive and gender responsive. While Nigeria is progressing through the National Climate Investment Platform, women’s participation in the decision-making processes continues to be minimal. Failure to adequately address the gender dimension on programs is too common as funding committees are often comprised solely of men. Women living and working in the coastal zone have the experience to know best the areas climate impacts hurt most and therefore should be the ones designing, supervising, and allocating climate adaptation funding. Their inclusion in leadership and technical decision-making is crucial to ensure justice is served in the effectiveness of adaptation. Feed cost, disease, and poor logistics keep small-scale aquaculture uncompetitive. Which innovations could enable profitable women-led aquaculture at scale? Feed remains the highest cost in aquaculture, but new innovations are emerging. Research into insect protein, especially in black soldier fly and cricket larvae, combined with aquaponics and circular aquaculture, is lowering costs and reducing environmental impacts related to feed. The University of Ibadan's INCiTiS-Food is leading the way in adopting these innovations. Cluster farming models, like the Eriwe Fish Farmers’ Village in Ogun State and CGE Africa’s Empowered Coastal Fishing Women project, also help women access resources and recover from shocks more quickly. These efforts, along with the training and leadership of Women in Fisheries Fellowship (FUWOLIFF), are not only modernizing aquaculture in Nigeria but also establishing it as a space for women entrepreneurship. Nigeria still imports fish despite being Africa’s top catfish producer. What trade and branding strategies could help women-owned enterprises scale from survival to export? Women-owned enterprises can expand their exports through targeted financing, training, and digital branding. Access to export credit, flexible loans, and mentorship will help women increase their production sustainably. Training in quality standards, certification, and international trade logistics is crucial for meeting global demand. Equally important is that digital literacy, e-commerce platforms, and storytelling help connect women entrepreneurs to regional and international buyers. A gender-sensitive export ecosystem must combine finance, quality assurance, and branding support so that Nigerian women’s aquaculture products can compete globally. Access to capital remains exclusionary — collateral and risk scoring are biased against women. What would a gender-intelligent financing architecture for the blue economy look like? Attention must be given to the fact that a gender-sensitive financing framework must reconfigure financial systems to accommodate the needs of women. This requires crafting products in consideration of women’s needs: adaptive collateral policies, algorithmic risk assessment, and micro-to-meso level lending. This also necessitates including women as leaders in financial institutions, allowing women to influence the creation of products designed for them. Such change requires collaboration between the public and private sectors; women may take the lead, but both must support it. In the end, gender-sensitive finance promotes blue economy growth by harnessing women’s productivity and ingenuity. Data invisibility distorts policymaking — women’s contribution to fisheries GDP remains undervalued. How can Nigeria institutionalize gender-disaggregated data? For Nigeria to integrate gender responsive policies, effective policy, subsidy reforms and investment rely on accurate, reliable and gender disaggregated data. There is a need to involve the National Bureau of Statistics, the ministries of finance and the sector agencies in Nigeria to mainstream integrating gender data within all the economic statistics. There is a need to incorporate gender-responsive reporting within all sector institutions to help identify where women are present, underfunded, and experiencing exclusion. Such data is useful for making subsidy reforms, developing equitable investment incentives, and establishing skill programs to address gender inequalities in fisheries and aquaculture. Once we accurately quantify women's contributions, we will be better able to recognize and scale their impact. When you imagine Nigeria’s blue economy in 2040, what must change now so women become owners and innovators, not passengers? By 2040, Nigerian women must shift from participation to ownership and leadership. This involves creating and managing businesses in emerging areas, such as seaweed farming, fish waste recycling, aquaculture technology, and blue finance. Women should pursue new economic opportunities through innovation, investment, and mentoring others. The bold change begins now with policies that remove barriers, funding that trusts women, and a mindset that sees women not just as beneficiaries but as drivers of Nigeria’s blue prosperity. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3399/drrk-foods-strengthens-global-presence-as-a-leading-manufacturer-and-supplier-of-premium-basmati-rice.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3399/drrk-foods-strengthens-global-presence-as-a-leading-manufacturer-and-supplier-of-premium-basmati-rice.html Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:39:17 +0530 Strengthens its presence across India and the Middle East with premium, aromatic rice crafted through advanced processing and strict quality control DRRK Foods, one of India’s most trusted names in the rice industry, continues to expand its footprint as a premier manufacturer and supplier of high-quality basmati rice across India and the Middle East. With a strong legacy of excellence, advanced processing technologies, and a commitment to authentic taste, DRRK Foods has become a preferred choice for households, retailers, and international distributors seeking premium basmati rice. For decades, basmati rice has been celebrated worldwide for its long grains, aromatic fragrance, and delicate flavour. DRRK Foods has played a key role in preserving this heritage by sourcing the finest paddy from trusted farmers, using state-of-the-art milling facilities, and maintaining strict quality control at every stage of production. The company’s focus on purity and consistency has strengthened its reputation in domestic and global markets alike. “Our mission has always been to deliver basmati rice that reflects India’s rich agricultural legacy,” said a spokesperson for DRRK Foods. “We combine traditional farming values with modern technology to ensure our customers receive rice that is authentic, healthy, and superior in quality. Our growing presence in the Middle East and other international markets is a testament to our commitment.” DRRK Foods offers a wide range of premium basmati rice varieties, carefully graded to meet the needs of different consumers—from everyday kitchen use to high-end hospitality and culinary applications. Each grain undergoes a meticulous ageing process, which enhances aroma, increases grain length, and improves texture after cooking. This attention to detail has earned DRRK Foods the trust of customers around the world. The company’s advanced manufacturing facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technology for cleaning, drying, milling, polishing, and packaging. Automated systems ensure that every batch meets rigorous international food safety standards. With certifications validating hygiene and excellence, DRRK Foods continues to supply rice to major retail chains, food distributors, and bulk buyers across the Middle East, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain. In addition to production quality, DRRK Foods places strong emphasis on sustainable sourcing and environmentally responsible practices. By working closely with local farmers and encouraging sustainable agricultural methods, the company supports rural communities while ensuring long-term crop quality. Key strengths that distinguish DRRK Foods include: Premium-quality basmati rice with long grains and natural aroma, Modern manufacturing facilities with strict quality checks, Strong distribution network across India and Middle East countries, Sustainable sourcing and farmer partnerships, Variety of rice products catering to diverse culinary needs, and Global-standard packaging that preserves freshness and purity. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3381/thailand-and-singapore-sign-moc-on-rice-trade.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3381/thailand-and-singapore-sign-moc-on-rice-trade.html Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:29:04 +0530 Thailand will sell 100,000 ton of rice to Singapore over five years Thailand and Singapore have signed the Memorandum of Cooperation on Rice Trade between the Government of Thailand and the Government of Singapore, aimed at promoting food security. Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment of Singapore and the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Rice Trade. This marks Singapore’s second MOC on rice trade, following the one we signed with Viet Nam last week. Singapore's partnerships with Thailand and Viet Nam exemplify its commitment to strengthening international collaborations as part of the Singapore Food Story 2 strategy. These agreements align with the "Global Partnerships" pillar, one of four key initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, alongside Diversifying Imports, Growing Local, and Stockpiling. The MOC between Singapore and Thailand marks a significant milestone in their food cooperation, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration in food security and innovation, with both nations looking forward to further expanding their partnership in the near future. The signing ceremony took place in Singapore on 7 November 2025, when Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul paid an official visit to the Republic of Singapore at the invitation of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of Singapore. Representing Thailand in signing the MOC was Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun. Under the MOC, Thailand will sell 100,000 ton of rice to Singapore over five years from the date of signing. The MOC on Rice Trade between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of Singapore will further reinforce trade relations and cooperation between the two countries, and increase Thailand’s export opportunity to the Singapore market. The official visit to Singapore underscored strong relations between the two countries as neighbors and key partners in the ASEAN region, and serves as a good occasion to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Singapore. Prime Minister Anutin stated that, during his discussion with the Prime Minister of Singapore, both sides shared the view of enhancing bilateral cooperation on economic affairs and investment, energy development, digital economy, and public health. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3377/2030-vision-arya-ag-aims-for-worlds-most-climate-resilient-grain-network.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3377/2030-vision-arya-ag-aims-for-worlds-most-climate-resilient-grain-network.html Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:58:40 +0530 In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Shenoy Mathew, Chief Sustainability Officer, Arya.ag, highlights how its SmartAG Award 2025 is more than recognition—it is validation of a climate-resilient grain commerce model already operating at national scale. By embedding sustainability into everyday storage, finance, and trading systems, the company is delivering measurable climate gains and income stability to over 800,000 smallholder farmers across 425+ districts. Women-led Smart Farm Centres and technologies like the AryaQ AI grain quality device are transforming trust, transparency, and decision-making in rural markets. With patient, impact-aligned capital and global adaptation potential, Arya.ag is positioning itself at the nexus of profitability and planetary resilience. Looking ahead to 2030, the company envisions climate risk management and data-backed empowerment as built-in features of every grain transaction—setting a new benchmark for post-harvest systems globally. From Recognition to Scale: Arya.ag has been recognised with the SmartAG Award 2025 for embedding climate resilience into India’s grain commerce. Awards are accolades—but how does this recognition translate into real-world acceleration for farmers, investors, and the broader agri-value chain? The recognition affirms that climate resilience can be built into agricultural systems that already function at scale, without requiring parallel structures or new layers of complexity. What it brings is not just visibility, but validation of a model that integrates profitability, inclusion, and environmental responsibility into the everyday mechanics of post-harvest grain management. Arya.ag has focused on embedding sustainability into existing systems, ensuring that storage, finance, and market access deliver environmental returns as naturally as they deliver economic ones. Over the past year alone, our decentralised network helped avoid post-harvest loss of more than 210,320 metric tonnes of foodgrain. Preserving this grain prevented an estimated 233,603 tonnes of carbon emissions, conserved 91.4 billion litres of water, and eliminated the need for 16,826 tonnes of fertiliser. These outcomes are not incidental, they are a direct result of improving storage and market access for farmers across more than 425 districts. For farmers, this translates into fewer distress sales and greater flexibility in timing their transactions. For investors, it signals a scalable, data-driven model that aligns impact and return. And for the broader agri-value chain, it shows that climate responsiveness does not have to rely on specialised interventions, it can emerge through operational efficiency and deeper participation from the smallest actors in the system. The Smallholder Lens: India’s agricultural backbone remains smallholder farmers, many of them climate-vulnerable. How do Smart Farm Centres bridge the gap between hyperlocal realities—erratic rainfall, fragmented landholdings—and advanced technologies like AI, drones, and real-time weather advisories? Smallholder farming operates within constraints that are both structural and climatic. The Smart Farm Centres were designed to respond to these conditions by creating access to technology and information where they are needed most. Each centre serves as a rural hub that connects farmers to services such as soil testing, drone spraying, and hyperlocal weather forecasting. These services are not standalone activities; they function together to improve decision-making at every stage of the cropping cycle. For Instance In Bundelkhand, farmers have used weather data from these centres to plan their harvest windows and reduce exposure to untimely rainfall. In Sitapur, drone spraying has improved the precision of pesticide application, lowering costs and minimising environmental exposure. In districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, soil testing has helped farmers calibrate their fertiliser use more efficiently. The centres are operated by women from the same communities who are trained to deliver these services, which ensures trust, reliability, and continuity. This model allows climate-relevant tools to become part of everyday practice rather than occasional interventions. Tech as a Trust Builder: AryaQ’s AI-powered grain quality device brings radical transparency to procurement and pricing. In a market often plagued by mistrust and middlemen, how is technology reshaping the farmer–buyer relationship, and do you see this model becoming a new standard across emerging markets? Trust in agricultural markets has historically depended on physical inspection and subjective assessment. AryaQ introduces a data-driven approach to measuring grain quality that makes the process faster, more reliable, and easier to replicate across locations. The device uses computer vision to assess factors such as grain size, breakage, and the presence of fungal elements. The results are available instantly, even in areas without continuous connectivity, which makes it suitable for remote markets. As both sides have access to identical data, there is greater transparency in pricing and fewer disputes. This change strengthens relationships and encourages repeat transactions. Given its adaptability, AryaQ can be calibrated for a range of commodities and geographies, which makes it relevant beyond India’s borders. The Women-led Edge: The Smart Farm Centres are run by women Community Value Chain Resource Persons. Beyond inclusion, what structural advantages does a women-led model bring to grain commerce, and can this approach be scaled without diluting impact? The presence of women as operational leaders within Smart Farm Centres has added a layer of trust and continuity that is essential in rural systems. These women are drawn from the same localities they serve, which gives them a strong understanding of the agricultural calendar, the challenges of smallholder farming, and the patterns of local trade. Their involvement has led to greater participation from farmers and has improved the adoption of services related to quality assessment, sorting, and storage. In Maharashtra, women-led sourcing units have reduced produce rejection rates by almost 30 percent at the collection stage. This improvement directly affects farmer incomes and reduces post-harvest losses. To ensure that the model grows responsibly, Arya.ag invests in training and performance monitoring, with a focus on building long-term professional capacity. As the network expands, the objective is not only to increase numbers but also to preserve the quality and reliability that make this structure effective. Climate and Capital: You’ve positioned Arya.ag at the intersection of climate resilience and economic resilience. What kind of capital—impact, venture, institutional—is best aligned with scaling this model, and how do you balance profitability with sustainability when most agri-tech startups struggle to break even? Capital that understands the cycles and risks of agriculture is most suitable for models such as ours. Arya.ag’s operations are built on commercially viable services that reduce inefficiencies rather than depend on temporary funding. We manage close to seven million tonnes of agricultural produce through our decentralised network across more than 425 districts, which provides both reach and depth in understanding rural markets. The capital that aligns with this vision is patient and impact-oriented but also disciplined about financial performance. Investors such as responsAbility and the US International Development Finance Corporation have supported Arya.ag because they recognise that environmental benefits and economic efficiency emerge together when systems are designed well. The balance between sustainability and profitability is achieved by ensuring that each intervention, whether in storage, finance, or quality assessment creates measurable value for every participant in the value chain. Global Relevance: With 11,000 digitised warehouses and a network spanning 800,000 farmers, Arya.ag is already India’s largest integrated grain commerce platform. How transferable is your Smart Farm Centre model to Africa, Southeast Asia, or Latin America, where climate shocks and smallholder fragmentation mirror India’s challenges? The fundamental issues faced by smallholders in India are similar to those observed in several other parts of the world. Limited storage near farms, inconsistent quality standards, and poor access to working capital are common constraints. The Smart Farm Centre model is structured to be modular so that it can adapt to different agricultural and climatic contexts. Each component such as soil testing, digital quality assessment, or credit linkage can be introduced independently and scaled based on demand and infrastructure. In collaboration with partners in East Africa, we are exploring ways to adapt this model to local crops and climatic conditions. The ability to train community-based facilitators and the flexibility of tools like AryaQ make replication feasible. However, success depends on tailoring delivery mechanisms to local institutions and farmer networks, rather than exporting the Indian experience directly. The aim is to share knowledge and process design while allowing each geography to build its own form of resilience. The Long View: If we fast-forward to 2030, what does success look like for Arya.ag? Is it about doubling farmer incomes, embedding climate risk management into every transaction, or becoming a blueprint for grain systems transformation globally? By 2030, success for Arya.ag would be defined by the strength and stability of the systems that smallholders rely on after harvest. It would mean that every farmer using our platform can store their produce safely, understand its quality, access credit based on that stored value, and sell it when conditions are favourable. These capabilities lead to income stability and reduced exposure to climate and market shocks. At present, Arya.ag serves more than 800,000 farmers through a network of 11,000 digitised warehouses and over 1,600 Farmer Producer Organisations. Over the next five years, our focus is on deepening these relationships and embedding data-backed transparency across every transaction. The goal is not to create a blueprint for others to copy but to demonstrate that a balanced system, one that values both livelihoods and resources can endure and grow in the face of climate uncertainty. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3371/asias-leading-agri-food-tech-and-agri-food-industry-event-ignited-momentum-in-agri-food-landscape.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3371/asias-leading-agri-food-tech-and-agri-food-industry-event-ignited-momentum-in-agri-food-landscape.html Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:58:31 +0530 Dedicated to fostering innovation, investment, and insights, Agri-Food Tech Asia Expo (AFTEA) brings together global leaders, experts, and innovators to explore strategies for sustainable food systems. The Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW) 2025 returned to Singapore from November 3-6, 2025, at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, under the theme “Accelerating Climate Resilience in Asia-Pacific’s Agri-Food System.” Organized by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Temasek, with support from Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and organizing partners Constellar and Rethink Events, SIAW 2025 will bring together global leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to address critical challenges in food security and sustainability. As Day 2 unfolds, the global agri-food community continues to connect, collaborate, and showcase real-world solutions driving a more resilient food future.Explore cutting-edge technologies and breakthroughs across the international pavilions on the show floor:✨ Canada PavilionMeet Canadian innovators pioneering sustainable bioprocessing, cellular agriculture, and smart agri-tech – from radar-based monitoring to mycelium protein and marine phytoplankton.✨ Spain PavilionDiscover how Spain’s agri-food sector blends innovation and tradition to lead the shift toward conscious, technology-driven, and sustainable growth – from farm to fork.✨ The Netherlands PavilionExperience high-tech farming, alternative proteins, and sustainable production systems from the world’s second-largest agricultural exporter – shaping the future of global food innovation.✨ Thailand PavilionGet inspired by nine Thai startups led by NIA redefining FoodTech and AgTech –  from plant-based dairy and sustainable snacks to smart storage and nutrient-rich innovations. This afternoon, attendees can explore a series of free-to-attend Sandbox Sessions, each offering insights into cutting-edge innovations. In Sandbox 1, highlights include "Build Your Biofuture Australia," "The Living Lab Showcase: AI, Automation & Microbial Innovation in Agri-Food," "Israel Pavilion Showcase: Innovation Across the Plate," and a discussion on "The State of Cultivated Meat & APAC-SCA’s Role in Driving Change." Meanwhile, Sandbox 2 will feature the "Cell Ag Pavilion Showcase: Building the Cell Ag Ecosystem" and the "Canada Pavilion Showcase: The Bio-Industrial Revolution – Advancing Circular, Smart & Sustainable Technologies." These sessions promise a deep dive into the future of food, agriculture, and bio-industrial advancements. The Agri-Food Tech World Championship Grand Finals will feature 10 finalists competing for the title of Grand Champion 2025. With SGD 30,000 in cash prizes and up to SGD 1.5 million in potential investment funding on the line, the event promises high stakes and intense competition. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3378/asia-pacific-agri-food-innovation-summit-building-agility-and-resilience-in-asias-food-system.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3378/asia-pacific-agri-food-innovation-summit-building-agility-and-resilience-in-asias-food-system.html Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:17:49 +0530 Exploring the facets of agri-tech, indoor agtech, aquaculture and food-tech The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit, a premier platform for innovation discovery, connecting breakthrough start-ups and their technologies to the entire agri-food value chain is inaugurated to be held from November 4-6 at Marina Bay Sands Expo Convention center in Singapore. The pivotal event for advancing the region's agri-food ecosystem is organized in partnership with Temasek and the Singapore Food Agency, as part of the Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW). This year's summit is witnessing over 800 senior decision-makers, including leaders from agribusinesses, food and ingredient brands, governments, financial institutions, philanthropic organizations, and innovative agri-food startups from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The summit provides a unique platform for fostering strategic partnerships across the agri-food value chain, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, brands, producers, and growers. Focused on addressing climate resilience and nutrition security in the Asia-Pacific region, it offers opportunities to engage with emerging innovators, leading accelerators, and forward-thinking investors. Participants can also network with over 800 senior executives and key decision-makers driving the future of agri-food systems. The summit will leverage an experience with start-up pitches on the main stage, and is an ideal opportunity to meet trailblazing innovators at their booths at the vibrant exhibition. The forum is set to explore fresh perspectives and breakthrough technologies from accelerator cohorts supported by the Gates Foundation, Mars Petcare x Big Idea Ventures, and Agrifood Futures. Participants will get to witness presentations from over 25 global start-ups showcasing next-generation solutions in AI-powered crop monitoring, smart urban infrastructure, precision fermentation, nanotech-enhanced seed germination, and biodiversity intelligence for nature-positive business. The global showcase highlighting transformative ideas and cutting-edge technologies Transforming Asia's Food System The summit’s theme, “Building Agility and Resilience in Asia’s Food System,” underscores the critical need for innovation in addressing the challenges facing the region’s food supply chains. With a packed program of keynotes, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, the event serving as a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. It is designed to foster strategic partnerships and drive technological advancements in agri-tech, aquaculture, indoor agtech, and food-tech. Key Highlights of the Summit The summit featuring a 200-strong speaking faculty, comprising industry leaders, policymakers, and technology pioneers. Discussions are focused on the latest technologies, policies, financial models, and partnerships that are transforming farming, food manufacturing, and retail across Asia-Pacific. Biotechnology and Sustainable Inputs: A significant focus is on biotechnology, with sessions exploring innovations in biologicals and sustainable agricultural inputs. Crop-specific supply chains, such as those for rice, oil palm, and fresh produce, are being analyzed to accelerate upstream innovation and create downstream impacts. Resilient Production Systems: Regional agribusinesses and technology giants will share insights on how fintech, regenerative practices, robotics, and precision agriculture contribute to building resilient production systems. These technologies are particularly crucial for smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of many Asian agricultural economies. Food-Tech Innovations: As consumer demand for health-focused products grows, the reformulation of mainstream food and beverages will take center stage. Topics such as AI-powered peptide discovery, precision fermentation, and waste valorization will highlight the role of novel, high-value ingredients in food system transformation. A major draw of the summit is its emphasis on networking and business matching. Attendees are having access to a curated audience of senior agri-food decision-makers, enabling meaningful connections and potential collaborations. The event’s AI-driven business matching platform will facilitate personalized 1-1 meetings, ensuring participants can explore partnerships and investment opportunities efficiently. Interactive Features In addition to plenaries and panel discussions, the summit will feature start-up pitches, live tastings, and regional product showcases. These interactive elements provide a platform for emerging agri-food innovators to demonstrate their solutions and connect with potential investors and partners. Breakout sessions will allow for in-depth discussions on specific topics, fostering deeper engagement among participants. The unique heritage and premium quality of Ceylon Tea were showcased at a promotional event during the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit (APAIS) 2025. A tea delegation from Sri Lanka was supported by the Sri Lanka Tea Board for the summit. Ms. Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment of Singapore, inaugurated the summit. High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore, H.E. Senarath Dissanayake, and Minister Counsellor (Commercial), Ms. Bhagya Abeykoon, attended the inauguration ceremony. This regional platform provided Sri Lanka with an opportunity to enhance its visibility in the Asia-Pacific agri-food value chain and further strengthen global recognition of Ceylon Tea as one of the world’s finest and most authentic teas. The summit offers a dynamic platform for agri-food innovation, featuring curated breakout sessions designed to foster start-up engagement and technology discovery. On November 4, Mars Petcare and Big Idea Ventures will host an exclusive pitching session focused on pet food innovation, spotlighting emerging solutions in this rapidly growing sector. The following day, the Gates Foundation will present a showcase of visionary start-ups through rapid-fire pitches, providing attendees with a front-row view of the next wave of transformative agri-food technologies. Strategic Importance of the Summit Meet the Accelerator Cohorts Gates Foundation Niruthi (India) provides AI-driven climate risk mitigation and crop forecasting solutions using satellite and weather data. Rainbow Crops (Belgium) uses AI and genome editing to engineer resilient crops that address climate and food security challenges. Zelp (UK) develops wearable devices to reduce livestock methane emissions and improve animal welfare through real-time monitoring. Loopworm (India) harnesses insects to create sustainable proteins, biocosmetics, and recombinant biomolecules. Stellapps (India) digitises the entire dairy supply chain to improve productivity, traceability, and financial inclusion for farmers. Cornext (India) harnesses silage baling technology to provide year-round nutritious fodder and empower rural fodder entrepreneurs. Cisgen (India) develops novel bio-therapeutic solutions against the infectious diseases of pets and livestock. Krimanshi (India) pioneers sustainable livestock nutrition using smart feed additives to boost yield and cut emissions. Eratani (Indonesia) provides digital solutions to help smallholder farmers increase yields and manage operations more efficiently. Qarbotech (Malaysia) uses nanotechnology to accelerate photosynthesis and improve crop growth for sustainable agriculture. Mars Petcare x Big Idea Ventures ALT-PRO Advantage (Canada) creates hypoallergenic, sustainable dog food using alternative proteins promote pet wellness and reduce environmental impact. Seaqure Labs (Sweden) develops circular mycoprotein-based feed ingredients from fungi to replace fishmeal and soy in aquaculture and animal nutrition. Terramatter (India) harnesses carbon to enable a circular carbon economy, creating resilient systems to overcome climate change impacts. Agrifood Futures PerFat (Finland) creates healthier and sustainable solid fat alternatives using advanced material physics and oleogel technology. PFx Biotech (Portugal) produces high-performance bioactive proteins using precision fermentation and proprietary strain technology. Addressing Regional and Global Challenges The summit’s agenda reflects the urgency of addressing food security, sustainability, and health in the Asia-Pacific region. With the global population growing and climate change impacting agricultural productivity, the need for innovative solutions has never been greater. Discussions are exploring how technologies like robotics and AI can enhance productivity while promoting sustainability. Health and wellness are also key themes, with a focus on gut health, longevity, and tailored functionality in food products. Food-tech leaders will showcase advancements in precision nutrition and the development of specialty ingredients that cater to evolving consumer demands. The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit offered unparalleled opportunities for: Business Intelligence: Gain insights into the latest trends, technologies, and policies shaping the agri-food industry. Networking: Connect with a curated audience of senior decision-makers, including agribusiness leaders, food brands, and government representatives. Collaboration: Explore partnerships and investment opportunities with startups and established players in the agri-food ecosystem. Innovation Showcase: Discover cutting-edge solutions and products that are driving the transformation of Asia’s food system. Revolutionary Innovations at the Exhibition: The summit provides a unique platform for fostering strategic partnerships across the agri-food value chain, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, brands, producers, and growers. Focused on addressing climate resilience and nutrition security in the Asia-Pacific region, it offers opportunities to engage with emerging innovators, leading accelerators, and forward-thinking investors. Participants can also network with over 800 senior executives and key decision-makers driving the future of agri-food systems. The Featured Start-Ups Showcasing their Technologies in Singapore: Ubiquity Sprouting Corporation (Taiwan) enhances seed sprouting through advanced agricultural research. Growz (Uzbekistan) is an AI-powered platform helping small farmers boost productivity and market access. Keshet Agritech (Singapore) creates smart urban infrastructure for climate-resilient, tech-integrated cities. Living Roots (Thailand) scales regen erative farming with biologicals and precision agronomy. Levur (Australia) ferments nature-identical oils to replace unsustainable plant and animal sources. Nanosoils Bio (Australia) uses nanotech to improve seed germination under climate stress. NatureHelm (Australia) turns ecological data into insights for managing nature-related business risks. Green Carbon Inc (Japan) creates nature-based carbon credits to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Zentide (Singapore) produces seaweed-based biostimulants and biofertilizers to support sustainable farming and lower environmental impact. Towing (Japan) creates high-performance biochar for rapid soil regeneration and sustainable agriculture, with applications extending to space farming. Fermelanta (Japan) ferments rare plant compounds for sustainable health and cosmetic products. Map My Crop (India) uses AI and satellite data for real-time crop monitoring and yield optimization. The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit is a must-attend event for anyone involved in the agri-food sector. By bringing together key stakeholders to share knowledge, showcase innovations, and build partnerships, the summit plays a crucial role in shaping the future of food in Asia. Whether you are a startup looking to scale, an investor seeking opportunities, or a policymaker aiming to drive change, this summit provides the platform to achieve your goals. Join the agri-food community at Marina Bay Sands to be part of the conversation driving resilience and innovation in Asia’s food system. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3370/the-4th-singapore-international-agri-food-week-siaw-2025-kick-starts-with-prime-focus-on-climate-resilience-and-sustainable-food-systems-in-asia-pacific.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3370/the-4th-singapore-international-agri-food-week-siaw-2025-kick-starts-with-prime-focus-on-climate-resilience-and-sustainable-food-systems-in-asia-pacific.html Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:33:24 +0530 The 4th Edition of Agri-Food Tech Asia Expo (AFTEA) returns presenting leading sourcing and networking platform in Asia serving the global agri-food and agri-tech communities. The Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW) 2025 returned to Singapore from November 3-6, 2025, at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, under the theme "Accelerating Climate Resilience in Asia-Pacific’s Agri-Food System." Organized by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Temasek, with support from Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and organizing partners Constellar and Rethink Events, SIAW 2025 will bring together global leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to address critical challenges in food security and sustainability. Building on the success of SIAW 2024, which attracted over 8,200 attendees, 270 exhibitors, and 380 speakers from more than 70 countries, this year’s event will focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and investment to advance sustainable and resilient food systems in the Asia-Pacific region. SIAW 2025 serves as the centerpiece of a week featuring five events, each showcasing distinct aspects of innovation, sustainability, and resilience within the agri-food ecosystem. Damian Chan, CEO, Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said, "SIAW is where innovative ideas meet practical solutions, bringing together experts to tackle real-world food security challenges and pioneer solutions that reshape global food systems." Highlights of SIAW 2025 Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit: The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit, a flagship event organized by Rethink Events in collaboration with Temasek, serves as the flagship leadership platform of SIAW 2025. Under the theme “Building Agility and Resilience in Asia’s Food System,” the summit will bring together over 200 speakers, 60 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, and 800 senior decision-makers from governments, global food and ingredient brands, agribusinesses, entrepreneurs, and investors. Through keynotes, panel discussions, and fireside chats, participants will develop strategies and forge partnerships to enhance trade security, economic and climate resilience, sustainable nutrition, and food system decarbonization across the region. Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia: Featuring breakthrough technologies and innovations, the Expo will showcase solutions across the agri-food value chain, including smart farming, food processing, and cellular agriculture. Global Agri-Food Scientific Symposium: Organized by SFA and A*STAR, the symposium will highlight cutting-edge research in agriculture, aquaculture, future foods, and food safety. Roundtable on Novel Food Regulations: A platform for regulators, scientists, and industry leaders to advance dialogue on the safety and commercialization of novel foods. Focus on Climate Resilience The Asia-Pacific region, home to over 60% of the global population, faces increasing food security risks due to climate-related events. SIAW 2025 will address these challenges by showcasing innovative agri-food solutions, including alternative proteins, fermentation technologies, and cultivated meat. Anuj Maheshwari, Head of Agri-Food, Temasek said "Scaling capital and investing in resilient food and agriculture are key to building future-ready food systems. SIAW provides a platform for global leaders to advance this shared vision." The Welcome Reception for SIAW 2025, co-hosted by SFA and Temasek, has brought together global policymakers, senior executives, investors, and innovators in the agri-food sector to set the stage for a week of transformative discussions and partnerships. Amid growing climate volatility, food security challenges, and the urgent need for sustainability, SIAW 2025 is emphasizing climate resilience as essential to the region’s food future. A key highlight of the event will be the launch of the 4th edition of the Asia Food Challenge Report 2025, which will present strategies to strengthen resilience and drive transformation in Asia’s agri-food sector. This exclusive, invite-only reception will provide the perfect setting for the report’s release and the start of impactful conversations. The Roundtable on Novel Food Regulations, organized by SFA, serves as an international platform uniting regulators, scientists, and industry leaders to advance discussions on ensuring the safety of novel foods. Through keynote presentations and expert panels, participants will exchange best practices and experiences in safety assessment, share updates on regulatory frameworks, and explore opportunities for collaboration to achieve international alignment. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3376/singapore-hosted-singapore-international-agri-food-week-siaw2025-convening-global-innovators-and-investors.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3376/singapore-hosted-singapore-international-agri-food-week-siaw2025-convening-global-innovators-and-investors.html Mon, 03 Nov 2025 12:22:27 +0530 SIAW2025: Advancing Climate Resilience and Sustainability in Asia's Agri-Food Ecosystem The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit 2025, the flagship event of Singapore International Agri-Food Week, is set to bring together over 800 global leaders, innovators, and policymakers. Held from November 4 to 6 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, the summit will focus on critical themes such as sustainable nutrition, resilient supply chains, and breakthrough innovations in agri-food. The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit 2025, a cornerstone of Singapore International Agri-Food Week, is poised to unite global leaders, innovators, and policymakers in advancing sustainable and resilient food systems. The summit will spotlight strategies for sustainable growth, trade security, and investment in agri-tech across the Asia-Pacific region. The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit 2025, a key highlight of Singapore International Agri-Food Week, is gearing up to showcase groundbreaking advancements in agri-food science. The 5th edition of SIAW2025 brought together global industry leaders and innovators to discuss transformative solutions for building a sustainable and resilient food system in Asia. Further Food & Ag Investment Summit Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit Better Earth Ventures - Female Founder and Funders Event Agritech Climate Accelerator Event Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia expo Over four transformative days, the Sustainable Innovations in Agri-Food Week (SIAW2025) brought together global leaders, scientists, investors, and innovators to advance a shared mission: accelerating climate resilience and sustainability across Asia’s agri-food ecosystem. The SIAW 2025 composed of five flagship events has one shared mission. Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW) 2025 flagship event is part of a broader movement redefining food resilience through collaboration and innovation, alongside key events like the Roundtable on Novel Food Regulations and the Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia. Key themes addressed at the conference include: Decarbonization: Carbon footprint, carbon markets and climate mitigation in agriculture Food security: Addressing supply chain disruptions and building resilience Digital transformation: De-risking smallholder farming with agri-tech and agri-fintech Scale-Up finance: New investment models supporting agri-tech and food-tech Strategic partnerships: Building bridges for a food-secure and crisis-proof food system The event highlighted key themes such as regenerative farming, aquaculture, alternative proteins, and nutrition accessibility, alongside the growing role of AI in agriculture. While AI offers significant potential to streamline data analysis and reduce labor, experts emphasized the need for rigorous testing to prevent errors that could jeopardize crops and impact farmers. The discussions underscored the importance of careful deployment of technology to ensure long-term benefits for the agricultural sector. The event featured policy dialogues, leadership forums, and technology showcases, sparking meaningful action across the entire food value chain. Highlights included regulators advancing safety standards for novel foods, leaders and investors shaping strategies for food security and sustainable growth, and researchers unveiling frontier technologies powering the future of food. The summit featured the Global Agri-Food Scientific Symposium, where leading researchers will present cutting-edge innovations in urban agriculture, aquaculture, future foods, and food safety. From cultivated meat development to precision farming driven by bioelectrical signals, the event underscores the transformative potential of science and collaboration in shaping resilient food systems across Asia and beyond. Esteemed speakers, including Ramesh Ramachandran of Mahindra Agri Solutions, Diana Reaich from New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries, and Patrick Fahey of Kerry, will share insights on advancing the future of agriculture and food systems in the region. SIAW2025 concluded with a commitment to advancing the future of Asia's agri-food ecosystem, building on the collaborative efforts of partners, sponsors, speakers, delegates, exhibitors, and attendees. The event marked significant progress in redefining how Asia grows, produces, and secures its food, and it set the stage for continued advancements in 2026. SIAW 2025 Welcome Reception: A Platform for Collaborative Innovation Amid rising climate volatility, food security concerns, and the urgent push for sustainability, the Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW) 2025 Welcome Reception sets the tone for a week of transformative dialogue and partnerships. Co-hosted by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Temasek, this exclusive, invite-only event brings together global policymakers, senior executives, investors, and innovators who are shaping the future of Asia’s agri-food landscape. A key highlight of the evening on 4th November will be the launch of the 4th edition of the Asia Food Challenge Report 2025, which outlines strategies to build resilience and transform Asia’s agri-food sector. Roundtable on Novel Food RegulationsThe Roundtable on Novel Food Regulations, organized by the Singapore Food Agency on November 3rd, serves as a global platform for regulators, industry leaders, academics, and stakeholders to exchange insights on the safety assessment and regulation of novel foods. The event features discussions on cell-cultivated meat and innovative food production systems, with a focus on fostering collaboration and sharing best practices. A series of events rolled out includes, a fireside chat on commercialization, and updates on novel food regulations in the UK and China. A panel discussion on the future of novel food safety assessment brings together experts from organizations like FAO, GFI APAC, and academic institutions, moderated by SFA representatives. The event concludes with networking opportunities to further dialogue and partnerships. #07347d The Global Agri-Food Scientific Symposium The Global Agri-Food Scientific Symposium, organized by the Singapore Food Agency and A*STAR, with support from GFI Asia Pacific, will take place on November 5–6, 2025, at the Peony Ballroom, Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore. This two-day event is designed as a exclusive platform for researchers, scientists, and technology providers to exchange knowledge and engage in scientific discussions. The symposium aims to advance cutting-edge science, technology, and innovation while fostering collaboration to build agri-food capabilities. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event seeks to promote climate-resilient and sustainable food ecosystems, addressing the challenges and opportunities within the global food ecosystem. The first day of the Global Agri-Food Scientific Symposium, held on November 5, 2025, began with opening address by Mr. Zaqy Mohamad,Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment.  Minister Zaqy Mohamad, announced announced two key initiatives under Singapore Food Story R&D Programme 2.0 to strengthen Singapore's food future. Minister announced the investment of $22 million in the Seed Innovation Hub, a critical step in developing high-quality seeds for urban farming. This will help Singapore grow food more sustainably and efficiently.Minister Zaqy Mohamad furthur announced Singapore's commitment of $18.5 million to AquaPolis, which focuses on improving local fish farming through better genetics, disease management, and nutrition. This will enhance production efficiency and ensure a steady supply of quality seafood.Minister Zaqy Mohamad said that, together, these initiatives will strengthen Singapore’s food security and pave the way for a more sustainable and self-reliant future. The morning session featured keynote speeches on food safety testing and nutritional considerations in alternative protein product formulation, delivered by Professor Thomas Hartung and Professor Lovedeep Kaur, respectively.  The event transitioned into Sessions, focusing on nutrition and consumer acceptance. This session included keynotes on healthy and palatable future food design, as well as panel discussions on building resilient tropical aquaculture and the challenges in future food design.  Another exclusive session featured technical presentations on topics such as sustainable protein acceptance, alternative protein nutrition, and dietary, poly, phenols for healthy aging. A session focusing on agriculture and future foods was intriguing as well. Major Keynotes explored the potential of controlled environment agriculture and breakthroughs in cellular agriculture. Technical presentations covered topics like microclimate control for leafy vegetables, precision environmental control in agriculture, and the SIGMA Rice Project, which aims to track methane emissions in Southeast Asia. The Day 1, of the Symposium ended with focus to aquaculture feed, with technical presentations on beneficial fatty acids for fish and consumers, the role of encapsulation systems in Singapore's aquaculture plan, and the use of Artemia as a model for aquaculture innovation. The day concluded with a research poster exhibition and networking opportunities during lunch. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3375/singapore-hosted-further-food-ag-investment-summit-to-embark-into-future-of-food-investment-frontiers.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3375/singapore-hosted-further-food-ag-investment-summit-to-embark-into-future-of-food-investment-frontiers.html Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:49:29 +0530 Three investment frontiers set to reshape Asia-Pacific’s food systems, where innovation meets urgent demand, and capital drives scale Singapore hosted an exclusive Agri-food investment summit, "Further Food & Ag Investment Summit" on 3rd November in partnership with AgFunder focusing on Raise Capital, Invest in Innovation and to Build Strategic Partnerships. At the beginning of Singapore Agri Food Week (SAFW) Further Food & Ag Investment Summit was hosted. The Further Food & Ag Investment Summit, designed to foster connections between people, capital, and innovation, recently concluded with a focus on transforming Asia-Pacific’s food systems. The event brought together over 90 investors and corporates alongside 40 growth-stage innovators, driving solutions in bio-innovations and regenerative systems. Through 200+ curated 1-to-1 meetings, the summit facilitated potential deals, partnerships, and collaborations aimed at reshaping the region’s food systems. Panels such as “The New Food & Ag Reality” highlighted the industry’s diversity and ambition, while sessions on capital stack innovation, AI, regenerative agriculture, and women founders underscored the potential of combining expertise, vision, and capital. Founders and investors engaged directly, exchanging ideas and building trust to spark opportunities. The organizers, including co-founders Renato Silva and Toby Duckworth, expressed gratitude to partners like AgFunder, Aspire, and Shiva Industries Indonesia, as well as their team and advisors, for making the event a success. Looking ahead, Further Food & Ag plans to expand its platform and host more summits in 2026 to accelerate innovations that will sustain and feed the planet. The forum connected capital and innovation for the future of food for the Food & Ag Growth Startups, Scaleups, Mature, Companies, Investors, Capital Providers & Corporates. The Further Food & Ag Investment Summit focuses on three critical investment frontiers poised to reshape Asia-Pacific's food systems. These frontiers highlight the intersection of innovation and urgent demand, driven by capital to achieve scalability. The summit explores themes such as financing innovations for agri-food, the role of AI and digitization in enabling the region's agricultural future, and the potential of regenerative agriculture and bio-innovations to revolutionize food tech. Through panels, founder connections, and networking opportunities, the event fosters collaboration and insights into the future of food investment. Investing AI & Digitisation: Smarter, faster, more resilient - harnessing AI, robotics, and digital tools to boost productivity and sustainability. At the Further Food & Ag Investment Summit 2025, investors and innovators debated how AI can transform Asia’s agri-food systems — from productivity and efficiency to supply chain transparency and food security. Unlocking Asia’s Agri-Food Future• AI is a productivity engine — but only as strong as the data that powers it.• AI is underhyped — internal gains are already reshaping how agri-food businesses operate.• The barrier to entry has never been lower — companies can experiment fast and cheap.• Understanding both food and AI is essential — startups must bridge the gap between tech and operations.• People still matter — AI augments, not replaces, human expertise.From modular AI agents to smarter supply chains, the discussion revealed one clear message: AI won’t replace the agri-food industry — it will empower it. Regen Ag & Nature Based Solutions: Innovating for a climate-positive future - regenerative farming,sustainable aquaculture, and nature-based solutions restoring land and sea Novel Ingredients & Bio-Innovations: Scaling the next wave of ingredients - from plants andfermentation to cultivated meat and bio-enzymes The Further Food & Ag Investment Summit is structured across two key spaces: the Discussion Hall, which hosts talks, panels, and networking sessions, and the Further Connect Lounge, designed for pre-scheduled, 30-minute, outcome-driven 1-to-1 meetings. These meetings are facilitated through an online planner and curated matches by the summit team, ensuring focused and productive conversations. The Further Food & Ag Investment Summit included panels on financing agri-food innovations, the role of AI and digitization in advancing the region’s agricultural future, and the potential of regenerative agriculture and bio-innovations. Structured sessions such as the Founders Connect and Networking Drinks Reception foster collaboration, while curated 1-to-1 meetings in the Further Connect Lounge enable outcome-driven conversations. The summit concludes with closing remarks and networking opportunities. The Further Food & Ag Investment Summit in Singapore concluded last Monday with a resounding sense of achievement, according to its organizers. The event brought together over 90 investors and corporates managing billions in assets, alongside 40 growth-stage companies from around the world, facilitating over 200 curated meetings in a single day. Attendees described the summit as highly impactful, with one participant noting, “The most valuable event I’ve ever been to,” and another remarking, “The seven meetings I had are worth almost my entire year.” The dedication of attendees was evident, with meetings continuing well into the evening during the drinks reception. The summit’s success reflects the vision of its founders, Jennifer, Toby, and their team, who set out to accelerate capital into food and agriculture. Investor demand was so high that registrations had to close three days early. The organizers extended their gratitude to panelists, moderators, and partners, including AgFunder, Aspire, and Shiva Industries Indonesia, as well as their dedicated team and student volunteers from Temasek and Republic Polytechnic. Looking ahead, Further Food & Ag is planning two editions in 2026, aiming to connect corporates, investors, and growth companies to drive innovation in food and agriculture. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3352/chinas-tianjin-jilin-and-guangdong-unveil-joint-proposal-to-deepen-exchanges-and-cooperation-in-agriculture-2.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3352/chinas-tianjin-jilin-and-guangdong-unveil-joint-proposal-to-deepen-exchanges-and-cooperation-in-agriculture-2.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:41:23 +0530 Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris EFOX redefines environmental and food testing for PFAS using the same innovation that transformed biology Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science, today introduced the Thermo Scientific™ Orbitrap Exploris™ EFOX Mass Detector, the industry’s first high-resolution accurate mass (HRAM) Orbitrap system designed specifically for environmental and food safety laboratories. The new system addresses urgent global challenges around food and water quality testing in the face of persistent contaminants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), pesticides and other pollutants. With tailor-made workflows and some of the strongest targeted analysis technology in the field, laboratories can use the Orbitrap Exploris EFOX (Environmental and Food Organic Xenobiotics) to generate richer, compliant data faster in order to assess public health risks sooner. Unlike traditional high-resolution systems, which are typically research platforms retrofitted to handle routine testing, the Orbitrap Exploris EFOX delivers research-grade performance that is purpose-built for everyday workflows. It brings the award-winning Orbitrap technology used for deep protein and small molecule analysis into routine labs, enabling extremely low-level PFAS detection with the same confidence and precision. With intuitive operation and minimal setup, labs can move from sample to result in minutes – without sacrificing data quality or throughput. “As environmental and food safety laboratories face mounting pressure to deliver faster, more accurate results under tight budgets and stringent regulatory requirements, the Orbitrap Exploris EFOX significantly lightens the workload for PFAS, pesticides and other contaminant testing,” said Lidija Raicevic, vice president and environmental and food safety lead, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Offering an easy-to-use high-resolution mass detector helps ensure more labs can conduct critical full-scan, accurate mass high-resolution data monitoring, provide local testing across more areas of concern and ultimately accelerate quality controls to make our environment and food safer.” The Orbitrap Exploris EFOX raises the bar in environmental and food safety testing by capturing full-scan, high-resolution data from every sample. This comprehensive data collection enables retrospective analysis, allowing labs to search for newly identified compounds without reinjecting samples, saving time and staying ahead of evolving regulatory requirements. Additionally, built-in workflows for key environmental contaminants help labs achieve compliance faster, eliminating months of method development and reducing operational costs. The system is seamlessly integrated with the Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS), offering a guided, intuitive interface that simplifies processing and reporting. This minimizes training needs, reduces review cycles and accelerates the delivery of critical health and safety insights. And the system’s robust and reliable performance with the coupled Thermo Scientific Vanquish™ dual channel UHPLC offering adds confidence, flexibility and productivity to the overall solution. In addition to the Orbitrap Exploris EFOX, Thermo Fisher Scientific will continue to support triple quadrupole workflows with the Thermo Scientific TSQ Altis™ Plus EFOX MS – a dedicated edition of the TSQ Altis Plus mass spectrometer optimized for environmental and food analysis.. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3345/chinas-tianjin-jilin-and-guangdong-unveil-joint-proposal-to-deepen-exchanges-and-cooperation-in-agriculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3345/chinas-tianjin-jilin-and-guangdong-unveil-joint-proposal-to-deepen-exchanges-and-cooperation-in-agriculture.html Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:35:10 +0530 Focus on key areas such as information sharing, standard setting, and market connectivity The 22nd China International Agricultural Trade Fair recently kicked off in northern China's Tianjin Municipality. During the event, Tianjin Municipality, Jilin Province and Guangdong Province jointly released the proposal on deepening exchanges and cooperation in agriculture. According to the proposal, the three regions will focus on key areas such as information sharing, standard setting, and market connectivity, with the aim of improving cooperation mechanisms and exploring new models for cross-regional development in agriculture. In the future, the three regions will dynamically draw industry maps and break down data barriers in the monitoring of agricultural product market prices across regional markets, and harness data to empower corporate decision-making, better match supply and demand, and ensure the smooth and efficient flow of agricultural products. Efforts will also be made to promote the inter-regional flow of key production factors such as technology, capital, and data. By leveraging the factor resource trading platforms of the three regions and the policy advantages of pilot free trade zones and bonded areas, the three regions will work together to reduce the costs of factor mobility and innovation, and boost market vitality. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3341/nestle-reenforces-trade-relationship-with-thai-coffee-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3341/nestle-reenforces-trade-relationship-with-thai-coffee-industry.html Fri, 17 Oct 2025 11:15:46 +0530 Nestlé (Thai) Ltd. has renewed its partnership with the Thai Coffee Farmers Association through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Nestlé (Thai) Ltd. renews its commitment to purchasing Thai coffee beans for the 2025/2026 season while promoting Regenerative Agriculture and research to enhance productivity, quality and sustainability for local farmers. Strengthening its long-standing support for Thailand’s coffee-growing communities, Nestlé (Thai) Ltd. has renewed its partnership with the Thai Coffee Farmers Association through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing sustainability and improving livelihoods. The agreement covers the purchase of coffee beans from Thai farmers for the 2025/2026 production season and includes initiatives to promote Regenerative Agriculture, improve yields and coffee quality, and protect the environment. Nestlé will also continue its research and development of high-yield coffee plantlets, enabling farmers to increase productivity, income and quality of life. The MoU signing ceremony was honoured by the presence of the Governor of Chumphon Province. Ms Salinla Seehaphan, Corporate Affairs Director, Nestlé (Thai) Ltd., said: “For several decades, Nestlé has continuously supported our local coffee farmers. Additionally, Nestlé has consistently been the largest purchaser of locally grown Robusta beans in Thailand. “The signing of this MoU each year reaffirms our commitment to purchasing Robusta coffee beans directly from Thai farmers. Moreover, we encourage farmers to adopt Regenerative Agriculture practices in their coffee plantations through knowledge-sharing programmes and training sessions. This approach not only enhances coffee production in both quantity and quality but also helps restore ecosystems, protect soil and water resources, and strengthen resilience against climate change.” Mr Thianchai Chookittiwiboon, Governor of Chumphon Province, added: “We are very pleased that Nestlé continues to support our coffee farmers through the direct purchase of locally grown beans. Coffee is a key economic crop for Chumphon, and we have great potential to make our cultivation more efficient and responsive to market demand. These efforts will help farmers improve their income and quality of life while boosting the provincial economy. This aligns with our goal to develop Chumphon into a ‘Robusta Metropolis’ recognised both domestically and globally.” Mr Prayoon Songprasert, Chairman of the Thai Coffee Farmers Association, said: “For decades, Chumphon’s coffee farmers have benefited from Nestlé’s support — not only through direct bean purchases but also via training on sustainable cultivation methods. The coffee plantlets developed by Nestlé consistently deliver high yields and quality, helping farmers increase income and living standards. This ongoing partnership motivates farmers to continue their craft with confidence and pride.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3338/australias-queensland-positions-itself-for-global-capital-by-opening-dynamic-markets-to-investors.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3338/australias-queensland-positions-itself-for-global-capital-by-opening-dynamic-markets-to-investors.html Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:40:48 +0530 Brisbane to host June 2026 forum highlighting investment opportunities in agriculture, timber, and natural capital  Global AgInvesting (GAI), the world’s leading platform for agriculture and natural capital investment, will host its first-ever Australian conference June10-11, 2026, in Brisbane. The launch of GAI Australia, in collaboration with the Queensland Government, extends GAI’s global footprint into one of the most dynamic ag investment markets in the world.  “Bringing Global AgInvesting to Australia with the support of the Queensland Government marks an important milestone,” Jonathan Levin, portfolio director for Global AgInvesting, said. “Queensland’s scale in primary industries, leadership in agtech, and drive for sustainable production create a rare opportunity for global investors to connect with one of the world’s most dynamic agricultural markets.”  For 17 years, Global AgInvesting has brought together institutional investors, fund managers, and agribusiness leaders across its flagship events in New York, Europe, and Asia. With more than 50 events held and 20,000 attendees engaged globally, GAI has established itself as the premier meeting point for deploying capital into farmland, timber, and natural capital. The expansion to Australia follows record investor participation at Global AgInvesting New York in 2025, reflecting growing momentum for climate-aligned, real asset strategies.  Australia Positioned for Global Capital  Australia offers a set of advantages that uniquely position it as a global hub for agriculture and natural capital investment. Its counter-seasonal production supplies key commodities to world markets during Northern Hemisphere off-seasons, while its vast land and water resources create opportunities for scalable, long-term investments.  Furthermore, the country’s AAA-rated economy and transparent legal framework provide a stable, investor-friendly environment. Australia is also home to the world’s most advanced water trading system and rapidly developing carbon markets, underscoring its leadership in sustainable investing.  Global AgInvesting Australia will bring together global investors, pension funds, family offices, agribusiness executives, and service providers active in Australia or seeking new opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region. Attendees will gain access to networking, market intelligence, and direct engagement with local partners already driving growth in farmland, forestry, and environmental markets.  Queensland Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, said Queensland is leading the way in agricultural innovation and sustainable resource management, making it the ideal location for Global AgInvesting’s first Australian event. “This partnership is a significant step toward our goal of growing Queensland’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030,” Minister Perrett said. “It reinforces Queensland’s reputation for thriving primary industries and world-class research, development and extension, and regional assets. We’re working on an impressive program of events that will showcase some of Queensland’s assets and services that have set us apart on the world stage.”  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3337/japan-thailand-cross-border-partnership-strengthens-sustainable-palm-oil-pathways.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3337/japan-thailand-cross-border-partnership-strengthens-sustainable-palm-oil-pathways.html Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:06:33 +0530 Thailand became the first palm-oil-producing nation to bring a closed-loop delegation to Japan focusing on Smallholders The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and the Japan Sustainable Palm Oil Network (JaSPON) co-hosted the RSPO x JaSPON Conference 2025 from 6 to 8 October at Bellesalle Yaesu, Tokyo. The event brought together industry leaders, government agencies, academia, and smallholder representatives to reinforce cooperation between Thailand and Japan in building responsible palm oil supply chains. Since 2015, the Thai government has set an ambitious national target to achieve 100% RSPO Certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO), positioning the country as a low-risk, smallholder-inclusive producer under the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Thailand became the first palm-oil-producing nation to bring a closed-loop delegation to Japan, showcasing that sustainability and inclusion now stand at the core of trade diplomacy. Conference delegates included representatives from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DoAE), Thailand Smallholder Facilitator Network, Prince of Songkla University, Global Green Chemicals (GGC), Petchsrivichai Enterprise (PCE), and Saraya, alongside international stakeholders. With smallholders managing about 85% of Thailand's oil palm production area, the country demonstrates that sustainable production can also be farmer-led. Certified independent smallholders have already sold up to 90% of their physical CSPO volumes, the world's highest share mobilised by independent smallholders, highlighting the success of Thailand's inclusive transformation. "We need to do more, but we cannot do it alone. The market must respond. Putting the smallholder at the centre means walking the talk of shared responsibility," said Wandee Krichanan, RSPO Smallholder Manager, who moderated the independent smallholder panel. Inclusive and competitive supply chains Downstream players are showing that sourcing can be both sustainable and inclusive. PCE and GGC, both RSPO Members, are leading examples. Through long-term partnerships, training programmes, and targeted sourcing, they are enabling smallholders to access certified markets. "PCE is building the value chain of the future linking smallholder development with digital innovation for transparent traceability and pursuing a 'Negative GHG Emission' status," said Mr. Pornpipat Prasitsupaphol, Chief Strategy Officer, PCE. Ms. Panrada Wongsuwan, Division Manager, Corporate Branding and CSR, GGC (P TT GC Group) stated "At GGC, we believe sustainability must span the entire value chain from upstream to downstream. We are committed to empowering smallholders and strengthening our responsibility to society and the environment". In addition, Saraya has long pioneered eco-friendly products using natural, plant-based ingredients, including Japan's first antibacterial soap and plant-based detergent. Since 2004, it has led environmental efforts in Borneo to address palm oil-related deforestation and wildlife threats, becoming Japan's first RSPO member in 2005.  "To enhance the value chain, it is essential to have a supply chain that incorporates smallholder farmers. Therefore, we support smallholders" said Mr. Shinichi Yoshikawa, Vice General Manager of Supply Chain Management Division at Saraya Co, Ltd and the Vice Chairman of JaSPON. With over 400,000 farm households engaged in palm oil, the Thai government views inclusive sourcing as a national priority. "Responsible sourcing is not only about environmental commitment, it ensures farmers are fully included in global supply chains and receive fair returns for their efforts," said a DoAE representative. "Partnering with Japanese companies that value transparency and inclusivity guarantees palm oil that meets the highest standards of sustainability and quality." "RSPO Certified smallholders are guardians of the global environment. Support from buyers whether through physical or credit purchases empowers us to continue this stewardship," said Chaowalit Wuttipong, President of the Srijaroen Sustainable Oil Palm Production Community Enterprise and Chairman of the Thailand Smallholder Facilitator Network. From Surat Thani to Tokyo, Thailand's independent oil palm smallholders are stepping into the global spotlight. Through collaboration with mills, Japanese buyers, and the Thai government, they are proving that inclusive and sustainable supply chains can drive prosperity and trust across Asia. RSPO: The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) is a global partnership to make palm oil sustainable. Formed in 2004, the RSPO is a multi-stakeholder non-profit organisation that unites members from across the palm oil value chain, including oil palm producers, palm oil processors and traders, consumer goods manufacturers, retailers, banks and investors, environmental or nature conservation non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and social or developmental NGOs. As a partnership for progress and positive impact, the RSPO facilitates global change to make the production and consumption of palm oil sustainable. To inspire change, we communicate the environmental and social benefits. To make progress, we catalyse collaboration. To provide assurance, we set the standards of certification. The RSPO is registered as an international association in Zurich, Switzerland, with main offices in Malaysia and Indonesia, and offices in China, Colombia, Netherlands, United Kingdom and the United States.  JaSPON:JaSPON (Japan Sustainable Palm Oil Network) was established in April 2019 to accelerate the procurement and consumption of sustainable palm oil in the Japanese market, aiming to address environmental issues and other challenges associated with conventional palm oil production. JaSPON operates on the belief that, as a consumer country, Japan has an important role in addressing the environmental, social, and ethical issues tied to palm oil. It emphasises cross‐industry collaboration, encouraging its members from different sectors to work together from their respective standpoints, to promote sustainable practices. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3335/americas-next-frontier-unlocking-africas-3-4t-agribusiness-market.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3335/americas-next-frontier-unlocking-africas-3-4t-agribusiness-market.html Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:31:04 +0530 In an exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Brent Boydston, Founder, Ag Center Solutions outlined how U.S. agribusiness can seize Africa’s $3.4 trillion AfCFTA opportunity. Feed grains, soy, and DDGS are prime entry points, but success hinges on relationship-driven partnerships, not just transactions. He stressed the need for investments in smallholder modernization, mechanization, and digital agtech to boost productivity and resilience. Boydston also called for next-generation trade frameworks that combine IP protection, technology transfer, and carbon-credit access. Africa’s low-input, biodiversity-aligned farming models, he noted, offer critical lessons for sustainable growth. Strategic collaboration, he concluded, can transform Africa into a hub for high-value food production and U.S.–Africa agricultural synergy. I. Market Potential & Geopolitics Africa’s Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a $3.4 trillion market. From your perspective, what segments of agribusiness—inputs, processing, logistics, retail—are most attractive for U.S. companies to enter first? From my perspective, feed grains such as corn, sorghum, DDGS from ethanol production, soybeans, and soybean meal represent the most attractive first entry points into African markets. Feed demand for the continent’s expanding poultry and livestock industries continues to rise, and population growth will only intensify the need for affordable protein. Market entry will not be without challenges, differing regulatory requirements across the continent will need to be navigated, but these can be addressed through engagement and partnership. The U.S. is late to Africa compared to China, Brazil, and increasingly India. What does America need to do differently to avoid being boxed out of Africa’s agricultural future ? U.S. businesses need to recognize and seize the opportunities emerging in Africa. Companies must understand that African nations and their people want to partner with American firms, but success requires relationship building rather than transactional thinking. Business in Africa is fundamentally relationship-based. U.S. firms must invest in learning the cultures of the countries where they operate, which is entirely achievable with the right guidance. They should also collaborate with established U.S. government entities active in Africa such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA FAS) and with cooperators like the U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council and the United Soybean Export Council. Both have strong local networks across the continent and can play a key role in facilitating market entry and building lasting partnerships. II. Investment & Capital Flows African agriculture still receives less than 5 per cent of total FDI inflows. Where can U.S. venture capital and private equity make the most immediate impact—financing smallholder resilience, scaling agtech, or building midstream infrastructure? Smallholder resilience, agtech scale-up, and midstream infrastructure are all vital investment avenues, but one area often overlooked is agricultural education paired with modernization. Farming practices in many African regions lag for several reasons, limited access to capital, weak risk-management tools, insufficient training in modern methods, and regulatory systems that are sometimes influenced by outside pressures rather than science. Take genetically modified organisms (GMOs), for example. Since their adoption in the U.S. in the mid-1990s, GMO crops have helped drive a transition from heavy tillage to minimum- or no-till systems, conserving soil and reducing input use. Yet in several African nations, bans on GMO seed cultivation or import prevent farmers from accessing these technologies and the benefits they bring in pest resistance, yield improvement, and soil protection. Investment that supports education, modernization, and science-based regulation would have immediate and lasting impact. III. Supply Chains & Infrastructure Africa faces a paradox: it holds 60 per cent of the world’s uncultivated arable land but imports $75 billion in food annually. Where can U.S. companies intervene most effectively—fertiliser supply, mechanisation, grain storage, cold chain? U.S. companies can make an immediate difference by strengthening fertilizer supply chains, investing in farm mechanization services, and developing modern grain-storage and cold-chain infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses. These interventions not only increase productivity but also improve food security and the profitability of local producers. With the U.S. pushing for “friend-shoring” and resilient supply chains, can Africa realistically become a hub for U.S. agri-commodity processing and re-export into global markets? Africa is uniquely positioned to become an exporter of food and processed agricultural products. Large-scale production for the EU already makes Europe one of Africa’s top export destinations, while trade ties with India and other Asian markets continue to deepen. With a growing egg and broiler industry, African nations have the opportunity to expand value-added food production while importing feed grains from the United States. When paired with education and technology transfer, currently uncultivated lands could be brought into sustainable production allowing Africa to export higher-value commodities to its key markets. IV. Technology & Innovation Digital platforms in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are redefining input distribution and farmer credit. Where can U.S. tech giants and agri-startups collaborate to leapfrog Africa into next-generation farming ecosystems? Technology and innovation go hand in hand, and Africa is poised to lead in digital agriculture. Internet access has expanded rapidly, a 115 per cent increase in Sub-Saharan Africa between 2016 and 2022, and this connectivity creates opportunities for improved efficiency and integration with global market. U.S. agri-tech startups should look to Africa not only as a market but as a collaborative partner for developing scalable digital solutions. Whether in AI-driven crop consulting, digital finance platforms, or precision-farming applications, the continent’s young, tech-savvy population offers fertile ground for next-generation agricultural innovation. V. Policy & Trade Architecture AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act) is set to expire in 2025. What kind of next-generation U.S.–Africa trade framework would best unlock agribusiness potential? While it remains uncertain whether the U.S. Congress or Administration will renew or replace AGOA, that uncertainty will likely drive some African nations to pursue bilateral trade agreements with the United States or to pivot toward other markets. Fortunately, a foundation already exists: the U.S. has a full free-trade agreement (FTA) with Morocco; a Trade & Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) with the East African Community (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan); and multiple other TIFAs and Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs) across the continent. These frameworks provide blueprints for deeper engagement between African nations and the United States. They can also help offset the loss of AGOA by encouraging commercial linkages between countries that already have agreements with the U.S. and those that do not. Are tariff concessions and export incentives enough—or do we need more holistic agreements covering knowledge transfer, IP, and carbon credits for regenerative farming? More comprehensive agreements are needed beyond tariff concessions or export incentives. Global integration requires frameworks that protect intellectual property and facilitate technology exchange while ensuring fair access to emerging markets like carbon credits. For example, to receive carbon credits, farmers must conduct soil sampling and meet strict verification requirements, activities that generate valuable data. That data should remain the property of the farmers who create it, reflecting their knowledge and stewardship. At the same time, they need access to improved tools, such as corn seed varieties designed for maximum carbon sequestration. Protecting the intellectual property behind those seeds and precision-agriculture systems is vital. Formal trade agreements can safeguard both farmers’ rights and corporate innovation, maximizing benefits for all parties. VI. Sustainability & Climate Diplomacy What lessons can Africa teach the U.S. about low-input, biodiversity-aligned farming models—and how can that shape bilateral partnerships? Though the U.S. and African farm sectors differ in scale and technology, they share a common goal: producing food sustainably for a growing population. Increasingly, African nations are turning to the United States for guidance on boosting production while conserving natural resources. A good example is the U.S.-based consulting company Sustainable Agricultural Solutions for Africa, which has worked in Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya to transfer U.S. know-how on sustainable practices. These collaborations demonstrate a strong mutual interest in sharing best practices and are critical to shaping future bilateral partnerships. They provide tangible proof that sustainability can be achieved through cooperation and knowledge exchange on both sides of the Atlantic. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3342/singapore-to-host-further-food-ag-investment-summit-to-stimulate-agrifood-capital-in-apac.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3342/singapore-to-host-further-food-ag-investment-summit-to-stimulate-agrifood-capital-in-apac.html Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0530 Launching Asia-Pacific's Deal-Driven summit on 3 November 2025 at the Guoco Midtown Network Hub in Singapore The Further Food & Ag Investment Summit will debut on 3 November 2025 at the Guoco Midtown Network Hub in Singapore, bringing together early and growth-stage companies, investors, and corporates in a curated, invite-only format designed to unlock capital, customers, and accelerate solutions to the region’s most pressing agrifood challenges.  Held in partnership with AgFunder, a global leader in agrifoodtech venture investing and intelligence, the Summit is a curtain-raiser to Singapore International Agri Week (4–6 November). It has been purpose-built to address the significant funding gap for critical Food and Ag innovations in Asia Pacific, with a focus on curated 1-to-1 meetings, interactive panels, and networking opportunities.  Designed as a catalyst rather than a conference, Further focuses on tangible outcomes: to accelerate deals, partnerships, and scalable solutions. Closing Asia’s Agrifood Funding Gap Asia-Pacific produces over half of the world’s food, but attracts barely a quarter of global agrifood investment. This gap underscores both a challenge and a multi-trillion-dollar business opportunity to build climate-resilient, tech-enabled, and commercially scalable food systems. The Further Summit was created to help close that gap - connecting investors directly with innovators building the next generation of agrifood solutions for Asia’s growing markets. 2025 investment frontiers featured at the Summit: AI & Digitisation - Building smarter, faster, and more resilient systems by harnessing the power of AI, robotics, and digital innovation to drive productivity and growth across the food and agri-value chain. Regenerative Agriculture & Nature-Based Solutions - Driving a climate-positive future through regenerative farming, sustainable aquaculture, and nature-positive approaches that restore soil, ocean, and ecosystem health. Novel Ingredients & Bio-Innovations- Scaling the next generation of protein and bio-based ingredient breakthroughs - from plants and precision fermentation to cellular agriculture and enzymes - transforming how Asia feeds itself. Catalysing Collaboration Across Capital and Industry The Summit convenes more than 100 investors, corporate leaders and innovators, including AgFunder, Clay Capital, Better Bite Ventures, ING, Mirova, The Radical Fund, Terratai and Toyo Seikan. Confirmed early and growth-stage participants include Living Roots, Zentide, Eclipse Ingredients, OlsAro, Yindii, and Teraxxy, alongside leading innovators from across Asia and the globe.“Across Asia, a wave of dynamic entrepreneurs are driving bold solutions for food and climate. The Further Summit is built for them - we’re passionate about building a community where founders can connect directly with investors and partners to turn ambition into traction, driving real change in how we feed and sustain the planet.” said Jennifer Yuen, Co-founder, Further. “Transforming our food system requires both capital and collaboration, none more so than in Asia-Pacific. That’s why AgFunder has partnered with the Further Summit to spotlight leading innovators and work with investors to build a stronger capital stack for the region and sector as a whole. We believe this kind of collaborative platform is essential to scaling solutions that will redefine the future of Asia’s agrifood industry,” said John Friedman, Asia Director, AgFunder. Learn more and apply to participate at www.further.ag. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3325/african-land-arab-capital-indian-innovation-groupe-mrps-vision-to-redefine-global-agriculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3325/african-land-arab-capital-indian-innovation-groupe-mrps-vision-to-redefine-global-agriculture.html Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:59:51 +0530 In an exclusive interaction, Sumit Govind Sharma, Groupe MRP's Global MD and the President of the Indo-African Chamber of Commerce and Industry outlines Groupe MRP’s transformative vision to establish an agriculture corridor across 78 countries spanning Africa and the Arab world. Anchored in the “LIFE – Longterm Integrated Farming Expertise” model, the initiative seeks to bridge Africa’s vast untapped arable potential with India’s agri-innovation strengths, creating integrated, self-sustaining agribusiness clusters. Each cluster will combine food security, value addition, and climate-smart practices—ranging from solar-powered irrigation and biogas generation to digital farm management tools and hydroponic fodder systems. With 50 per cent of output dedicated to local nutrition and the rest fueling export-oriented processing, the model aims to reduce post-harvest losses and empower smallholders, women, and youth through skill development. By 2030, Sharma envisions a trilateral ecosystem—African land, Arab capital, and Indian technology—driving inclusive growth, resilient supply chains, and food security across continents. Groupe MRP aims to create a transformative agriculture corridor across 78 countries. What is the strategic vision for agriculture, and how does it align with India’s strengths in agri-innovation and Africa/Arab market needs? Our strategic vision is anchored in both opportunity and responsibility. Africa represents a paradox: approximately 80–85 per cent of its arable land remains underdeveloped, yet the continent imports over $70 billion worth of processed food annually. Namibia, for instance, produces high-quality tomatoes, yet without local processing infrastructure, it continues to rely on imports, highlighting a persistent gap between raw production and value addition. Similarly, in East Africa, countries like Kenya and Uganda export raw fruits and vegetables while importing packaged goods—a structural inefficiency we aim to address. Groupe MRP seeks to bridge this gap by creating fully integrated agribusiness clusters.Its flagship initiative, “Longterm Integrated Farming Expertise (LIFE)” is founded on the belief that “Food is LIFE,” representing the core of sustainable development and human well-being. It embodies a holistic approach to agriculture that combines various farming components for sustainability and productivity. This promotes recycling of agricultural by-products and efficient resource utilization. It aims to provide regular income and year-round employment for farmers. ​The model enhances food and nutritional security while conserving natural resources. Within these clusters, 50 per cent of output is earmarked for local food security, ensuring immediate nutritional and economic impact, while the remainder supports commercial processing, investment sustainability, and export-ready value chains. To initiate this vision, the program will begin with the development of 100 hectares of land dedicated to implementing the LIFE model. This pilot phase will serve as a foundation for building scalable, self-sustaining agribusiness clusters that can be replicated across regions, fostering inclusive growth and long-term impact. Infrastructure development is central to this strategy. We are establishing processing units, solar farms, and biogas generation facilities sourced from local cattle populations to create energy- and resource-resilient clusters. Beyond physical assets, human capital is a priority. Farmers receive training in modern agronomy, gender-inclusive skill development programs are implemented, and housing and healthcare support is provided for laborers. Our “Blessings From The Earth” (BFTE) Kit is designed to advance nutritional security through homestead gardening and promote holistic farm management. The initiative encompasses seed distribution, kitchen gardens, mushroom cultivation, fruit and vegetable farming, and the development of neem-based fertilizers and bioinsecticides. By combining India’s technological and agri-innovation expertise with Africa’s vast arable potential, the program aims to build a self-sustaining and scalable agricultural ecosystem that strengthens local livelihoods, food resilience, and global value chains. Sustainability is at the forefront of global agriculture. How is the Division planning to introduce scalable, climate-smart, and resource-efficient practices in partner countries? Our approach is multi-dimensional and intentionally integrated, designed to embed sustainability at every stage of agricultural development. Each cluster is structured around circular resource utilization, where rainwater harvesting, rotational cropping, and small-scale fisheries complement crop cultivation to diversify income streams and strengthen resilience against climatic variability. The integration of biogas systems from livestock waste, solar-powered irrigation, and sustainable nutrient management further minimizes dependence on fossil fuels, lowers emissions, and enhances ecological balance. Every intervention is tailored to local agro-climatic conditions, ensuring replicability and scalability. Our goal is to create low-carbon, climate-resilient clusters that optimize water, energy, and soil resources. By embedding sustainability within productivity, we are demonstrating that environmentally conscious agriculture can be both commercially viable and socially transformative. From hydroponics to digital farm tools, India has a rich agri-tech ecosystem. How will Groupe MRP transfer and localize technology to maximize productivity and profitability across Arab geographies? The Arab region poses unique challenges: arid climates, scarce water resources, and extreme temperatures. Yet it offers significant opportunities in livestock and fodder production. While we are in the early exploration phase, we plan to introduce hydroponic fodder systems, IoT-enabled farm management tools, and precision irrigation models. The key is localization: technology must adapt to local soil, climate, and socio-economic conditions. India’s agri-tech solutions—from water-efficient irrigation systems to digital crop monitoring platforms—will be adapted to maximize yield and profitability while reducing resource intensity. This ensures technology adoption is practical, scalable, and financially rewarding for regional farmers, while supporting broader sustainability objectives. What strategies will the Division employ to strengthen supply chains, improve market access, and reduce post-harvest losses, particularly for smallholder farmers? Integration across the value chain is fundamental. Fifty percent of cluster output is designated for government food security programs, while the remainder feeds commercial processing. We are establishing high-value processing units for mango pulp, cold-pressed juices, tomato paste, and packaged vegetables, directly addressing post-harvest loss, which in sub-Saharan Africa is estimated at 30–40 per cent for perishable produce. Organic residues are repurposed into cattle feed or bioenergy, creating near-zero loss systems. Cluster-level, pre-cooling units, and GPS-tracked logistics maintain product quality, extend shelf life, and improve market access. These measures stabilize farmer incomes, enhance product compliance for local and export markets, and establish resilient, export-ready supply chains. How will the agriculture DiVision empower local communities, including women and youth, through training, capacity building, and knowledge transfer? Community empowerment is central to our mission. Farmers receive hands-on training in regenerative agriculture, precision farming, and post-harvest management. Gender-sensitive programs ensure women actively participate in all operational levels, while youth gain marketable skills in agri-tech, digital farm management, and renewable energy applications. By embedding knowledge transfer into daily operations, we create communities capable of sustaining high-productivity, climate-smart agriculture independently. Over time, these clusters become centers of skills development, inclusive growth, and social resilience. Will Groupe MRP pursue public–private partnerships, research collaborations, or joint ventures in these regions to accelerate agricultural innovation and adoption? Collaboration is essential for systemic impact. We are partnering with local governments, private landowners, and agri-tech enterprises to co-develop infrastructure, research programs, and financing solutions. Public–private partnerships enable risk sharing and accelerate the adoption of modern, sustainable practices. Research collaborations and joint ventures allow us to localize technology while leveraging India’s agri-innovation ecosystem. The aim is to create scalable, replicable models where knowledge, finance, and technology converge to maximize socio-economic and environmental benefits. Looking ahead, how do you see this trilateral agriculture initiative contributing to food security, rural livelihoods, and India’s strategic role in Africa and the Arab world by 2030? This initiative creates a strategic triad: African land, Arab capital, and Indian technology converge to form productive, resilient clusters. By 2030, fully operational processing units and integrated supply chains will transform local economies, turning surplus produce into high-value exports such as mango pulp, tomato paste, and packaged foods for both African and Indian markets. The model directly strengthens food security, stabilizes rural livelihoods, and reduces Africa’s dependence on imported processed food—currently exceeding $70 billion annually. Strategically, it positions India as a preferred partner, demonstrating technological leadership and the ability to catalyze sustainable, inclusive agribusiness ecosystems. Ultimately, this is about systemic change: climate-smart agriculture, empowered communities, resilient supply chains, and transcontinental trade linkages—all embedded within an economically viable and environmentally sustainable framework. ---- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3314/malaysia-and-kazakhstan-strengthen-trade-relations-in-agriculture-food-security.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3314/malaysia-and-kazakhstan-strengthen-trade-relations-in-agriculture-food-security.html Fri, 10 Oct 2025 10:39:22 +0530 Leaders review potential collaboration, like opening market access for Malaysian agricultural products to Kazakhstan Malaysia and Kazakhstan have committed to strengthening cooperation in agriculture and food security, including bilateral trade and research and development (R&D). Kazakhstan’s Trade and Integration Minister Arman Shakkaliyev met with Malaysia’s Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) and discussed potential cooperation in the agri-food sector and agricultural technology. This included opportunities for joint R&D between the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) and research institutions in Kazakhstan. Both parties also saw significant potential in the agricultural production sector through joint investments to address global food security issues. Malaysia and Kazakhstan also expressed their commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation in agriculture, food security, and modern agricultural technology. The visit is expected to explore the opening of market access for Malaysian agricultural products to Kazakhstan, such as composite products based on dairy or eggs as well as durian fruit. According to KPKM, in 2024, the bilateral trade value in the agriculture sector between Malaysia and Kazakhstan reached RM201.42 million. Of this amount, Malaysia’s exports were recorded at RM200.98 million, comprising mainly coffee, cocoa, tea, spices, and manufactured food products. Meanwhile, imports from Kazakhstan to Malaysia included a variety of food products. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3311/unnati-unleashed-brio-hydroponics-charts-indias-climate-smart-farming-future.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3311/unnati-unleashed-brio-hydroponics-charts-indias-climate-smart-farming-future.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:00:22 +0530 In this exclusive AgroSpectrum interview, Pravin Patel, Founder of Brio Hydroponics, shares how the Unnati project—a 100-acre hydroponics park in Gujarat—is poised to transform Indian agriculture from niche experimentation to mainstream, climate-smart farming. Patel discusses how Brio’s pioneering Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) system combines global technology with local adaptation to deliver year-round, resource-efficient, high-quality produce. He highlights how Unnati not only boosts profitability for investors and farmers but also serves as a training and technology hub, enabling knowledge transfer across the country. The conversation underscores hydroponics’ potential to address climate volatility, water scarcity, and food security while creating scalable, modular solutions for smallholder farmers. Brio’s vision, Patel notes, is to position India as a global leader in sustainable agriculture by 2035, setting new benchmarks for innovation, exports, and farmer-first growth. Redefining Indian Agriculture: From Niche to Mainstream Hydroponics in India is still seen as niche compared to traditional farming. With the launch of Unnati, a 100-acre park, how do you see this project shifting perceptions—and what does it mean for the mainstreaming of soil-less farming in India? Hydroponics in India has traditionally been viewed as an expensive, niche technology primarily suited for urban enthusiasts and high-end commercial ventures. This perception stems from several factors: limited awareness among farmers, high initial capital requirements, and the dominance of traditional soil-based farming practices that have sustained Indian agriculture for millennia. However, this narrative is rapidly changing as water scarcity, climate volatility, and declining soil health create urgent demands for innovative agricultural solutions. Unnati as a Catalyst for Change The launch of Unnati, Brio Hydroponics' 100-acre park in Talod, Sabarkantha district, represents a strategic inflection point in shifting perceptions around soil-less farming. By demonstrating hydroponics at commercial scale rather than experimental plots, Unnati addresses the primary skepticism around scalability and economic viability. The project's scale brings multiple advantages: economies of production, market dominance in premium fresh produce categories, and the ability to showcase consistent, high-quality output regardless of seasonal variations. Pravin Patel, Founder of Brio Hydroponics, emphasizes that "Unnati is not just a park; it's a movement towards climate-smart agriculture. By integrating our CEA system with global best practices, we aim to liberate farmers from weather uncertainties". This positioning transforms hydroponics from a technology solution to a comprehensive agricultural philosophy that prioritizes sustainability, predictability, and profitability. Structural Changes Driving Adoption Several structural factors are accelerating the mainstream adoption of hydroponics in India. First, the increasing urbanization and growing middle-class demand for pesticide-free, fresh produce creates robust market pull. Second, government policy support through initiatives like the National Horticulture Mission and subsidies covering up to 50 per cent of hydroponic capital costs lower entry barriers. Third, the integration of digital technologies—IoT sensors, automated nutrient delivery, and AI-driven monitoring—makes hydroponic systems more accessible to farmers who previously lacked technical expertise. The Indian hydroponics market is projected to grow from $ 263.1 million in 2024 to $ 2,227 million by 2035, reflecting a robust CAGR of 21.43 per cent. This explosive growth trajectory indicates that hydroponics is transitioning from experimental technology to mainstream agricultural practice, driven by both necessity and opportunity. Indian Hydroponics Market Growth Projection (2024-2035) showing explosive growth from $ 263.1 million to $ 2,227 million with 21.43 per cent CAGR From Innovation to Scale: Deploying Breakthrough CEA Technology Brio pioneered the world’s first Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) system. How does Unnati deploy this breakthrough differently, and what scale efficiencies can it unlock for India’s agriculture economy? Brio Hydroponics has pioneered the world's first Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) system, which represents a fundamental breakthrough in precision farming technology. Unlike conventional hydroponics that focuses primarily on soil-less cultivation, Brio's CEA system integrates multiple environmental variables—temperature, humidity, CO₂ concentration, light spectrum, airflow, and nutrient delivery—into a unified, automated platform that optimizes plant growth at every stage. The CEA system deployed at Unnati differs significantly from traditional greenhouse operations. It incorporates global technologies sourced from France, Israel, and New Zealand, specifically adapted for Indian climatic conditions. These technologies include advanced automated irrigation systems, sophisticated climate control mechanisms, and precision nutrient delivery systems that work in harmony to maintain optimal growing conditions throughout the year, irrespective of external weather fluctuations. Scale Efficiencies and Economic Impact Unnati's 100-acre scale unlocks multiple efficiency advantages that smaller hydroponic operations cannot achieve. The infrastructure supports 100 individual hydroponic structures of one acre each, creating an industrial-grade production ecosystem. This scale enables bulk procurement of inputs, standardized operational procedures, and centralized processing and distribution systems that dramatically reduce per-unit production costs. The economic benefits extend beyond cost reduction to revenue optimization. Unnati's strategic tie-ups with retailers, e-commerce platforms, and export channels ensure that produce reaches premium markets quickly and at optimal pricing. The park's integrated business model projects Internal Rate of Return (IRR) between 18-24 per cent annually, making it attractive for both institutional and retail investors. Scale efficiencies also manifest in technology deployment and maintenance. Centralized monitoring systems can oversee multiple growing units simultaneously, reducing labor requirements while improving precision. Automated systems for irrigation, nutrient dosing, and climate control operate more efficiently when managing larger volumes, creating economies of scale that make the technology economically viable for broader adoption. Technology Transfer and Knowledge Creation Beyond immediate production benefits, Unnati serves as a technology transfer hub that demonstrates how advanced CEA systems can be replicated across different regions and scales. The project's success in its initial 30 acres under cultivation provides concrete evidence of technology viability, yield improvements, and economic returns that can be communicated to potential adopters. Brio's Center of Excellence in Gandhinagar has already trained over 500 agripreneurs, significantly enhancing agricultural skills and creating a knowledge ecosystem around hydroponic farming. This knowledge creation function becomes even more critical at Unnati's scale, where the park can serve as a demonstration site for farmers, investors, and policymakers to observe commercial-scale hydroponic operations. Hydroponics vs Traditional Farming: Key Performance Metrics Comparison showing revolutionary improvements in resource efficiency Investor Confidence in Agri-Tech: Making Hydroponics Profitable and Attractive Your early investors highlight transparency, trust, and strong returns as key drivers. How do you make hydroponics, traditionally a capital-intensive venture, both profitable and attractive for institutional and retail investors in India? Hydroponics has traditionally been perceived as a capital-intensive venture with uncertain returns, creating significant barriers for both institutional and retail investors. Brio Hydroponics addresses this challenge through multiple innovative approaches that transform the investment proposition from high-risk speculation to predictable, asset-backed returns. The company's fintech investment platform, launched in 2024, represents India's first digital fixed-return investment platform specifically tailored for the Controlled Environment Agriculture sector. This platform offers investors fixed, assured returns of up to 18 per cent per annum, exemplified by an investment of Rs 10 lakhs yielding Rs 1.8 lakhs annually. The platform has rapidly gained traction, attracting over 125 investors and demonstrating robust confidence in sustainable agricultural practices. Transparency and Trust Mechanisms Investor confidence in Brio Hydroponics stems from the company's commitment to transparency, professional execution, and proven track record. Rajesh Mehta, an Unnati investor, states: "What I value most is trust and assurance. Brio Hydroponics has consistently delivered both with professionalism, transparency, and a proven track record that gave me complete confidence". This trust is built through several mechanisms: Performance Reporting: Regular performance reports and transparent financial disclosures provide investors with real-time insights into their investments. A dedicated investor dashboard offers continuous visibility into farm operations, yield data, and financial performance, fostering trust and ongoing engagement. Agri-Partnership Model: The alignment of investor returns with farm performance ensures that both parties are motivated to achieve excellence in agricultural productivity. This partnership approach transforms investors from passive capital providers to active stakeholders in agricultural success. Proven Track Record: Brio's successful hydroponics projects for major corporate clients including Welspun Group and Adani Group demonstrate the company's capability to execute large-scale, complex agricultural projects. Risk Mitigation and Return Optimization The Unnati model incorporates several risk mitigation strategies that make hydroponics attractive for institutional and retail investors. The cluster-based farming system managed by seasoned professionals at Brio Hydroponics reduces operational risks while ensuring consistent quality and output. Climate-controlled environments eliminate weather-related crop losses, while integrated pest management systems minimize disease and pest risks. Market risk is addressed through diversified crop portfolios focusing on premium categories such as leafy greens, herbs, and exotic vegetables that command higher prices and have growing demand in urban markets. Strategic partnerships with retailers and export channels provide assured market access and pricing stability. The company's ambitious target to raise Rs 100 crores through its investment platform within the first year demonstrates significant investor appetite for structured agri-tech investments. This capital will support the development of additional hi-tech farming projects across India, creating a scalable model for sustainable agriculture investment. Climate and Food Security: Addressing India's Dual Challenge Climate and Food Security: You’ve often spoken about freeing farmers from weather uncertainty. How can hydroponics-based systems like Unnati address India’s dual challenge of climate volatility and food security—and is there a risk of this becoming a solution only for high-value crops rather than staples? India's agricultural sector faces unprecedented challenges from climate volatility, with erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events becoming increasingly common. Traditional farming methods, dependent on monsoon cycles and seasonal patterns, leave farmers highly vulnerable to weather uncertainties that can devastate entire crop cycles and rural livelihoods. Research indicates that approximately 52-55 per cent of Indian farmers have no access to irrigation and depend entirely on rain-fed agriculture. This dependency becomes increasingly problematic as climate change intensifies rainfall variability, with longer dry spells followed by intense flooding periods that disrupt crop growth cycles. The Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) study found that 87 per cent of tehsils across India experienced decreased Southwest Monsoon rainfall during crucial Kharif crop sowing months from 1982 to 2022. Hydroponics as Climate Resilience Solution Controlled Environment Agriculture systems like those deployed at Unnati offer a compelling solution to climate-related agricultural risks. By creating fully controlled growing environments, hydroponic systems eliminate dependency on external weather conditions, enabling consistent, year-round production regardless of climatic variability. The technology's water efficiency is particularly crucial for India's water-stressed regions. Hydroponic systems use up to 90 per cent less water compared to traditional farming methods, making them especially valuable in drought-prone areas where water scarcity limits agricultural productivity. This efficiency is achieved through closed-loop systems that recycle nutrient solutions and eliminate water loss through soil percolation and evaporation. Climate-controlled environments also enable precise management of temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels, optimizing plant growth conditions that would be impossible to achieve in open-field agriculture. This precision allows farmers to maintain consistent crop quality and yields even during extreme weather events that would devastate traditional farms. Food Security Implications and Staple Crop Considerations While hydroponic systems excel in producing high-value crops like leafy greens, herbs, and specialty vegetables, questions remain about their applicability to staple crops that form the foundation of Indian food security. Currently, most hydroponic operations focus on premium produce that commands higher market prices and provides better economic returns for the capital invested. However, this limitation may not necessarily represent a systemic failure. Hydroponics can contribute to food security through multiple pathways: Nutritional Enhancement: Premium crops grown hydroponically often have superior nutritional profiles and longer shelf lives, improving overall dietary quality. Market Segmentation: By serving premium market segments, hydroponics frees up traditional agricultural land for staple crop production, potentially improving overall resource allocation. Technology Evolution: As hydroponic technologies mature and costs decrease, applications to staple crops may become economically viable, particularly for crops requiring precise nutrient management. The integration of hydroponics with traditional farming systems creates complementary approaches rather than replacement scenarios. Farmers can use hydroponic systems for high-value cash crops while maintaining traditional cultivation for staple grains, diversifying their income sources and reducing overall risk exposure. Scaling Climate-Smart Solutions Brio's partnerships with institutions like Anand Agricultural University and IFFCO position the company to scale climate-smart agriculture solutions across diverse agricultural contexts. These partnerships enable research and development of hydroponic systems specifically adapted to Indian conditions, crop preferences, and farmer economics. The Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) framework emphasizes three key objectives: increasing agricultural productivity, building resilience to climate change, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Hydroponic systems align with all three objectives by delivering higher yields per unit area, eliminating weather-related risks, and reducing the need for chemical inputs that contribute to environmental degradation. Global Technologies, Local Impact: Adapting International Solutions Unnati is deploying agri-technologies from France, Israel, and New Zealand. How do you ensure these global systems adapt to India’s local conditions—water availability, smallholder economics, and diverse crop demand? Unnati's deployment of agri-technologies from France, Israel, and New Zealand represents a sophisticated approach to technology transfer that balances global innovation with local adaptation. Rather than implementing foreign technologies wholesale, Brio Hydroponics has developed a localization strategy that adapts these systems to India's specific conditions, including water availability, climate variability, smallholder economics, and diverse crop demands. The partnership with Israeli firm Pic-Plant Ltd exemplifies this approach, introducing patented technologies such as rain protection systems, wire rope configurations, and triple-layer net houses that enable high-yield, superior-quality produce across all seasons. These technologies were specifically modified to address Indian climatic challenges, including high humidity, intense heat, and monsoon conditions that differ significantly from Mediterranean growing environments. French precision agriculture technologies contribute advanced nutrient delivery systems and automated climate control mechanisms that ensure optimal growing conditions. New Zealand's expertise in post-harvest processing, traceability systems, and export quality standards helps establish supply chain excellence that meets international market requirements. Addressing Local Conditions and Constraints India's water scarcity challenges require hydroponic systems to be exceptionally efficient in water usage. The technologies deployed at Unnati incorporate closed-loop water recycling systems that minimize waste and maximize efficiency. Advanced sensors monitor soil moisture, nutrient concentrations, and pH levels in real-time, enabling precise water and nutrient delivery that eliminates overwatering and nutrient runoff. The systems are designed to operate effectively with varying water quality conditions common in Indian agricultural regions. Water treatment and purification systems ensure that even brackish or mineral-heavy water sources can be used effectively, expanding the geographic areas where hydroponic systems can be deployed successfully. Smallholder Economics and Scalability Recognizing that over 86 per cent of Indian farmers operate plots smaller than two hectares, Brio's technology adaptation focuses on scalable solutions that can be economically viable at different scales. The modular design of hydroponic structures allows farmers to start with smaller installations and expand gradually as they gain experience and capital. The company's training programs and technical support systems address the skill requirements that often prevent smallholder farmers from adopting advanced technologies. By providing comprehensive training modules, ongoing technical assistance, and standardized operating procedures, Brio reduces the knowledge barriers that traditionally limit technology adoption among resource-constrained farmers. Diverse Crop Demand and Market Integration India's diverse culinary traditions and regional crop preferences require hydroponic systems to be adaptable to multiple crop types beyond the leafy greens and herbs commonly grown in other countries. Unnati's systems are configured to grow 28 different kinds of leafy greens and various vine crops including colored capsicums, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and French beans. This crop diversity requires sophisticated nutrient management systems that can adjust growing conditions for different plant families and growth stages. The integration of AI-driven monitoring and automated nutrient delivery enables precise management of these diverse crop requirements within the same facility. Technology Integration and Digital Infrastructure The adaptation of global technologies to Indian conditions involves significant integration with digital infrastructure and IoT systems. Unnati incorporates sensors for monitoring electrical conductivity, pH levels, temperature, and humidity, with wireless sensor nodes transmitting data to central control units for real-time monitoring and adjustments. This digital integration aligns with India's Digital Agriculture Mission and AgriStack infrastructure, creating synergies between private sector innovation and public sector digital platforms. The integration enables farmers to access satellite-based weather advisories, market information, and technical support through unified digital interfaces. Blockchain technology is being explored for supply chain transparency and traceability, enabling Unnati's produce to meet international export standards and command premium prices in global markets. This technological sophistication transforms Indian hydroponic produce from local agricultural products to globally competitive commodities. Partnerships as Growth Drivers: Scaling Through Collaboration With alliances like Anand Agricultural University and IFFCO, you’re building strong institutional linkages. What role do you see public–private partnerships playing in scaling hydroponics nationwide, and how do you plan to integrate smallholder farmers into this high-tech ecosystem? Brio Hydroponics' partnerships with Anand Agricultural University, IFFCO, and other institutions represent a strategic approach to scaling hydroponics technology across India's agricultural landscape. These partnerships provide multiple benefits: research and development capabilities, institutional credibility, access to farmer networks, and policy influence that facilitates technology adoption at scale. The collaboration with Anand Agricultural University, located in Gujarat's agricultural heartland, provides research expertise in crop sciences, soil health, and agricultural engineering. This partnership enables the development of region-specific hydroponic solutions that address local crop preferences, growing conditions, and farmer requirements. University research facilities support ongoing innovation in nutrient formulations, crop varieties, and system optimization. IFFCO's involvement brings significant advantages in terms of farmer outreach, input supply chains, and cooperative structure expertise. As one of India's largest fertilizer cooperatives, IFFCO has extensive networks reaching millions of farmers across the country. This partnership enables Brio to leverage existing distribution channels, farmer relationships, and cooperative structures to introduce hydroponic technologies at grassroots levels. Public-Private Partnership Model The public-private partnership approach adopted by Brio creates synergies between government policy objectives and private sector innovation capabilities. Government initiatives like the National Horticulture Mission, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, and subsidies for controlled environment agriculture provide policy support and financial incentives that reduce adoption barriers. These partnerships enable Brio to participate in government programs that provide technical assistance, financial subsidies, and market linkages to farmers adopting advanced agricultural technologies. The alignment with national agricultural policies ensures that Brio's expansion strategy supports broader government objectives of agricultural modernization, water conservation, and climate resilience. The integration with India's Digital Agriculture Mission creates opportunities for Brio's technologies to be incorporated into national digital infrastructure for agriculture. This integration can provide farmers with access to hydroponic technologies through existing government platforms, reducing the complexity and cost of technology adoption. Smallholder Integration Strategy Integrating smallholder farmers into high-tech hydroponic ecosystems requires careful attention to economic constraints, technical capabilities, and risk management preferences. Brio's approach involves multiple strategies designed to make advanced technologies accessible to resource-constrained farmers: Modular Technology Design: Hydroponic systems are designed in modular units that allow farmers to start with small installations and expand gradually. This approach reduces initial capital requirements while enabling farmers to gain experience and build confidence with the technology. Training and Capacity Building: Comprehensive training programs provide farmers with technical skills required for hydroponic operations. Brio's Training & Placement Assistance program offers two-week intensive training followed by ongoing technical support, ensuring farmers have the knowledge needed for successful operations. Financial Support and Risk Sharing: The fintech investment platform and agri-partnership models provide alternative financing mechanisms that reduce financial risks for smallholder farmers. Investors can provide capital while farmers contribute land and labor, sharing both risks and returns. Cooperative Integration: Working with existing farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and cooperative structures enables smallholder farmers to access hydroponic technologies collectively, sharing costs and risks while maintaining individual farming operations. Technology Transfer and Knowledge Dissemination Brio's partnership strategy includes significant emphasis on knowledge transfer and skill development. The Center of Excellence in Gandhinagar has trained over 500 agripreneurs, creating a network of skilled practitioners who can support technology diffusion across agricultural communities. This knowledge dissemination approach creates multiplier effects, where trained farmers become technology advocates and informal advisors for their communities. The demonstration effect of successful hydroponic operations encourages broader adoption while providing peer-to-peer learning opportunities that are often more effective than formal training programs. The partnerships also facilitate technology standardization and quality assurance, ensuring that hydroponic systems deployed across different regions maintain consistent performance standards. This standardization is crucial for scaling technology adoption while maintaining quality and economic viability. Beyond Gujarat: National and Global Expansion Strategy With Unnati now underway, what’s your national and global expansion strategy? Do you envision replicating this park model across states—or building smaller modular units that could integrate into farmer clusters? Brio Hydroponics' expansion strategy beyond Gujarat involves both replicating the large-scale park model and developing smaller, modular units that can integrate into existing farmer clusters. The success of Unnati's initial 30 acres under cultivation provides a proven template that can be adapted to different geographic and economic contexts across India. The company has already acquired land for expansion projects, including 36 acres near Mumbai with potential scaling to 60 acres, demonstrating commitment to geographic diversification. This expansion strategy focuses on proximity to major urban centers where demand for premium, pesticide-free produce is highest and supply chain logistics can be optimized. The expansion approach recognizes that different regions have varying requirements based on climate conditions, water availability, crop preferences, and market dynamics. Rather than implementing identical systems, Brio adapts its core CEA technology platform to local conditions while maintaining standardized operational procedures and quality standards. Modular Integration Strategy Beyond large-scale parks, Brio is developing smaller modular units designed to integrate into existing farmer clusters and cooperative structures. This approach addresses the reality that most Indian farmers operate small plots and may not have the capital or inclination to participate in large-scale commercial operations. Modular systems can be deployed at village levels, serving clusters of 10-20 farmers who collectively invest in hydroponic infrastructure while maintaining individual farming operations. This approach leverages existing social structures and cooperative traditions while introducing advanced agricultural technologies. The modular approach also enables faster deployment and lower per-unit capital requirements, making hydroponic technology accessible to a broader range of farmers and geographic locations. Standardized modules can be manufactured centrally and assembled locally, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining quality standards. International Expansion and Export Focus Brio's international expansion strategy includes both technology export and produce export components. The company has already established operations in the Maldives and is finalizing projects in Mauritius and the Caribbean islands. This international expansion leverages India's growing reputation in agricultural technology and Brio's proven expertise in tropical and subtropical growing conditions. The export strategy focuses on regions where water scarcity, limited arable land, or challenging growing conditions make hydroponic systems particularly valuable. Small island nations, desert regions, and urban areas in developing countries represent priority markets where Brio's technologies can address critical food security challenges. International expansion also creates opportunities for technology transfer partnerships with foreign governments and development organizations. Brio's experience in adapting global technologies to local conditions positions the company as a valuable partner for agricultural development projects in emerging markets. Digital Platform and Franchise Model The expansion strategy includes development of digital platforms that enable remote monitoring, technical support, and market linkages for distributed hydroponic operations. These platforms can support franchise-style expansion where local entrepreneurs operate hydroponic systems under Brio's technical guidance and quality standards. Digital platforms enable centralized monitoring of multiple sites, standardized operating procedures, and quality assurance systems that maintain brand consistency across geographic locations. Remote monitoring capabilities reduce the need for physical presence while ensuring optimal system performance. The franchise model creates opportunities for local entrepreneurship while maintaining technical standards and market access. Local operators benefit from Brio's proven systems, training programs, and market linkages while adapting operations to local conditions and preferences. The 2035 Vision: India's Model for Climate-Smart Agriculture If we project a decade ahead, what does success for Brio Hydroponics look like? Is it thousands of acres of soil-less farming, a farmer-first export powerhouse, or becoming India’s model for climate-smart agriculture? By 2035, Brio Hydroponics envisions a transformational impact on India's agricultural landscape that extends far beyond the current scale of operations. The company's vision encompasses three interconnected dimensions: massive scaling of soil-less farming infrastructure, establishment of India as a farmer-first export powerhouse, and creation of a replicable model for climate-smart agriculture that can be deployed globally. The scaling vision projects thousands of acres under hydroponic cultivation across multiple states, supported by a network of technology centers, training facilities, and processing hubs. This infrastructure would serve both commercial operations and smallholder farmers, creating an integrated ecosystem that supports diverse scales and types of agricultural operations. Market projections support this ambitious vision, with India's hydroponics market expected to reach $ 2,227 million by 2035, representing a 21.43 per cent compound annual growth rate. This explosive growth trajectory indicates that hydroponics will transition from niche technology to mainstream agricultural practice, driven by water scarcity, climate change, and increasing demand for premium produce. Farmer-First Export Powerhouse Model The 2035 vision positions India as a global leader in hydroponic produce exports, with farmer prosperity at the center of the value chain. This farmer-first approach ensures that technology advancement translates into improved livelihoods for agricultural communities rather than simply benefiting large corporate operations. The export powerhouse model leverages India's competitive advantages in agricultural innovation, skilled technical workforce, and growing expertise in controlled environment agriculture. By 2035, Brio envisions Indian hydroponic produces competing successfully in premium international markets, commanding prices that reflect superior quality, traceability, and sustainable production methods. This export focus requires significant investment in post-harvest infrastructure, cold chain logistics, and quality certification systems. The integration of blockchain technology for supply chain transparency and adherence to international organic and sustainability standards will enable Indian hydroponic produce to access the highest-value global markets. Climate-Smart Agriculture Leadership The broader vision positions India as a global model for climate-smart agriculture that other developing countries can emulate. This leadership role involves several components: technology innovation, policy framework development, institutional capacity building, and international cooperation. India's experience in adapting global hydroponic technologies to local conditions, integrating smallholder farmers into high-tech systems, and scaling sustainable agriculture practices provides valuable lessons for other developing countries facing similar challenges. The knowledge and systems developed through projects like Unnati can be transferred to other regions through technical cooperation programs and development partnerships. The climate-smart agriculture model emphasizes three key outcomes: Productivity Enhancement: Hydroponic systems consistently deliver higher yields per unit area while using fewer resources, contributing to food security without expanding agricultural land use. Climate Resilience: Controlled environment agriculture systems eliminate weather-related risks and enable consistent production despite increasing climate variability. Environmental Sustainability: Reduced water usage, elimination of soil degradation, and minimized chemical inputs create agricultural systems that support rather than degrade environmental health. Technology Integration and Digital Agriculture The 2035 vision includes comprehensive integration of hydroponic systems with India's digital agriculture infrastructure, creating seamless connectivity between controlled environment agriculture and broader agricultural support systems. This integration enables farmers to access weather advisories, market information, technical support, and financial services through unified digital platforms. Artificial intelligence and machine learning systems will optimize hydroponic operations by analyzing vast datasets on plant growth, environmental conditions, and market demand to make real-time adjustments that maximize productivity and profitability. These systems will enable predictive management that anticipates and prevents problems before they impact crop production. The digital integration also enables new forms of agricultural finance and insurance that are specifically designed for controlled environment agriculture. Satellite monitoring, IoT sensors, and blockchain verification can provide the data transparency needed for innovative financial products that reduce risks for both farmers and lenders. Institutional and Policy Framework Achieving the 2035 vision requires supportive institutional and policy frameworks that encourage innovation, facilitate technology adoption, and ensure that benefits reach smallholder farmers. Brio's partnerships with agricultural universities, government agencies, and international organizations create a foundation for policy advocacy and institutional development. The vision includes establishment of specialized training institutions, research centers, and extension services focused on controlled environment agriculture. These institutions would provide the technical expertise, research capabilities, and farmer support services needed to sustain rapid expansion of hydroponic systems across India. Policy frameworks need to address regulatory standards for hydroponic produce, quality certification systems, and trade policies that facilitate exports. The integration of hydroponics into existing agricultural support programs, including subsidies, insurance, and market linkages, will ensure that the technology remains accessible to farmers of all scales. A New Era of Agricultural Innovation Brio Hydroponics' Unnati project represents more than an agricultural venture; it embodies a comprehensive transformation of how India approaches food production, climate resilience, and rural prosperity. Through the strategic deployment of controlled environment agriculture at unprecedented scale, Brio is creating a replicable model that addresses India's most pressing agricultural challenges while establishing pathways for global leadership in sustainable farming technologies. The answers to these critical questions reveal that hydroponics in India is transitioning from experimental technology to mainstream agricultural practice, driven by necessity, opportunity, and visionary leadership. The success of Unnati and similar projects will determine whether India can achieve its vision of climate-smart, sustainable agriculture that serves both farmers and consumers while protecting environmental resources for future generations. The convergence of technological innovation, strategic partnerships, supportive policies, and market demand creates unprecedented opportunities for transforming Indian agriculture. Brio Hydroponics' leadership in this transformation positions the company—and India—at the forefront of a global agricultural revolution that promises to redefine how the world produces food in an era of climate change and resource scarcity. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3308/philippines-japan-strengthen-agricultural-trade-tech-ties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3308/philippines-japan-strengthen-agricultural-trade-tech-ties.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:01:37 +0530 A key focus of the bilateral talks was increasing Philippine agricultural exports to Japan. Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Japanese Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Shinjiro Koizumi met on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Agriculture and Forestry Ministers Meeting to discuss deeper bilateral cooperation in agriculture, including enhanced trade, technology transfer, and sustainability efforts. A key focus of the bilateral talks was increasing Philippine agricultural exports to Japan. Secretary Tiu Laurel requested improved market access for Philippine pomelo and reiterated the country’s long-standing appeal for the elimination of tariffs on fresh bananas, which currently face duties of up to 18 percent. Despite being Japan’s top banana supplier, the Philippines’ market share dropped to 75 percent in 2024 from 94 percent in 2023. Asked during a news conference in whether the tariff issue in Philippine banana was discussed, Secretary Tiu Laurel said: “Yes, that was definitely discussed in our bilateral meeting. The Minister (Koizumi) promised to look into it. I told him the Philippine will persistently pursue this. I really hope we can resolve this issue as soon as possible.” “But of course they have their position. The Philippines is also going through the avenue CEPT…on duty-free to Japan. But it might take time, a few years to complete. So we are looking at the angle of bilateral agreements to speed up the process,” he added. Koizumi holds a lot of sway in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, and according to a Mainichi Shimbun survey, is the top choice among party faithful’s to replace Prime Minister and LDP president Shigeru Ishiba, who had stepped down. Japan, the Philippines’ second-largest importer of agriculture and fishery products in 2024—with purchases exceeding USD 1 billion—has also expressed interest in exporting fresh grapes to the Philippine market. Minister Koizumi confirmed that Japan has submitted a pest risk analysis and technical documents to the Bureau of Plant Industry of the Department of Agriculture to support its request. Beyond trade, both countries are looking to expand cooperation in technology and sustainability. Tiu Laurel welcomed Japan’s continued support under existing frameworks such as the ASEAN-Midori Cooperation Plan and the Philippines-Japan Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Agriculture. He proposed extending the Philippines-Japan MOC to cover fisheries, and technical cooperation that will support modernization and digitalization of the Philippine agriculture and fisheries sector. These will cover smart agriculture, research and development, technology transfer, postharvest technology, mechanization, diagnostic laboratory upgrading, and development, and pest and disease management. Secretary Tiu Laurel also expressed gratitude for Japan’s recent donation of rice to calamity-affected communities through the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve – Tier 3 Program. He reaffirmed the Philippines’ interest in deepening ties ahead of the 70th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations in 2026, including hosting the second Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Agriculture (JCA) at a mutually agreed date next year. The meeting also addressed Japan’s proposal for accelerating the implementation of the Joint Crediting Mechanism between the two countries, particularly in adopting Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology for rice farming. The initiative could become the world’s first bilateral carbon credit program in the agriculture sector. Tiu Laurel expressed support for the effort, noting its potential to boost sustainable farming practices and reduce emissions. In line with its green agenda, Japan has also invited the Philippines to participate in GREENxEXPO 2027, an international horticulture exhibition scheduled to take place in Yokohama. Tiu Laurel confirmed the Department of Agriculture’s interest, noting increasing private sector engagement in floriculture, horticulture, and high-value crop exports. He added that consultations with other government agencies are ongoing to determine the scope of the country’s participation ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3304/banned-in-europe-essential-in-india-global-regulatory-dilemma-of-mancozeb.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3304/banned-in-europe-essential-in-india-global-regulatory-dilemma-of-mancozeb.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 18:09:00 +0530 Mancozeb, that ubiquitous arbiter of phytopathological destiny, continues to bestride the globe as an indispensable fungicidal panacea, even as the European Union has cast it into regulatory obsolescence on grounds of speculative toxicology. Its multisite mode of action, coupled with an enviable paucity of resistance development, renders it indispensable for high-value horticultural and agronomic commodities—from India’s grapes and potatoes to Latin America’s bananas and Brazil’s soybeans. Yet the global regulatory tableau is a patchwork of prudence and profligacy: while North America permits its judicious deployment, India confronts an incomplete evidentiary edifice and the concomitant peril to trade and farmer livelihoods. Empirical case studies elucidate the stark economic and agronomic ramifications of an abrupt excision—diminished yields, escalated input costs, and disrupted export flows—which may well outweigh the conjectural health risks if employed under Good Agricultural Practices. Mancozeb thus embodies the quintessential conundrum of contemporary agriculture: the delicate dialectic between human health, agronomic imperatives, and global food security in an era of climate volatility and international interdependence. Mancozeb, an ethylene-bis-dithiocarbamate (EBDC), stands as one of the globe’s most extensively employed fungicides, esteemed for its broad-spectrum efficacy and remarkable cost-efficiency. Its multisite mode of action allows it to inhibit diverse fungal metabolic pathways, rendering the emergence of resistance exceedingly improbable. In an era in which crop diseases are evolving at a pace that outstrips chemical interventions, Mancozeb has remained an unwavering ally of farmers across continents. Yet, paradoxically, while it is proscribed in the European Union, it remains indispensable in India, Latin America, and other burgeoning agricultural economies. This regulatory disjunction epitomises a global dilemma: the delicate reconciliation of human health imperatives with the exigencies of agricultural productivity and food security. Mancozeb: A Fungicide with Global Reach Across the globe, Mancozeb finds application on a vast array of crops, from the potato fields and vineyards of India and the United Kingdom, to the banana plantations of Latin America, and the sprawling soybean belts of Brazil. Its paramount advantage lies in its multisite mode of action, whereby it simultaneously impedes multiple fungal metabolic pathways. Unlike systemic fungicides, which assail a solitary enzyme or receptor and thus succumb readily to pathogen adaptation, Mancozeb would necessitate the improbable mutation of myriad genes for resistance to arise. It is this very characteristic that has enshrined it as a cornerstone of integrated disease management, frequently deployed in concert with systemic fungicides to combat recalcitrant pathogens such as Plasmopara viticola, the agent responsible for downy mildew in grapes. According to statistics furnished by the Indian government, India alone produces an estimated 500,000 million tonnes of Mancozeb annually, available in a spectrum of formulations including 35% SC, 75% WG, and 75% WP. Beyond Indian shores, Mancozeb retains pre-eminence in the control of potato diseases in the U.K., bananas across Central and South America, and soybeans in Brazil. Its exceptional versatility, coupled with an affordability—generally ranging between $5 and $10 per kilogram—renders it indispensable not only to smallholder farmers but also to large-scale agribusiness enterprises, bridging the imperatives of economic prudence and agricultural efficacy. To understand Mancozeb’s global position, it is important to compare it with alternative fungicides: Fungicide TypeMode of ActionResistance RiskEnvironmental ImpactCost (USD/kg)MancozebMultisite inhibitorLowLow5–10BiofungicidesBiological controlVery LowVery Low15–25Copper FungicidesContact protectantModerateModerate10–20SDHI FungicidesSpecific enzyme inhibitorHighLow20–30 Source: ACS Agricultural Science & Technology, 2022; FAO Pesticide Data Regulatory Landscape: A Global Patchwork Mancozeb’s regulatory status varies sharply across regions, reflecting differences in risk assessment, agricultural priorities, and market sensitivity. European Union On the 14th of December, 2020, the European Commission promulgated Regulation (EU) 2020/2087, thereby proscribing the use of mancozeb, predicated upon its classification as a potential endocrine disruptor. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), whilst acknowledging the lacunae inherent in compound-specific analytical methodologies, nonetheless proceeded with the prohibition, invoking the precautionary principle as the lodestar of its regulatory reasoning. Although the European Union has rescinded approval, mancozeb continues to enjoy provisional sanction within the United Kingdom until the 31st of January, 2024. This interdiction has reverberated across the corridors of global commerce, for EU residue thresholds now exert a determinative influence upon exporters in India, Latin America, and sundry other trading partners, thereby entwining scientific prudence with the imperatives of international agrarian trade. United States In contradistinction, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has undertaken successive and scrupulous evaluations of mancozeb, ultimately adjudging that the acute, chronic, and carcinogenic dietary risks remain comfortably beneath the threshold of concern, provided the compound is employed in strict accordance with label directives. The EPA’s re-registration exercise of 2005 reaffirmed mancozeb’s safety profile, highlighting its negligible acute toxicity and the acceptably circumscribed risk associated with ETU metabolites, which frequently feature in toxicological disputations. A consonant appraisal has been rendered by Canadian authorities, who have sanctioned its continued utilisation within a framework of regulated oversight. India India, as the preeminent global purveyor of Mancozeb, finds itself ensnared in a regulatory quagmire of considerable complexity. In 2020, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare embarked upon a comprehensive review of Mancozeb, alongside twenty-six other agrochemicals, contemplating a prospective proscription. Critics, however, have decried the preliminary assessments as lamentably partial, predicated solely upon thyroid profiles from a singular locus, devoid of the rigorous crop residue analyses requisite for an informed decision. A constellation of Indian stakeholders—including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), farmers’ collectives, and agrochemical enterprises—have championed a measured, evidence-driven approach. They underscore that an abrupt excision of Mancozeb could imperil the export viability of table grapes, potatoes, and other high-value horticultural commodities, with attendant repercussions on both agrarian livelihoods and the nation’s foreign exchange inflows. Economic and Trade Implications Globally, Mancozeb undergirds the livelihoods of millions of agrarians and contributes billions of dollars to agricultural export revenues. In India, for instance, table grapes and potatoes—both high-value export commodities—rely extensively upon Mancozeb for efficacious disease management. Downy mildew in grapes and early and late blight in potatoes can wreak havoc on yields if left unchecked, and projections indicate that the excision of Mancozeb could truncate output by 20 to 30 per cent per hectare. Such a diminution would reverberate through India’s export markets, particularly the European Union, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, potentially eroding the nation’s competitive advantage and diminishing foreign exchange inflows derived from horticultural exports. The scenario in Latin America is no less grave, especially in the context of banana cultivation. Black sigatoka, engendered by Mycosphaerella fijiensis, exhibits formidable resistance to many fungicidal interventions, rendering EBDCs such as Mancozeb the most efficacious recourse. Withdrawal of this fungicide would likely escalate production costs by up to 30 per cent, as cultivators would be compelled to substitute either costlier or less effective alternatives, while yields might concomitantly decline due to suboptimal disease control. Such perturbations could undermine the global competitiveness of Latin American bananas, imperiling both large-scale exporters and the smallholder farmers whose very sustenance is entwined with this crop. In the United Kingdom, Mancozeb plays an indispensable role in potato cultivation, with over 90 per cent of the crop area routinely treated to mitigate the twin threats of late and early blight. Bereft of Mancozeb, farmers would be compelled to deploy alternative fungicides, such as SDHIs or strobilurins, which are not only more costly but also prone to engendering resistance. This substitution could conceivably double per-hectare fungicide expenditures, compressing margins within an already fiercely competitive agricultural sector. Brazilian soybean cultivation further exemplifies the global ramifications. Soybeans, a strategic commodity in both domestic and international markets, are vulnerable to diseases such as Asian soybean rust, which can inflict severe yield losses. Mancozeb has demonstrably curtailed disease incidence by 60 to 70 per cent in field trials, preserving both output volume and quality. Its withdrawal would imperil yield stability, destabilise global supply chains, and amplify dependence upon costlier, single-target fungicides, thereby exacerbating resistance pressures over time. Collectively, these vignettes underscore Mancozeb’s remarkable economic efficacy. It furnishes broad-spectrum disease control at modest cost, with minimal risk of resistance evolution, rendering it indispensable for both high-value and staple crops alike. The prospective consequences of its removal extend beyond mere yield diminution: they encompass escalated input costs, heightened financial vulnerability for farmers, and potential disruption of international trade flows. When juxtaposed with the posited health risks—which, under judicious adherence to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), remain largely negligible—the economic and food security imperatives of sustaining Mancozeb arguably outweigh the speculative hazards, thereby accentuating the necessity for a nuanced, evidence-based regulatory paradigm. Conclusion Mancozeb occupies a singular and paradoxical nexus at the confluence of agriculture, public health, and international commerce—prohibited in Europe, yet indispensable across India, Latin America, and other emerging agrarian economies. Its multisite mode of action, combined with economic prudence and broad-spectrum disease control, renders it an essential instrument for safeguarding high-value crops such as grapes, bananas, potatoes, and soybeans. Global case studies consistently illuminate a salient truth: precipitous prohibitions risk imperilling both food security and economic resilience. While toxicological apprehensions warrant meticulous management and sustained scholarly inquiry, an indiscriminate withdrawal devoid of nuanced risk assessment could paradoxically engender greater detriment—manifesting as yield contractions, escalated market prices, and the erosion of farmer livelihoods. Confronted with the twin imperatives of climate change and the relentless emergence of phytopathogens, alongside the exacting demands of global trade standards, Mancozeb exemplifies the delicate equilibrium between scientific circumspection and pragmatic stewardship. Its narrative transcends the mere pharmacology of a fungicide; it epitomises the broader dialectic of global food security, responsible agrochemical governance, and harmonised regulatory praxis in an intricately interdependent world. --- Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3299/u-s-soy-strengthens-southeast-asia-trade-ties-focusing-on-resilient-supply-chains-global-trade-and-long-term-food-security.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3299/u-s-soy-strengthens-southeast-asia-trade-ties-focusing-on-resilient-supply-chains-global-trade-and-long-term-food-security.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:13:15 +0530 The conference highlighted collaboration in agriculture under the theme ‘Partners in Agriculture: Enabling Trade Today, Unlocking Tomorrow.’ More than 400 agricultural leaders and stakeholders from over 20 countries gathered in Jakarta, for the S.E. Asia U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference. Co-organized by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council and held under the theme "Enabling Trade Today, Unlocking Tomorrow," the event underscored shared goals in strengthening global trade, building resilient supply chains, and ensuring long-term food security. The three-day event featured business-to-business networking, keynote addresses, panel discussions, and expert sessions on key topics including logistics, market access, regulatory trends, and sustainability across the agricultural value chain. Delegates explored opportunities to enhance trade in U.S. soybeans, corn, and co-products to support Southeast Asia's rapidly evolving food and feed sectors. Southeast Asia and Indonesia: Strategic Partners for U.S. Soy Southeast Asia remains a vital and fast-growing destination for U.S. agricultural exports. In Marketing Year 2023/24, the region imported approximately 9.08 million metric tons (MMT) of whole soybeans and 20.89 MMT of soybean meal[1], reflecting strong demand from both the food and feed sectors. "Southeast Asia continues to be a key region of growth for U.S. Soy, driven by rising demand, a growing middle class, and expanding protein consumption," said Timothy Loh, USSEC Regional Director, Southeast Asia & Oceania. "Through long-standing partnerships and a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, we're delivering value to the region and helping build a more secure, resilient future together." Within the region, Indonesia stands out as Southeast Asia's largest importer of U.S. soybeans for food use, underscoring its strategic importance to U.S. producers. Strong consumer demand and a cultural preference for traditional soy-based foods like tempe and tofu continue to drive soybean imports, while the country's rising protein needs are unlocking new opportunities for U.S. soybean meal in the feed sector. Advancing Shared Priorities The conference spotlighted how long-term collaboration between U.S. Soy producers and Southeast Asian partners helps ensure supply reliability, strengthens market access, and unlocks mutual value. Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized the importance of transparency, trust, and innovation in navigating an increasingly complex global trade environment. In a leadership dialogue, USSEC CEO Jim Sutter and USSEC Chair Janna Fritz discussed how data, technology, and farmer-led innovation are shaping the future of agriculture. They emphasized the unique strengths of U.S. Soy: its lowest carbon footprint, superior sustainability and the dedication of multi-generational U.S. farmers to quality and long-term supply. Both leaders highlighted the value of close engagement with customers to better understand evolving market needs. Across multiple sessions, speakers also underscored the region's rising demand for high-quality protein and the growing importance of secure, sustainable supply chains to meet that demand. Food safety, traceability, and consistent product quality were noted as top priorities for Southeast Asian buyers and consumers. Strengthening Partnerships for the FutureThe conference reaffirmed the value of strong, collaborative partnerships across the agricultural supply chain. By bringing together U.S. producers, exporters, buyers, feed millers, processors, and government leaders, the event provided a timely platform to shape a more resilient, sustainable future for global agriculture. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3258/agri-malaysia-malaysias-largest-b2b-agriculture-technology-exhibition-brings-asean-to-the-forefront.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3258/agri-malaysia-malaysias-largest-b2b-agriculture-technology-exhibition-brings-asean-to-the-forefront.html Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:42:47 +0530 Agri Malaysia 2025: A Landmark event driving innovation and global collaboration in agriculture Agri Malaysia 2025, Malaysia’s largest B2B agriculture technology exhibition, concluded its eighth edition with resounding success, solidifying its reputation as a premier platform for agricultural innovation and collaboration. Held from Sept 11 to 13 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) in Kuala Lumpur, the event drew over 13,000 agriculture professionals from 18 countries, showcasing the latest advancements in agriculture, plantation commodities, and horticulture industries. Under the theme "Futuristic Innovates Agriculture," the exhibition featured 450 exhibitors across 650 booths, representing more than 900 local and international brands. For the first time, Agri Malaysia received official support and participation from the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (MAFS), the Plantation and Commodities Ministry, and their respective agencies, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing the agricultural sector. The event also strengthened its international presence with dedicated country pavilions from South Korea, China, Taiwan, and India, emphasizing its role as a global catalyst for agricultural exchange. Among the highlights were the AgriTalk seminars, which hosted over 60 free sessions led by experts from Vietnam, Thailand, and Taiwan. Topics ranged from off-season durian farming and the potential of the coconut market to palm oil innovations and Malaysia Good Agriculture Practices (myGAP), myPesticide, GeoTanih, GeoTanaman certifications. The AgriDemo zone offered live demonstrations of cutting-edge agricultural machinery and equipment, while the AgriClinic provided on-site consultations and analysis services for leaf, soil, and water, guided by agronomists and technical experts. The AgriSmart Smart Farming Zone showcased digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data Analytics (BDA), artificial intelligence (AI), and DroneTech, reflecting the growing role of technology in modern agriculture. Planters also benefited from direct engagement with the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), which offered guidance on license applications and the registration process for Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification. This year’s exhibition focused on four key industry segments: palm oil, durian, fruits and vegetables, and highland and lowland agriculture, providing attendees with targeted insights into Malaysia’s agricultural priorities. Farmers, growers, and planters left the event equipped with practical techniques to improve yield and reduce costs, as well as valuable guidance on compliance, certifications, and government support. Networking sessions further facilitated strategic partnerships among farmers, growers, planters, and industry stakeholders. The face-to-face interactions with industry leaders, government agencies, and international experts offered immediate insights and opportunities for collaboration. Agri Malaysia 2025 not only delivered on its promise of innovation but also reinforced its position as a vital platform for driving the future of agriculture in Malaysia and beyond. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3254/cambodia-and-philippines-discuss-strengthening-bilateral-trade-and-food-supply-resilience.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3254/cambodia-and-philippines-discuss-strengthening-bilateral-trade-and-food-supply-resilience.html Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:19:44 +0530 Signs MoU to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, ensure mutual food security, and promote sustainable trade The Philippines and Cambodia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening agricultural cooperation during a bilateral meeting between Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Dith Tina. The meeting, held during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Cambodia, focused on enhancing agricultural trade, food security, and market access for farm products. Minister Dith expressed optimism about the growing demand for Cambodian agricultural exports in the Philippines, particularly premium aromatic rice, which is increasingly sought after in urban areas like Manila. Secretary Tiu Laurel, in turn, highlighted the potential of Cambodian products such as rice, fish, meat, and vegetables to meet the needs of the Philippines’ expanding population. He noted that the Philippines is preparing to welcome more Cambodian agricultural goods, a move that will bolster bilateral trade and improve food supply resilience. “This bilateral meeting is a step forward to flesh out the agreement signed earlier this year by the Philippines and Cambodia on agricultural trade, cooperation, and knowledge transfer,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel. The talks emphasized the importance of mutual food security and sustainable trade between the two nations. The meeting builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Agricultural and Agribusiness Cooperation signed in February during Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet’s state visit to Manila. The agreement aims to boost investments in Cambodia’s agriculture sector, particularly in rice production, and explore trade opportunities in vegetables and meat while facilitating technical exchange and training. As part of their ongoing collaboration, Secretary Tiu Laurel and Minister Dith visited the Khmer Food Group and the Tram Bok Modern Agricultural Community to observe best practices in vegetable farming and agri-innovation. These visits underscored the shared goal of enhancing agricultural productivity and fostering knowledge exchange between the two countries. The bilateral meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to advancing agricultural cooperation, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable trade. This partnership is seen as a significant step in strengthening the agricultural ties between the Philippines and Cambodia, paving the way for greater collaboration in the future. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3253/pan-group-signs-deal-with-japanese-partners-to-drive-sustainable-agriculture-in-vietnam.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3253/pan-group-signs-deal-with-japanese-partners-to-drive-sustainable-agriculture-in-vietnam.html Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:13:28 +0530 The PAN Group has signed a cooperation agreement with Japanese partners AGRI SMILE and Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. to contribute to sustainable agriculture Vietnam and Japan have significant potential to expand agricultural and food cooperation. Vietnam offers abundant and diverse agricultural and seafood supplies, while Japan has a high demand for safe, high-quality, and traceable food products. Japan’s ageing population, labour shortages in agriculture, and consumer preferences for healthy, sustainable food further reinforce these opportunities. In addition to direct exports, both countries can expand cooperation in deep processing, value-added product development, preservation technologies, and high-tech agriculture. Acting Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Duc Thang shared five key targets that the two parties should focus on implementing to boost the agricultural sector. The first thing is to expand agricultural trade cooperation. The two ministries will continue to promote the opening of each country's agricultural product markets, creating favourable conditions for agricultural, forestry, and fishery trade, for the benefit of producers and consumers of both countries. Besides that, it is necessary to build a sustainable agricultural supply chain and bilateral investment linkages. Enterprises of the two countries can cooperate from production, processing, logistics, to distribution to reduce costs, improve quality, and meet the most stringent standards of the Japanese and international markets. Developing green agriculture, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and adapting to climate change are also important targets. This is an inevitable requirement for Vietnam in the roadmap towards the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, and is also a priority of Japan within the ASEAN-Japan Green Cooperation Plan. Furthermore, it needs to promote innovation, digital transformation, and agricultural mechanisation. Japan has leading strengths in technology, while Vietnam has a large market and high demand for production modernisation. This combination will create new value for both economies. Improving the capacity of farmers and small- and medium-sized enterprises in agriculture is also a key target. This is the key force to realise all policies, so cooperation in training, knowledge transfer, and the formation of new cooperative models should be prioritised. “The private sector’s cooperation plays an important role in catching these five targets. The two governments will continue to create favourable mechanisms, but it is the enterprises, associations, and cooperatives that are the direct forces to implement, innovate, and lead the market. Today’s forum is a testament to that determination, when the government and enterprises sit together to dialogue, share, and sign specific cooperation agreements,” Thang said. “With the presence of nearly 100 businessmen from both countries at the event, I believe that the forum will open up many new cooperation opportunities, helping businesses to link in agricultural trade and investment, bringing practical benefits to the people, and to the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Japan,” he said. The PAN Group is a Vietnamese corporation in agriculture and food. Its portfolio includes major companies in agriculture, aquaculture, and packaged foods such as Vinaseed, VFC, Fimex, Aquatex Bentre, Bibica, Lafooco, and 584 Nha Trang. Japan is a key strategic market and currently the largest export destination for The PAN Group. In 2024, the group achieved consolidated revenue of VND16.1 trillion ($650 million), with exports to Japan reaching nearly $100 million, accounting for 34 per cent of the group’s total export revenue ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3246/eleventh-sino-german-agricultural-week-unveils-in-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3246/eleventh-sino-german-agricultural-week-unveils-in-china.html Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:48:32 +0530 Theme “Agri-Food Systems in Rural Areas: Green Solutions and Business Opportunities” The 11th Sino-German Agricultural Week unveiled in Chengdu, China's Sichuan Province, in September first week. Co-hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) of China and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity of Germany. The event focused on the theme “Agri-Food Systems in Rural Areas: Green Solutions and Business Opportunities.” Tao Huaiying, Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) of MARA, Markus Schick, State Secretary of the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity, and Hu Yun, Vice Governor of Sichuan Province, attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks.  Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Tao noted that the Chinese government attaches great importance to national food security and rural revitalization, and is committed to continuing efforts to enhance the supply of grain and key agro-products, creating a new agricultural production model that aligns with the carrying capacity of resources and the environment, and promoting the construction of livable, business-friendly, and beautiful countryside. China is also working to build a greener, more resilient, and sustainable food system while enhancing the vitality of rural development. To deepen agricultural cooperation between China and Germany, Tao put forward three proposals: 1) shoulder the responsibility as major nations to safeguard global food security and promote the transformation of global agri-food systems 2) cooperate in the development of rural areas and deepen mutual learning on constructing livable, business-friendly, and beautiful countryside 3) jointly establish platforms of excellence to achieve deeper and more concrete cooperation across all agricultural sectors.  State Secretary Schick highlighted the vast potential for Germany–China agricultural cooperation in high-quality agricultural production, sustainable agricultural and rural development, and ecological agriculture. Germany seeks to work with China to build more resilient agri-food systems and fully leverage the platform role of the Sino-German Agricultural Centre.  More than 200 representatives from government departments, research institutions, business associations, and companies from both countries attended the event.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3239/indonesia-and-brazil-forge-economic-cooperation-in-energy-transition-and-agriculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3239/indonesia-and-brazil-forge-economic-cooperation-in-energy-transition-and-agriculture.html Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:45:26 +0530 Focuses on bilateral trade cooperation with several potential export commodities beyond palm oil and coconut oil, including machinery and other manufactured goods The Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Indonesia), Anindya Novyan Bakrie, met Ambassador of Brazil to Indonesia, George Monteiro Prata, at The Convergence Indonesia, Rasuna Epicentrum, and discussed the growing economic ties between Indonesia and Brazil, with a particular focus on collaboration in energy transition and agriculture. President Prabowo Subianto met with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during his recent state visit to Brazil in July. Anindya emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral economic cooperation, noting that both countries have significant potential to expand partnerships in critical sectors. He added that several strategic topics were discussed during the meeting, including biofuel-based energy transition and agricultural development. According to Anin, Brazil’s advanced agricultural sector offers valuable insights and opportunities for Indonesia. “We talked about energy transition, and also about agriculture a sector in which Brazil is highly advanced. They’re even focusing their energy transition efforts on biofuels. In general, the relationship between Brazil and Indonesia is very good, and we believe there’s room to strengthen it even further,” Anin added. On the issue of the Indonesia–Brazil trade balance, which currently remains in deficit, Anin emphasized the need to explore new sectors to create a more balanced trade relationship. “What matters most is ensuring trade continues to grow. As more sectors are developed, trade will become more balanced. We need to work hard to create export products with added value that are in demand in Brazil,” he said. Anin highlighted several potential export commodities beyond palm oil and coconut oil, such as machinery and other manufactured goods. “There are many product categories with export potential from machinery to various manufactured products that we can develop more strategically,” Anin added. Meanwhile, Ambassador George Monteiro Prata underlined the importance of strengthening the economic ties and deepening bilateral cooperation between the two countries. “There are huge business opportunities between Brazil and Indonesia, and we want to tap into them. We also see President Lula's upcoming visit to Indonesia as a key moment. That’s one of the reasons I came today to thank Kadin for receiving me and to explore what we can do together to enhance business relations between Brazil and Indonesia,” concluded Ambassador George. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3234/taiwan-indonesia-policy-and-food-security-dialogues-strengthen-agricultural-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3234/taiwan-indonesia-policy-and-food-security-dialogues-strengthen-agricultural-cooperation.html Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:33:05 +0530 Preliminary agreements were reached to expand market access for agricultural products and strengthen trade cooperation. Taiwan and Indonesia recently concluded the 5th Taiwan-Indonesia Agricultural Cooperation Consultation Meeting in Taipei, reinforcing their agricultural partnership under the 2016 Taiwan-Indonesia Agricultural Cooperation Agreement. The meeting focused on agricultural policy, market access, and broader cooperation, with a particular emphasis on addressing food security challenges intensified by climate change. Both nations agreed to enhance agricultural resilience through technological collaboration and talent development, aiming to ensure stable food supplies. An Indonesian agricultural delegation toured food industry operations in Changhua and Yilan from August 29 to 30, gaining insights into Taiwan's agricultural practices. They also met with young Indonesian farmers interning in Taiwan, highlighting the tangible outcomes of bilateral cooperation. Indonesia is a key partner under Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, which seeks to deepen ties with Southeast Asian nations. Since the signing of the agricultural cooperation agreement, the two countries have collaborated to promote agricultural technology, talent exchanges, and industry development. The latest meeting is expected to strengthen future agricultural ties between Taiwan and Indonesia, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and mutual benefits. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3233/sustainable-rice-production-in-vietnam-challenges-innovations-and-market-opportunities.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3233/sustainable-rice-production-in-vietnam-challenges-innovations-and-market-opportunities.html Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:11:04 +0530 Roland Vanhoegaerden, Operations Managing Director for Specialty Rice Ingredients at BENEO 1. How does Vietnam's reliance on rice exports impact its economic stability and food security? What challenges does the industry face in terms of sustainability and environmental impact? Vietnam is one of the world’s largest rice exporters and relies heavily on rice cultivation for rural employment, food security, and foreign exchange earnings. However, intensive rice production practices—designed to meet global demand—have led to growing environmental challenges that directly threaten the sector’s long-term viability. These include inefficient water use, excessive fertiliser and pesticide application, and the widespread burning of rice straw after harvest. Together, they contribute to soil degradation, declining biodiversity, and substantial greenhouse gas emissions. Methane from flooded rice paddies is especially concerning, as global rice cultivation contributes approximately 10% of anthropogenic methane emissions.In particular, Vietnam’s Mekong Delta faces severe climate risks. As climate change intensifies and global buyers increase scrutiny of sustainability practices, Vietnam’s rice sector must adapt through more resilient, environmentally responsible approaches. For the nation, sustainable rice production is not only vital to preserve export competitiveness but also to ensure domestic food security and rural livelihoods over the long term. 2. How do inefficient water use, overapplication of fertilizers and pesticides, and the burning of rice residues in Vietnam’s farming sector contribute to soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and higher greenhouse gas emissions? Rice farming in the Mekong Delta still depends heavily on conventional practices that are no longer sustainable. Continuous flooding of rice fields, for instance, creates anaerobic conditions ideal for methane-producing microbes. Overuse of synthetic fertilisers and chemical pesticides leads to runoff, water pollution, and long-term nutrient imbalances in soil.The common post-harvest practice of burning rice residues is particularly harmful. It releases large amounts of CO₂, methane, and black carbon into the atmosphere, while also destroying organic matter that could otherwise enhance soil quality. These approaches not only damage the environment but reduce the long-term productivity of farmland and increase costs for farmers due to chemical dependency and soil fatigue.Transitioning to sustainable and regenerative practices is essential to break this cycle and restore soil health, reduce emissions, and protect biodiversity. 3. How is BENEO's collaboration with Rikolto and CarbonFarm driving sustainable rice production in Vietnam? What role does the Government of Flanders play in funding this initiative? BENEO is working alongside Rikolto and CarbonFarm in a three-year project to promote sustainable rice production in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. The initiative is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve soil health, and support farmers in adopting climate resilient practices aligned with the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) standard.Rikolto leads farmer engagement and training, leveraging its deep experience with agricultural cooperatives. CarbonFarm contributes climate-tech tools, using satellite imagery and AI to monitor methane emissions, water usage, and field-level practices. This enables transparent tracking of sustainability performance. BENEO’s role focuses on integrating the resulting SRP-certified rice into responsible sourcing pathways that support long-term market demand.The project is supported by the Government of Flanders through its International Climate Action Programme, providing funding of approximately 800,000 Euros. Selected by the Government of Flanders as one of seven demonstration projects out of 26 proposals for 2024, the initiative was evaluated by an expert jury and chosen for its relevance in addressing global sustainability, climate and environmental challenges. This financial backing enables the project to scale quickly, build local capacity, and demonstrate real-world climate impact through innovative partnerships. 4. How does the Flanders International Climate Action Programme support the new project launched to reduce rice production's environmental impact? Describe the initiative's key features? The Flanders International Climate Action Programme (FICAP), launched in 2021, aims to support countries in the Global South in the fight against climate change. It strengthens the implementation of climate policies, strategies, regulations, and action plans in countries by providing financial support for projects that demonstrate new technologies, disseminate knowledge, and initiate capacity building for both adaptation and mitigation purposes. From 2021 to 2024, there have been 4 successful calls for proposals. At the moment, there are more than 60 running projects in 31 countries.In Vietnam, FICAP is funding the joint initiative between BENEO, Rikolto, and CarbonFarm to support the transition to sustainable, climate-resilient rice cultivation.Key features of the project include: Training at least 1,000 farmers on sustainable rice cultivation practices aligned with Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) standards. Use of digital tools (e.g., satellite monitoring and digital logbooks) to collect verifiable data on water use, fertiliser application, and methane emissions. Demonstration fields to showcase the tangible benefits of alternative farming techniques. Capacity-building for local cooperatives to ensure ongoing farmer support after the project ends. Providing incentives for farmers through guaranteed purchase quantities for their SRP-verified rice, which is processed into high-quality ingredients for food and pet food markets worldwide. By integrating capacity building, technological innovation, and long-term market linkages, the project aims to create a sustainable model for climate-smart rice production. 5. How are BENEO, Rikolto, and CarbonFarm's collaborative efforts supporting Vietnamese farmers and encouraging sustainable rice production? The partnership is farmer-focused at its core, with training for at least 1,000 farmers in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Rikolto leads local implementation, working directly with rice cooperatives to train farmers. Farmers also receive hands-on learning through demonstration fields, making it easier to adopt new practices with confidence.Digital logbooks and satellite tracking provided by CarbonFarm allow each farmer’s progress to be documented and verified. This data-driven approach supports transparent sustainability evaluation and lays the groundwork for access to climate finance mechanisms in the future. As part of the project, BENEO plans to process 10,000 tonnes of SRP-certified rice, giving farmers a guaranteed purchase quantity and added financial security.By adopting these practices, farmers can reduce environmental impact while maintaining yield and securing long-term soil health and productivity. Through linking sustainable cultivation to premium sourcing opportunities, the collaboration not only reduces environmental harm but also supports farmer livelihoods and long-term resilience in a changing climate. 6. In rice cultivation, how do high-quality ingredients contribute to optimizing texture and nutritional composition? How is the market for SRP-certified rice ingredients driving innovation in value chain models, and what impact is it having on small-scale farmers and sustainable rice cultivation? At its state-of-the-art production site in Wijgmaal, Belgium, BENEO processes rice into high-quality starch, protein and flour ingredients for use in the food and feed industries. Rice protein is a valuable plant-based source of nutrition and can be used in baked goods, for example, to enhance their nutritional profile. Rice starch serves as a texturizer in applications such as soups or sauces, or to create smooth surfaces in confectionery like chocolate lentils. Rice flour, meanwhile, is ideal for developing gluten-free bakery products or improving the texture of cereals. Overall, rice ingredients help manufacturers achieve an appealing texture and mouthfeel across a wide range of products. Rice also enjoys a strong positive perception as a natural, healthy, and appealing ingredient. Globally, 81% of consumers consider rice a (very or somewhat) sustainable source of protein while 87% view it as (very or somewhat) nutritious.   At the same time, 3 in 4 global consumers say that how food is made and what goes into it is very important to them, while 1 in 2 place high value on honesty and transparency around ingredients and sourcing. These preferences highlight the need for manufacturers to use high-quality ingredients that align with the values of health- and environmentally-conscious consumers. With the added benefit of being sustainably sourced, ingredients made from SRP-certified rice from Vietnam offer a clear competitive advantage. 7. How do you perceive Vietnam's rice trade challenges and opportunities amid U.S. tariffs and global trade uncertainty? Global trade dynamics, including tariffs, inflation, and shifting consumer expectations, continue to create both risks and opportunities for Vietnam’s rice sector. Maintaining export competitiveness under these conditions will increasingly depend on sustainability, traceability, and quality assurance.As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, it is essential for agricultural sectors like rice to focus on resilience, diversification, and long-term sustainability. Vietnam has a strong foundation in rice production, but must now position itself to meet the growing demand for climate-smart, responsibly sourced agricultural goods. International buyers are moving toward stricter sourcing standards, especially in the EU and North America. Projects like this one can help Vietnam differentiate its rice sector by aligning with those expectations while supporting smallholder farmers and improving ecosystem health.While trade challenges can impact export volumes and market access, initiatives that strengthen environmental and social sustainability can also open new opportunities by aligning with global consumer and regulatory expectations. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3228/china-russia-agricultural-cooperation-subcommittee-convenes-to-evaluate-establishing-a-china-russia-pilot-demonstration-zone.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3228/china-russia-agricultural-cooperation-subcommittee-convenes-to-evaluate-establishing-a-china-russia-pilot-demonstration-zone.html Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:40:13 +0530 Comprehensive discussions on Agro-product trade, Market access, Agri-biotechnology, Agri-machinery, Pilot Demonstration Zone, and Seed industry cooperation Zhang Zhili, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and Maxim Markovich, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, co-chaired the 12th meeting of the China–Russia Agricultural Cooperation Subcommittee under the Committee for Regular Meetings Between the Chinese and Russian Heads of Government in Moscow on August 27. The meeting involved in-depth discussions on various topics, including agro-product and food trade, market access, agricultural science and technology, the establishment of the China–Russia Pilot Demonstration Zone for Agricultural Cooperation, and seed industry cooperation. Vice Minister Zhang noted that under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, China and Russia have had frequent and close institutional dialogues on agriculture. Furthermore, bilateral agro-trade has steadily increased and agricultural technology exchange has become increasingly active. Zhang said that China seeks to work with Russia to tap cooperative potential in areas such as the seed industry, agricultural machinery, and biotechnology, as well as push for early establishment of the China–Russia Pilot Demonstration Zone for Agricultural Cooperation, thus making new contributions to the high-quality development of China–Russia relations.  A high level of cooperation and exchange has been achieved across all areas of agriculture, according to Deputy Minister Markovich. According to him, Russia seeks to cooperate with China to implement the consensus reached by the leaders of both countries, strengthen communication and coordination among the agricultural departments on both sides, and expand cooperation in agro-trade, investment, science and technology, and market access, thereby giving new impetus to the bilateral friendship.  In an exchange of views on how to expedite the establishment and operation of the China–Russia Pilot Demonstration Zone for Agricultural Cooperation, Vice Minister Zhang met Vitaly Altabaev, Deputy Minister for the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic. According to Zhang, both countries' leaders have reached a consensus on setting up the pilot demonstration zone. Both sides have agreed on the content of a relevant memorandum of understanding and should refine construction plans, bring together supportive policies, and attract quality companies to the zone as soon as possible. Deputy Minister Altabaev agreed with China’s proposals and said that Russia seeks to work with China to negotiate and sign an intergovernmental cooperation agreement on the establishment of the pilot demonstration zone and support business operations and key projects through policies under the international priority development zone.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3201/vietnam-and-uruguay-cooperate-to-open-agricultural-markets.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3201/vietnam-and-uruguay-cooperate-to-open-agricultural-markets.html Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:38:52 +0530 Trade expansion, Investment cooperation, Scientific research, and Animal disease prevention are among the major interest in bilateral relation Vietnam and Uruguay share significant potential for collaboration in the agricultural sector, particularly in exporting high-value products and advancing research in disease prevention and control, says Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien, Vietnam. During her working visit to Vietnam on August 19, Ms. Valeria Csukasi, Uruguay’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Mr. Phung Duc Tien, Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment, to discuss ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation. At the meeting, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien warmly welcomed Ms. Csukasi and the Uruguayan Ambassador to Vietnam, emphasizing Uruguay’s notable expertise in animal husbandry and dairy farming.  He highlighted Vietnam’s achievements in agriculture, particularly in agro-forestry-fishery exports, which reached USD 62.5 billion in 2024. The livestock sector has also expanded strongly, with an estimated output of 8.1 million tons of live-weight meat, including 1.2 million tons of fresh milk, alongside nearly 20 billion eggs. Vietnam also produced 21.5 million tons of industrial animal feed, reflecting a 3.4% growth. Given its needs, Vietnam is interested in importing feed ingredients from Mercosur countries to further support livestock development. "Vietnam holds competitive advantages in processed pork, poultry, and chicken eggs, supported by disease-free production zones and advanced processing technologies. These strengths have enabled Vietnamese products to penetrate demanding markets such as Japan, China, and the EU. Other products like honey and dairy are also gaining strong international recognition, and Vietnam expressed its hope to introduce them into Uruguay soon", Deputy Minister Tien said. He also noted that many Vietnamese enterprises are eager to export to Uruguay and proposed that both sides work together to create favorable conditions for trade expansion, investment cooperation, scientific research, and animal disease prevention – areas of shared interest.  In response, Deputy Minister Valeria Csukasi praised Vietnam’s economic progress and agricultural growth, affirming that Vietnam will be an important partner for Uruguay and the wider Mercosur bloc. She expressed particular interest in Vietnam’s coffee – a globally recognized product with strong consumer demand – noting that it could serve as a catalyst to deepen agricultural trade relations. She also acknowledged the potential for importing a diverse range of Vietnamese products into Uruguay and Mercosur, pledging to study the matter carefully.  Beyond the sphere of agriculture, I also hope that our two countries will seize the opportunity to broaden cooperation into a wide range of other economic sectors, thereby fostering a deeper, more comprehensive partnership and driving bilateral trade relations to new levels,” Deputy Minister Csukasi emphasized. Ms. Csukasi expressed her hope that the outcomes of this visit would help elevate cooperative programs and projects to new heights, bringing about practical and sustainable results. Both delegations reaffirmed their confidence that the bilateral relationship will continue to strengthen, leading to meaningful agreements and concrete achievements in the years ahead. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3160/australia-strengthens-trade-ties-with-indonesia-boosting-biosecurity-cooperation-and-unlocking-export-opportunities.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3160/australia-strengthens-trade-ties-with-indonesia-boosting-biosecurity-cooperation-and-unlocking-export-opportunities.html Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:32:02 +0530 Australia and Indonesia's agriculture trade valued at $5.5 billion in 2023-2024 Australia continues to strengthen two-way agricultural trade with Indonesia, with a visit to Jakarta this by Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP, unlocking new export opportunities and solidifying biosecurity cooperation. Building on the productive discussions during the Prime Minister’s visit to Indonesia in May, Minister Collins met with her ministerial counterparts to finalise a number of key outcomes with the Indonesian Government, including:   Agreement to a wheat protocol, which will maintain access for Australia’s largest export to Indonesia (worth $1.76 billion in FY23-24) while continuing to provide assurance to Indonesia on Australia’s high biosecurity standards, Signing a bilateral protocol that allows exports of Australian-rendered products to Indonesia – trade previously estimated to be worth more than $100 million annually for Australian producers and exporters, Agreement on a mangosteen operational workplan, giving a new export pathway for Indonesian fruit while ensuring management of biosecurity risks, Signing a Memorandum of Understanding on biosecurity cooperation activities with the Indonesian Quarantine Authority, and Re-establishing a bilateral Forestry Working Group with the newly created Indonesian Ministry of Forestry.   These outcomes are a major boost for Australian and Indonesian farmers and producers, supporting future growth in two-way agricultural trade, which was valued at $5.5 billion in 2023-2024. During the three-day visit, Minister Collins also toured agricultural production sites and participated in a range of trade events, reaffirming the economic opportunities that come with strengthened cooperation. This trip was part of the Albanese Labor Government’s ongoing work to strengthen agricultural trade with international partners after a decade of neglect under the Coalition, and to reaffirm the safety and reliability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP said, “Australia’ and Indonesia's Ministerial counterparts finalised a number of two-way agricultural trade and biosecurity agreements.  These agreements will ensure more of our world-class products are on Indonesian tables and will unlock significant benefits for farmers and producers in both of our nations. The quality, safety and reliability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries are valued by our friends in Indonesia, and it’s great to see how our products support Indonesia’s food security" ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3139/adb-lowers-economic-growth-forecast-for-asia-and-the-pacific.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3139/adb-lowers-economic-growth-forecast-for-asia-and-the-pacific.html Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:50:36 +0530 The forecast for next year has been lowered to 4.6% from 4.7%; Oil production is expected to increase by 0.1 % points this year and next, resulting in higher growth projections. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered its growth forecasts for economies in developing Asia and the Pacific this year and next year. The downgrades are driven by expectations of reduced exports amid higher United States (U.S.) tariffs and global trade uncertainty, as well as weaker domestic demand. ADB forecasts the region’s economies will grow by 4.7% this year, a 0.2 percentage point decline from the projection issued in April. The forecast for next year has been lowered to 4.6% from 4.7%, according to Asian Development Outlook (ADO) July 2025 released today. Prospects for developing Asia and the Pacific could be dented further by an escalation of U.S. tariffs and trade tensions. Other risks include conflicts and geopolitical tensions that could disrupt global supply chains and raise energy prices, and a worse-than-expected deterioration in the property market of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). “Asia and the Pacific has weathered an increasingly challenging external environment this year. But the economic outlook has weakened amid intensifying risks and global uncertainty,” said ADB Chief Economist Albert Park. “Economies in the region should continue strengthening their fundamentals and promoting open trade and regional integration to support investment, employment, and growth.” Growth projections for the PRC, the region’s largest economy, are maintained at 4.7% this year and 4.3% next year. Policy stimulus for consumption and industrial activity is expected to offset continuing property market weakness and softening exports. India, the region’s second-largest economy, is forecast to grow by 6.5% this year and 6.7% next year—down 0.2 and 0.1 percentage points, respectively, from April projections—as trade uncertainty and higher U.S. tariffs affect exports and investment. Economies in Southeast Asia will likely be hardest hit by worsened trade conditions and uncertainty. ADB now predicts the subregion’s economies will grow 4.2% this year and 4.3% next year, down roughly half a percentage point from April forecasts for each year. Bucking the downward trend are economies in Caucasus and Central Asia. The subregion’s growth projections have been raised by 0.1 percentage points for both this year and next to 5.5% and 5.1%, respectively, largely reflecting an anticipated boost in oil production. Inflation in developing Asia and the Pacific is projected to continue slowing, amid easing oil prices and strong farm output reducing food price pressures. ADB forecasts regional inflation of 2.0% this year and 2.1% next year, compared with its April projections of 2.3% and 2.2%, respectively. ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3132/dtn-launches-industrys-first-operational-decision-making-platform-for-smart-agri-trade-operations.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3132/dtn-launches-industrys-first-operational-decision-making-platform-for-smart-agri-trade-operations.html Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:06:47 +0530 Breakthrough platform combines industry-specific intelligence, decision-grade data and operational AI to drive smarter, faster decisions at scale DTN , the global leader in operational decision-making for the energy, agriculture and weather-dependent industries, announced the launch of the Operational Decision-Making Platform, a new class of enterprise technology that helps companies protect margins, reduce risk and grow faster through better decision-making. The current era is characterized by supply shocks, extreme weather, and volatile markets, creating a competitive divide between traditional operators and new decision-ready leaders. A recent PwC survey found that 42% of CEOs believe their companies will not survive the next decade unless they reinvent the wheel, with weak decision-making processes being the main barrier. DTN's Operational Decision-Making Platform offers a new class of capabilities that combines industry-specific hubs, proprietary real-time data, and operational AI to deliver actionable intelligence when and where it's needed. "This platform gives operational leaders the clarity, agility and confidence to act, no matter the level of volatility," said Patrick Schneidow, CEO of DTN. "We're helping our clients turn complexity into competitive advantage." At the heart of the platform are three industry-specific hubs designed around DTN customers' critical workflows. DTN Ag Hub DTN Ag Hub provides a real-time digital twin of modern agriculture, integrating intelligence from inputs to growers, traders and consumer packaged goods manufacturers (CPGs). With data on 95% of U.S. farms and access to verified cash bids and carbon scoring, the platform enables smarter pricing, inventory management and sustainability decisions, improving profitability and resiliency across the agricultural value chain. DTN Fuel Operations Hub DTN manages 85% of pricing and billing transactions in the North American supply chain every day. The DTN Fuel Operations Hub provides real-time insights across logistics and inventory for sellers, buyers, terminal operators and traders. Embedded AI models and closed-loop workflows enable teams to predict market fluctuations, manage risk and improve margins at the speed their business demands. DTN Weather Hub DTN Weather Hub provides hyperlocal forecasting, risk modeling and compliance reporting for your aviation, power and logistics needs, leveraging data from over 70,000 sensors and 180+ meteorologists to translate complex situations into precise action. The platform and DTN's meteorologists allow to act with precision, knowing we're backed by the best data. "DTN's new positioning emphasizes the need for faster, smarter decisions at scale through its purpose-built platform, decision-grade data and trusted neutrality. "For more than 40 years, DTN has helped the companies that feed, fuel and secure the world. As they face new times of operational complexity, we will continue to help them make faster, smarter decisions when and where it matters most," said Aaron Schellinger, Director of Event Safety at Danny Wimmer Presents. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3126/australian-apple-industry-gains-access-to-the-chinese-market.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3126/australian-apple-industry-gains-access-to-the-chinese-market.html Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:47:03 +0530 In 2023-24, domestic apple production was valued at more than $680 million, with an annual crop of close to 300,000 tonnes of fruit.  Apple growers from across Australia will now have access to the Chinese market after the finalisation of a new trade market access deal between the two countries.  During his visit to the People’s Republic of China for the Annual Leaders’ Meeting, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Li Qiang witnessed the ceremonial signing of the deal.  China is Australia’s largest export market for agriculture, fisheries and forestry products, worth $16 billion in 2024, and the Australian apple industry is one of the nation’s largest domestic horticultural industries.   The sector can now build on existing trade from Tasmanian growers, who have had access to China since 2010. It is expected that apple growers from mainland Australia will begin exporting their produce to China as new fruit comes online in the 2026 season.   The new market access outcome is expected to benefit apple growers by providing access to this high value export market while also maintaining a sustainable supply of high-quality apples to Australian consumers.  Australia has a strong history of producing premium and branded apple varieties, which the industry expects will perform strongly in the Chinese market.   The Albanese Labor Government has worked to restore trade with China, resuming $20 billion of lobster, wine, barley, coal, cotton, timber logs, oaten hay, copper ores and concentrates and red meat exports.  Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP noted that, “This is a fantastic outcome for the Australian apple industry and for Chinese consumers, who will be able to enjoy more of our delicious produce. The finalisation of market access is a significant milestone for the apple industry and for the Australia-China trading relationship.  The Chinese market offers strong export growth potential for Australian producers with a large consumer base and premium price points for high-quality branded products. This outcome will support our agricultural industry to grow toward a $100 billion sector, and the Australian horticultural sector to meet its target of $20 billion by 2030.”  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3124/global-floriculture-innovations-under-spotlight-at-23rd-kunming-international-flower-expo.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3124/global-floriculture-innovations-under-spotlight-at-23rd-kunming-international-flower-expo.html Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:41:49 +0530 Asia's leading floral industry events, this year's KIFE/IFEX will span 60,000 square meters The 23rd Kunming International Flowers & Plants Expo (IFEX) and China Kunming International Flower Expo (KIFE) will take place from September 19 to 21, 2025, at the Kunming Dianchi International Convention and Exhibition Center. The event is set to bring together over 500 exhibitors from countries including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and France, positioning Kunming once again at the heart of global horticultural innovation and trade. Kunming, located in Yunnan, the floral heartland of China, plays a pivotal role as a major flower distribution hub in Southwest China. As one of Asia's leading floral industry events, this year's KIFE/IFEX will span 60,000 square meters. The expo will feature specialized exhibitions, industry forums, interactive experiences, and live demonstrations, providing a comprehensive platform for showcasing global advancements in floriculture and fostering international trade cooperation. The event will feature strong international collaboration, with France as the guest country of honor. National pavilions will highlight floral artistry and local varieties, showcasing renowned French exhibitors such as Meilland International (roses), Morel (cyclamen), and Georges Delbard (roses and fruit trees). Additionally, top Dutch breeders, including De Ruiter, Van Den Berg Roses, Schreuters, and Rijkland, will present their latest floral innovations. Attendees can also participate in a flower farm visit, offering a unique opportunity to witness cutting-edge horticulture, network with farm managers and breeders leading Asia's floral revolution, and gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access. Some of the highlights are; New Plant Variety Protection in China (Floriculture) – Exploring strategies for IP protection in flower breeding. Modernization of Floriculture Infrastructure – Highlighting the latest in agricultural technology. Digital Empowerment of Horticulture – Examining digital transformation across the industry. E-commerce Marketing for China's Floral Industry – Insights from top platforms and livestreaming influencers. Visitors to the event can benefit from full industry coverage, engaging with over 6,000 distributors for comprehensive floral sourcing. The smart business matching system will help efficiently connect enterprises with potential partners. Attendees will also have the opportunity to discover Yunnan's proprietary flower breeds that are setting industry trends. Additionally, cultural events, including live floral art performances and exclusive Kunming-themed floral souvenirs, will enhance the visitor experience. With a strategic vision to become Asia's leading flower trade hub, KIFE and IFEX aim to foster collaborative growth through innovation and global partnerships. The event is collocated with "2025 Asia International Tropical Plants Expo" which will invite well-known enterprises from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brazil, Panama and other hot plants of the main places of origin exhibitors.  2025 Yunnan International Berry Expo: Centered on blueberries and encompassing other small berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, the expo is a premier international event dedicated to the berry industry. It aims to showcase the latest global research achievements, technological applications, and market trends in the berry sector, providing a platform for communication and collaboration across the global berry industry chain. At the same time as the expo, The 2nd Yunnan International Blueberry Industry Development Conference will also be held. Past speakers have included, amongst others, Fall Greek, Planasa, Legro, Originalius, Haygrove, PLASTIKA, Joyvio Group, and SF Express. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3106/fb-trade-show-sigep-asia-returns-with-speciality-segments-immersive-programming-and-singapore-national-coffee-championship.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3106/fb-trade-show-sigep-asia-returns-with-speciality-segments-immersive-programming-and-singapore-national-coffee-championship.html Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:52:26 +0530 Speciality Food & Drinks Asia (SFDA) and Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia (SCTA), Singapore’s most-anticipated trade event for the gelato, pastry, bakery, coffee, tea, pizza, chocolate, foodservice and nightlife sectors, SIGEP Asia, returns to Sands Expo & Convention Centre from 16 to 18 July 2025. Spanning three halls across 10,000sqm, this event is co-located with Restaurant Asia, Speciality Food & Drinks Asia (SFDA) and Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia (SCTA), and will bring together F&B owners, distributors, artisans, chefs, restaurateurs and innovators from across Southeast Asia and beyond for curated experiences and strategic networking opportunities. Organised by IEG Asia, SIGEP Asia and its co-located events SFDA, SCTA and Restaurant Asia are expected to host 12,000 trade visitors and buyers. SIGEP Asia is the Southeast Asian extension of the world-renowned SIGEP WORLD trade show originating from Rimini, Italy 47 years ago. Following a highly successful edition last year which attracted over 11,000 visitors, conference delegates and attendees, SIGEP Asia will feature an expanded lineup of curated zones, live showcases and immersive networking experiences tailored for foodservice professionals, distributors and retail operators in the region.  “Joining SIGEP Asia 2025 are some of the most passionate creators and experts in gelato, pastry, bakery, pizza, speciality food, beverages, coffee and tea, and together we seek to elevate South East Asia’s vibrant culinary scene to new heights. We’re especially excited to go beyond the norm and reimagine industry gatherings by being a dynamic, immersive platform with world-class competitions, live demos and masterclasses, and themed experiences,” said Ilaria Cicero, Chief Executive Officer of IEG Asia. Over 350 brands & exhibitors from more than 30 countries SIGEP Asia, SFDA and SCTA 2025 feature a diverse range of exhibitors, from local artisanal businesses to renowned global brands, including Cheerful Goat, Ecolab, Boncafe International, Santino Coffee, Ecopack S.p.a, SoluM Singapore, MILKLAB, Coconut&Co, and many more. Major exhibitors, spanning foodservice, equipment and artisan ingredients, such as Gan Teck Kar, Universal Steel Industries, Carpigiani, Fabbri 1905 S.p.A., Aromitalia, Novacart, Leagel, FRA.GI Srls, Il Granaio delle Idee and Nip Food will also be present. Uniquely curated zones and themed experiences An immersive experience awaits all attendees – from Janice Wong's Edible Chocolate Wall at the Chocolate Pavilion to the latest tech innovations at the Technology & Innovation Pavilion (TIP), the vibrant Nightlife & Entertainment Pavilion featuring themed bars by local collectives, and food delights from around the world at the international pavilions.  Spotlight on the world of chocolate: Partake in a global celebration of cacao, featuring artisanal producers from Singapore, Peru, Thailand, Italy and Japan. At the Chocolate Pavilion, award-winning pastry Chef and SIGEP Brand Ambassador Janice Wong will present a striking 9-metre edible art installation at SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia 2025, created in collaboration with Valrhona. Inspired by her signature approach to transforming chocolate into immersive art, the wall features hundreds of handcrafted bonbons made with premium single-origin chocolate. At the heart of the display are two signature creations: Madagascar Sunrise – A vibrant blend of passionfruit, vanilla and hazelnut featuring Valrhona OQO 73%. This single-origin chocolate from Madagascar delivers a unique experience, with crunchy cocoa bean pieces that evoke ancient cocoa roots. It offers a raw texture and unfolds with bright acidic notes, followed by warm roasted cocoa flavours. Brazilian Café Culture – A creamy tribute to Brazil’s coffee heritage, featuring Valrhona Hukambi 53%, coffee, Valrhona Dulcey 35% and toasted coconut. Hukambi, a single-origin from Brazil, offers cocoa-rich, bitter and biscuity notes. Dulcey adds caramelised milk and toasted shortbread aromas, evoking childhood memories. Coffee and toasted coconut enhance the blend with rich flavours and textures. The latest Foodtech innovations in action: The Tech & Innovation Pavilion (TIP), co-organised with Conectere Pte. Ltd., returns with a robust showcase of cutting-edge tools, from robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. The new Sandbox Area will showcase next-gen sustainability and digital transformation solutions. Visitors will be able to explore hands-on applications of emerging technologies, from AI-based kitchen tools to waste-reduction systems, and even a plasma flame exhibit by Egnite. Tastes and innovations of the world: Visitors can also look forward to a showcase of rich culinary and cultural heritage at International Pavilions, where exhibitors from Japan, China, India, Italy and other European countries present country-specific innovations and offerings.  Explore the Japanese pavilion with speciality exhibitors, including the Yamaguchi Industrial Promotion Foundation; the Italian Trade Agency Collettiva featuring key brands like Bussy, TLM, Spinel, Labcaffe, Packint Chocolate Machines, Officine Meccaniche Murialdo, Locatelli Saline Di Volterra, Battocchio, Torronalba and DF Italia, as well as other Italian companies such as Leagel, Fabbri, Carpigiani, Aromitalia, Novacart and IceTeam at Universal Steel Industries. In addition, explore offerings from China’s leading F&B manufacturers offering equipment and high-quality, cost-efficient solutions.  Leading a new wave of tea appreciation: Visitors can explore the world of speciality tea at the Tea Pavilion, with exhibitors such as the Taiwan Tea Creative Industries Association (TTCIA), Taiwan’s Dancing Tea and Kien Yu Company, Vietnam’s Cat Nghi Tea Manufacturing, the USA’s Revolution Tea, among many others. Thrilling competitions for coffee-making and panettone-baking excellence Singapore National Coffee Championship 2025: The Singapore National Coffee Championship (SNCC), organised by the Singapore Coffee Association (SCA), will return with four exciting categories: the Singapore National Barista Championship, Singapore National Brewers Cup (sponsored by TIMEMORE), Singapore National Latte Art Championship, and Singapore Cup Tasters Competition. The various competitions aim to spotlight the craftsmanship, creativity and passion across the different aspects in the world of coffee, with winners from each category set to represent Singapore at the World Coffee Championships 2026. “We’re excited to support a show that blends regional relevance with a global mindset, as it’s an important opportunity for the coffee and cafe industry to see what’s next in speciality, sustainability and retail innovation. The return of the annual Singapore National Coffee Championship also marks a proud moment for our community, and we look forward to seeing local baristas not only raise the bar at home, but also represent our nation with passion on the world stage,” says Victor Mah, President of the Singapore Coffee Association.  Panettone World Cup – Asian Selections: Originating from Italy, the panettone is recognised globally among the pastry scene as an artisanal masterpiece and a difficult-to-master traditional Italian Christmas treat. Master baker Giuseppe Piffaretti will be bringing the Panettone World Cup to Asia for the first time, with regional selections held at SIGEP Asia. Top competitors will move on to the 2026 finals in Milan. Fostering strategic alliances through insightful dialogues and partnerships SCA will be organising its Coffee Industry Ambassador Luncheon, bringing together representatives from the ASEAN Coffee Federation (ACF), ASEAN Coffee Institute, ambassadors from coffee-producing countries, and key industry players. This year’s luncheon will focus on the introduction of the newly launched ACF Coffee Appreciation Protocol (ACAP), and key industry developments within Singapore and the region. The International Food & Beverage Association (IFBA) will host its second Asia-focused roundtable, uniting F&B stakeholders to explore resilient sourcing strategies, emerging consumer trends in Asia, and new models for regional collaboration. Welcoming delegates from China, the roundtable will also cover China’s Belt & Road initiative that aims to globalise businesses across industries – including F&B, foodservice and hospitality. IEG Asia has also secured an exclusive three-year partnership with the Airline Catering Association (ACA) based in Belgium, opening new opportunities for suppliers to connect with in-flight dining decision-makers. This is the first time the ACA is participating in an Asian F&B trade show, and they will be sending a 15-member delegation to the event. This collaboration brings to the event professionals who represent 64% of the global airline catering industry, collectively responsible for serving up to 4.7 million in-flight meals daily, opening direct access to a highly influential and specialised buyer segment. There will be a spotlight on youth and education as students from the Institute of Technical Education’s (ITE) Culinary Institute, AT-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy and Beacon International College will engage exhibitors onsite and offer fresh perspectives to industry professionals. Other fringe events and activities The SIGEP Asia 2025 experience is designed to extend beyond having traditional trade booths. Other fringe events and activities include hosted business-matching sessions at themed lounges; Chef demos for pasta, pastry, gelato and chocolate; tea ceremonies; bar takeovers; and cultural activations.  The 2025 lineup includes: Culinary cultural exchanges: Celebrating Italy and Singapore’s 60th anniversary of bilateral trade, Singapore Chefs’ Association’s Edward Siew will showcase an east-meets-west creation: a “Singapore’s Chicken Rice” Risotto, while Michelin-starred chef Daniele Sperindio will bring Italian flair to a local favourite with From Singapore with Love, Granita “Kachang” – an Italian twist on Singapore’s beloved Ice Kachang.Executive Chef Alessio Pirozzi will also showcase the signature Traditional Italian Tortellini from Torno Subito by Massimo Bottura. Culinary get-togethers and tastings: Italian MasterChef winner Tiziana Stefanelli will be hosting an Italian Aperitivo featuring Mottra caviar, renowned for its exceptional quality, alongside wine pairing by Angra Wine & Spirit. Franchise opportunities: MrBeast Burger launches in Singapore, with X-Inc Group holding the master franchise for the region. Businesses can attend a demo and tasting to explore how tapping into the buzz around the MrBeast brand can enhance their offerings and menus. Coffee-brewing demos: Boncafé will conduct coffee-brewing demos, sharing insights on the ideal water for brewing utilising their Best Water Technology. Chocolate masterclasses and demos: For seasoned chocolatiers and dessert professionals looking to sharpen their craft, local artisan Chef Janice Wong will lead a tasting session on the diverse profiles of cocoa, followed by a demo and sampling of Singapore Origin bean-to-bar chocolate. SIGEP’s Xperience Programme SIGEP Asia offers attendees an experience unlike any other, blending business and leisure (bleisure), with the Visitor Xperience Programme. Trade visitors enjoy exclusive hotel and airfare deals, airfare discounts and attraction passes for brands such as Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands – ensuring a fulfilling trip in Singapore.  Attendees will also receive exclusive dining privileges at some of Singapore’s top culinary destinations — including Cedric Grolet Singapore, Garibaldi, AMI Patisserie, Tess Bar, Baia, and more. Other participating outlets within Marina Bay Sands include Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, LAVO Singapore, Mott 32, Maison Boulud and Spago, all of which will extend special offers. Connect with top-level decision makers with BuyerX BuyerX, the event’s hosted buyer programme, provides a platform for businesses to explore partnerships, collaborations and expansions with authentic hosted buyers – powered by an industry database and market research. This year, more than 100 high-level C-suite executives and purchasers from ASEAN, APAC and the Middle East will be invited to Singapore. To maximise the value of their visit, hosted buyers will have the opportunity to connect directly with exhibitors and association leaders at the exclusive networking reception (invite only) on 17 July, held at the MONTI restaurant.  To visit SIGEP Asia, Restaurant Asia, SFDA and SCTA, register here. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3108/shrimp-in-transition-why-indonesia-is-industrys-new-benchmark.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3108/shrimp-in-transition-why-indonesia-is-industrys-new-benchmark.html Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:54:10 +0530 Image Source: Canva Halfway into 2025, the global shrimp industry is entering a new phase of competitive realignment. Indonesia’s May export performance—a 27 per cent year-on-year (YoY) rise in volume and 33 per cent increase in value—signals a strategic shift that goes beyond opportunistic trade acceleration. With 89,224 metric tons exported from January through May valued at $756 million, Indonesia is not only consolidating its global presence but also diversifying its product portfolio and export destinations in a calculated bid to counterbalance potential U.S. trade actions. The export surge places Indonesia on a fresh growth trajectory, even as established powerhouses like Ecuador and India grapple with cost structures, climate risks, and shifting market demands. According to Shrimp Insight Analysis, Indonesia’s YTD figures reflect not just quantity but also discernible progress in product sophistication. Cooked and marinated shrimp exports surged by 61 per cent YoY in May and 37 per cent YTD, indicating a push towards higher-margin, value-added segments. Meanwhile, raw Vannamei exports, the country’s volume mainstay, rose 20 per cent YTD. Breaded shrimp followed with a respectable 8 per cent growth, while raw P. monodon exports continued their multi-year slide, falling 14 per cent YTD—a symptom of broader species transition and shifting aquaculture economics. Market-wise, Indonesia’s shipments to the U.S. totaled nearly 60,000 MT in five months—up 14 per cent YoY and accounting for two-thirds of its global exports. Japan, the second-largest destination, absorbed 13,359 MT, up 7 per cent YTD. Meanwhile, a rebound in China (+21 per cent YTD) and a 63 per cent surge in EU-27 exports highlight Jakarta’s efforts to widen its demand footprint beyond the U.S., potentially insulating itself from the impending August anti-dumping tariff review (According to Shrimp Insight Analysis). This diversification and value capture strategy is particularly critical for Indonesia as it aims to scale its shrimp sector to $2 billion by 2025 and double exports by 2029. The short-term frontloading of shipments appears tactical, but the sustained growth in high-value categories underscores longer-term structural shifts in processing capacity, traceability, and compliance. Benchmarking the Big Five: Ecuador, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and China To understand Indonesia’s trajectory in context, it’s essential to benchmark it against other leading exporters—Ecuador, India, Vietnam, and China—each with distinct strengths, constraints, and market orientations. Ecuador: The Efficiency King Facing Climate CostsEcuador remains the world’s largest shrimp exporter, thanks to its high-efficiency pond systems, integration, and cost competitiveness. With 1.3 million MT exported in 2024 valued at over $7 billion, Ecuador has scale on its side. In the first five months of 2025, Ecuador exported approximately 593,080 metric tons of shrimp—up 17 per cent YoY—with export revenues totaling $3.135 billion, marking a 26 per cent value increase. Ecuador’s average export price per kilogram during this period stood at approximately $5.29, reflecting its dominance in high-volume raw head-on shrimp shipped to China, albeit at lower margins compared to value-added exports. India: The Reformist Under PressureIndia, historically the second-largest exporter, is contending with structural pressures. Despite significant growth in the last decade, India saw a marginal YoY decline in 2024 exports due to farm gate price volatility, rising feed costs, and quality-related rejections in key markets like the U.S. and Japan. In early 2025, India exported approximately 94,500 MT of shrimp, down around 7 per cent, while revenues edged up modestly to $1.1 billion—a 12 per cent YoY increase. This translates to an average export price of $11.64 per kilogram, indicating a favorable shift toward higher-value products despite declining volumes. Vietnam: Stability and Diversification Amid Rising CostsVietnam remains a solid, well-diversified player with strong ties to the EU, U.S., and China. While not growing as fast as Indonesia, Vietnam’s value-added capabilities and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) give it steady market access and a competitive edge in regulatory compliance. As of May 2025, Vietnam’s shrimp export value surged 22.3 per cent YoY, reaching approximately $4.3 billion. With a volume base of about 340,000 MT for the same period, Vietnam’s average export price hovered around $12.65 per kilogram—one of the highest among major exporters, reflecting its strong emphasis on processed, certified shrimp. China: A Rebalancing Act Between Import and ExportChina remains a unique case—both a major importer and a modest exporter of shrimp. With rising domestic consumption and robust processing infrastructure, China plays a pivotal role in global shrimp reprocessing and redistribution. In the first five months of 2025, China imported 343,787 MT of shrimp, a 7 per cent YoY decline, though the import value rose by 2 per cent to $1.82 billion. This implies an average import price of $5.29 per kilogram, underscoring its price-sensitive bulk-buying model. China’s own exports are smaller in scale and lower in average value, often dominated by re-exported products. Indonesia: Climbing the Value LadderIn comparison, Indonesia’s average export price from January to May 2025 stood at $8.47 per kilogram, derived from $756 million in value over 89,224 MT in volume. This marks a notable climb, especially given the country’s emphasis on cooked, marinated, and breaded products. Indonesia’s pricing is increasingly bridging the gap between high-volume exporters like Ecuador and high-value players like Vietnam, reflecting its dual strategy of scaling both volume and margin. Trade Geopolitics: The Anti-Dumping Cloud Much of Indonesia’s recent export tempo has been influenced by the pending U.S. anti-dumping review. The expected decision by August 1 could impose new tariffs on Indonesian shrimp, depending on preliminary margins assigned during the administrative review. While the full-year impact is uncertain, Indonesian firms appear to be mitigating the risk by aggressively front-loading shipments and entering alternate markets. If tariffs materialize, Indonesia could pivot further toward the EU, Middle East, and East Asia—especially China and South Korea. Its fast-growing breaded and marinated categories are also more appealing to markets with rising demand for ready-to-eat seafood. Product Innovation and Branding: The Differentiation Frontier One of the more significant undercurrents in Indonesia’s 2025 story is its embrace of processed shrimp formats. Cooked and marinated shrimp—now nearly a third of its total exports—command higher prices, longer shelf life, and lower rejection risk. These segments also benefit from rising health-consciousness and convenience demand in key importing regions. Contrast this with Ecuador’s raw shrimp export model or India’s bulk frozen Vannamei dominance, and Indonesia’s approach looks increasingly future-ready. Whether this shift can be consolidated with stronger branding, certification (e.g., ASC, BAP), and digital traceability will determine its long-term ability to compete with Vietnam in the premium segment. Implications for India and Others India must take note of Indonesia’s recent agility and processing-centric growth. While India has strong backward integration and a large aquaculture base, it lags in branding, cold chain infrastructure, and premium market development. There’s a lesson here: front-loading compliance and investing in product innovation can not only unlock margins but also cushion against external shocks. For Vietnam, the competitive threat from Indonesia is real, particularly in processed shrimp. Ecuador, while unmatched in scale, may need to prioritize resilience and diversification. China, meanwhile, remains an indispensable demand-side actor, with its recovery or retreat impacting all major exporters. Conclusion: From Volume to Value Indonesia’s breakout performance in 2025 suggests that it is no longer content with being a peripheral player in the global shrimp market. Its surge in cooked and marinated shrimp, expansion into EU and Chinese markets, and strategic shipment timing ahead of the U.S. trade decision all point to a maturing industry. But maintaining this trajectory will require more than export momentum. Investment in sustainability, traceability, and branding must follow. The global shrimp race is no longer just about who sells the most—but about who sells best, to whom, and at what margin. Indonesia appears to be rewriting that playbook, and the rest of the world is watching closely. ——– Suchetana Choudhury (suchetana.choudhuri@agrospectrumindia.com) ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3097/indonesian-businesses-to-purchase-us-agricultural-and-energy-products-worth-usd-34-billion.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3097/indonesian-businesses-to-purchase-us-agricultural-and-energy-products-worth-usd-34-billion.html Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:46:09 +0530 Indonesian industry leaders from strategic sectors such as energy, and agriculture engaged in productive discussions with their U.S. counterparts The Indonesian government, in collaboration with the private sector, is advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Indonesia and the United States, focusing on robust, balanced, and fair trade and investment ties. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the United States, including efforts to reach a trade tariff agreement. “The economic relationship between Indonesia and the US has always been strong and must be maintained. One way to further strengthen this relationship is through the commitment of Indonesian businesses to purchase leading US agricultural and energy products, with a total value of USD 34 billion,” said Airlangga. To further this goal, the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Indonesia and the Embassy of Indonesia in Washington, D.C., hosted a series of high-level business meetings on July 7, 2025. Indonesian industry leaders from strategic sectors such as energy, and agriculture, including Pertamina, Busana Apparel Group (representing Indonesia’s Textile Association), FKS Group, Sorini Agro Asia Corporindo (as a member of Indonesia’s Corn Mill Association), Indonesia’s Wheat Producer Association, were engaged in productive discussions with their U.S. counterparts. "ExxonMobil is proud to support Indonesia’s energy needs. We bring decades of experience, global supply capabilities, and a long-standing commitment to being a trusted energy partner.” - Wade Floyd, ExxonMobil "Indonesia has been a great partner for us in the US cotton industry, typically one of our top 10 export markets." - Bryan Wiggins, Cotton Council International “Indonesia is an important country for us in many ways. We hope that this MoU and initial corn purchase will mark the beginning of a deeper, long-term partnership that continues to grow over time." - Anne Murphy, Cargill “Indonesia has long been an important customer, with growing demand for high-quality American farm products.” - Robert Cruise, Zen-Noh Grain Corporation The meetings resulted in several commercial deals, as reflected in the signing of various memorandums of understanding, paving the way for new cooperation opportunities and deepening bilateral economic ties. “These partnerships are expected to create thousands of high-quality jobs, support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and enhance knowledge and technology exchanges in both countries.” Added Sade Bimantara, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Indonesia in Washington, D.C. The Indonesian government has shown its commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial partnership with the US, rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to progress. Indonesia hopes to build a future-oriented economic relationship that benefits both the United States and Indonesia as well as contributes to regional and global prosperity. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3081/indonesia-extends-multilateral-partnership-to-promote-sustainable-palm-oil-production.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3081/indonesia-extends-multilateral-partnership-to-promote-sustainable-palm-oil-production.html Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:36:09 +0530 Advancing renewable energy adoption in Southeast Asia and supporting Indonesia's ambitious energy transition goals LONGi, a global leader in solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions, has officially launched a strategic project to establish a state-of-the-art solar panel manufacturing facility in Indonesia, in collaboration with Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE), a subsidiary of Indonesia's state-owned energy company Pertamina. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing renewable energy adoption in Southeast Asia and supporting Indonesia's ambitious energy transition goals. The new facility, located in Deltamas, West Java, will feature an annual production capacity of 1.6 GW, utilizing LONGi's cutting-edge Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC) 2.0 technology to deliver high-efficiency solar modules. The project is set to commence manufacturing preparation by June 2025, significantly boosting Indonesia's domestic solar PV production capabilities. This collaboration between LONGi and Pertamina NRE is a strategic step toward strengthening Indonesia's renewable energy supply chain. By combining LONGi's global leadership in solar technology with Pertamina NRE's deep understanding of the local energy market, the project will enhance the Domestic Component Level (TKDN), aligning with the Indonesian government's push for greater local content in renewable energy projects. Additionally, the facility will help meet the rapidly growing demand for high-quality solar PV modules in both the domestic market and across Southeast Asia. In the RUPTL 2025-2034, Indonesia has set a target of 17.1GW of new PV installations over the next ten years, which indicates that the demand for PV in Indonesia will continue to be unleashed with the advancement of the plan. Dennis She, Vice President of LONGi Group, emphasized company's vision for sustainable energy development: "Indonesia holds immense potential in renewable energy, and LONGi is proud to contribute our world-leading solar technology to this transformative journey. This facility represents not just an investment in manufacturing but a long-term partnership to accelerate Indonesia's clean energy future. By localizing production, we aim to drive down costs, foster innovation, and create high-value green jobs, reinforcing our commitment to a net-zero world." As the global leading company, LONGi brings unparalleled expertise and innovation to Indonesia's renewable energy sector, further solidifying Indonesia's position as a key player in sustainable energy. This milestone reflects LONGi's dedication to empowering global energy transition through technological excellence and strategic collaborations, paving the way for a greener future. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3080/singapore-and-cambodia-deepens-alliances-to-stride-renewable-energy-carbon-credits-and-agri-trade-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3080/singapore-and-cambodia-deepens-alliances-to-stride-renewable-energy-carbon-credits-and-agri-trade-cooperation.html Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:12:13 +0530 In 2024, Singapore was Cambodia’s third-largest foreign investor, with bilateral trade between the countries increasing 7.1 % year on year to $4.83 billion. Singapore and Cambodia will deepen their collaboration in several areas, including renewable energy, high-quality carbon credits and trade in food products, as the two countries mark 60 years of diplomatic relations. Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is currently on diplomatic visit to Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, the latest in his series of introductory visits to Asean capitals. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said the two countries’ relationship had continued to grow from strength to strength over the last six decades. Singapore is one of Cambodia’s largest investors and trading partners. In 2024, the Republic was Cambodia’s third-largest foreign investor, with bilateral trade between the countries increasing 7.1 % year on year to $4.83 billion. Among the priority areas of cooperation the two country leaders agreed on renewable energy, to work together to mutually assist in building a greener and more interconnected Asean. Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong cited a project for Singapore to import 1GW of low-carbon electricity from Cambodia, which will be a key building block towards an Asean Power Grid. The plan is for the grid to link up the electricity networks of the group’s member countries and enable cross-border power trading by 2045. Some progress has already been made on this front, with Singapore’s Keppel having inked a pact in 2023 with Cambodia’s Royal Group Power for the long-term import and sale of 1GW of low-carbon electricity. In the area of high-quality carbon credits, the countries are working together on an implementation agreement that builds on an earlier memorandum of understanding. PM Wong listed the top priorities on bilateral alliance in his key note address. PM Wong said, "First, we are working together to build a greener and more interconnected ASEAN by deepening cooperation in renewable energy. And we are working on a project to import low-carbon electricity from Cambodia, which will be one of the key building blocks for the ASEAN Power Grid. Second, we are working together on high-quality carbon markets, including an Implementation Agreement on Carbon Credits. This will mobilise financing for clean-energy projects, uplift rural communities and improve livelihoods, while enabling both our countries to hit our net-zero goals. And third, we are deepening cooperation in agri-trade because Cambodia is a key agricultural exporter, while Singapore imports almost everything we eat, and we are keen to diversify our sources of food imports. So closer collaboration in this area will be mutually beneficial for both our countries. Fourth, we will continue to strengthen ASEAN centrality and unity. In this uncertain global environment, it is more important than ever for ASEAN to stay cohesive, uphold open channels of dialogue, and work together to resolve our differences peacefully. Only then can we preserve our relevance, and continue advancing the region’s collective interests." ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3041/u-s-soybean-export-council-ussec-signs-mou-with-psav-to-strengthen-u-s-vietnam-agricultural-cooperation-and-facilitate-trade.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3041/u-s-soybean-export-council-ussec-signs-mou-with-psav-to-strengthen-u-s-vietnam-agricultural-cooperation-and-facilitate-trade.html Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:42:30 +0530 PSAV convened agribusiness stakeholders, technical experts, and sustainability advocates from Vietnam and across Southeast Asia to enhance awareness of U.S. Soy sustainability programs U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and the Partnership for Sustainable Agriculture Development in Vietnam (PSAV) sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen U.S.–Vietnam agricultural cooperation, facilitate trade and enhance awareness of U.S. Soy sustainability programs. USSEC on 18th June commemorated three decades of partnership between U.S. Soy and Vietnam at a milestone event in Ho Chi Minh City. The special event, titled "USSEC 30th Anniversary in Vietnam: Sustainable Solutions with U.S. Soy!", recognizes the strength of this enduring relationship and its role in supporting Vietnam's food, feed, and livestock sectors. The event brings together leading agribusiness stakeholders, technical experts, and sustainability advocates from Vietnam and across Southeast Asia. The program features keynote remarks, industry panel discussions, and interactive breakout sessions focused on sustainable food and feed solutions. A strategic roundtable on sustainability highlights shared goals in climate-smart agriculture, responsible sourcing, and long-term supply chain resilience—reinforcing the commitment of both U.S. and Vietnamese partners to collaboration, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Over the years, U.S. soy farmers and Vietnam's feed, food processing, and aquaculture sectors have built a resilient partnership focused on improving food production, sharing knowledge, and promoting sustainability. Vietnam has become Southeast Asia's third-largest U.S. Soy importer and the world's 13th-largest soy consumer. In marketing year 2023/24 overall Vietnam imported an estimated 2.2 million metric tons of whole soybeans and 5.9 million metric tons of soybean meal to meet growing demand[1]. Vietnam's rapidly modernizing feed sector and soybean crush facilities are creating more opportunities for U.S. Soy to support local production of pork, poultry, aquaculture products, and soybean oil. These trends are fueled by urbanization, a rising middle class, and shifting consumer preferences toward protein-rich diets. The sustainable soybean production practices provide Vietnamese customers with access to responsibly produced soy products that meet global sustainability, and reliability standards. With a transparent and reliable supply chain, U.S. Soy ensures consistent, timely delivery—providing Vietnamese customers with confidence and continuity as demand for sustainable food and feed solutions continues to grow. Elevation in market potentials: Vietnam is now the world's sixth-largest pork producer and fourth-largest aquaculture produce. Aquaculture alone contributes 4–5% of national GDP.  Soy has become a vital component of aquafeed, offering a high-quality, plant-based protein source to support the sector's continued growth. As demand increases, soybean meal consumption is forecasted to grow to 6 MMT in 2025, reflecting a recovery in feed demand and long-term market momentum. At the same time, Vietnamese consumers are showing growing interest in plant-based options and soy-based foods. U.S. Soy's nutritional profile, origin traceability, and sustainability credentials make it well-positioned to support this evolving demand. Forging the Next Chapter in U.S.–Vietnam Soy Cooperation The anniversary of U.S. Soy's partnership with Vietnam aligns with the 30th anniversary of bilateral relations between the two nations. Agricultural trade has been a cornerstone of this broader relationship, advancing food security, sustainability, and economic resilience on both sides. Marking a new chapter in U.S.–Vietnam agricultural engagement, USSEC and the Partnership for Sustainable Agriculture Development in Vietnam (PSAV) - a unit under Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Environment signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the conference to strengthen trade ties, foster industry collaboration, and support Vietnamese enterprises in accessing high-quality, sustainably produced soy products from the U.S. The MOU outlines efforts to strengthen Vietnam's agricultural sector by facilitating trade, promoting technical cooperation, and enhancing awareness of U.S. Soy sustainability programs such as the U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3034/singapore-and-indonesia-reaffirms-agriculture-trade-and-industry-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3034/singapore-and-indonesia-reaffirms-agriculture-trade-and-industry-cooperation.html Wed, 18 Jun 2025 10:25:59 +0530 Bilateral ties to advance cooperation in clean energy and decarbonisation for a shared sustainable future Singapore and Indonesia further strengthened their bilateral cooperation at the Singapore-Indonesia Leaders' Retreat, marking their partnership with a Milestone Ceremony for Project Development. During the 15th Singapore-Indonesia Six Bilateral Economic Working Groups Ministerial Meeting (6WG MM) was held in Singapore on 15 June 2025. The meeting was co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. The 6WG is a key economic platform between Singapore and Indonesia to advance economic cooperation in six areas, with Agribusiness and the green economy being the key sectors of focus among the 5 other major sectors. The Ministers underscored the importance of improving our business and regulatory environment to attract investments, and helping our people and businesses collaborate and seize emerging opportunities in both countries. In the agribusiness sector, the Ministers discussed initiatives to advance agri-tech collaborations and create new trading opportunities for Indonesian importers and Singaporean exporters, which will benefit both countries’ food industries. In addition, the Ministers welcomed progress in the ongoing collaboration between both countries on cross-border electricity trading and carbon capture and storage, which will support both countries’ efforts towards sustainable economic growth During the first Leaders' Retreat between Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the ceremony followed the signature of three government Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on 13 June 2025 by the Minister of Energy and Science & Technology of Singapore, Dr Tan See Leng, and the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources of Indonesia, Dr Bahlil Lahadalia. These MOUs on Cross-Border Electricity Trade (CBET), Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), and a Sustainable Industrial Zone (SIZ) demonstrate both countries' commitment to sustainable economic development. The MOUs reflect both countries’ resolve to pursue impactful low-carbon and sustainability-focused initiatives. These win-win partnerships will support both countries in achieving a resilient and low-carbon energy future, and generate new investments into green activities, while we do our part for global climate action The ceremony represents both countries’ shared commitment to implement the MOUs, by supporting decarbonisation projects that will realise our shared ambitions and yield win-win benefits. It was officiated by Prime Minister Wong, President Prabowo Subianto, Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Energy and Mineral Resources Dr Bahlil Lahadalia, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry Dr Beh Swan Gin and Head of Indonesia’s Upstream Oil and Gas Authority Djoko Siswanto. Minister Tan said, “Today’s milestone ceremony marks a shared commitment by Singapore and Indonesia to advance our cooperation in clean energy and decarbonisation. The three MOUs on CBET, CCS and the SIZ will pave the way for impactful projects that boost economic growth, catalyse investments, create good jobs, and support our countries’ decarbonisation plans. I look forward to working closely with Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and Indonesian counterparts to transform our ambitions into action for both our countries and our peoples.” Senior officials from both countries attended the ceremony, including representatives from Singapore Energy Interconnections (SGEI), which has been appointed by the Singapore Government to specialise in developing and operating cross-border interconnections to enable electricity imports into Singapore. As a key enabler of Singapore's energy transition, SGEI works closely with industry partners and government stakeholders to ensure the technical and commercial viability of regional power interconnectivity. The company will pursue commercial partnerships, joint ventures, and strategic collaborations that advance Singapore's vision for a more sustainable and resilient energy future. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3032/cote-divoire-calls-on-private-sector-to-boost-investment-in-rubber-value-addition.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3032/cote-divoire-calls-on-private-sector-to-boost-investment-in-rubber-value-addition.html Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:55:49 +0530 Côte d’Ivoire halts new permits for initial rubber processing amid oversupply concerns, urging private investment instead in tire manufacturing, molded rubber products, and bioenergy sectors. Officials say current facilities can handle the country’s entire rubber production. Côte d’Ivoire, is aiming to diversify its value-added rubber product offerings amid overcapacity in primary processing. The country's Rubber and Oil Palm Council has announced it will no longer issue permits for new first-stage rubber processing plants or expand existing ones until further notice. The decision, announced on June 4, is intended to address the imbalance between industrial capacity and raw material supply. The first-stage segment, which converts raw latex into solid natural rubber, is currently oversaturated. To rebalance the sector, the Council is encouraging private investors to shift their capital toward second-stage rubber processing. This includes manufacturing tires, molded rubber products, and other technical items, as well as leveraging rubber seeds and timber for added value. This strategic reorientation could accelerate emerging sectors like bioenergy. One example is the New Energy Company (SODEN), which announced plans on June 3, 2025, to build a 76 MW power plant in Divo using agricultural waste, including end-of-life rubber trees. At the same time, the Eni Group is transforming rubber seeds into vegetable oil for its biorefineries. Following a successful pilot, the company signed an agreement with the government on May 28 to develop a national biofuels industry. These projects offer new energy sources and additional income for small-scale producers. This policy also supports the government’s goal of achieving 100 per cent first-stage processing of Côte d’Ivoire’s rubber by 2025. With the ban on new facilities, the regulator asserts that current infrastructure can absorb the country’s total output, which reached 1.67 million tons in 2023, according to official data. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3031/algeria-unveils-new-plan-to-expand-global-date-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3031/algeria-unveils-new-plan-to-expand-global-date-exports.html Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:40:26 +0530 Algeria has set an ambitious target to boost its annual date export revenues to $250 million as part of a new national strategy to strengthen the sector. The plan aims to expand Algeria’s export footprint from the current 57 countries to 150, positioning its date industry more prominently in global markets. Key elements of the strategy include improving packaging standards, enhancing cold chain logistics, and curbing smuggling, which has long undermined formal trade. By addressing these structural challenges, the government hopes to unlock the full export potential of Algerian dates—especially the prized Deglet Nour variety—and significantly increase foreign exchange earnings from the agri-food sector. Algeria, the world’s seventh-largest date exporter by volume, is ramping up efforts to double its date export revenues through a newly launched national strategy. Dates are the country’s second-largest agricultural export after sugar, and the government now aims to increase earnings from $108.4 million in 2024 to $250 million annually while expanding its export reach from 57 to 150 countries. Trade Minister Kamel Rezig announced the creation of a special commission on June 10 to evaluate current marketing conditions and draft measures to boost global competitiveness. The move is part of a broader campaign to enhance the international profile of Algerian agricultural products, particularly the premium Deglet Nour variety. In 2024, Algeria exported nearly 67,000 tons of dates, but experts warn that structural barriers could hamper growth. Industrial analyst Abdelmadjid Khobzi pointed to substandard packaging, weak global branding, smuggling, and poor post-harvest preservation as major hurdles. Inadequate cold chain logistics also affect export quality and shelf life. The new commission, operating under the Ministry of Commerce, is expected to recommend actionable solutions to modernize the sector and support Algeria's push to solidify its standing in global date markets. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3025/4th-china-africa-expo-drew-global-participation-in-hunan.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3025/4th-china-africa-expo-drew-global-participation-in-hunan.html Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:34:46 +0530 The 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo opened on Wednesday (June 12) in Changsha, the capital city of Central China's Hunan Province. Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Liberian Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi also attended the opening ceremony. Under the theme "China and Africa: Together Toward Modernization," the four-day event is the largest in the expo's history. It has drawn participants from 53 African nations, 11 international organizations, 27 Chinese provinces and municipalities, and over 4,700 Chinese and African enterprises, business associations, and financial institutions. Total registered attendance exceeds 30,000. This year's expo features a 100,000-square-meter exhibition area. It includes country pavilions from 26 African nations and promotion booths from 23 Chinese provinces and cities. The main venue is organized into six specialized pavilions and a central area, covering sectors like smart mining, clean energy, and modern agriculture. New highlights debut this year, including dedicated exhibitions for "African Quality Products" and the China-Africa Fashion Industry. These showcase premium African agricultural goods, food products, handicrafts, and Chinese electromechanical equipment. Satellite events include a pavilion at the permanent exhibition hall of the Gaoqiao Wholesale Market and an engineering machinery remanufacturing exhibition at the Central China International Machinery Park in Xiangtan. Running alongside the expo are 30 economic and trade events focused on implementing the China-Africa "10 partnership action plans" . These cover key cooperation areas such as: industrial chain collaboration, green mining, infrastructure development, traditional medicine, cultural trade, and youth innovation and entrepreneurship. The expo has already yielded significant results, with the signing of 175 cooperation projects related to the 10 partnership action plans. The total value of these projects amounts to $11.39 billion USD. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3007/vietnamese-firms-sign-20-mous-worth-3-billion-to-buy-us-agri-goods.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/3007/vietnamese-firms-sign-20-mous-worth-3-billion-to-buy-us-agri-goods.html Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:17:14 +0530 Vietnam led a delegation of nearly 50 agencies, agribusinesses, and associations to the US to boost trade and increase imports of agricultural and timber products Vietnam's Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy led a delegation and held business dialogues in Iowa, Ohio, Maryland and Washington, D.C. The forum witnessed signing of 20 MoUs worth $3 billion highlight the strong commitment and goodwill of Vietnam's business community and government to promote balanced trade with the US, and to encourage the Trump Administration to reconsider high reciprocal tariffs on Vietnamese goods. Minister Duy noted that while both countries have strong agricultural sectors, their strengths are complementary rather than competitive. "With strong support from both governments, agriculture in Vietnam and the US is becoming more interconnected. We now share parts of the same supply chains, which helps increase our competitiveness and benefits producers and consumers in both countries," the minister stated. "Vietnamese agribusinesses are working closely with the government to increase purchases of US agri-food and timber products. This effort supports trade balance and strengthens the supply chain between our two countries, hence contributing to global food security." Minister Duy emphasised that this initiative also reflects Vietnam's commitment to deepening trust and advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as the two countries celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations. Brian Baldridge, Ohio Secretary of Agriculture, stated, "Vietnam and the US, especially Vietnam and Ohio, have complementary strengths, particularly in agricultural trade. Ohio sees strong potential in Vietnam and recognises the opportunities to expand bilateral trade. Stakeholders from both sides should explore new ways for farmers, agribusinesses, and associations to collaborate and build strong, integrated supply chains. To support this, both governments should work to remove barriers to agricultural trade." During a roundtable with the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) in Washington, D.C., Ted Osius, president and CEO of the council, expressed strong support for Vietnam's agricultural development, "Rapid changes in US tariff policies have created a challenging trade environment. We're encouraged that Vietnam is considering increasing imports of agricultural goods to help reduce its trade deficit with the US. USABC and its member companies remain committed to supporting the growth of Vietnam's food and agriculture sector." In response to the USABC president, Minister Duy reaffirmed the Vietnam government's strong commitment to continuing institutional reforms, improving administrative efficiency, upgrading infrastructure, and creating the most favourable environment for international businesses, including US. enterprises, to expand trade and investment with Vietnam in a long-term and effective manner. Businesses and associations from both countries expressed hope that the Vietnamese and US governments would continue to support bilateral trade and strengthen links across their complementary agricultural supply chains. Their shared goal is to bring tangible benefits to millions of farmers, consumers, and businesses in both countries. As such, businesses on both sides are urging the removal of the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration on Vietnam. The 46 per cent tariff has been reported to harm not only Vietnamese exporters but also US businesses and consumers. Since agri-food is a staple commodity, higher price would place a considerable burden on average-income American households. Moreover, such measures could disrupt the supply chains that both governments and the private sector have worked hard to establish in recent years. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2997/queenslands-agritech-revolution-innovation-driving-sustainable-farming.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2997/queenslands-agritech-revolution-innovation-driving-sustainable-farming.html Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:37:10 +0530 Queensland is rapidly emerging as a global leader in AgriTech The Australian state of Queensland is well known for its ancient, natural wonders including the Great Barrier Reef.  Queensland is rapidly emerging as a global leader in AgriTech, harnessing cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience in agriculture. With a $22.66 billion production value, the state’s agricultural sector is undergoing a transformation fueled by innovation, investment, and collaboration. Several AgriTech innovations from Queensland are gaining global recognition. Advancing biosecurity in aquaculture Queensland company, Genics, exports its biosecurity solutions to shrimp farms worldwide, helping aquaculture industries improve disease prevention. The standout AgriTech innovator is transforming biosecurity in aquaculture, by providing advanced diagnostic solutions to detect diseases in shrimp and other seafood, helping farmers prevent outbreaks and improve stock health. Their technology enables early detection, reducing losses, and ensuring sustainable seafood production. Their smart technology is now being extended to pork and other industries with promising results.  Genics currently export their tech to more than 40 countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, the United States and South America. Harnessing lightning for agriculture First Nations company, Rainstick has combined ancient Indigenous Australian wisdom with modern technology. The company from Far North Queensland is working with producers and scientists to improve global food security.  Rainstick has created a seed treatment built on a 10,000-year-old practice borne of the positive effects of lightning strikes on the way plants grow.  By treating seeds with Variable Electric Field Treatment (VEFt), they’re revolutionising crop growth by using bioelectricity to enhance seed resilience and yield, while reducing environmental impact.  Smart livestock monitoring Livestock management has been simplified by Queensland company Ceres Tag, who has expanded its satellite-enabled livestock tracking technology to global markets, providing farmers worldwide with real-time monitoring solutions. The company revolutionised the industry with the world’s first smart ear tag that connects directly to satellites. The device is solar powered and tamper proof providing real-time geospatial tracking, which allows farms to monitor their animals’ location, movement, and health.  The tech prevents theft, enhances biosecurity, and efficiently monitors animal welfare.  AI-driven analytics provide the opportunity for informed herd management, which reduces costs and improves efficiency, especially in environments with limited access.   The future of AgriTech in Queensland When it comes to technology, advances in the field of food production and farming, can have the most significant and enduring impact on the world.   With continued investment and collaboration, Queensland’s commitment to precision agriculture, sustainability, and technological innovation ensures that farmers can meet growing food demands while protecting natural resources.  As Queensland’s AgriTech sector expands, the fusion of traditional farming expertise with cutting-edge technology will shape the future of agriculture – not just in Australia, but globally. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2988/vietnam-set-to-ink-2-bn-in-agricultural-agreements-with-us.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2988/vietnam-set-to-ink-2-bn-in-agricultural-agreements-with-us.html Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:16:28 +0530 The announcement came during a visit to the United States by a delegation from Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, led by Minister Do Duc Duy Vietnam is poised to sign more than $2 billion in agricultural trade deals with the United States, the Vietnamese government announced Tuesday, in a bid to ease trade tensions and avert a potential 46% tariff on exports threatened by President Donald Trump. The announcement came during a high-level visit to the US by a Vietnamese delegation led by Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Do Duc Duy. The move is seen as a strategic effort by Hanoi to address its trade surplus with the United States—the third largest globally after China and Mexico—and demonstrate goodwill ahead of the next round of bilateral trade talks. Among the new commitments are five memorandums of understanding (MoUs) signed with the state of Iowa, valued at around $800 million over three years. According to Vietnam’s agriculture ministry, this marks a dramatic increase from the current average of $44 million in annual agricultural imports from Iowa. The agreements cover key commodities such as soybean meal, corn, wheat, dried soybeans, and dried distillers grains (DDGS). Vietnam is set to enter a third round of trade negotiations with US officials in the coming days. Last month, both sides reported “positive progress” following three days of discussions in Washington. In addition to agricultural agreements, Vietnam’s delegation sought cooperation with major US firms including Lockheed Martin, SpaceX, and Google, signaling interest in expanding ties beyond trade into high-tech and energy sectors. Notably, a separate agreement was signed with US-based Westinghouse Electric for collaboration on nuclear energy development. Meanwhile, Trump’s business interests in Vietnam continue to draw attention. His real estate group recently broke ground on a $1.5 billion luxury resort and golf course near Hanoi, with his son Eric Trump and daughter-in-law Lara Trump attending the groundbreaking alongside local development partner Kinhbac City Development Corporation (KBC). The Trump Organization is also reportedly scouting potential sites for a high-rise tower in Ho Chi Minh City. As trade talks advance, the agricultural deals are being viewed as a significant gesture by Vietnam to rebalance its commercial relationship with the United States and avoid punitive measures that could disrupt one of its most important export markets. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2985/philippines-reports-surge-in-milk-production-in-the-first-quarter-of-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2985/philippines-reports-surge-in-milk-production-in-the-first-quarter-of-2025.html Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:25:29 +0530 Establishes stock farms, proper training, and more efficient market linkages Philippines recognized the importance of dairy farmers, cooperatives, and industry stakeholders, calling them the backbone of the sector during the recent occasion of 2025 World Milk Day. He emphasized the Department’s aim to empower the farmers and help them evolve into agripreneurs with profitable and sustainable livelihoods. The Department of Agriculture through its attached corporation, the National Dairy Authority (DA-NDA) organized a dairy fair on May 30. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the Department's goal of empowering farmers and helping them become agripreneurs with profit-making and sustainable enterprises. “The Marcos administration remains committed to transforming Philippine agriculture into a more modern, competitive, and sustainable engine for growth,” Sec. Tiu Laurel said. He stressed the dairy industry’s role in this transformation, noting the national target of reaching five percent milk sufficiency by 2028. He also announced progress in this effort, with DA-NDA nearing 2% sufficiency this year—up from just 1% in the past. “Through the DA-NDA and DA-Philippine Carabao Center, we’re investing in the increase of our herd, the establishment of stock farms, proper training, and more efficient market linkages to ensure that milk reaches every Filipino household,” Sec. Tiu Laurel said. DA-NDA Administrator Andaya expressed confidence in meeting the DA’s sufficiency goal. He shared recent milestones, stating that this year’s celebration is timely, given the industry’s continued growth. “Based on the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, we recorded 9.8 million liters of milk production in the first quarter of 2025—an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. Our herd inventory also grew by 2.9%, from 145,000 to 158,000 head, including cattle from PCC, NDA, and cooperatives. In our milk feeding program, which we implement with DepEd and DSWD, we reached nearly 350,000 students from January to February 2025,” Andaya said. Meanwhile, Mayor Joy Belmonte reaffirmed Quezon City’s support for the DA’s efforts to strengthen the local dairy sector. She highlighted the city’s commitment to ensuring proper nutrition for children, recognizing that adequate nourishment enables them to study well and achieve their dreams. Mayor Belmonte also highlighted local efforts to promote healthy eating habits, including the implementation of Quezon City Ordinance SP-2579, S-2017, which prohibits the sale and promotion of junk food and sugary drinks within 100 meters of schools. She added that the city is also promoting milk serving in school canteens. World Milk Day is observed annually on June 1 to recognize the dairy sector’s contributions to sustainable agriculture, economic development, and global health. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2973/vietnams-gacc-aims-to-enhance-vietnamese-agricultural-export-convenience-to-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2973/vietnams-gacc-aims-to-enhance-vietnamese-agricultural-export-convenience-to-china.html Fri, 30 May 2025 09:42:06 +0530 Implement measures that will ease the import process for Vietnamese agricultural products. Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), Minister Do Duc Duy stated: “Vietnam and China have agreed to boost customs clearance efficiency and enhance quality control at border gates. Both sides are also prepared to extend clearance hours to help ease congestion.” Sun Mai Jun confirmed that the two countries have reached a broad consensus across many areas of trade. “To support the influx of Vietnamese agricultural products during the peak harvest season, we’ve instructed border officials to increase working hours and inspection staff. These steps aim to create the best possible conditions for Vietnamese goods to enter the Chinese market,” she said. So far, the two countries have signed 28 memorandums and protocols covering the trade of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products, highlighting their strong and ongoing cooperation. A wide range of Vietnamese products is now exported to China, including 15 types of fruits and vegetables (such as watermelon, mangosteen, grass jelly, durian, fresh banana, sweet potato, chili, passion fruit, dragon fruit, rambutan, mango, lychee, longan, and jackfruit), as well as crocodiles, farmed monkeys, bird’s nests, fish meal, and various raw materials for animal feed, dairy products, and seafood. Minister Do Duc Duy welcomed the GACC’s recent decision to update and approve an additional 829 plantation area codes and 131 packing facility codes for Vietnamese durians exported to China. He noted that this reflects the effective coordination between the two sides and serves as strong encouragement for Vietnamese farmers and businesses. “We share China’s concerns regarding food safety indicators, especially Cadmium and Auramine O dye. Immediately after receiving the warning, Vietnam investigated the cause and implemented synchronous control and remedial solutions throughout the production - processing - export chain. The results have been compiled into a report and sent to the GACC to update progress and demonstrate Vietnam’s control capacity,” Minister Do Duc Duy informed. To continue to facilitate durian exports in 2025 and the following years, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment proposes a number of specific cooperation contents: Firstly, it is recommended that the General Department promptly consider adjusting food safety control measures for Vietnamese durian in a more favorable direction. Second, facilitate quick customs clearance for durian, especially during peak harvest season. Third, the GACC is requested to continue considering and approving additional testing laboratories with sufficient capacity to analyze Cadmium and Auramine O indicators, thereby facilitating quality testing activities before export. Vietnam will strive to strengthen measures to control durian quality throughout the entire supply chain, from production to processing and export, and is ready to closely coordinate with the GACC to address any arising situations related to food quality and safety. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2957/vietnam-recalibrates-key-agricultural-trade-and-supply-chain-dynamics.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2957/vietnam-recalibrates-key-agricultural-trade-and-supply-chain-dynamics.html Mon, 26 May 2025 10:18:29 +0530 Launched a sector-wide restructuring program, aligning agricultural, forestry, and fishery exports with market demands, traceability requirements, green economy principles, and international standards. Vietnam’s agro-forestry-fishery sector has shown steady growth in recent years, particularly in food production. In 2024, the sector reached a record export value of $62.5 billion. This highlights why the Vietnamese government is highly concerned about the future of this industry. In response to this concern, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Phung Duc Tien stressed that Vietnam has launched a sector-wide restructuring program, aligning agricultural, forestry, and fishery exports with market demands, traceability requirements, green economy principles, and international standards. “This has ensured steady growth in both output and export value,” he claimed. Preliminary figures for the first quarter of 2025 show a continued positive trend, with a 13.1% increase in agricultural exports compared to Q1 2024. Rice : Vietnam exported over 9 million tonnes of rice in 2024, generating over $5 billion in revenue. This represents an 11% increase in volume and a 24% increase in value compared to 2023. The average export price was estimated at $627 per tonne, up 10.6% year-over-year. Vietnam’s top rice export destination in 2024 is the Philippines, which represents 46.1 percent of its total rice exports. Coffee: Despite a 14% drop in export volume, Vietnam’s coffee exports reached $5.2 billion in 2024, exceeding the $5-billion mark for the first time. This achievement is attributed to rising global prices, which hit $5,720 per metric ton in October 2024. Fruits and vegetables: The sector recorded a 27% increase in exports, totaling $7.1 billion. Durian exports, including frozen durians, experienced a 50 percent year-on-year growth to $3.2 billion. Vietnamese bananas surpassed Philippine ones as the top choice for Chinese consumers. Aquatic Products: Aquatic exports experienced significant growth, generating $2.29 billion—an increase of 18.1% from the same period last year. The top markets for Vietnam’s seafood products included China (21.7%), Japan (15.6%), and the US (15.1%). Strategic shift toward market diversification Vietnam’s agricultural sector is increasingly focused on diversifying its export portfolio by tapping into new and emerging markets such as the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe. This strategic pivot aims to mitigate the risks associated with overreliance on traditional markets while capitalizing on the growing demand for agricultural products in less saturated regions. Leveraging free trade agreements Vietnam’s robust network of 18 active and planned free trade agreements (FTAs) underpins its market diversification strategy. These include high-impact agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The FTAs serve to lower or eliminate tariffs, promote regulatory harmonization, and improve market access for Vietnamese agricultural exports. By reducing trade barriers and aligning standards, these agreements enhance Vietnam’s ability to enter and thrive in emerging economies. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2948/vietnam-germany-strengthens-agricultural-ties-with-mechanization-as-a-focal-point.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2948/vietnam-germany-strengthens-agricultural-ties-with-mechanization-as-a-focal-point.html Fri, 23 May 2025 09:41:19 +0530 The focus is on agricultural machinery inspection and certification, as well as building the capacity of local experts, technicians, and farmers. Tran Thanh Nam, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam, met with the German Agricultural Society (DLG) to discuss agricultural mechanization, food safety, and sustainable development. DLG Markets' Managing Director, Jens Kremer, welcomed the Vietnamese delegation. Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Thanh Nam expressed his appreciation for the growing collaboration between DLG and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. Specifically, he highlighted DLG's initiative to organize AGRITECHNICA ASIA every two years in Vietnam, an important platform for advancing agricultural innovation and international cooperation. “AGRITECHNICA ASIA Vietnam 2025 marks the first time DLG brings its globally recognized expertise in agricultural technology and innovation directly to Vietnam,” said Deputy Minister Nam. “The solutions showcased at this exhibition will not only be well-suited to our domestic agricultural sector but will also help address major challenges faced by Vietnamese farmers. These include improving productivity, adopting sustainable agricultural practices, and gaining access to cutting-edge technologies and machinery.” Vietnam's goal is to become one of the world's leading agricultural nations through mechanization. To realize this vision, the country is implementing the Sustainable Development of One Million Hectares of High Quality and Low-Emission Rice Associated with Green Growth in the Mekong River Delta By 2030 program.   Vietnam is particularly interested in identifying and adopting high-tech agricultural machinery and technologies suitable for its production conditions. Mr. Nam stressed the importance of enhancing the system for agricultural machinery inspection and certification, and of building the capacity of local experts, technicians, and farmers in the field of agricultural mechanization. Regarding the potential establishment of a mechanization service center for agricultural production in the Mekong Delta, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment proposed that DLG cooperate in implementing pilot models that apply high-tech solutions in agricultural production. This would include organizing training programs and thematic workshops on advanced agricultural technologies, mechanization, and sustainable farming practices. In addition, the Ministry proposed that DLG support the provision of equipment, the transfer of technology, and the joint training of human resources. These efforts would contribute significantly to promoting the modernization of agriculture in this key economic region. To further strengthen cooperation, Vietnam proposes both sides consider signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on agricultural mechanization. The main areas of cooperation would include: promoting comprehensive mechanization across agricultural production; enhancing capacity building and vocational training in the field of mechanization; developing logistics systems; and facilitating digital transformation in agriculture. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2937/malaysia-japan-seal-rm1-34b-deals-at-expo-2025-osaka.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2937/malaysia-japan-seal-rm1-34b-deals-at-expo-2025-osaka.html Wed, 21 May 2025 10:05:47 +0530 The collaboration will utilise palm oil production residues to produce biomethane and low-carbon derivatives such as liquefied biomethane and biomethanol Malaysia and Japan have signed three strategic agreements valued at RM1.34 billion during Expo 2025 Osaka. A standout deal involves a joint venture between reNIKOLA Holdings Sdn Bhd and Japan's Sumitomo Corporation to develop renewable fuels. The collaboration will utilise palm oil production residues to produce biomethane and low-carbon derivatives such as liquefied biomethane and biomethanol. The second deal involved MTC Orec Sdn Bhd, a bioenergy firm under the Bio-based Accelerator (BBA) programme, partnering with Japan's IHI Plant Services Corporation to advance biogas technology development in Southeast Asia. In the third agreement, Glyken Bio Products Sdn Bhd, a BioNexus Status company, signed a Memorandum of Agreement and supply contract with Japan's Respect Co., Ltd. to distribute its bird's nest glycopeptide-based products in the Japanese market. At the Malaysia Pavilion during MOSTI Week, the event marked a crucial milestone in strengthening Malaysia-Japan collaboration to promote a low-carbon, bio-based economy. The initiative was led by the Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation, an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. Bioeconomy Corporation said the collaborations involve the development of renewable energy and the commercialisation of sustainable biotechnology products, aligning with the aspirations of the National Biotechnology Policy 2.0 and global sustainability goals. Chief executive officer, Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak, stated that choosing Japan as Malaysia's strategic partner in innovation and technology highlights the importance of international collaboration in driving green economic growth and tackling global climate issues. "Malaysia is proud to showcase the nation's bioeconomy potential to the global market through strategic collaborations such as this. While leveraging Japan's expertise in green innovation, BioNexus Status companies and those under the Bio-based Accelerator (BBA) programme are well positioned to drive transformation in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and bio-based products," he said. Mohd Khairul said this collaboration not only creates economic benefits but also plays a significant role in promoting a more sustainable, low-carbon future on both regional and global scales. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2932/royal-greenland-sets-sights-on-expanding-into-emerging-asian-markets.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2932/royal-greenland-sets-sights-on-expanding-into-emerging-asian-markets.html Tue, 20 May 2025 15:34:08 +0530 Royal Greenland targets New Asian markets with focus on value-added products and greenlandic heritage Royal Greenland, renowned as the world’s largest producer of coldwater shrimp and Greenland halibut, is taking bold steps to recover from two consecutive years of losses and set a path to profitability. As part of its strategic efforts, the company is focusing on expanding into new and emerging markets in Asia, which have shown significant potential for growth in seafood consumption. At the same time, Royal Greenland is intensifying its emphasis on value-added products, which are expected to yield higher profit margins and appeal to evolving consumer demands for convenience, quality, and sustainability. The company is also proudly highlighting its Greenlandic roots, capitalizing on its strong heritage as a symbol of authenticity and the pure, sustainable practices that define its products. The company’s ambitious goal is to achieve a 5 per cent profit margin by 2027, positioning it as a key player in the global seafood market. This growth trajectory follows a period of financial struggle, yet the company remains optimistic due to the increasing global demand for high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood. Royal Greenland’s leadership is determined to reshape the business with its new profitability-focused strategy, known as Inua 2027. The term ‘Inua’ originates from Inuit culture, symbolizing ‘soul’ or ‘life force,’ which aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability, vitality, and long-term growth. This new plan is designed to address challenges faced by the company, including rising production costs, global market fluctuations, and increasing competition within the seafood industry. Inua 2027 will allow Royal Greenland to concentrate on expanding its market share in Asia, where seafood consumption is projected to rise, and strengthen its position in the value-added product sector. This could involve expanding the company’s portfolio of pre-prepared meals, seafood snacks, and other convenience-driven offerings. By leveraging its Greenlandic heritage and focusing on sustainability, Royal Greenland aims to strengthen its brand identity and resonate with consumers who prioritize eco-conscious sourcing. The company’s vision for the future is rooted in a deep respect for nature and a commitment to ensuring the continued vitality of the coldwater ecosystems from which it sources its seafood. In conclusion, Royal Greenland’s Inua 2027 strategy reflects its unwavering commitment to turning around its business operations by targeting new growth markets, diversifying its offerings, and focusing on sustainability, while maintaining a strong connection to its Greenlandic roots and cultural identity. With these steps, the company is poised to recover from its losses and return to profitability, helping it to further solidify its leadership role in the global seafood industry. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2925/vietnam-seeks-stronger-agricultural-ties-with-germany-amid-global-market-push.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2925/vietnam-seeks-stronger-agricultural-ties-with-germany-amid-global-market-push.html Mon, 19 May 2025 13:52:21 +0530 A key highlight of the visit was a trade promotion forum focused on Vietnam–Germany cooperation in agro-forestry-aquatic products. The event drew strong participation from a diverse range of stakeholders, including trade associations, vocational training institutions, major German distribution networks, supermarket chains, and nearly 50 companies involved in the production, processing, and logistics of agricultural, forestry, and aquatic goods A delegation from Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), led by Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam, is on a five-day working visit to Germany from May 14–18, aiming to deepen agricultural cooperation and explore new partnership opportunities. During the visit, the delegation held meetings with several key German institutions, including the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL), the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the German Agribusiness Alliance (GAA), and the German Agricultural Society (DLG), as well as leaders in Thuringia and Hessen states. A key highlight of the trip was a trade promotion forum focused on Vietnam–Germany cooperation in agro-forestry-aquatic products. The event brought together trade associations, vocational training institutions, supermarket chains, and nearly 50 companies involved in production, processing, and logistics. Discussions centered on market trends, export regulations, and enhancing supply chains. Deputy Minister Nam underscored the potential for collaboration in areas such as food safety, digital agriculture, vocational training, and mechanization. He called for stronger links between Vietnamese and German businesses through joint ventures, trade fairs, and supply chain partnerships. Nam also proposed the establishment of business groups based on value chains to improve product quality and reduce logistics costs. Vietnamese Ambassador Vu Quang Minh highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening agricultural and environmental ties in the face of global economic disruptions. He noted the complementarity of the two economies and the potential for enhanced resilience and trade growth. Dr. Per Brodersen, Director of the GAA, noted that the cooperation between Vietnam and Germany has entered a new and promising phase, particularly in the agri-food sector. The visit also included additional working sessions in Erfurt and Frankfurt, where the MAE signed six Memorandums of Understanding with the Erfurt Vocational Education and Training Centre, further expanding cooperation in agricultural education and training. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2924/us-agriculture-secretary-to-visit-asia-and-europe-for-tariff-negotiations.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2924/us-agriculture-secretary-to-visit-asia-and-europe-for-tariff-negotiations.html Mon, 19 May 2025 13:28:12 +0530 U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins will travel to Japan, India, Vietnam, and other nations to discuss trade imbalances and address the impact of new U.S. tariffs. Rollins aims to secure increased agricultural imports and work towards resolving ongoing trade disputes, especially in the aftermath of President Trump's tariff impositions. Despite Japan's request for a tariff exemption, no significant breakthrough has been made in negotiations thus far. The visit is part of broader efforts to improve trade relations and foster more favorable conditions for U.S. agriculture exports U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins will embark on a diplomatic tour to Japan, India, Vietnam, and several other countries in the coming weeks to address trade imbalances and negotiate solutions to new U.S. tariffs, according to reports from Tuesday. The trip comes in the wake of President Donald Trump’s implementation of a global tariff regime affecting both allies and rivals, which has sparked tensions and trade disputes. Rollins shared with reporters that the primary goal of the visit is to secure increased agricultural imports from major U.S. trading partners, as part of efforts to resolve long-standing trade disparities. "Deals are being negotiated right now. Next week, I'll be in England discussing these things. A few weeks after, I'll be in Italy, then soon after that, Vietnam, Japan, and India," Rollins said. The countries involved, including Japan, India, and Vietnam, currently face U.S. tariffs of 24%, 27%, and 46%, respectively. Washington has rejected Japan’s formal request for exemption from these tariffs. Despite ongoing talks, no breakthroughs have been made, with Japan's top trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa recently meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington without a resolution. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba remarked that while discussions have been "positive and constructive," significant gaps remain, and "maximum efforts" will be necessary to resolve the issues. Japan has reiterated its position that it will not compromise its national interests to reach a trade deal. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2923/u-s-thailand-bilateral-trade-proposals-gain-momentum.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2923/u-s-thailand-bilateral-trade-proposals-gain-momentum.html Mon, 19 May 2025 12:52:08 +0530 Thailand five-point negotiation framework aims to restructure food and agriculture industries by identifying raw material shortages, reviewing current import tariffs while safeguarding domestic producers, eliminating non-tariff barriers Thailand’s ongoing negotiations with the United States are progressing positively, as affirmed by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during the recent Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh. The Secretary praised Thailand’s outstanding and constructive proposals, describing them as impressive initiatives that could lead to productive trade outcomes. This encouraging signal follows instructions from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who urged all relevant agencies to align strategies under the "Team Thailand" framework. Jirayu Huangsub, Government Spokesperson, noted that preparations for engagement with the U.S. began early this year, with a national trade policy team established on January 6 to coordinate cross-sectoral efforts. The Thai delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, has laid out a five-point negotiation framework. It includes restructuring food and agriculture industries by identifying raw material shortages, reviewing current import tariffs while safeguarding domestic producers, eliminating non-tariff barriers to ease business operations, enhancing screening of imported goods to prevent third-party circumvention, and overhauling investment strategies in key sectors like energy and petrochemicals. The collaboration also includes ministries of commerce, finance, and agriculture, the Board of Investment, and private sector partners such as the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Thai Industries. The shared goal is to ensure Thailand’s proposals are well-timed, data-driven, and beneficial to all sectors, thereby strengthening the country’s export competitiveness and securing long-term economic partnerships. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2920/japan-forges-as-australias-third-largest-trading-partner-in-horticulture-aims-175-6-m-trade-value-in-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2920/japan-forges-as-australias-third-largest-trading-partner-in-horticulture-aims-175-6-m-trade-value-in-2025.html Mon, 19 May 2025 12:36:02 +0530 Hort Innovation is actively working to deepen industry networks in Japan to showcase the best of Australian horticulture Australia is the number one citrus import partner for Japan, holding a 27% market share. The market momentum has continued to grow steadily since 2021 (20%), demonstrating a strong performance in a competitive and mature market. The partnership between Australia and Japan is highly complementary and counter-seasonal, allowing both countries to support each other’s markets effectively. Japan is Australia’s third-largest trading partner in horticulture, with exports valued at $175.6 million in 2025. Leading exports are oranges, which account for 42% of exports and this figure continues to grow for the whole citrus industry. In fact, Australian citrus export value and volume to Japan grew by 24% and 15% respectively compared to the previous year, suggesting improved pricing and stronger returns per unit, or a shift toward higher-value products in market. There has also been particularly strong growth in the grapefruit, lemon and lime categories with grapefruit recording an average of 17% year-on-year growth over five years and lemons and limes showing even stronger performance with 54% average year-on-year growth over the same period. This growth reflects Japan’s confidence in Australian citrus, driven by our reliability, quality, and strong trade relationships, yet there is always more we can do to expand this further. Through a variety of strategic initiatives, in-market events, and collaborative partnerships, Hort Innovation is actively working to deepen industry networks in Japan to showcase the best of Australian horticulture and solidify the reputation of our growers in the Japanese market. Earlier on March 11th, as part of the Australia-Japan Horticulture Showcase initiative titled "The Taste of the Land Down Under in the Land of the Rising Sun event, and the "Taste the Wonders of Australia" event, hosted on April 9 by the Australian Food and Wine Collaboration Group, have been pivotal moments in strengthening relationships with Japan. These events featured: Export market roundtable discussions: Engaging with industry and government contacts to discuss market opportunities and challenges. Food and wine workshops: Showcasing the best of Australian food and wine to local food industry representatives. Gala dinners: Highlighting premium Australian produce to over 100 Japanese food and trade representatives. The Australia-Japan Showcase was hosted by Hort Innovation, Austrade and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), with support from Global Victoria, and the Tasmanian Government. The ongoing program is funded by Hort Innovation Frontiers and DAFF’s Showcasing Australian Horticulture Grant. The investment by the Australian Food and Wine Collaboration Group is also funded by Hort Innovation Frontiers supported by Agriculture Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) grants. The events saw strong representation from both the Australian horticulture industry and government, showcasing collaborative efforts to strengthen trade ties with Japan. Japanese industry leaders, who visited Australia during October last year as part of a study tour, returned for the events to once again experience the delicious fruits, vegetables and nuts on offer and shared a number of key insights. Key insights from Japan: Price sensitivity and quality preference: Fresh produce prices in Japan have increased by 19%, making Japanese consumers more price conscious, however, with a high preference for quality and premium produce remaining strong, Australian fruit, vegetables and nuts – which are seen as clean, green, and safe – continue to enhance Australia’s reputation in the market. Strategic partnership: Given the high level of uncertainty that is happening at a global level, the Japanese Government is looking to work with a strong and consistent partner. Given Australia’s counter-seasonal offering and mutual interest in joint production for third-country markets and value chain collaboration, we are seen to be a critical partner. Sustainability creates opportunity: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in Japan this provides an opportunity for Australia to showcase its sustainability efforts and future-focused initiatives in the horticulture space. Brand Australia: Growers are encouraged to support the ‘brand Australia’ image to increase brand awareness of produce exported to the market. This will also help with increasing awareness of the quality of our products. Alignment on significance of agriculture: Agriculture is an integral part of both Australia and Japan’s cultural fabric; a sentiment strongly reflected across both trips. Through continuing to build relationships, we hope to see this cultural tie bring our countries even closer together. These collaborative efforts and strategic engagements are set to pave the way for a thriving and mutually beneficial trade relationship between Australia and Japan. As Hort Innovation and its partners continue to build on these initiatives, we hope the Australian horticulture industry will continue to see benefits within the Japanese market. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2907/taiwan-has-launched-its-specialty-golden-diamondpineapples-into-singapores-ntuc-fairprice.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2907/taiwan-has-launched-its-specialty-golden-diamondpineapples-into-singapores-ntuc-fairprice.html Wed, 14 May 2025 11:39:28 +0530 Taiwan Pineapples are sweeter than the average MD2 variants and increases the potential for buy-in locally In Taiwan, the Golden Diamond pineapple is produced in Guanmiao District, one of the country's most famous pineapple production regions due to its hilly terrain, acidic red sandy soil, and hilly terrain. In contrast to MD2 pineapples, which are the most common pineapple variety found in Singapore, Golden Diamond pineapples are finer in texture, contain less fibre and have a sweeter and juicier taste, along with a soft, fully edible core. According to Wu Wen-ling, director of the Consular Division of the Taipei Economic & Cultural Office, these characteristics have helped Golden Diamond pineapples stand out significantly among Taiwan's over 20 pineapple varieties. “One key example of its versatility can be seen in terms of consuming it as a juice – if one tried to just juice down MD2 pineapples and drink this directly without adding other juices or something to sweeten it, the consequences would not be pleasant as the level of sourness would be very extreme,” Wu told the floor at a recent event promoting the launch. “Golden Diamond pineapples are different as the juice can be drank as-is and the fruit can be eaten as-is without sweetening or mixing with other juices, greatly enhancing the benefits from the pineapple itself. “The natural sweetness of this fruit makes it suitable to be eaten as dried fruit, an ingredient in fried rice, a component of a dessert, and much more ” said Huang Wei-che, who discussed the potential commercial uses of this fruit, including baking and snacking. Kwok Ka Chun, Director of NTUC FairPrice Singapore, said that the unique taste of Golden Diamond pineapples would appeal to local taste buds, as local consumers know what good quality tastes like. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2906/vietnam-uk-boost-agricultural-trade-ties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2906/vietnam-uk-boost-agricultural-trade-ties.html Wed, 14 May 2025 11:33:23 +0530 Facilitates agricultural cooperation and improve market access for key export products from both countries A roundtable discussion held in London on May 13 brought together government officials, industry leaders, and businesses from both Vietnam and the UK to explore the current state, demand, and growth potential of bilateral agricultural trade. Around 40 agricultural producers, processors, logisticians, and traders attended the event, along with representatives from UK agricultural associations. Vietnam's poultry industry potential, consumer preferences, import-export regulations, and strategies for distributing Vietnamese food and produce in UK supermarket chains were discussed during the meetings. Agri-food imports from the UK total $67 billion a year, making it a high-potential market. Vietnam's agri-export turnover to the UK reached nearly $883 million in 2024, up 15.4% from the previous year. A number of Vietnamese exports, such as seafood, wood products, coffee, cashews, fruits, pepper, and handicrafts, match UK import demand. In the meantime, Vietnam imports seafood, pesticides, feed ingredients, and rubber from the United Kingdom. With both markets complementing rather than competing, there is plenty of room for expansion. Agricultural cooperation and market access for key export products from both countries were also recommended by participants. Tran Thanh Nam, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment, highlighted the UK's market potential and called for regular business-matching events, the establishment of supply chain-linked business clusters, and enhanced trade promotion. Both sides must ensure compliance with regulatory requirements in import-export activities, he said. Phuong Hoang, President of the Vietnamese Business Association in the UK (VBUK), noted growing interest among UK firms in reliable, high-quality, and sustainable agricultural supply chains. He highlighted Vietnam's strengths in fruit, seafood, and processed food exports, which are increasingly popular in global and British markets. Executive Director of the British Coffee Association Paul Rooke praised the quality of Vietnamese coffee, especially robusta, and said it holds strong potential in the UK’s diverse and high-demand market. He stressed the importance of understanding UK import requirements, not just in terms of quality, but also environmental standards, anti-deforestation rules, and fair trade practices. Nguyen Thi Minh Phuong, Product Development Manager at Longdan Group, one of the UK’s largest importers of Vietnamese goods, shared insights on marketing strategies, such as retaining local product names for better brand recognition. She emphasised combining digital marketing with in-store sampling to introduce Vietnamese specialty fruits to British consumers. Thai Tran, CEO of TT Meridian Ltd, a leading importer of Vietnamese fresh produce, said Vietnamese brands and products like pomelo, coconut, dragon fruit, and passion fruit are now featured in major UK supermarket chains, including Waitrose, M&S, and Tesco. He credited the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) for giving Vietnamese agriculture a competitive edge but warned that this advantage could diminish as the UK signs more bilateral trade deals, such as the recent agreement with India. To maintain market share, Thai advised Vietnamese exporters to ensure consistent quality, upgrade technology, and manage costs to keep prices competitive. He also encouraged a focus on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and brand development, factors increasingly valued in the UK. Thai proposed that trade promotion agencies collaborate with major UK distributors to organise nationwide Vietnamese Product Weeks, extending from metropolitan hubs to rural areas, to enhance brand visibility and consumer familiarity. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2897/indonesia-japan-explore-cooperation-in-agricultural-technology.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2897/indonesia-japan-explore-cooperation-in-agricultural-technology.html Mon, 05 May 2025 13:03:27 +0530 To achieve modern agricultural clusters, bilateral cooperation can also include trade and agricultural technology. Indonesia and Japan expressed their readiness to explore cooperation in agricultural technology to mitigate the risks posed by climate change, said Indonesian Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman. The cooperation was marked by a meeting between Sulaiman and Japanese Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF), Eto Taku, in Jakarta. "Currently, the most important aspect is cooperation in technology to mitigate the risks of climate change," Sulaiman stated at the press conference. He noted that several countries are facing challenges in the agricultural sector due to global climate change. Both ministers also acknowledged challenges in the agricultural sector, considering the high temperatures that can affect farmers' productivity. "We are experiencing the same problem, namely, extremely hot weather due to high temperatures. This phenomenon caused a decrease in our production. Climate change results in low productivity that affects farmers' income as well," he pointed out. On the other hand, Sulaiman highlighted that Indonesia has fertile land with ample water resources, presenting an opportunity to establish cooperation in realizing modern agricultural clusters. He noted that the two countries are considering conducting trade in addition to agricultural technology. Sulaiman stated that Indonesia has a surplus of crude palm oil (CPO), while Japan has excess cow's milk production. "We offered CPO and requested Japanese milk for Indonesia, as our milk supply is still insufficient. Technical details of this trade cooperation will be discussed later," he noted. Earlier, Sulaiman stated that Malaysia had also shown interest in learning about Indonesia's agricultural system for preparing food reserve stocks, especially in the face of climate change. The minister stated that Malaysia struggles to maintain productivity due to climate change, while Indonesia has succeeded through rapid steps such as pumping. "They want to learn about seedlings, water management, shallow wells, deep wells, and pump irrigation. They planned to send their team to study in Indonesia," Sulaiman stated. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2896/australian-apples-gain-technical-market-access-to-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2896/australian-apples-gain-technical-market-access-to-china.html Mon, 05 May 2025 12:55:17 +0530 Protocol signed to open Chinese market to Australian mainland apples Apple and Pear Australia Ltd (APAL) announced that the Australian apple industry has reached a significant milestone, with a new biosecurity protocol now signed to allow mainland apples to be exported to China. The agreement, signed by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and the General Administration of Customs, China in Canberra, marks a significant step forward for Australian growers looking to expand into viable international markets.  Following several years of positive dialogue and engagement, exports of Australian mainland apples to China are set to commence in the 2026 season.  China market access presents a fantastic opportunity for the Australian apple industry, tapping into China’s strong demand for premium, high-quality imported fresh fruit. Chinese consumers have a well-established preference for branded, high-quality fruit with exceptional freshness and flavour, aligning perfectly with Australia’s reputation for superior apple production.  Australian mainland apples will now have the opportunity to build on the strong foundation established by Tasmania’s successful exports to China, under a protocol that includes cold treatment for the management of fruit fly and ongoing recognition of the Tasmania fruit fly pest free area. Apple and Pear Australia Limited CEO Philip Turnbull welcomed the new agreement, emphasising the potential for Australian growers to diversify and build a more competitive industry.  “Market access for Australian mainland apples into China is a significant milestone that will provide Australian growers with a valuable opportunity to expand beyond the domestic market and establish a presence in one of the world’s most lucrative fresh produce markets.” “The Australian apple industry has traditionally been domestically focused. However, shifting supply and demand dynamics, coupled with increasing competition in the snack food category, mean that developing strong export pathways is more critical than ever. Access to China offers Australian growers an exciting opportunity to showcase the quality, crispness, and flavour of our apples to an entirely new audience,” said Philip Turnbull.  “The signing of this protocol is an important step forward, enhancing the industry’s competitiveness both internationally and domestically.”   The agreement will enable new season mainland apples to be exported from Australia into China in 2026.  While Tasmanian growers have already been exporting apples to China, this new agreement now opens doors for mainland Australian apple growers to access the Chinese market. This new export pathway to the high-value Chinese market presents a great opportunity for mainland apples, with Australian apple exports currently sitting at less than 1 per cent of the country’s domestic fresh apple production.  Market access for Australian mainland apples to China is part of APAL’s broader trade strategy funded by Hort Innovation using the apples and pear research and development levy and funds from the Australian government. Delivered by APAL, the Apple and pear trade development and market access program (AP23001) is a comprehensive program aimed at expanding market access, increasing engagement and understanding of trade, export capability and competitiveness, as well as ensuring the industry is ready to act swiftly if new markets open. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2889/malaysian-sustainable-palm-oil-council-unveils-jom-mspo-2-0-to-boost-industry-compliance.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2889/malaysian-sustainable-palm-oil-council-unveils-jom-mspo-2-0-to-boost-industry-compliance.html Fri, 02 May 2025 12:52:44 +0530 The initiative aims to accelerate industry-wide compliance with MSPO 2.0, which came into effect on Jan 1, 2025. The Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) has launched a nationwide campaign, Jom MSPO 2.0, featuring structured training programmes, engagement sessions, and on-the-ground support to help industry players — particularly smallholders, estate owners, and plantation operators — achieve full certification under the enhanced MSPO 2.0 standard. The campaign began in Bintulu, Sarawak, on April 24, with MSPO identifying a pool of qualified external trainers. This allows industry associations to access these experts for member training without additional administrative burden. The campaign was launched in collaboration with key industry bodies including the Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association, The East Malaysia Planters’ Association, and the Malaysian Palm Oil Association, MSPO said in a statement. With MSPO 2.0 now fully implemented, Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani urged the palm oil sector to move swiftly towards compliance, highlighting the importance of participating in the workshops to gain necessary knowledge and expertise. “We are providing direct engagement, expert training, and structured support to ease the transition. This initiative strengthens Malaysia’s commitment to sustainability and secures our position in the global market,” he said. MSPO 2.0, which was introduced in 2022 and officially took effect this year, builds upon the original MSPO 2013 standard. The updated framework introduces stricter guidelines on sustainability, traceability, and ethical practices, strengthening environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance to ensure that Malaysian palm oil remains competitive and continues to meet international market requirements. As at end-December 2024, 4.89 million hectares — or 86.47% — of Malaysia’s oil palm cultivation area had been certified under the MSPO standard ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2882/china-expected-to-achieve-higher-grain-output-in-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2882/china-expected-to-achieve-higher-grain-output-in-2025.html Mon, 28 Apr 2025 13:04:13 +0530 China 2025 grain output is projected to hit 709 million tonnes China is poised to see a further increase in its grain output in 2025, building on last year's record-high of 706.5 million tonnes, while also strengthening its capacity to supply grain and other major agricultural products, reports China's Federal News outlet. A new study report indicates country's 2025 grain output is projected to hit 709 million tonnes, pushed up by the increased efforts to boost per unit crop yield on a large scale and growing enthusiasm for grain planting and production, according to the report released by the Chinese Agriculture Outlook Committee, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. In 2025, soybean output is expected to grow 2.5 percent year on year to 21.17 million tonnes, the report notes. As domestic production rises and consumption growth eases, the imports of bulk agricultural products are expected to decline, according to the report. The report projects that China, in the next decade, is expected to experience a breakthrough in agricultural productivity. Improvements will be observed in comprehensive grain production capacity and the ability to mitigate and address major risks and challenges facing the sector. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2874/chinese-firm-in-kunming-is-expected-to-increase-durian-imports-from-thailand.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2874/chinese-firm-in-kunming-is-expected-to-increase-durian-imports-from-thailand.html Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:15:44 +0530 Thailand strives to peruse the opportunity of exporting an estimated volume of 20–30 durians containers per day estimated at 4 billion baht A Chinese company in Kunming is expected to increase durian imports from Thailand to around 20–30 containers per day. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), revealed that the department has instructed commercial attachés posted abroad to explore trade opportunities and Thai export potential.  The latest update came from Nat Wimonchan, Director of the Thai trade center in Kunming, People’s Republic of China, who led senior ministry officials to inspect logistics routes and trade facilitation for Thai durian exports to China ahead of the upcoming fruit season. The trade attaché continued discussions with executives of Yunnan Nongfa Agriculture, a new fruit wholesale market and distribution hub in Kunming. The company is a state-owned enterprise with 100% Chinese government ownership and a registered capital of 50 million yuan. It sources imported fruits from ASEAN countries for distribution across China through both online and offline channels, and also exports Chinese-grown fruits to international markets. Currently, the company imports Thai fruit through four importers but is now interested in directly importing durians at an estimated volume of 20–30 containers per day. Director-General Sunanta has instructed the Kunming trade office to work closely with the company to expand Thai fruit distribution into secondary cities and nearby provinces, such as Xinjiang, Qinghai, Tibet, and Chengdu. The company expressed enthusiasm and confirmed its demand for Thai durians. In Yunnan and Chengdu, daily orders are estimated at 20–30 containers, while Tibet, Xinjiang, and Qinghai are expected to import about two containers per week. The DITP also plans to expedite business-matching events between Thai durian exporters and the company under the "Quick-win Business Matching" initiative, which was developed through collaboration between trade offices in Kunming, Chengdu, and Nanning. The goal is to boost Thai fruit demand in western and southwestern China. The department will also invite the company to participate in future DITP events. Located in Guandu District, Kunming, the company spans 110,000 square meters and features 78 cold storage rooms, three rail lines for fruit transport, and a live streaming sales zone. Currently in trial operation, the company is set to launch officially on May 1st, with a projected durian import value over the next year estimated at 4 billion baht. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2867/malaysia-and-china-strengthens-bilateral-diplomatic-relations-as-trading-partners.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2867/malaysia-and-china-strengthens-bilateral-diplomatic-relations-as-trading-partners.html Mon, 21 Apr 2025 13:17:22 +0530 Signs over 30 bilateral cooperation deals spanning AI, infrastructure and Agriculture; China-Malaysia trade reached $212 billion in 2024 As the second-largest trading partner of China and the largest source of imports within ASEAN, Malaysia welcomed Chinese president Xi Jinping to Malaysia in mid-April for a high-level strategic meeting. Both countries have been able to promote a shared future by creating the first-ever high-level strategic community, thus benefiting their peoples and contributing to the prosperity of their regions. Trade between China and Malaysia reached $212 billion in 2024, nearly 1,000 times what it was at the beginning of diplomatic relations. Xi called on the two countries to hold on to their strategic independence, find ways to make development synergies, and enhance their civilizational exchanges during his meeting with Malaysian Premier Anwar Ibrahim. Xi and Anwar signed over 30 bilateral cooperation deals after the meeting, illustrating their commitment to enhancing high-quality cooperation across AI, infrastructure, and agriculture. China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, while Malaysia remains China's second-largest trading partner and the largest source of imports within the ASEAN. The two leaders agreed to resist decoupling and supply chain disruptions with openness and cooperation during their meeting, as they both opposed indiscriminate tariffs. According to Xi, Asia must respond to the law of the jungle with Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness, and inclusion, and it must respond to an unstable and uncertain world with a stable, certain Asia. In the same context, Anwar said that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will not endorse any unilaterally imposed tariffs. Expressing China's willingness to enhance high-quality bilateral cooperation, Xi said the two sides should strengthen cutting-edge cooperation in the digital economy, green economy, blue economy, and artificial intelligence and strengthen the integrated development of the industrial chain, supply chain, value chain, data chain and talent chain. Malaysia was one of the earliest supporters of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The two countries signed a BRI memorandum of understanding in 2017 and have since reaped fruitful outcomes such as the "Two Countries, Twin Parks" program and the East Coast Rail Link. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2864/spain-and-china-sign-cherry-export-protocols-to-boost-trade-with-asia.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2864/spain-and-china-sign-cherry-export-protocols-to-boost-trade-with-asia.html Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:56:49 +0530 In 2024, agricultural products worth 1.864 billion euros were exported to the Asian country. Spain Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, and the Minister of the General Administration of Customs of China, Sun Meijun, have signed new protocols for the export of cherries to the Asian country, China. The agreement, signed by the Spanish and Chinese governments, increase the export capacity of cherry in Spanish sectors. Since 2018, both countries have signed 10 protocols—both signed today—on sanitary and phytosanitary requirements for the export of agricultural and food products from Spain to China, which also include olive paste, pet food, feed oats, almonds, and persimmons. The new agreement for cherry exports opens up this product to the Asian country. The processing, packaging, storage, and transportation of cherries destined for export will be carried out under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. It will also be responsible for ensuring that only cherries from registered orchards can enter the packaging warehouse for selection and processing. This protocol will be valid for three years from today, the date of signing. In total, Spanish sales to the Asian country account for 2.5% of agri-food exports. China is undoubtedly a strategic market for numerous Spanish companies and represents significant potential for this country's exports. In fact, it is Spain's ninth largest market in value and the third largest outside the EU after the United Kingdom and the United States. In 2024, agricultural products worth €1.864 billion were exported to the Asian country. This data shows a positive balance of €253 million in the agricultural trade balance with China. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2862/u-s-ag-partners-and-u-s-soy-lead-strategic-dialogue-on-the-future-of-southeast-asias-food-and-feed-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2862/u-s-ag-partners-and-u-s-soy-lead-strategic-dialogue-on-the-future-of-southeast-asias-food-and-feed-sector.html Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:57:09 +0530 Industry Representatives and Experts Converge in Manila to Share and Exchange Perspectives on the Evolving Food, Feed, and Ag Trade Landscape The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) hosted the AG Supply Chain Asia Conference and the Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit 2025 to offer timely perspectives and forward-looking strategies that continue to inform and inspire progress across Southeast Asia’s agricultural value chain. Southeast Asia’s food, feed, and ag trade community gathered in Manila for two pivotal events which drew a unique audience of industry leaders, traders, and technical experts, offering distinct platforms to exchange insights, explore market dynamics, and discuss opportunities shaping the future of food and agriculture in the region. Southeast Asia remains a fast-growing market for U.S. Soy, fueled by increasing demand across both feed and food sectors. In Marketing Year (MY) 2023/24, the region imported 9.08 million metric tons (MMT) of whole soybeans and 20.89 MMT of soybean meal, underscoring its reliance on U.S. Soy for high-quality, sustainable protein solutions. The Philippines has been the top importer of U.S. soybean meal for eight consecutive years, while Vietnam and Indonesia’s imports have surged by 110% and 49%, respectively, over the last five years. Additionally, the region’s food and beverage industry continue to embrace U.S. Soy’s quality and versatility, reinforcing its role in traditional and modern food applications. In MY 2023/24, Indonesia—the region’s largest food-use soybean importer—sourced 2.67 MMT of whole soybeans, with the U.S. supplying approximately 90% of those imports, underscoring its role in staple foods like tofu and tempe. “The AG Supply Chain Asia Conference and the Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit underscore U.S. Soy’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and partnership,” said Timothy Loh, USSEC’s Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania. “By bringing together key players across the food and feed value chain, we’re facilitating informed, forward-looking dialogue that supports stronger market connections, protein security, and promoting growth and collaboration across the region.” With U.S. Soy remaining competitively priced in the global marketplace, the conferences provided a timely forum to address emerging challenges, drive innovation, and strengthen supply chains. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2850/japans-tsubame-bhb-signs-loi-with-brazilian-company-on-green-ammonia-manufacturing-facilities-project.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2850/japans-tsubame-bhb-signs-loi-with-brazilian-company-on-green-ammonia-manufacturing-facilities-project.html Fri, 11 Apr 2025 11:00:41 +0530 This new plant will produce 20,000 tons of ammonia per year to replace fossil-based fertilizers in agriculture Tsubame BHB Co., Ltd. , which is aiming for the social implementation and commercialization of distributed ammonia manufacturing plants, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with ATVOS AGROINDUSTRIAL PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A in Brazil, one of the leading biofuels companies in Brazil regarding a green aqueous ammonia factory in Mineiros (GO), where Atvos's Morro Vermelho Unit (UMV) is located, responsible for ethanol production. The new plant will have an installed capacity of 20,000 tons of the product. It will be used to replace fossil-based fertilizers applied to agricultural areas at both UMV and the Alto Taquari Unit (UAT), located in the homonymous municipality in Mato Grosso. With this solution, Atvos estimates it will avoid the emission of approximately 11 thousand tons of CO2 per year, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. The execution of this LOI was witnessed by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, at the Japan-Brazil Economic Forum held in Tokyo on March 26, 2025. On 28th March, Mr. Caio Dafico, Investment and Business Development VP at Atvos, visited Tsubame BHB for a tour of the pilot plant, and to conduct discussions on future directions for the project. Tsubame BHB will further accelerate its efforts to secure this first order for an overseas unit, and to rapidly promote overseas deployment. Atvos CEO Bruno Serapião said, "As one of the largest biofuels producers in Brazil with the purpose to lead the energy transition to move the world and transform lives, Atvos seeks to contribute to the decarbonization of the globe's leading economies while also reducing the carbon footprint of its own operations. Thus, the partnership with Tsubame to produce green ammonia represents a significant step toward achieving this goal, as it will enable us to reduce the use of fossil-based nitrogen fertilizers and further strengthen our commitment to fostering the social and economic development of the countryside cities where we are located through job and income generation. Tsubame BHB CEO Koji Nakamura explained "Brazil has great potential to become a major producer of green hydrogen, by leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources, and it is also a major agricultural nation that consumes nitrogen-based fertilizers in high volumes. As such, I believe that it is one of the countries that can manufacture green ammonia as a fertilizer at the small distributed ammonia synthesis plants offered by Tsubame BHB. I consider it a great honor to be able to collaborate with a major Brazilian bioethanol manufacturing company like Atvos, and I hope that through this collaboration, we can contribute to the decarbonization of agriculture in Brazil. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2840/china-brazil-economic-and-trade-forum-convenes-in-sao-paulo-strengthening-bilateral-ties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2840/china-brazil-economic-and-trade-forum-convenes-in-sao-paulo-strengthening-bilateral-ties.html Mon, 07 Apr 2025 12:43:52 +0530 Forum attracted delegates from trade agencies, chambers, and companies, culminating in on-site agreements worth over $2 billion spanning agriculture, mining, and CISCE participation The China-Brazil Economic and Commercial Forum took place in São Paulo, Brazil, on March 28, bringing together high-profile government officials and business leaders from both countries. Keynote speakers included Ren Hongbin, Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT); Luiz Augusto de Castro Neves, President of the Brazil-China Business Council; and Yu Peng, Consul General of China in São Paulo. In his address, Ren Hongbin highlighted the enduring partnership between China and Brazil, emphasizing CCPIT's commitment to expanding economic collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Leading a delegation of Chinese entrepreneurs, Ren engaged in high-level talks with Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, exploring new opportunities in industrial integration, supply chain resilience, and multilateral innovation. China reiterated its support for Brazil's 2024 BRICS presidency and the mutual goal of a "Golden 50 Years" of robust bilateral cooperation and solidarity among Global South nations. Brazilian participants emphasized the resilience and complementary strengths of economic ties between the two nations in the face of global challenges, including rising protectionism, climate change transitions, and technological disruptions. Key opportunities were identified in green energy, high-value industries, and integrated supply chains, with calls for businesses to leverage platforms like the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) to advance sustainable growth. Co-organized by CCPIT and the Brazil-China Business Council, the forum attracted over 100 delegates from trade agencies, chambers, and companies, culminating in on-site agreements worth over US$2 billion spanning agriculture, mining, and CISCE participation. During the visit, Ren Hongbin headed a delegation of over 40 companies, representing key sectors, including agriculture, food processing, finance, infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, and healthcare. The delegation engaged in strategic talks with Brazilian government and business leaders while touring local companies to identify and pursue collaborative opportunities. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2832/new-zealand-and-china-exchanged-views-on-advancing-agricultural-cooperation-and-trade-potential.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2832/new-zealand-and-china-exchanged-views-on-advancing-agricultural-cooperation-and-trade-potential.html Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:49:23 +0530 Specialized dialogues on dairy and fisheries, strengthen policy communication and information exchanges across agricultural sub-sectors China's Vice Minister Zhang Zhili met with Ray Smith, Director-General of the Ministry of Primary Industries of New Zealand, in Beijing on March 25. They exchanged views on advancing agricultural cooperation between China and New Zealand.   Vice Minister Zhang highlighted agriculture as a pivotal sector within China-New Zealand bilateral relations. In recent years, the two countries have enjoyed increasingly robust agricultural cooperation, benefiting from improved cooperation mechanisms, significant trade potential, and deepened exchanges in agricultural science and technology. Minister expressed China's stand to work with New Zealand to leverage China-New Zealand Joint Committee on Agriculture and its specialized dialogues on dairy and fisheries, strengthen policy communication and information exchanges across agricultural sub-sectors, to elevate economic and trade cooperation and achieve more tangible outcomes.    Director-General Smith commended the pivotal role played by the China-New Zealand Joint Committee on Agriculture and agreed with Vice Minister Zhang. He conveyed New Zealand’s commitment to further strengthening communication and deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, to advance bilateral agricultural  cooperation.    In addition, the two sides discussed key agricultural policies, live animal exports, preparations for the upcoming 8th meeting of the China-New Zealand Joint Committee on Agriculture, and potential areas for future cooperation, among others.    ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2823/philippines-unveils-the-rosales-agricultural-trading-center-with-p60m-investment.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2823/philippines-unveils-the-rosales-agricultural-trading-center-with-p60m-investment.html Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:11:41 +0530 Located on an 8,000-square-meter the initiative will boost farmers’ productivity The Philippines has unveiled the Rosales Agricultural Trading Center, a P60-million project aimed at enhancing farmers' profitability by transforming them into trade-focused, empowered individuals. Located on an 8,000-square-meter lot the project began in November 2023 and was developed in cooperation with the local government unit of Rosales. The trading center, funded through the Enhanced KADIWA Inclusive Food Supply Chain Program, will also feature a training facility designed to introduce farmers to new technologies and teach them how to become successful agricultural entrepreneurs. The inaugural ceremony was officiated by Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. “We believe this trading center will serve as a catalyst to reshape the future of our farmers, empowering them to become successful agripreneurs,” Secretary Tiu Laurel added “This initiative will not only boost farmers’ productivity but also create new income opportunities and foster job creation throughout the supply chain in Rosales and surrounding areas,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel. “By strengthening agricultural trade and education, this project plays a crucial role in developing a more sustainable and economically resilient farming sector, while ensuring a steady food supply for local communities.” said The trading hub, Secretary Tiu Laurel stated during the inauguration, will serve as a prototype for similar facilities that the Department of Agriculture plans to establish in other parts of Pangasinan, benefiting both farmers and consumers. He also mentioned plans to build a solar-powered cold storage facility next to the Rosales trading hub, aimed at extending fresh produce shelf life, particularly high-value crops. Additionally, the DA chief revealed plans to construct a rice drying facility in Rosales, which will be situated on land donated by Mayor Cezar. Pangasinan is one of the top 10 rice-producing provinces in the country. The mobile soil laboratory will be deployed in July to test soil conditions across the province. This initiative aims to determine the best use of the land and identify the necessary inputs to optimize farm yields and boost farmers’ incomes. Despite the rise of commercial centers and other businesses, Rosales’ economy remains primarily driven by agriculture. However, local farmers continue to face challenges, including high credit rates, expensive farm inputs, and low selling prices. In addition, unscrupulous traders exploit the lack of an efficient marketing system, inadequate infrastructure, financial limitations, and inconsistent policies. The Rosales Agricultural Trading Center aims to address these issues by providing farmers with a direct market for their bulk produce, eliminating unnecessary middlemen, and ultimately increasing their profitability. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2807/australian-cotton-shippers-association-acsa-brings-together-stakeholders-to-foster-collaboration-and-expand-global-reach.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2807/australian-cotton-shippers-association-acsa-brings-together-stakeholders-to-foster-collaboration-and-expand-global-reach.html Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:21:51 +0530 After reaching highs of just under $1000 per bale in mid-2022, prices for the 2024 crop sit below the $600-per-bale level. More than 100 industry representatives gathered in Toowoomba last week for the Australian Cotton Shippers Association's inaugural Post Farm-Gate Forum. The event brought together logistics firms, shipping lines, merchants, ginners, and warehousing companies to collaborate and develop solutions to the cotton industry's challenges in the year ahead. It was also part of ACSA's strategy to foster industry collaboration, strengthen communication with the Australian Government, and enhance engagement with global trading partners. The forum kicked off with presentations from ACSA chair Cliff White and industry representatives David Goss from MSC, AWH head of cotton and dry bulk Graeme Wood, ICM founder Matthew Leeson, and Australian Cotton Ginners Association president Ben Suttor. ACSA chair Cliff White said emphasized that despite being competitors, it's in everyone's interest to promote a united front for cotton in a global marketplace. He mentioned that the industry was hopeful of seeing an uplift in prices after seeing the market fall to "some of the lowest cotton prices that we've seen in years." After reaching highs of just under $1000 per bale in mid-2022, prices for the 2024 crop sit below the $600-per-bale level. Mr. White also pointed out potential upside "in terms of the supply-and-demand balance." He noted that recently there had been "plenty of cotton around" but uncertainty around new crop from both the United States and Brazil could start to see a return to a more balanced supply-demand outlook. Volatility continues in global trade. A shift towards increased protectionism, ongoing conflict in the Red Sea, and China's economic slowdown are expected to weigh on Australia's cotton industry. As a wholly exported commodity, cotton was heavily impacted by overseas conflicts, changes to trade flows, and availability of infrastructure, such as vessels and containers. Discussing the global shipping outlook, MSC's Mr. Goss said there was potential for Australian cotton to benefit from the US tariff policy. He noted that Donald Trump had imposed a 25-percent tariff on Chinese goods, with the Chinese government reacting by enacting a 15pc retaliatory tariff on the US. Mr. Goss highlighted the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Red Sea region, which has had a profound impact on the shipping industry since the end of 2023. Shipping companies have had to deploy more vessels and carry more containers to complete journeys to regions from Australia. He noted that another factor influencing global trade flows was the flow-on effects of the recent slowdown in Chinese economic growth, which was mostly led by the real estate sector. Mr. Goss pointed out that another global trend filtering down to the post farm-gate industry was a marked increase in shipping companies' investment in infrastructure following a period of strong profits for the shipping industry post-COVID. He noted that this investment was going into building new ships, more containers, and developing digital platforms to "create efficiencies within the industry." Investment was also being directed towards hard infrastructure like ports, terminals, warehouses, road, and rail assets to ensure better networks and capabilities to provide a more complete service. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2728/new-zealand-kicks-off-kiwifruit-harvest.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2728/new-zealand-kicks-off-kiwifruit-harvest.html Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:16:00 +0530 An estimated 200 million kiwifruit trays will be harvested over the next few months The record crop of just over 200 million trays of kiwifruit to be harvested over the coming monthsNew Zealand has kicked off its earliest and largest ever kiwifruit harvest, which will break the 200 million tray milestone this year, indicates New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI). The first fruit was picked in the Bay of Plenty on New Zealand's North Island, marking the earliest-ever harvest. The harvest traditionally peaks in mid-April and runs until June, according to the NZKGI. Zespri's sweet, berry-flavored RubyRedTM is the first variety picked for supermarket shelves in New Zealand and some overseas markets, followed shortly by the gold and green varieties. The record crop of just over 200 million trays of kiwifruit to be harvested over the coming months, would be a modest increase from last year's record-breaking season of more than 190 million trays, said the agricultural cooperative. On average, each tray has around 30 pieces of Kiwifruit. "Overall, growers have experienced an excellent lead-up to harvest with ideal sun and little wind to produce excellent kiwifruit," said NZKGI CEO Colin Bond, acknowledging "those Tasman and Whakatane growers who received significant hail damage at the end of last December." Zespri CEO Jason Te Brake said their customers and teams in the market have come off a strong 2024 season, and are ready to begin sales strongly in the coming months. Being New Zealand horticulture's largest export, the kiwifruit industry is also significant to the wider regions in which kiwifruit is grown. In the 2023-2024 season, kiwifruit growers contributed some $2.2 billion NZ dollars ($1.24 billion U.S. dollars) to the local economy, according to the NZKGI. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2717/vietnam-and-fao-signs-a-mou-to-promote-south-south-agricultural-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2717/vietnam-and-fao-signs-a-mou-to-promote-south-south-agricultural-cooperation.html Mon, 10 Feb 2025 08:54:25 +0530 Vietnam’s agriculture is transforming strongly towards “green”, low-emission and sustainable development Vietnam is currently restructuring its agricultural sector towards increasing added value and sustainable development, taking into account emerging factors such as trade liberalization, climate change, smart agriculture and food loss control. On Feb 6th, Vietnamese Minister Le Minh Hoan met with a high-level delegation from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) discusses Vietnam's agriculture sector's many challenges, as well as the difficulty of obtaining international financial and technical support. It is crucial that FAO supports regional and global projects, programs, and initiatives in Vietnam, and that FAO provides direct technical assistance. A partnership agreement on food system transformation was signed by 45 domestic and foreign partners in Vietnam on World Food Day 2024. The agreement affirms a common commitment to sustainable agriculture. Through South-South cooperation programs and Tripartite cooperation, Vietnam is prepared to share experiences and cooperate with other countries on agricultural and rural development. By establishing South-South cooperation, FAO can mobilize finance for Vietnamese agricultural experts to guide, conduct demonstrations, and share experiences with African countries. The Vietnamese government is ready to establish a South-South Cooperation Center for the Asia-Pacific region. Le Minh Hoan, Vietnam's Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, called FAO a "key partner" among the United Nations agencies and international organizations involved in agricultural development. Le Minh Hoan proposed that FAO work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to develop specific cooperation programs and projects to mobilize capital from donors and Climate Finance Funds, as well as contribute to the implementation of Government programs in rice, crop, aquaculture, livestock breeding, and forestry. Together with Vietnam, he proposes FAO to implement an Action Plan to transform the food system towards transparency, responsibility, and sustainability, encouraging private sector investment and development of ecological, low-emission agriculture. The FAO has played a crucial role in helping Vietnam to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially SDG1 and SDG2, throughout the development of the agricultural sector. Vietnam's agriculture is actively transforming towards "green", low-emission and sustainable. The project "Sustainable development of 1 million hectares of high-quality rice, emission reduction associated with green growth in the Mekong Delta by 2030", with the goal of forming 1 million hectares of high-quality and low-emission rice specialized areas associated with reorganizing the production system according to the value chain, improving production and business efficiency, income and life of rice growers. Mr. Khuat Dong Ngoc recommended that, after the initial success of green transformation of the rice industry, Vietnam can replicate the model to other industries such as agriculture, forestry and fisheries. Khuat Dong Ngoc believes that Vietnam's agricultural sector needs a shift in thinking to create breakthrough changes. A green agricultural economy requires synchronized product development, contributing to Vietnam's improvement on the world agricultural map by gradually building a green agricultural economy. In Khuat Dong Ngoc's view, a prosperous agriculture begins with local products like OCOP, increases its value, and then develops "green cities" in the countryside. To improve rural social security, these three milestones are crucial. Furthermore, Vietnam is expecting FAO to share international experiences and promote the use of digital technology and science and technology throughout the agricultural value chain; support capacity building in ecological agriculture, agricultural tourism, disease management, resource management, and transboundary water management; and support the construction of the Vietnamese Food Innovation Center. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2640/grains-australia-establishes-oilseed-council-prioritizing-oilseed-trade-and-market-access.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2640/grains-australia-establishes-oilseed-council-prioritizing-oilseed-trade-and-market-access.html Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:11:06 +0530 The new Oilseed Council will join Grains Australia’s existing Commodity Councils for barley, wheat, oats, and pulses, as well as the Grains Market Access Council Grains Australia has announced the appointment of 11 industry representatives to its newly established Oilseed Council. Council members have been appointed for a period of three years and include people from across the Australian oilseed supply chain. Members of the new Grains Australia Oilseed Council are: Andrew Freebairn – trader, Victoria Dan Morgan – trader and processor, Victoria Grant Pontifex – grower, South Australia Jared Meredith – trader, Western Australia Jon Slee – processor, WA Lachlan Herbert – grower and adviser, New South Wales Luke Strudwick – trader, SA Maryann Salvetti – grower and Chair of Soy Australia, Queensland Michael Lamond – agronomist/consultant, WA Rob Hall – seed business manager, Victoria Tom Mac Smith – processor, NSW. Grains Australia Chief Executive Officer Richard Simonaitis said there was a significant response from industry participants to Grains Australia’s Expression of Interest (EOI) process for the Council. “Selections were based on applicants’ skills, experience and the diversity of the group,” Mr Simonaitis said. “The new Council collectively brings a broad range of skills and background across the industry.” The new Oilseed Council will join Grains Australia’s existing Commodity Councils for barley, wheat, oats, and pulses, as well as the Grains Market Access Council. The Commodity Councils represent specific commodities and provide strategic advice to the Grains Australia Board. Grains Australia, an initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation, is responsible for vital industry services and functions that improve the industry’s competitiveness and profitability. Grains Australia’s Oilseed Council will have responsibility for overseeing the implementation of classification frameworks for Australian oilseed crops and providing expertise and advice in identifying oilseed trade and market access priorities, and requirements for market information and market education relevant to oilseeds. The EOI process and selection of the new Oilseed Council members was carried out with the support of the Australian Oilseed Federation (AOF), with which Grains Australia has a Memorandum of Understanding. Grains Australia delivers value to the Australian grains industry through the provision of industry services and functions including management of trade and market access, classification, market insights and market education that improves the industry’s competitiveness and profitability. Grains Australia is an initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). GRDC leads investment in grains research, development and extension (RD&E) in Australia to create enduring profitability for grain growers. A partnership between the Australian Government and grain growers, GRDC’s primary objective is to drive the discovery, development and delivery of world-class innovation to enhance the productivity, profitability and sustainability of Australian grain growers and benefit the industry and the wider community ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2617/china-international-agricultural-trade-fair-focused-on-modern-agriculture-and-rural-revitalization.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2617/china-international-agricultural-trade-fair-focused-on-modern-agriculture-and-rural-revitalization.html Fri, 06 Dec 2024 11:15:58 +0530 Theme, “Accelerate the development of modern agriculture and advance all-round rural revitalization,” The 21st China International Agricultural Trade Fair (CATF) kicked off in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, on Nov. 28. Adopting the theme, “Accelerate the development of modern agriculture and advance all-round rural revitalization,” this year’s CATF focuses on four priority areas: showcasing achievements, fostering exchange, building brands, and promoting trade. With an exhibition area of over 100,000 square meters, the fair is hosting nearly 3,000 companies offering more than 20,000 products and is expected to attract more than 50,000 professional buyers.   This year’s CATF is hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and co-organized by the National Agricultural Exhibition Center, the Guangdong Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Guangzhou Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. The fair features a variety of events, delivering pragmatic results in a cost-effective and safe manner. Through exhibitions and drawing on insights from the “Thousand Villages Demonstration, Ten Thousand Villages Renovation” project, it highlights agricultural modernization and brand development to drive high-quality agricultural growth. A series of online and offline marketing and promotional events are also being held to better build and promote brands and connect production with the market. Ultimately, it aims to serve as the premier platform for agricultural cooperation and exchange.   This year’s CATF features 12 exhibition areas, each devoted to different products or aspects of agriculture. For example, the branded agro-products section features a wide range of premium products, and the specialty products area presents items from counties that have shaken off poverty. The farming culture preservation section displays exquisite traditional handicrafts, and the smart agriculture area showcases equipment with state-of-the-art technology. The new product types, technologies, equipment, and business models featured at the CATF are driving the modernization of agriculture and fostering high-quality development. The fair is expected to attract a large number of visitors.   With Kazakhstan as the guest of honor at this year’s CATF, a dedicated international cooperation exhibition area has been set up, focusing on five Central Asian countries. This area brings together top-quality companies from 15 countries, including Kazakhstan. It also houses several distinctive sections, such as the Kazakhstan booth, an international food street, and an exhibition space highlighting agricultural cooperation within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). This area fully demonstrates the dynamic growth of global agriculture and propels international trade and cooperation in agro-products, helping to extend the fair’s reach to the global market.   The CATF is the largest, most authoritative, and influential all-round fair in the field of agriculture and rural affairs, and has been successfully held 20 times since its inception. This year marks the first time that the fair is being hosted in the GBA. It is also being held concurrently with the Guangdong Modern Agriculture Expo. The fair will last four days. During this period, the 2024 National Poverty Alleviation Regions “Local Specialty” Promotion Week in the GBA will be held and the National Agro-Product Buyers Alliance will be established. Furthermore, the release and promotion of agricultural branding achievements, the launch of agricultural big data software systems, and more than 30 brand promotion events will be held.   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2600/vietnam-hosts-northern-delta-intl-agriculture-fair-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2600/vietnam-hosts-northern-delta-intl-agriculture-fair-2024.html Fri, 29 Nov 2024 08:00:53 +0530 Fair offers new opportunities for agricultural development by connecting agricultural products with advanced technologies from across Vietnam The Northern Delta International Agriculture Fair 2024 has recently been launched in Thái Bình City. Themed "Rural Youth Compete in Business Excellence, Joining Hands to Build New Rural Areas", the event was jointly held by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union. Le Hoang Tai, Deputy Director of the Trade Promotion Agency under the ministry, said the fair offers new opportunities for agricultural development by connecting agricultural products with advanced technologies from across Vietnam. It also serves as a platform for businesses, cooperatives, localities, and trade promotion organisations to network, exchange experiences, and explore commercial and investment opportunities now that agriculture is facing new challenges. Nguyen Quang Hung, Permanent Vice Chairman of the provincial People's Committee and head of the fair's organising board, emphasised that over recent years, the province has implemented various measures to enhance investment attraction, trade promotion, and tourism development. These efforts have significantly contributed to the province's socio-economic growth. So far this year, the province has maintained robust growth, achieving a GRDP increase of 7.32%. With its strengths in agricultural products, handicrafts, and traditional village industries, the province’s products are now available not only in traditional markets but also major commercial centres and supermarkets nationwide, and on international e-commerce platforms. This year's fair features nearly 300 booths from over 100 domestic and international enterprises. Highlights include an exhibition of socio-economic achievements by the province’s districts and cities, displays of agricultural products from youth-led businesses and cooperatives nationwide, and showcases of outstanding products from cooperatives and ornamental plants from provinces across the Northern Delta. Running until November 30, the fair also hosts a series of events, including the National Rural Youth Festival, the 19th Luong Dinh Cua Awards Ceremony, the Awards for the 2024 Rural Youth Startup Project Competition, and a supply-demand connection conference featuring exhibitions and consumption promotion of outstanding products from cooperatives and cooperative alliances in the province. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2474/vietnam-and-belarus-review-complementary-economic-advantages-and-potential-to-promote-trade-ties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2474/vietnam-and-belarus-review-complementary-economic-advantages-and-potential-to-promote-trade-ties.html Wed, 25 Sep 2024 13:26:16 +0530 As of the first quarter of 2024, Belarus had invested $32.25 million in three projects in Vietnam. Vietnam and Belarus have complementary economic advantages and great potential to promote their trade ties, according to participants at the Belarus - Vietnam Business Forum held in Ho Chi Minh City on September 23. The forum was organised by the Ho Chi Minh City Investment and Trade Promotion Center (ITPC), the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organisations, the Consulate General of Belarus in Ho Chi Minh City, and the Belarusian National Agency for Marketing and Price Study. At the forum, over 60 Vietnamese and Belarusian enterprises engaged in meetings and exchanged information to seek cooperation opportunities in the coming time. The two countries can also cooperate in supplying and manufacturing automobiles, electric passenger vehicles, and construction machinery, he said, adding that Belarus is also ready to cooperate and share with Vietnam experiences in developing the medical sector. Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the municipal People's Committee Vo Van Hoan said that since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992, their bilateral relations have witnessed positive developments, with increased trust and regular delegation exchanges at all levels. In particular, the official visit to Vietnam by Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko in December 2023 opened up a new direction for stronger cooperation between the two sides. In 2023, the total trade turnover between Vietnam and Belarus reached $65.3 million. As of the first quarter of 2024, Belarus had invested $32.25 million in three projects in Vietnam. As Vietnam has implemented the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), of which Belarus is a member, Ho Chi Minh City believes that this will be a driving force to promote bilateral cooperation in the future, Hoan said. Belarusian Ambassador to Vietnam Uladzimir Baravikou said Vietnam and Belarus are both members of the EAEU, which is a favourable condition for the two countries to lift their cooperation to a new level. Deputy Director General of the Belarusian National Agency for Marketing and Price Study Evgeny Russak said that Vietnam has strengths in agricultural and food production while Belarus has advantages in agricultural machinery and fertiliser production. Vice director of the ITPC Ho Thi Quyen said that Ho Chi Minh City wishes to boost cooperation with Belarus, particularly Minsk city in areas including manufacturing, medical, Agriculture, food production, and logistic services. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2472/usda-sponsored-agribusiness-trade-mission-launched-in-vietnam.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2472/usda-sponsored-agribusiness-trade-mission-launched-in-vietnam.html Wed, 25 Sep 2024 11:19:39 +0530 Collaboration has secured market access for a variety of American products, including most recently stone fruit and grapefruit U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor launched a USDA-sponsored agribusiness trade mission in Ho Chi Minh City from Sept. 9-13. Taylor leads a delegation comprised of officials from 60 U.S. agribusiness and farm organizations and nine state departments of agriculture seeking to develop and expand business opportunities with importers in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries.  Trade mission participants holds key importers for business-to-business meetings and learn about local and regional market conditions through detailed market briefings from USDA Foreign Agricultural Service staff, industry experts and government contacts. “I am honored to lead this diverse delegation to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi as we celebrate the first anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Agriculture plays a huge role in our bilateral trade relationship, and Vietnam now ranks as the United States’ 10th-largest export market for agricultural and food products,” Under Secretary Taylor said. “Vietnam’s continued economic growth, ongoing reform and young population have combined to create a dynamic and quickly evolving environment for high-quality and diverse American agricultural products,” said Taylor. “Our collaboration has secured market access for a variety of American products, including most recently stone fruit and grapefruit.” Many representatives from 60 agribusinesses and organizations and nine state governments that represent the diversity of U.S. agriculture joined the occasion. While the trade mission takes place in Vietnam, it will also provide U.S. agribusinesses a gateway to the Southeast Asia region thanks to participation by potential customers from Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia and Thailand.  The participating companies meet with businesses from Burma, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam to foster strategic partnerships that lay the groundwork for future sales. Exports of U.S. agricultural and related products to Vietnam, which totaled nearly $3.5 billion in 2023, are recognized by Vietnamese consumers, importers and retailers for their reliability, quality and sustainability. U.S. tree nuts, fresh fruit, poultry, beef and pork are in particularly high demand by Vietnam’s food processing, retail and restaurant sectors.  Vietnam and the rest of Southeast Asia holds immense opportunity for U.S. exporters, with rising consumer incomes, growing middle class populations and favorable perceptions of U.S. food and agriculture. As the third-largest supplier of food and farm products to Vietnam, the United States holds sizable market share across several categories, including bulk commodities such as cotton, soybeans and distillers grains, as well as consumer-oriented products such as tree nuts, dairy, poultry and fresh fruit.   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2426/china-and-lesotho-to-strengthen-bilateral-agricultural-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2426/china-and-lesotho-to-strengthen-bilateral-agricultural-cooperation.html Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:31:46 +0530 Deng Xiaogang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA), met with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in Beijing exchanging opinions on strengthening agricultural cooperation between China and Lesotho.    Vice Minister Deng said that, since the resumption of diplomatic relations and with the support and impetus of the leaders of both countries, China and Lesotho have maintained continuous exchange in agriculture. Significant progress has been made in areas such as Juncao farming, capacity building, and technology demonstration. Earlier this year, the heads of state of both countries exchanged messages of congratulations. They also reached a consensus, which China is actively implementing, taking the 30th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations as a new starting point to further expand agricultural cooperation and promote development of friendly relations between the two countries. To this end, Vice Minister Deng suggested that China and Lesotho should negotiate and sign an agricultural cooperation agreement and establish a working mechanism to support regular exchanges as well as the planning and design of practical cooperation projects.   Prince Seeiso said Lesotho–China relations have grown healthier and stronger over the past 30 years. He also expressed his appreciation for China’s long–term support for Lesotho’s agricultural development. Prince Seeiso agreed that the two countries should establish an agricultural framework mechanism, so as to deepen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, increase Lesotho’s agricultural productivity and grain output at a faster pace, and conduct talent training and exchanges.   Lin Songtian, Deputy Director of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Li Jinghui, Member of the CPC Leadership Group of MARA, attended the meeting. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2410/korean-delegates-visit-vietnam-to-promote-bilateral-agricultural-trade-association.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2410/korean-delegates-visit-vietnam-to-promote-bilateral-agricultural-trade-association.html Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:16:36 +0530 Korean export group of 15 agricultural input exporters from fertilizer and eco-friendlier agricultural chemicals/machinery producers, agricultural materials and equipment makers, animal feed producers The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of the Republic of Korea are dispatching a Korean export group of 15 agricultural input companies to Vietnam from 26 to 31 August to promote high-quality Korean agricultural input to local buyers and help expand their entry into the market. The agricultural input exporters consist of fertilizer producers, eco-friendlier agricultural chemicals producers, agricultural materials and equipment makers, animal feed producers, and agricultural machinery makers. Since 2018, the MAFRA has sent a Korean export group to one or more overseas markets every year and provided business support in diverse aspects such as meetings with local government officials, holding an international trade show, investigation of the latest local market trends, etc.  The exports of Korean agricultural input to Vietnam reached $1.02 billion in 2023, up by 33% from the previous year. This was driven by an increase in exports of fertilizers, agricultural chemicals, etc., despite global economic downturns. As in the case, Vietnam is emerging as an important export market for South Korea.  The Vietnamese government is encouraging farmers to use organic fertilizers under its policy for organic farming development. Accordingly, the MAFRA has organized a group of exporters that can meet such market trends and local buyers’ interest. On 27 August, the MAFRA held an agricultural trade show where 15 Korean exporters and 30 Vietnamese buyers had a one-to-one business meeting. On 28 August, the Korean group of agricultural exporters visited the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to have a wider understanding of the current status of Vietnam’s agriculture and the related policies.  The Korean export group will also visit the Vietnamese certificate authorities to have a wider knowledge of Vietnam’s regulations and details about the import licensing system applied to imported agricultural input. The Korean authorities are seeking for cooperation from the Vietnamese government to ensure a smoother import registration and licensing of Korean agricultural input. In addition, in the second half of this year, the MAFRA is holding an international trade show for agricultural input and running a Korean pavilion. This way, the MAFRA will continue to provide support for Korean agricultural companies to expand their export market. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2406/china-and-vietnam-strengthen-bilateral-horticulture-business.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2406/china-and-vietnam-strengthen-bilateral-horticulture-business.html Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:45:36 +0530 China continues to be the Vietnam’s top trading partner in ASEAN Following the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between China and Vietnam in 2008, China's consumption and production have facilitated growth in bilateral trade with Vietnam. By 2023, trade between the two neighbors is expected to increase from $20.8 billion in 2008 to nearly $172 billion. The figure is estimated to have surpassed $112 billion so far this year, with Vietnam’s exports accounting for $32.56 billion and imports for $79.61 billion. China is the biggest source of Vietnam's imports and the second largest export market after the U.S. Vietnam is China's top trading partner in ASEAN and fifth largest market and ninth largest source of imports globally. In August 2024, Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and China’s General Administration of Customs have signed several protocols allowing shipments of frozen durian and fresh coconut. With the new protocols signed, frozen durian exports are expected to reach $400-500 million this year, while fresh coconut exports are set to increase by $200-300 million. Some other agricultural exports to China include swallow nest, sweet potato, dragon fruit, longan, rambutan, mango, jackfruit, watermelon, banana, mangosteen, grass jelly, lychee, and passion fruit. Vietnam sold nearly $2.2 billion worth of vegetables and fruits to the country in the first half, up 33% year-on-year, making it China’s second largest source of agricultural products after Thailand. Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, says China, which has a population of 1.4 billion, is a highly lucrative market that even distant countries like the U.S. and Chile seek access. In the first half of this year, China bought more than $1.2 billion worth of Vietnamese durians, a 46% increase from the same period in 2023. Vietnam has only been shipping fresh durians to China since 2022 when they got the green light for official import. A decade ago China’s imports of Vietnamese goods were around $15 billion annually, a figure that quadrupled to $61.2 billion in 2023. Coffee giant Trung Nguyen Legend, which has been exporting the bean to that country for over 15 years, is a prime beneficiary of this growth. It said it now has 15 importers, 300 secondary distributors, 30,000 retail locations and thousands of online stores in China, the fastest-growing coffee market in the world. It estimates that out of every 18 cups of coffee sold in China one is Trung Nguyen Legend’s. It has also opened 14 "Coffee World" stores, its global coffee shop chain, in China in less than two years since its launch. Some other key exports in the bilateral trade include rubber, fruits and vegetables, agricultural aquatic products and feedstock. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2401/china-belarus-pledge-to-boost-agriculture-freight-trains-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2401/china-belarus-pledge-to-boost-agriculture-freight-trains-cooperation.html Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:29:17 +0530 The bilateral potential for agricultural cooperation and investment cooperation is expected to increase China and Belarus pledged to promote their cooperation in agriculture and freight trains. In a joint communique issued following a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko, the two sides are ready to give full play to the huge potential of cooperation in agriculture and strengthen investment cooperation in this sector. The two sides are willing to expand access to the Chinese market for agricultural and food products, said the document, adding that they welcome the entry of high-quality agricultural products into each other's markets and encourage their enterprises to participate in exhibitions and events held by the two countries. Also in the communique, the two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the China-Europe Railway Express, set up an inter-governmental cooperation mechanism on the service, promote infrastructure connectivity, and jointly ensure the safety of the China-Europe freight train transport corridor. The two heads of state met in Astana earlier this July and made strategic arrangements on deepening bilateral relations. Noting that China will continue to firmly support Belarus in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, Li said that China stands ready to further synergize development strategies with Belarus, solidly advance cooperation in various fields, steadily expand trade scale, effectively implement projects such as the China-Belarus Industrial Park, and continuously deepen people-to-people exchanges. Li also said that China is willing to further strengthen multilateral cooperation with Belarus, jointly promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, promote the development of the global governance system towards a more just and reasonable direction, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2397/australia-grants-3-5-m-to-review-wine-and-grape-sectors-regulatory-options-for-fair-trading.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2397/australia-grants-3-5-m-to-review-wine-and-grape-sectors-regulatory-options-for-fair-trading.html Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:02:59 +0530 Dr Craig Emerson has been appointed to lead an independent impact analysis Australia's wine and grape sector has appointed Dr Craig Emerson to lead an independent impact analysis of the industry's regulatory options concerning fair trading, competitive relationships, contracting practices, and risk allocation. Australia’s wine industry is made up of over 2,000 wineries and 6,000 grape growers, across 65 wine regions. This independent analysis is part of the $3.5 million support package announced by the Government in June, to be delivered by Wine Australia, to support the long-term viability of the sector.  This independent analysis follows concerns raised by the grape and wine sector in the Food and Grocery Code Review, and through consultations undertaken by the Viticulture and Wine Sector Working Group.  Dr Emerson’s report will examine whether there is market failure in the grape and wine sector and provide advice about regulatory or other interventions. Grape growers, wine makers and retailers will be invited to have their say on this important issue. Information on how to participate will be shared through Wine Australia and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in the coming weeks. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins said “Government has worked hard for the industry to open new markets for trade diversification like India, the United Kingdom, Thailand and the reopening of China. While the reopening of the China market is a great step forward for the industry, there is still work to be done in response to the oversupply of wine and to understand the general trading environment for grape growers and wine makers. Following the completion of the analysis, the Australian Government will consider Dr Emerson’s recommendations to ensure a fair and functioning wine, grape and retail market.”  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2303/australia-and-japan-attained-technical-market-access-negotiations-for-grape-trading.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2303/australia-and-japan-attained-technical-market-access-negotiations-for-grape-trading.html Thu, 22 Aug 2024 14:40:52 +0530 Japan is Australia’s second-largest market for agriculture, forestry, and fisheries With the successful completion of technical market access negotiations, Japan can now import Australia's table grapes. It represents a positive step forward towards the agriculture industry’s goal of $100 billion by 2030. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Murray Watt said this was a positive outcome for the Australian table grape industry, providing greater export opportunities to a priority market for Australia. “Japan is Australia’s second-largest market for agriculture, forestry, and fisheries products and a valuable market for premium Australian fresh fruit. Previously, Australia has been limited to exporting only three varieties of table grapes to Japan, resulting in significant market value loss. The lifting of these restrictions is an important development for the industry as Japan is a stable and sophisticated market providing long term growth opportunities.” Minister Watt said. “Industry experts estimate that the expanded variety access will grow by approximately $30 million, reaching $50 million over the next few years. Removing the varietal restrictions for mangoes and now table grapes has broader trade benefits for the Australian horticulture industry” added Minister Watt.“We have a strong trading relationship with Japan, I look forward to continuing to work together to deliver further market access gains which are mutually beneficial for both countries.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2395/adm-and-farmers-business-network-launch-gradable-joint-venture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2395/adm-and-farmers-business-network-launch-gradable-joint-venture.html Wed, 21 Aug 2024 11:17:59 +0530 Expands the technology platform to accelerate adoption of regenerative and sustainable ag practicesFarmers Business Network (FBN®) and ADM have launched a joint venture, Gradable, a new company to expand the Gradable technology platform assisting farmers and buyers in confidently pursuing and utilizing regenerative and sustainable practices for grain production. Gradable platform tracks sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices and outcomes, making it easier for farmers to earn financial rewards. For grain buyers, Gradable provides reliable farm-level data, allowing them to easily identify and purchase grain that helps them meet growing customer demand for sustainably produced products. Gradable has partnered with ADM, POET, and Attebury Grain, LLC, to be the leader of grain procurement platform in North America, with over 20,000 farmer users across more than 12 million acres. It has scored more than 200 million bushels of corn and soybeans, analyzed 48 million acre-years of agronomic events, and facilitates over $30 million in financial incentives for sustainable practices each year. The new 50-50 joint venture will enable Gradable to expand and reach new partners and customers at every stage of the grain supply chain – from growers to grain buyers. Expanding Value Creation for Farmers, Grain Buyers and End Customers The Gradable company will expand into an array of ADM facilities across the U.S. and Canada to meet the demand for sustainably produced crops; increase the number of commercial partners and countries served; and assist the supply chain in meeting the global demand for sustainable food, feed, fuel, and industrial products. “ADM’s regenerative agriculture efforts enrolled more than 2.8 million acres last year, and we know that’s just the beginning. The continued expansion of this work requires a strong technology platform that enables farmers to easily participate and provides farm-level data for grain buyers and end customers. This new joint venture paves the way for the continued growth of Gradable, opening the door for even more farmers, commercial grain partners, and end customers to benefit from regen ag practices and the growing demand for sustainably sourced products” said Greg Morris, president of ADM’s Ag Services and Oilseeds business. A new era in production agriculture requires efficient, transparent, and secure grain transactions, and Gradable's technology platform addresses these needs. A single, secure technology platform connects farmer and buyer experiences through Gradable's digital infrastructure. The Gradable platform also enables farmers to seamlessly gather and calculate verifiable production data - including carbon scores - so that these downstream benefits can be monetized. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2371/yara-and-atome-plc-sign-heads-of-terms-for-sale-of-renewable-calcium-ammonium-nitrate-can-fertilizer.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2371/yara-and-atome-plc-sign-heads-of-terms-for-sale-of-renewable-calcium-ammonium-nitrate-can-fertilizer.html Mon, 19 Aug 2024 11:21:59 +0530 Yara would market and sell this fertilizer as part of the YaraBela product line Yara, a global crop nutrition leader, and ATOME PLC, a leading developer of international green fertilizer projects, sign Heads of Terms for offtake from ATOME’s renewable CAN project in Villeta, Paraguay. The Heads of Terms covers the long-term supply of all of the Calcium Ammonium Nitrate from ATOME’s renewable production facility in Villeta, Paraguay. Yara would market and sell this fertilizer as part of the YaraBela product line. The 145 MW fertilizer project will produce and export fertilizers derived from baseload renewable power from 2027. The Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) study was completed in the first half of 2024, and ATOME PLC targets to reach Final Investment Decision this year. Once completed, Villeta will produce up to 264,000 tons per year of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate fertilizer, expected to displace significant emissions in the sector. “The entry into this strategic relationship with global crop nutrition leader Yara is a significant milestone for ATOME on the path to realize our flagship Villeta Project which will be one of the largest renewable fertilizer production facilities in the Western Hemisphere. Proving significant off-taker interest for our renewable product gives a clear path to the finalization of funding, FID and the commencement of work onsite at Villeta" said Olivier Mussat, CEO of ATOME. ATOME can now accelerate the development of its project pipeline, including the 300MW Yguazu project in Paraguay and the 120MW Costa Rica projects. "Decarbonizing the food systems is at the forefront of our strategy. Many of the food companies active in South America have committed to decarbonization targets and our collaboration with them reveals that the decarbonization of the production of fertilizers combined with the use of agronomical best practices can significantly reduce the crops’ carbon footprint. Signing the Heads of Terms for the Villeta project is a first step to open the opportunity to further expand our portfolio with fertilizers produced with renewable energy in the Americas. The fertilizers from Villeta will become part of a new portfolio called Yara Climate Choice, including fertilizers based upon renewable energy and carbon, capture and storage. The project’s in-land location could open logistical advantages for some of our growing markets in Mercosur” said Chrystel Monthean, EVP Americas at Yara. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2362/interactive-brokers-expands-its-global-crude-palm-oil-market-access-with-bursa-malaysia.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2362/interactive-brokers-expands-its-global-crude-palm-oil-market-access-with-bursa-malaysia.html Wed, 07 Aug 2024 11:29:13 +0530 IBKR clients will now be able to trade Crude Palm Oil Futures (FCPO) and FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Futures (FKLI) Interactive Brokers, an automated global electronic broker, announced that its clients will now have access to listed derivatives on Bursa Malaysia, one of the largest exchanges in the ASEAN region. IBKR clients will now be able to trade Crude Palm Oil Futures (FCPO) and FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Futures (FKLI), along with global equities, options, futures, currencies, bonds, funds and more, all from a single, unified platform. The FCPO is a crude palm oil futures contract denominated in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR) traded on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives and has served market participants as a global price benchmark for the crude palm oil market since October 1980. For more than 40 years, the FCPO has been actively used by players in the edible oils and fats industry as a risk management solution, as well as by fund managers and financial institutions to manage price fluctuations in the market. FKLI is a FTSE Bursa Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (FBM KLCI) futures contract denominated in Ringgit Malaysia (“MYR”) and traded on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives. It enables market participants to invest in the underlying FBM KLCI constituents. Both institutional and retail investors actively use FKLI in their trading portfolios. David Friedland, Head of APAC at Interactive Brokers, commented: " The launch of Bursa Malaysia-listed derivatives demonstrates our commitment to increasing the range of products available on our platform. Interactive Brokers clients can trade a wide range of instruments in over 150 markets worldwide and we are delighted that these new products will enable us to further enhance our clients' trading options and strategies." Interactive Brokers offers global market access, advanced technology and competitive pricing that benefit retail and institutional investors. Looking ahead, Interactive Brokers plans to launch other Bursa Malaysia products in addition to Crude Palm Oil and FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Futures. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2358/hong-kong-china-and-vietnam-recapitulates-trade-promotion-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2358/hong-kong-china-and-vietnam-recapitulates-trade-promotion-cooperation.html Wed, 07 Aug 2024 11:10:22 +0530 MoU signed to strengthen small and medium enterprises in transactions, connecting trade with foreign businesses The Trade Promotion Department (VIETRADE) and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on trade promotion cooperation during a ceremony held on August 1st. John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (China), visited Hanoi and met Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang, as well as Lee Ka-Chieu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (China) and relevant ministries and agencies.  The Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two Parties includes the following main contents: Updating and exchanging information on trade policies, sharing market data, investment opportunities and related market information Coordinating the organization and support of economic and trade delegations of the two Parties, promoting cooperation in trade fields under the management of the Ministry of Industry andTrade of Vietnam Coordinating the organization of seminars and exhibitions in each Party's market and encouraging the participation of the business community of each Party Supporting businesses of the two Parties to connect, optimizing the potential for cooperation intrade promotion; removing difficulties and obstacles in cooperation between the two Parties Supporting the sharing of practical experiences; exchanging technical training programsto help the business communities of Vietnam and Hong Kong (China), especially in promoting the application of information technology and digital transformation in trade promotion. The signing of the MOU will help the two sides create a stable, systematic and sustainable cooperation mechanism, especially in coordinating the establishment of plans to implement trade promotion activities in the coming time, contributing to promoting the cooperation between the Department of Trade Promotion and HKTDC in particular, and strengthening the economic and trade cooperation between Vietnam and Hong Kong (China) in general. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is the focal agency for trade promotion activities of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (China). The HKTDC is responsible for promoting and developing foreign trade for goods and services of Hong Kong with the global market, implementing trade promotion activities, supporting businesses of Hong Kong, China, especially small and medium enterprises in transactions, and connecting trade with foreign businesses. Through a network of 45 representative offices worldwide, HKTDC aims to exploit new markets to create more opportunities for international trade development as well as enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong's small and medium-sized enterprises. To date, the Trade Promotion Department has signed Memorandums of Understanding on trade promotion cooperation with more than 50 international agencies and organizations operating in the field of trade promotion of many countries and territories around the world to strengthen the cooperative relationship between VIETRADE and its partners, at the same time, serving as an important basis for coordinating and organizing trade promotion activities, supporting and connecting Vietnamese enterprises with foreign enterprises. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2356/agrovision-closes-100-m-in-equity-financing-to-fuel-global-distribution-and-product-innovation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2356/agrovision-closes-100-m-in-equity-financing-to-fuel-global-distribution-and-product-innovation.html Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:33:18 +0530 Over a $1 Billion Valuation for its Tech-Enabled Superfruit Platform as Healthy Snacking Booms Agrovision, the healthy superfruit platform and the leading large-scale, fully vertically integrated superfruit business, has closed $100 million in equity financing from Aliment Capital, alongside other marquee new and existing investors, including Steve Kaplan, Co-Founder of Oaktree Capital Management. The funding comes after a period of meteoric growth as Agrovision, sold under the Fruitist and Big Skye brands, nearly tripled sales in the past three years. The company is disrupting the $100B healthy snacks market while supporting wellness for people and the planet. The financing will further fuel global distribution and accelerate product innovation. “Delivering more flavorful superfruit year-round requires full stack innovation—optimizing across every layer of technology—from genetics and systems to AI,” said Steve Magami, Co-founder and CEO of Agrovision. Agrovision is known for premium superfruits—blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cherries—sold under Fruitist and Big Skye brands. Naturally delicious, super sweet, and bursting with flavor, their hand-selected berries, including Jumbo blueberries, fragrant red raspberries, and tangy blackberries, offer a consistently better berry experience. In the U.S., Fruitist supplies a large number of retailers, including Costco, Giant, Publix, Sprouts, Trader Joe's, Wakefern, Walmart, and Whole Foods, and is the Official Snack Partner of D.C. United. Globally, Agrovision serves many leading supermarkets, club stores, and high-end independent retailers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the UK. The $1 billion+ valuation follows Fruitist and Big Skye's retail growth and the recent boom in healthy snack consumption, which is expected to reach over $100 billion this year. It also follows a trend of consumer demand and annual growth for berries, which are expected to reach $32 billion in the next five years. Additionally, the impact of GLP-1 has led to a notable shift in consumer behavior, with a 20% increase in fresh produce purchases by prescription users. Agrovision has invested over $400 million in global expansion, new genetics, artificial intelligence, and other proprietary technology to deliver an elevated healthy snacking experience. The predictability of Agrovision's vertically integrated platform ensures consistency and reliability in the face of industry challenges. From its owned and controlled large-scale land and water assets in most of the world's most exceptional micro-climates, within Peru, Mexico, Morocco, USA, Egypt, India, and China, Agrovision has developed year-round supply for leading premium-oriented retailer partners across North America, the UK, Europe, China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. One key area in which Agrovision invests in R&D and commercializing proprietary technology is freshness and shelf life. Their partnership with RipeLocker, a Seattle-based ag-tech leader, introduces a cost-effective solution that extends berry shelf life three times longer than conventional methods without compromising quality or eating experience.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2351/vietnam-earns-3-8-b-from-fruit-and-vegetable-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2351/vietnam-earns-3-8-b-from-fruit-and-vegetable-exports.html Fri, 02 Aug 2024 11:25:54 +0530 China continued to be the largest export market for Vietnamese fruits and vegetables Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports reached $477 million in July, an increase of 18% over the same period last year, reports Vietnamese Investment and Trade Promotion Center.  A strong demand from export markets led to this increase in export turnover, according to experts. Increased exports of durians, dragon fruits, and bananas contributed to the increase in export value. A high growth rate was recorded by Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports to major markets. In particular, China continued to be the largest export market for Vietnamese fruits and vegetables. In the first half of 2024, the fruit and vegetable exports to this market reached $2.16 billion, up 22% over the same period in 2023, accounting for 64.9% of the total. Next in line was the Republic of Korea with $164 million, up 54.6% on year. The third was the US with $157 million, up 33.5%. According to VINAFRUIT, the country’s fruit and vegetable export will continue to be favorable until this year's end due to an abundant supply in the harvest season. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam's fruit and vegetable export value will surge to $7 billion this year, $1 billion higher than the plan set by the Ministry. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2342/malaysia-secures-over-rm230-m-in-palm-oil-trade-deals-with-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2342/malaysia-secures-over-rm230-m-in-palm-oil-trade-deals-with-china.html Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:32:19 +0530 Bilateral relation strengthens by inking memoranda of understanding (MoUs) Malaysia has secured over RM230 million in palm oil trade deals during Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin’s recent working visit to China in mid July this year. According to Malaysia's Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK), Chan's visit to China for the purpose of promoting Malaysian agri-commodities has led to the signing of four memorandums of understanding (MoUs). The four MoUs were signed between Malaysian palm oil companies and businesses in China at the 15th China International Cereals and Oils Industry Summit in Nanjing on July 11, 2024. MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by Malaysian Palm Oil Board director-general Datuk Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir and China Chamber of Commerce for Import/Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce, and Animal By-products (CFNA) president Cao De Rong. KPK said the four MoUs signed were between Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd and BOCE Trade Service Co Ltd for tocotrienol exports; between Taobao (China) Software Co Ltd and Able Perfect Group for expanding digital market access; between Taobao (China) Software Co Ltd and Sawit Kinabalu Group for crude palm oil trade; and between JF Nutritech and Palmort Food Tech (Shanghai) for the application of red palm oil in animal feed. The four MoUs would involve expanding the trade of palm oil products into new sectors, including leveraging the globally renowned e-commerce platform Taobao to develop online business-to-business and business-to-consumer sales channels and and entering the health products market. Chinese authorities had approved the export and use of palm tocotrienols in food applications in March this year. Malaysia anticipates overall value of these trade deals to increase in the coming years. Malaysian to focus on high value-added and high-quality productions to remain competitive in the global market. Malaysia headquartered, Able Perfect, an independent palm oil refinery based in Port Klang, aims to expand its presence in the Chinese market, particularly in refined palm oil and palm shortening, with an estimated business volume of about RM200 million via this trade deal. “With Malaysia’s annual palm oil production maintained at around 18 million tonnes, it is crucial to adhere to the standards of the European Union Deforestation Regulation and sustainable development principles,” said Minister Chan who held a business matching session with around 20 Malaysian and Chinese enterprises, providing a platform for exchange and exploring cooperation opportunities in the palm oil trade. The initiatives are expected to further deepen bilateral cooperation in the palm oil sector, promoting mutual economic prosperity and win-win outcomes for Malaysia and China. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2334/vietnam-laos-trade-fair-establishes-an-potential-business-bridge-between-the-two-countries.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2334/vietnam-laos-trade-fair-establishes-an-potential-business-bridge-between-the-two-countries.html Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:23:00 +0530 The fair aims to increase the export of Vietnamese products with strengths and the capability to develop export markets in Laos, northeast Thailand, and Cambodia The Vietnam - Laos Trade Fair 2024 (VIETLAO EXPO) was held from July 25 to 29, 2024, at the Lao International Exhibition and Convention Center, Vientiane, Laos. This is the largest trade promotion activity jointly organized by the Ministriesof Industry and Trade of Vietnam and Laos annually in Vientiane, Laos since 2007. The fair aims to promote the national image, the image of Vietnamese enterprises and brands; increase the export of Vietnamese products with strengths and the ability to develop export markets in Laos and the Northeast of Thailand; organize network of goods consumption in the Lao market; develop investment projects in Laos and more. This year, the Fair has 250 booths displaying and introducing products and services: agricultural and aquatic products and processed foods, garments - fashion, electricity - electronics and household appliances, industrial machinery and equipment, construction and building materials, wooden furniture and handicrafts, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, trade services, investment Over the years, the Vietnam - Laos Trade Fair has become a prestigious event where Vietnamese and Lao enterprises attend to promote and introduce their products, and is a destination for business and investment startups between the two countries' markets. Economic exchange activities as well as travel, import and export of goods and labor between Vietnam and Laos have always been of interest to the senior leaders of the two countries, creating favorable conditions for development over the past many years. Vietnam has always been in the Top 3 largest trade partners of Laos for many years, the two-way trade turnover between Vietnam and Laos in June 2024 reached $928 million, an increase of 11%; of which, Vietnam's exports to Laos reached $289 million, an increase of 7.4%, and imports from Laos reached $639 million, an increase of 12.8%. We hope that the trade turnover between the two countries in 2024 will achieve an increase of over 10% according to the target set by the two countries' senior leaders at the 46th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee. In the coming time, the Governments of Laos and Vietnam wish to increase bilateral trade value to $2 billion by maximizing the potential for trade cooperation that the two countries can bring. Regarding investment cooperation, Vietnam is the third largest foreign investor in Laos after China and Thailand. Vietnamese enterprises have invested in Laos in over 245 operating projects with a total committed capital of over $5.47 billion. Many investment projects of Vietnamese enterprises in Laos are operating effectively, contributing positively to socio-economic development, creating jobs and increasing income for thousands of workers, and supplementing the budget revenue of Laos. It can be seen that in the current period of deep international integration, the relationship in the fields of industry, trade and investment between the two countries is extremely important and needs to be promoted. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2329/3rd-agri-food-tech-expo-asia-returns-in-november-2024-to-champion-innovative-sustainable-and-secure-food-systems.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2329/3rd-agri-food-tech-expo-asia-returns-in-november-2024-to-champion-innovative-sustainable-and-secure-food-systems.html Fri, 26 Jul 2024 11:23:52 +0530 The 3rd edition from 19 to 21 November 2024 in Singapore at Sands Expo & Convention Centre. Asia's premier sourcing and networking platform for the region's agrifood and foodtech industry, Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia (AFTEA), organised by Constellar with international partner DLG (the German Agricultural Society), returns for its 3rd edition from 19 to 21 November 2024 in Singapore at Sands Expo & Convention Centre. Focusing on strengthening the future of food sustainability and security, AFTEA is the only trade exhibition where cutting-edge technologies, innovative food solutions and global investment opportunities converge under one roof. As the cornerstone event of the Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW), AFTEA serves as a premier launch pad for agritech companies to showcase innovative technologies, products and solutions that future-proof the region's agricultural industries. It also provides a valuable platform for key decision makers - including food manufacturers, processors, policymakers, farmers and growers, and investors - to explore the latest technologies and preview novel and alternative food products designed to sustain and shape the future of food systems. This year, AFTEA will delve into three key aspects of the agritech business – Innovation, Safety and Sustainability – to drive progress and advancement in the region's agrifood industry. Innovation: Solutions and latest technologies that can help farmers and food tech companies scale food production, accelerate business transformation, expand distribution channels, and bridge financial support. Safety: Solutions covering aspects of food tracking, traceability, hygienic design, fraud prevention, standards and certification, inspection and detection technologies. Sustainability: Sustainable solutions that transform food production and preserve the environment through energy conservation, resource optimisation, and fresh- and wastewater management. AFTEA 2024 will feature over 300 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge advancements and latest innovations in the key exhibit themes, including country pavilions from France, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Singapore, Spain, Sweden and The Netherlands, alongside key industry players such as DPR, Dragino, Eurofins, Grain Arianetech, JS Biosciences, Nexton, Priva, SCIEX and Shenzhen FY Lighting. Among these exhibitors are about 100 start-ups, contributing to the largest agrifood and agritech start-up ecosystem in Southeast Asia. Cultivated Meat Pavilion: Supported by the Asia-Pacific Society for Cellular Agriculture (APAC-SCA), the pavilion showcase the cultivated meat products. Founder's Hub: A dynamic platform fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the agribusiness sector, the Founder's Hub will host a pitching stage for start-up competitions and among the featured events will be a global start-up competition organised in partnership with Innovate 360. The space will also house a start-up pavilion led by Innovate 360 and Impact Circle, where start-ups can network, collaborate, and explore opportunities for growth and investment. Living Lab Tech Showcase: Sananbio, expert in vertical farming and horticultural lighting pioneering sustainable bio-based solutions for a greener future; Inong Agriculture Co Ltd, a Big Data-powered soil microbe expert offering cash-crop-specific solutions that leverage on customised probiotics to increase crop yield sustainably. Sandbox: Through a variety of engaging formats including solo presentations, fireside chats, and panel discussions, the Sandbox will enable corporates and industry organisations to showcase and discuss the latest agricultural trends and agritech innovations. Attendees will discover practical solutions for improving crop yield, reduce costs, as well as improve their understanding of agritech solutions.    Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia (AFTEA) provides a focused exhibition platform with a "living lab" environment, thematic experiential zones, sandbox and community-based learning for emerging and established industry players in the agrifood industry to launch, showcase and testbed their solutions. Organised by Constellar with international content partner DLG (the German Agricultural Society), AFTEA is a key participating event of the Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW), organised by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Temasek, in partnership with the Singapore Economic Development Board, Enterprise Singapore, Singapore Tourism Board (STB), the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), and event organisers Rethink Events and Constellar. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2324/malaysia-and-philippines-strengthens-bilateral-agricultural-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2324/malaysia-and-philippines-strengthens-bilateral-agricultural-cooperation.html Fri, 26 Jul 2024 08:57:31 +0530 In FY 2023, value of exports from Malaysia to the Philippines as much as RM5.41 billion compared to the value of imports from the Philippines to Malaysia as much as RM1.28 billion Malaysia's Minister of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad bin Sabu received a courtesy visit from the Ambassador Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Malaysia, PYT Maria Angela Abrera Ponce on July 17 2024 at the Farmers Organization Board Tower (LPP). This is the first meeting held since PYT Angela started serving in Malaysia at the end of November 2023. Through the courtesy visit PYT Angela informed that Malaysia is the largest trading partner for the sector Philippine agriculture in the ASEAN Region, and he has been given responsibility by The Philippine government to strengthen agricultural cooperation especially in aspects food security with Malaysia. Trade data for the year 2023 records the value of exports from Malaysia to the Philippines as much as RM5.41 billion compared to the value of imports from the Philippines to Malaysia as much as RM1.28 billion further contributed to a positive trade balance to country. The two sides have also discussed proposals to improve bilateral relations direction in the field of agriculture between Malaysia and the Republic of the Philippines from an aspect agricultural trade as well as technical cooperation in the sub-sector of crops and livestock and fisheries. Malaysia to host the Agricultural Exhibition, Horticulture and Agro Tourism (MAHA) 2024 scheduled for 11 to 22 September and the Minister expressed the Philippines' participation in the biennial event. Deputy Secretary General (Policy), Datuk Azah Hanim binti Ahmad, Director General of the Malaysian Department of Agriculture, Dato' Nor Sam binti Alwi and KPKM officers and Departments and Agencies under KPKM were the part of the meeting as well. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2321/china-and-celac-to-enhance-bilateral-cooperation-in-agricultural-and-fishery.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2321/china-and-celac-to-enhance-bilateral-cooperation-in-agricultural-and-fishery.html Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:33:30 +0530 China has established bilateral agricultural cooperation mechanisms with 19 CELAC countries with turn over of $81 billion from 2014 to 2023 China and CELAC have achieved significant results in bilateral agricultural cooperation. The role of the China–CELAC Ministerial Forum on Agriculture has been continuously strengthened, with China establishing bilateral agricultural cooperation mechanisms with 19 CELAC countries. Economic and trade cooperation in agriculture has grown rapidly, while cooperation in areas such as agricultural mechanization, new variety breeding and promotion, and rice production has deepened. The third China–CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Ministerial Forum on Agriculture was held in Weifang, Shandong Province, in early July this year. A total of 290 individuals attended the forum, including 24 ministers or vice ministers and 13 ambassadors from 25 countries, and representatives from domestic and international agricultural research institutes, companies, and regional organizations.   Han Jun, Secretary of the CPC Leadership Group of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) said "China–CELAC agro-trade doubled to over $81 billion from 2014 to 2023. The two sides have achieved great coordination on issues such as food security, green and low-carbon development, and trade facilitation, thus sounding a strong “China–CELAC voice.”   To further enhance China–CELAC cooperation in agriculture and fishery, Secretary Han put forth four initiatives:    1) Step up efforts to align strategies and build mechanisms; plan and implement a number of agricultural cooperation projects on food security, green development, and other issues of common concern.    2) Boost agro-trade and investment cooperation; strive to double the value of agro-trade over the next decade.    3) Strengthen sci-tech exchange and capacity building with a focus on areas such as agricultural mechanization, soil health, green development, and aquaculture.    4) Deepen cooperation in poverty reduction and promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, to make a bigger contribution to building a world free of poverty and hunger.   The forum's theme was “Promote Mutually Beneficial Multilateral Cooperation, Achieve Win-Win Green Development.” The forum also included thematic meetings on economic and trade cooperation in agriculture and poverty reduction and development. The China–CELAC Ministerial Consensus on AgriculturalPriority Areas and the Action Plan on StrengtheningChina–CELAC Agricultural Cooperationwere released.   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2310/south-korean-smart-farm-sector-is-gaining-momentum-to-enter-the-southeast-asian-market.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2310/south-korean-smart-farm-sector-is-gaining-momentum-to-enter-the-southeast-asian-market.html Fri, 19 Jul 2024 11:17:24 +0530 Korean smart-farm companies had 105 one-on-one trade meetings with Vietnamese buyers and companies and signed eight MoUs worth $2.69 million in July 2024 The South Korean smart-farm sector is gaining more momentum to enter the Southeast Asian market, driven by its advanced information and communications technologies. At the 2024 Korea-Vietnam Partnership Plus Week held on 16 July in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Vietnamese government officials and business people showed great interest in Korean smart farms and the related technologies.   The trade promotion event was organized to take economic cooperation between the two countries to the next level in three industrial sectors for future growth—smart farming, eco-friendlier energy, and medical and health care. During the event, fifteen Korean smart-farm companies had 105 one-on-one trade meetings with Vietnamese buyers and companies and signed eight Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth $2.69 million. In particular, South Korean smart farm company AVALVE, at the business forum session of the event, drew special attention from Vietnamese government officials and buyers, with its presentation on the successes it has achieved in Vietnam and on the ways to advance South Korea-Vietnam cooperation in smart agriculture. In November 2022, AVALVE signed an MoU for cooperation in smart agriculture with the Vietnamese National Centre for Fertilizer Testing (NCFT) and then built a vertical farm for ginseng sprout cultivation in Vietnam in February 2023.     Also, export efforts based on the Demo Smart Farm, a model smart greenhouse, built in Hanoi, Vietnam are bearing fruit. Korean company AFFES, which leads the construction project of the Demo Smart Farm in Vietnam, signed a contract worth approximately $370,000 in February this year to build a smart farm in Indonesia. The project aims to showcase South Korea’s advanced smart-farm technologies in promising markets overseas and thereby lay stepping-stones for Korean companies to export their products and technologies around the world. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs of the Republic of Korea (MAFRA) selected Vietnam as an export foothold of Southeast Asia for promoting and exporting South Korean smart-farm products and technologies, and built the Demo Smart Farm in Hanoi, in 2022, through cooperation with the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The Demo Smart Farm in Hanoi is a steel-framed vinyl greenhouse equipped with environment control systems. The smart farm, currently being built in Indonesia by AFFES, is the same model and scheduled to be completed in July this year. Director-General LEE Sang-man of the MAFRA’s Agri-Food Innovation Policy Bureau said: “Southeast Asian countries have great interest in smart farming as it helps address climate change and other challenges of our time, and they are keen to adopt advanced smart-farm technologies of South Korea. The MAFRA will continue to develop various export support policies, such as expanding business networks, creating a regional export base, and others, to help Korean smart-farm companies to actively enter Southeast Asian markets.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2270/vietnams-aquatic-product-exports-anticipates-to-accomplish-4-36-billion-trade-before-q3-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2270/vietnams-aquatic-product-exports-anticipates-to-accomplish-4-36-billion-trade-before-q3-2024.html Mon, 08 Jul 2024 11:12:28 +0530 According to VASEP, a slight increase in export turnover in the first half by 4.9% year-on-year.is a positive sign for this industry The turnover of Vietnam’s aquatic product exports reached $4.36 billion in the first half of this year, up 4.9% year-on-year.Among the top five importers, the US recorded the strongest growth, followed by China, the EU, and the Republic of Korea. As for product types, the group of crabs and crustaceans saw the strongest growth. The enterprises are advised to diversify export markets to avoid dependence on certain ones, and at the same time develop the domestic market.According to VASEP, a slight increase in export turnover in the first half is a positive sign for this industry. However, the shrimp sector, which brought about $1.3 billion in export revenue in the first five months, continues to face many challenges as the world economic situation shows no signs of recovery, and inflation remains high.Tran Van Minh, Director of Nha Trang Seafoods F89 Joint Stock Company in the Meking Delta province of Bac Lieu, said that his company, faced by difficulties and challenges caused by the world economic downturn and tensions between Russia and Ukraine, has promptly adjusted its production and business strategies to improve shrimp export efficiency to the US and EU markets. In addition, it is studying to expand its market to other countries, especially the Asian and Latin American markets.In particular, the company is focusing on improving raw materials, and increasing production capacity to create quality export products with high competitiveness, so as to ensure that they meet strict standards of the US and EU markets.To achieve that, the firm is promoting cooperation with farmers and cooperatives through signing contracts, and help farmers with techniques, breed selection, feed, veterinary medicine, and disease control. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2241/speciality-food-drinks-asia-and-speciality-coffee-tea-asia-trade-events-unveils-in-singapore.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2241/speciality-food-drinks-asia-and-speciality-coffee-tea-asia-trade-events-unveils-in-singapore.html Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:34:32 +0530 Three days of culinary exploration and innovation with a vast showcase of over 320 exhibitors and brands, and catch the highly anticipated Singapore National Coffee Championship Highly anticipated F&B trade events Speciality Food & Drinks Asia (SFDA) and Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia (SCTA) open today at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre (Halls D, E and F) in Singapore. Organised by IEG Asia, the trade events are part of SIGEP Asia, the first Asian edition of the renowned SIGEP Italian international artisan gelato, pastry, bakery, and coffee trade show, held alongside Restaurant Asia and co-located with takeaway and delivery trade show Food2Go. The events will run from 26 to 28 June and are expected to host up to 10,000 trade visitors and buyers and feature over 320 exhibitors and brands from more than 30 countries and regions.  “SFDA and SCTA offer the perfect platform for specialty food and beverage professionals to connect, discover, and elevate their businesses. IEG Asia is presenting opportunity to explore the synergy between innovative speciality products and food service excellence from Italy, Singapore and other participating countries" said Ilaria Cicero, chief executive officer of IEG Asia and organiser of the events. The opening ceremony of SIGEP Asia and its co-located shows was graced by Guest of Honour Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Trade and Industry. The all-encompassing SIGEP Asia event serves as a beacon for the entire F&B and Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (Ho.Re.Ca.) industries, streamlining industry trends and fostering strategic business connections. Leading European and Asian industry players are gathering at SIGEP Asia to showcase the latest F&B products and cutting-edge foodservice technologies. Extending beyond these, the event is also hosting other fringe events such as the RAS Leadership Symposium, masterclasses and tasting sessions, and offering exclusive insights into future trends of the Dolce foodservice industry through seminars.  A stellar lineup of exhibitors and brands  This year’s SFDA and SCTA feature a diverse range of exhibitors, from renowned global brands to emerging homegrown artisanal producers. The lineup includes Huggs Coffee, Allpress Expresso, Oatly, F&N Foods, Glyph Supply Co, Lei Food & Drinks Singapore, Elevare, Soshinsen Holding, Sanjeevani Basmati, Ideas Ocean (IDOCEAN), Kerry Ingredients Biga Italian Bakery, and many more. With a growing emphasis on ethical and environmentally-friendly food production across the region, visitors seeking sustainable food products can anticipate innovative eco-conscious brands, including sustainable seafood farmers Farm Suzuki from Japan; Singapore’s first-ever edible cutlery startup Crunch Cutlery; local bean-free & sustainable coffee pioneers Prefer; and coconut, organic and plant-based product distributors Siam Coconut, among others. Explore 8 country pavilions and indulge in global delicacies Visitors can also look forward to a rich culinary and cultural heritage experience from pavilions across the globe, including Kuwait, China, Malaysia, Japan, Austria and Mexico. The Japanese pavilion will deliver a curated selection of premium Japanese products such as the all-time favourite wagyu beef, and Japan’s top-selling supplement Natural DN Collagen from Fordays Co., Ltd. Two distinguished Japanese sake companies will also present their exquisite brews in Singapore for the first time, offering visitors a chance to savour their unique flavours. The pavilion will also introduce innovative sparkling sake like the refreshing pear-flavoured "La France," artisanal fruit jams capturing the essence of Japanese fruits, and stylish cup coasters that blend functionality with artistic design. Other key highlights include a modern tea ceremony startup WACHA showcasing their matcha selection and tea ceremony robot "Sennorobi”.  The Kuwait pavilion, presented by the Kuwait’s Public Authority for Industry, will feature the finest of Kuwaiti coffee, sweets, pastries, spices, herbs, seasonings and food packaging materials. The Mexico pavilion, presented by the Embassy of Mexico in Singapore, will showcase a diverse selection of meat and dairy products, various herbs and spices – including a variety of chilli peppers – and beverages such as tequila and mezcal. Singapore’s Coffee Industry Flagship Competition - Singapore National Coffee Championship Organised by the Singapore Coffee Association at SCTA, the Singapore National Coffee Championship (SNCC) will feature 70 participants competing across four exciting categories — the Singapore National Barista Championship (presented by Santino), Singapore National Brewers Cup (presented by TIMEMORE), Singapore National Latte Art Championship and Singapore Cup Tasters Championship. The highly anticipated competition aims to showcase excellence and best practices in coffee preparation, and winners of each category will represent Singapore at the World Coffee Championships 2025.  Savour the finest brews and coffee products Also at SCTA, visitors can discover an array of speciality coffee brands and products, including coffee machines, grinders, pour-over kettles, drippers, beans and pods, and many more. Exhibitors include TIMEMORE, DASHER Singapore, Allpress Espresso, Sapori Italiani, Huggs Coffee, Blu Coffee, Beijing Guixia Legend Trading, Glyph Supply Co, MHW-bomber, Prefer and Mii FoodService, and more. “We are thrilled to once again be part of Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia, this time alongside the world-renowned SIGEP brand. This event is the perfect business platform for local and global coffee growers, artisans, roasters, baristas and entrepreneurs to showcase their crafts, exchange ideas and forge meaningful connections, and visitors can witness the continuous innovation that fuels the speciality food and drink industry. We are also staging the Singapore National Coffee Championship here, where talented individuals are competing and showcasing their skills. I wish all participants the very best!” said Victor Mah, President of the Singapore Coffee Association. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2236/vietnam-trade-promotion-center-reports-surge-in-coffee-export-reaching-4275-per-tonne.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2236/vietnam-trade-promotion-center-reports-surge-in-coffee-export-reaching-4275-per-tonne.html Mon, 24 Jun 2024 11:15:24 +0530 Vicofa expects coffee exports to earn about $4.5-$5 billion by the end of 2024 amidst the industry turmoil According to data from the General Department of Customs (GSO), Vietnam's coffee exports reached 862,400 tonnes by the first half of June month, declining by more than 8% in volume but up 38% in value compared to the same period last year. This is also considered to be record high compared to the same period in previous years. Vietnam's average coffee export price reached $4,275 per tonne in May month, up 14% compared to April and up 66% year-on-year. The country's average coffee export price reached $3,475 per tonne in the first five months of the year, up 41% year-on-year. In the early days of June, the price of Robusta coffee in the domestic market increased compared to the end of May. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, there is currently very little coffee inventory left in the domestic market. It is forecast that coffee output will continue to decrease by about 20% in the upcoming crop year due to the recent prolonged hot weather leading to severe drought in the Central Highlands. The Vietnam Coffee Cocoa Association (Vicofa) said that coffee prices were currently soaring sharply, therefore, coffee output exported to the world may fall but turnover would still grow. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2237/malaysia-sets-to-expand-its-palm-oil-exports-to-south-africa-and-the-middle-east.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2237/malaysia-sets-to-expand-its-palm-oil-exports-to-south-africa-and-the-middle-east.html Mon, 24 Jun 2024 11:11:01 +0530 Malaysia’s palm oil industry contributes around 23% of the global supply Egypt remains Malaysia’s key trading partner as the government sets to expand its palm oil exports to South Africa and the Middle East. Malaysia's Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said Egypt, consumes about 1.2 million tonnes of palm oil annually. I am confident that Egypt’s strategic geographical location would enhance our nations’ economic prosperities. In our discussions, I emphasised to the Egyptian government regarding Malaysia’s commitment to providing Egypt with a steady supply of high quality and sustainable palm oil certified by our locally-developed certification standard, MSPO. I look forward to further cooperating with His Excellency Dr Ali to ensure mutually beneficial trade relations. On May 28, Minister Johari had opened the Malaysian Palm Oil Forum (MPOF) Egypt 2024 in Cairo, marking the second edition of the event aimed at enhancing the exports of Malaysian palm oil and its derivatives in the North African region. He emphasised the critical role of Malaysian palm oil in the global market and its contributions to sustainable agribusiness. Johari said whereas a hectare of soybean produced 0.5 metric tonnes of oil and sunflower 0.8 metric tonnes, oil palm produces 3.3 metric tonnes of oil The forum, hosted by the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) in Cairo, attracted industry leaders, stakeholders, and experts from Egypt, Malaysia, and beyond, with key representatives from major Malaysian palm oil suppliers in attendance. With the theme “Malaysian Palm Oil — Paving the Way for Sustainable Agribusiness,” the event underscores Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable practices. It also aligns with global environmental imperatives and highlights the strong bilateral relationship between Malaysia and Egypt. Minister Johari highlighted that Malaysian palm oil producers are already in compliance with global standards on sustainability. He added that Malaysia had intensified its engagement sessions with other countries because of the global concern for sustainability. Malaysia’s approach to palm oil was four-pronged: protecting forests; sustainability; planning production areas; and, complying with international law. Malaysia exports some 800,000 metric tones of palm oil and related products to Turkiye. The country has signed various international agreements to reduce methane gas and carbon emission levels. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2234/bayer-and-solynta-collaborate-to-advance-true-potato-seed-in-smallholder-markets.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2234/bayer-and-solynta-collaborate-to-advance-true-potato-seed-in-smallholder-markets.html Mon, 24 Jun 2024 10:55:42 +0530 Aims to achieve commercialization and distribution of true potato seeds in Kenyan and Indian markets Bayer and Solynta have reached an agreement to collaborate on the commercialization and distribution of true potato seeds in Kenyan and Indian markets. This partnership marks Bayer's entry into the 20 million hectare global potato market and its first collaboration with Solynta, a Dutch company developing robust hybrid potato varieties. Bayer is adding true potato seeds to its portfolio as part of its regenerative agriculture strategy, focusing on resilient and sustainable food systems. The collaboration will center around Solynta’s expert knowledge of potato breeding with the development of new robust potato varieties that will thrive in key potato growing geographies. This innovation will allow growers to plant potatoes from true seeds rather than the traditional planting of tubers. Bayer will distribute the new hybrid potato varieties to growers in remote areas of Kenya and India. Using true potato seeds instead of seed tubers has several advantages for the potato industry. True potato seeds are smaller, cleaner, disease-free, have a long shelf life, and are easier to transport and store. They are available year-round and can be bred with additional beneficial traits such as disease resistance and climate resilience. Frank Terhorst, Head of Strategy & Sustainability at Bayer’s Crop Science Division said “Seed innovation is one of our key focus areas. We expect Solynta’s true potato seeds to have a positive impact on local communities and on food and nutritional security". Inci Dannenberg, President, Global Vegetable Seeds, Bayer said “Adding true potato seeds to our portfolio is a natural progression of our team’s work to support smallholder growers and offer the latest innovations”. Peter Poortinga, CEO of Solynta, pointed out that the true potato seeds are the result of almost two decades of work on Solynta’s hybrid potato breeding technology. “Hybrid breeding is a proven technology in many existing food crops, which allows fast development of new varieties with desirable traits, such as disease resistances. We are delighted to join forces with Bayer on the introduction and distribution of our true potato seeds." "We are focused on introducing true potato seeds, and conducting field and commercial trials to demonstrate their effectiveness. We are thrilled to partner with Bayer for the further commercial roll-out in Kenya and India," said Solynta’s CCO Joost van Regteren. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2314/queensland-trawl-fishers-embrace-new-technology-to-reduce-bycatch.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2314/queensland-trawl-fishers-embrace-new-technology-to-reduce-bycatch.html Wed, 19 Jun 2024 18:45:00 +0530 The Queensland trawl fishery produces over $115 million annually of high-quality seafood to local, interstate and international markets. Australia, Queensland's Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has embarked on a collaborative project aimed at helping trawl fishers minimise accidental catch of protected species such as sea snakes, sharks and rays. To support sustainable fishing practices and protect vulnerable marine species, a trial of Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs) will be rolled out over the next 18 months. Researchers will collaborate with interested fishers to deploy and evaluate the effectiveness of BRDs at sea. This collaborative effort is made possible through the support of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, and the Australian Council of Prawn Fisheries. This initiative builds on a suite of other fishing regulations that ensure the fishery is sustainable. DAF research scientist Matthew Campbell highlighted the success of previous trials involving these innovative devices. "The Tom's Fisheye, for example, has been demonstrated to reduce the capture of sea snakes during sea trials conducted in the Torres Strait Prawn Fishery. Preliminary trials in Queensland indicate that the Tom’s Fisheye reduces the catch of sea snakes by 64%. Queensland trawl fishers and netmakers can participate in the project by developing devices that reduce the catch of sea snakes and sharks and rays for at-sea testing. After the testing period, observers will join participating vessels to collect relevant data under commercial conditions providing empirical evidence of the devices' effectiveness. The observer trips are designed to demonstrate the devices reduce the catch of sea snakes or sharks and rays, while maintaining target species catch rates." he said. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2222/vietnam-launches-center-for-agricultural-trade-promotion-fair-to-promote-agricultural-products.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2222/vietnam-launches-center-for-agricultural-trade-promotion-fair-to-promote-agricultural-products.html Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:16:01 +0530 Agricultural Products and Regional Specialty Market with the theme "Week of promoting high-quality agricultural products and fruits" organized by the Center for Agricultural Trade Promotion Vietnam launches a trade-fair for Agricultural Products and Regional Specialty Market with the theme "Week of promoting high-quality agricultural products and fruits". The forum is organized by the Center for Agricultural Trade Promotion - Ministry of Agriculture and Development In coordination with local organizations. The event officially inaugurated at the Economic and Trade Exhibition and Transaction Fair Area, No. 489 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Hanoi on 13 June. Some of the notable delegates at the event were Nguyen Nhu Tiep - Director of the Department of Quality, Processing and Market Development; Nguyen Minh Tien - Director of the Agricultural Trade Promotion Center; Nguyen Dinh Hoa - Deputy Director of Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development; Duong Son Ha - Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Thai Nguyen province; units and businesses attending the Market and a large number of people in Hanoi city. This is the first market in a series of two markets organized by the Agricultural Trade Promotion Center in 2024 to support businesses and agricultural cooperatives to introduce to consumers in Hanoi and surrounding areas the Agricultural, forestry and aquatic products are specialties and key products of localities throughout the country. At the same time, create a bridge between manufacturers and product purchasing units, supermarkets, distribution systems, and retail agricultural, forestry, and fishery stores along the agricultural value chain with a full ecosystem, closed and transparent from production, processing, preservation, trade and distribution to consumers. The market brings together over 70 booths of units, cooperatives, businesses, and farmer associations from various provinces. The market has a variety of agricultural, forestry, and aquatic products produced in the direction of organic, ecological agriculture, and products applying high technology in production and processing; traditional craft village products, OCOP products. In order to diversify forms of trade promotion, open new markets, increase opportunities to reach customers and bring outstanding economic efficiency to localities added activities such as livestreaming on social media is allowed for product selling. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2212/philippines-to-streamline-administrative-policies-remove-non-tariff-barriers-on-farm-imports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2212/philippines-to-streamline-administrative-policies-remove-non-tariff-barriers-on-farm-imports.html Wed, 12 Jun 2024 11:19:25 +0530 Ministry creates a Technical Working Group (TWG) Philippines Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. has created a technical working group tasked to further streamline administrative procedures and policies and remove non-tariff barriers on agri imports. The DA chief designated Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and Regulations Asis Perez to head the TWG that would make it easier for importers to secure licenses or exempt licensed importers from submission of registration requirements. The TWG was also mandated by Sec. Tiu Laurel to consult with the National Economic and Development Authority’s Committee on Tariff and Related Matters to support the followings: - allow importation of certain agricultural products even beyond the quantity allowed under the Minimum Access Volume and reduce, if not remove, administrative fees pertaining to such importation; – streamline the process and requirements for the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary permits needed for the importation of agricultural products and; – take steps to improve logistics, transport, distribution and storage of imported agricultural products. Special Order No. 768 requires concerned DA agencies to publish in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of national circulation their respective guidelines on the streamlined procedures, requirements, and policies. The agri chief also ordered the creation of the TWG’s secretariat, to be led by lawyer Jomila May Fugaban. The team is responsible for regular reporting to the DA Secretary including the efficient functioning of the TWG. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2201/nz-onion-growers-gets-an-extra-3m-for-exports-to-the-european-union.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2201/nz-onion-growers-gets-an-extra-3m-for-exports-to-the-european-union.html Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:08:26 +0530 Early ratification of a free trade agreement (FTA) The European Union FTA Legislation Amendment Bill received Royal Assent, completing the process for New Zealand’s ratification of the deal with the largest trading bloc in the world. Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says all parties involved in the committee process agreed to complete the legislative process by the end of March. An earlier entry into force will also see tariff savings of $43 million for NZ kiwifruit exporters, on top of the $3 million for onion exporters this season. Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says all parties involved in the committee process agreed to complete the legislative process by the end of March. Onions NZ chief executive James Kuperus says it is great news for New Zealand onion growers, coming in time for the last half of the export season. He points out that New Zealand onion growers are having a better season this year. “The EU is New Zealand’s largest export onion market. We estimate that about 35,000 tonnes would be exported to the EU, tariff free, post 1 May. This volume would be worth an extra $3m or so, thanks to the early removal of the 9.6% tariff. Quality is exceptionally good. This season’s onions will keep well and maintain their great taste” Kuperus says. Most of the 2024 crop has now been harvested and stored with exceptional quality. Favourable weather conditions throughout the growth and harvesting stages have instilled confidence among growers regarding the quality, quantity, and storage capabilities of this year’s crop, notes Kuperus. Export operations have already commenced, with shipments bound for European and North Asian markets, and plans in place for exports to Indonesia soon. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2200/philippines-stakeholders-are-charting-the-future-of-digital-agriculture-says-irri.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2200/philippines-stakeholders-are-charting-the-future-of-digital-agriculture-says-irri.html Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:02:08 +0530 Policymakers, scientists, technology experts, and farmers convened to contextualize the current landscape, identify barriers and opportunities, and chart the future of digital agriculture in the Philippines The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna became a hub of digital agricultural innovation as it hosted the Philippine leg of the highly anticipated ICTforAg 2024. This year’s theme, “Localizing Impact through Inclusion, Inspiration, and Innovation,” underscored the need to tailor digital solutions to local agricultural landscapes' unique challenges and opportunities.  Co-hosted by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) and the Department of Agriculture Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), ICTforAg kicked off with an opening program where Dr. Yvonne Pinto, IRRI Director General warmly welcomed the participants, and highlighted IRRI’s commitment to driving digital innovation in the sector “Together, we are leveraging information and communication technologies to drive transformative change in the agriculture sector,” she stated. The event, attended by a diverse mix of policymakers, researchers, farmers, and technology enthusiasts, showcased the intersection of agriculture and technology in the Philippines. An exhibit viewing session also commenced where attendees explored cutting-edge technologies and initiatives that promise to transform agriculture. The keynote address, delivered by Engr. Christopher Morales, DA Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development, discussed the government’s efforts to integrate digital tools into rice farming practices. “As we look to the future, we envision a Philippine agriculture sector where digital technologies are a cornerstone of our national growth. However, this journey cannot be without challenges, and we must address issues such as digital literacy among farmers, infrastructure limitations, and data security,” said Usec. Christopher Morales. In the face of climate change and fluctuating market prices, a shift to a more digital landscape in the agriculture sector can highly benefit farmers. In the Philippines, high labor costs are key factors in the country's lower rice production efficiency. To remain competitive, farmers can adopt ICT tools such as satellite remote sensing, drone mapping, and digital literacy programs. These technologies can boost yields, enhance productivity, and ensure food security. Through several breakout sessions and plenary talks, ICTforAg delved into these various innovative projects and programs revolutionizing agriculture in the Philippines. Topics like linking producers and consumers through digital platforms, data-driven decision-making, and the digital agriculture landscape in the Philippines, highlighting tools like D4AgPH and the Global Market Intelligence Platform (GloMIP), showcased innovative applications of precision spraying using vision-based velocity estimation. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2192/advancing-salmon-aquaculture-through-collective-action.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2192/advancing-salmon-aquaculture-through-collective-action.html Thu, 06 Jun 2024 08:25:21 +0530 GSI report highlights key pointers to beneficial aquaculture GSI, is striving to drive change and promoting more sustainable practices in salmon aquaculture. Members of GSI are are fostering transparency by leveraging insights from data to collectively improve the sustainability of farm raised salmon. Increased transparency adds a layer of accountability to a company’s operations. With publicly available company metrics, buyers have an additional tool at their disposal to use in decision-making when choosing which product best suits their sustainability commitments. GSI has release its 2023 Sustainability Report features 2,800+ data points on 15 metrics from 14 members across the globe. Key highlights from the report include: Antibiotic Reduction: GSI continued research, innovation, and knowledge sharing have led to a 75% reduction in the average use of antibiotics since 2013. Good fish health is our top priority, and with continued advancements, we hope to further reduce this number. Improved Efficiency in Feed: GSI achieved a 51% decrease in the average use of fish meal and a 30% decrease in average fish oil use since 2013. As we focus on improving our feeding strategies to maximize use of marine ingredients and ensure best-practices in ingredient sourcing we are able to demonstrate improvements in feed sourcing while maintaining salmons nutrient profile. With the support of our recently launched ESG feed tool we anticipate further improvements here in coming years. Sea Lice Treatment Reduction: Through non-medicinal approaches to risk management and innovations in farming operations, GSI have managed a 60% reduction in average sea lice treatments since 2013. ASC Certification: Nearly two-thirds (64%) of GSI member production was Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certified in 2023, indicating that more responsibly raised farmed salmon is available for consumers around the world. Growing Workforce: GSI members employ over 27,000 people worldwide – a workforce that spans a variety of skills and expertise to raise thriving salmon. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2187/australias-nsw-to-modernize-rice-sector-exporting-to-strengthen-viability-in-rice-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2187/australias-nsw-to-modernize-rice-sector-exporting-to-strengthen-viability-in-rice-industry.html Wed, 05 Jun 2024 11:22:03 +0530 Government to introduce a Bill to State Parliament to end statutory rice export marketing (‘vesting’) arrangements by 1 July 2025, heralding a new era of greater opportunity and innovation for the rice industry Australia's NSW legislation is set to introduce a Parliament Bill in June, to enhance the long-term viability of the state’s rice industry, which had an estimated farm gate value of $219 million in 2022-23. Government aims to ensure regulations do not hinder agriculture industry growth. The NSW Government while drafting the Bill to modernise the state’s rice marketing arrangements received requests from rice growers from across NSW to end statutory rice export marketing (‘vesting’) arrangements as soon as practical. Under the Government’s Bill, vesting for the southern growing region will end 1 July 2025, with the Rice Marketing Board to be wound up by 1 July 2026.  The NSW Government’s already announced position to exclude the northern rivers growing region from current vesting arrangements from 1 September 2024 will be retained. The decision to deregulate the industry in 2025 has been made following engagement from rice grower stakeholders representing the NSW rice industry and comes at a time when rice growers are well-placed to take advantage of the new marketing opportunities. The decision to remove rice vesting also aligns with the recommendations in the recently published Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resources Economics and Sciences ‘Independent Report into Rice Vesting’. Under the future arrangements, growers will be afforded greater choice and flexibility to pursue a range of markets, including export markets. It will also benefit the long-term sustainability of the industry in the face of lower water availability and a more variable climate. An expert Rice Transition Group which will be led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and will focus on: R&D opportunities to support alternate supply chains Ensuring seed supply is maintained for all rice growers Unwinding the affairs of the Rice Marketing Board once vesting ends Investigating regional development opportunities. This change to rice marketing arrangements reflects similar deregulation that has occurred over the past decades to other agricultural commodities including wheat, barley and dairy. NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said, “The NSW Government while drafting a Bill to modernise the state’s rice marketing arrangements received requests from rice growers in southern NSW to end statutory rice export marketing, the ‘vesting’ arrangements, sooner rather than later. Discussions with rice growers across the state demonstrated to the Government there was agreement that a transition in rice export marketing be brought forward to 1 July 2025. The NSW Government will support industry as it navigates and manages the transition and acknowledges the contributions made by the rice industry during this process.” NSW Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said, "This decision opens the door to more export opportunities for NSW rice growers and that means businesses that are more productive, create more jobs and pay higher wages. The value of goods and services exported from NSW topped $150 billion last year, and we want to work across the economy to do even more.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2158/japan-and-vietnam-sign-memorandum-of-cooperation-to-boost-forestry-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2158/japan-and-vietnam-sign-memorandum-of-cooperation-to-boost-forestry-industry.html Mon, 27 May 2024 11:09:31 +0530 Forestry Agency and Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Forestry Department partnered in the Fields of Forestry and Forestry Japan has been continuously promoting exchanges in the forest and forestry sector with Vietnam, including through technical cooperation projects implemented by JICA and ITTO projects funded by the Forestry Agency. Vietnam's forest area has been increasing in recent years, with a high artificial forest rate of about 30%, and the country has close ties with Japan in the trade of wood products. It is expected that the signing of this memorandum will further promote cooperation in various fields, including sustainable forest management and the effective use of forest resources. Key Points of the Memorandum of Cooperation In order to realize a prosperous society that contributes to carbon neutrality through the promotion of sustainable forest management and effective use of forest resources, Japan and Vietnam have agreed to cooperate in the following areas:          a) sustainable forest management,         b) mitigation of and adaptation to climate change,         c) effective use and management of forest resources, and multifaceted use of forests, including recreation and education         d) forest conservation, biodiversity and forest landscape restoration,         e) forest management for disaster prevention,         f) research and development and new technologies in the forestry sector,         g) human resource development,         h) legally harvested timber and related trade. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2148/arcadia-biosciences-rkda-sells-goodwheattm-to-above-food-corp.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2148/arcadia-biosciences-rkda-sells-goodwheattm-to-above-food-corp.html Mon, 20 May 2024 11:09:21 +0530 Transaction will accelerate scaling Arcadia’s wheat IP with Above’s vertically integrated, farm-to-fork supply chain Arcadia Biosciences, Inc.® (Nasdaq: RKDA), a producer and marketer of innovative, plant-based health and wellness products, and Above Food Corp., an innovative food company leveraging its vertically integrated supply chain to deliver differentiated ingredients and consumer products, announced today that Above Food will purchase the GoodWheatTM brand of better-for-you wheat products from Arcadia for $4 million net. “We see this as the beginning of a partnership between Arcadia and Above Food to accelerate scaling Arcadia’s wheat IP,” said Stan Jacot, president and CEO of Arcadia. “The GoodWheat brand fits perfectly into Above Food’s nutrient-dense, plant-based consumer product and specialty ingredient portfolios. Above’s vertically integrated, farm-to-fork identity preservation system, reinforced by Above’s owned assets could provide efficient commercialization of Arcadia’s wheat IP in the future,” he added. “This transaction enables us to monetize our IP early while we continue to pursue other crop licensing and royalty streams.” The GoodWheat brand was launched in 2018 to help consumers get more fiber in their diets by increasing the amount of fiber in the delicious foods they love. GoodWheat brand uses Arcadia’s unique, patented, better-for-you non-GMO wheat grain that is naturally higher in fiber and protein with nothing added. Arcadia introduced five varieties of GoodWheat pasta in June 2022, followed by six varieties of pancake mixes and single-serve QuikcakesTM in August 2023. Three varieties of mac & cheese were launched in November of 2023. GoodWheat products are currently available on more than 3,500 shelves nationwide and on Amazon. “Consumers are asking for delicious foods that are better for you. The use and the advancement of this existing non-GMO GoodWheat IP for the planting seeds utilized in Above’s grower supply chain will serve the needs of these health and quality conscious consumers,” stated Lionel Kambeitz, CEO for Above Food Corp. “Building better for you foods begins with the grower producing grains from the highest quality, non-GMO seeds. Above’s identity preserved field-to-fork supply chain ensures the quality and security of these grains.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2132/vietnams-durian-exports-to-china-witnessed-a-significant-surge-in-the-first-quarter-of-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2132/vietnams-durian-exports-to-china-witnessed-a-significant-surge-in-the-first-quarter-of-2024.html Tue, 14 May 2024 12:10:08 +0530 Vietnam's durian exports to China witnessed a significant surge in the first quarter of 2024. Specifically, Vietnam exported 35,000 tonnes of durian to China during the period, valued at nearly $1.77 million. China imported a total of 48,000 tonnes of durian worth some $2.56 million through the Youyi Guan border gate. Li Youyang, Director of Trade at Guangxi Baiguoyuan Technology Co.Ltd., attributed the rise in durian sales to several key factors, saying that with continuous improvements in import procedures and the adoption of advanced cold storage technology, the company's durian sales in the first quarter increased by 20% annually, and prices were 30%-40% lower than in previous years. As a result, many of its durian stores have run out of stock. Liu Minkun from the Guangxi University pointed out a confluence of factors driving the popularity of durian from ASEAN member countries among Chinese consumers, including high product quality, strong supply chain advantages, positive bilateral relations, e-commerce boom and logistics systems. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2123/france-and-china-extend-bilateral-cooperation-on-economic-and-commercial-collaborations.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2123/france-and-china-extend-bilateral-cooperation-on-economic-and-commercial-collaborations.html Mon, 13 May 2024 12:54:18 +0530 Fostering trade and economic cooperation as well as cultural exchanges The cordial ties between France and China have traditionally garnered the most attention among them. The two nations have made impressive progress in recent years in fostering trade and economic cooperation as well as cultural exchanges, all of which are crucial for advancing the growth of bilateral relations. The people of China and France have developed a close affinity and understanding as a result of their cultural interactions. France, one of the major nations on the continent, has an extensive cultural heritage and a lengthy history. Also, the cultural legacy of China is equally broad and profound. Events involving art shows, musical and performing arts, and other forms of cultural interchange between the two nations not only strengthen connections of friendship and understanding between each other but also give their respective cultures fresh life. People have developed their mutual exchanges and experienced the beauty of the collision and integration of other cultures thanks to these exchange activities. Economic and trade cooperation between France and China has injected strong impetus into the economic development of both countries. In recent years, the economic cooperation between China and France has continued to deepen, and trade and investment cooperation have achieved remarkable results. The highly complementary economic landscape provides the two countries with vast trade and investment opportunities. In parallel, an increasing number of French businesses are turning their attention to the Chinese market in search of collaborators and economic prospects as the country's market grows and its consumption structure changes. This mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation model not only promotes the economic development of China and France, but also brings vitality to the economic development of the world. Furthermore, China and France have enhanced their collaboration in the domains of veterinary care, plant quarantine, agro-food, and agriculture. In order to address climate change and promote global energy transition, China and France must work together in the energy sector.The two parties signed a series of cooperation agreements to further strengthen cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, which is of positive significance for promoting sustainable development of global energy. Lu Shaye, Chinese Ambassador to France, said in his speech that China-France relations have been in the forefront of China's relations with Western nations for the past 60 years, benefiting the people of both nations and promoting global peace, stability, and growth. Standing at a new historical turning point, China and France need to maintain their initial goals, share responsibilities, build mutual trust, build a future, promote and implement true multilateralism, expand and strengthen pragmatic cooperation that benefits both parties, and carry out civilized dialogue that leads to openness.It is hoped that the people of the two countries will take the China-France Culture and Tourism Year and the Paris Olympics as an opportunity to have more exchanges and travels, setting off a new upsurge in people-to-people and cultural exchanges. It is noteworthy that France is the guest country of honor at the 7th China International Import Expo and the 2024 China International Fair for commerce in Services, which amply illustrates the strong relations and reciprocal support between China and France in the realm of commerce and economics. The organization of these significant international gatherings benefits French businesses by expanding their market reach and bolstering China's global influence. It is right that this win-win, mutually beneficial approach to cooperation be further developed and supported. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1576/gyeonggi-government-trade-corporation-to-expand-agricultural-products-to-global-platforms.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1576/gyeonggi-government-trade-corporation-to-expand-agricultural-products-to-global-platforms.html Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:20:00 +0530 Jangseong Kim, Director of Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation How do you define the significant approaches by Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation to expand agricultural products to global platforms? What are the key sectors emphasised by Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation? We think that they are to establish the distribution channel to enter into the local market and to search for the optimal products to fit in the market. In 2023, we participated in Speciality Food & Drinks Asia 2023 in Singapore, trade shows in Guangzhou, China, Hong Kong, and the United States, as well as the Shanghai Food Expo in China, where we discovered companies aligning with our industry. Our company aims to promote Korean agricultural and processed goods globally, and moving forward, we plan to continue participating in international food expos. Our goal is to conduct tasting events for Korean products at these expos, gauge the response, and export well-received products tailored to the preferences of different countries. The key sectors are Korea Ginseng products and fruits and vegetables. What is Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation's perspective on the globalisation of agricultural products to boost the agricultural sector in Korea? It is to ease the regulations with regard to the agricultural products to apply for the global standard like GATT system. Countries participating in GATT can lower tariffs among member nations to provide competitive prices and facilitate smooth customs clearance for importing countries. This can enhance the efficiency of international trade for Korean agricultural products. Could you brief the collaboration and partnership initiatives at Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation to foster Korea’s footprints in the global agri sector? How are the upcoming investments envisioned? We are focusing on the export of Korean Ginseng, fresh fruits and other agricultural products to be produced in Korea, but looking for a new business to distribute the agricultural products produced by the other countries except Korea. We are making efforts to export the new products to overseas distributors, including health functional food companies, baby food companies, e-commerce etc,. through the testing event by collaborating with the international distribution channel. Our vision for the future of promoting the excellence of Korean food starts with improving the image and perception of Korea among people abroad. Furthermore, we are also working towards setting goals to highlight the competitive advantages of Korean products compared to those of other countries on a global scale. Can you brief Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation’s venture into the "K-Fresh Zone" and association with Japan, Thailand and Hong Kong Agriculture Ministries to expand agricultural product reach? We operate the K-Fresh Zone to promote Korean Ginseng products and high premium fresh fruits. Korean Wave( HanRyu) gives much help to the operation of “K-Fresh Zone”. I welcome the proposal to expand agricultural products with 3 countries. In Korean ginseng, we try to focus on China, Hongkong, Taiwan and the United States of America and in the fresh fruits, to focus on Southeast Asian Countries and in other agricultural products, to focus on the United States of America. Which countries are in the business prospects to export Korea's highest-quality Korean ginseng and high-quality food? In Korean ginseng, we try to focus on China, Hongkong, Taiwan and the United States of America and in the fresh fruits, to focus on Southeast Asian Countries and in other agricultural products, to focus on the United States of America. Korean ginseng is renowned as a precious medicinal herb, cultivated in a climate and soil suitable for ginseng cultivation. It’s popularity abroad can be attributed to it’s title as Korea's top healthy food ingredient. According to research conducted by the UN World Conservation Congress, Korean ginseng has a higher content of ginsenosides compared to products from China and the United States. Furthermore, development efforts in the early 1990s by institutions such as the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology resulted in an immune therapy for cancer. The findings indicated a 35% inhibition of cancer cell growth and a 13-fold increase in the immune proliferation ability of saponin. We export red ginseng processed food made from 6-year-old ginseng, which accounts for 34% of the national ginseng cultivation area in Gyeonggi Province. This product is known for its high ginsenoside content, acknowledged for its anti-cancer effects, prevention of arteriosclerosis and hypertension, promotion of liver function, and alleviation of hangovers. It has gained recognition for its efficacy and excellence. By handling the export sector of the integrated Korean ginseng brand "K-Ginseng", how would you define Gyeonggi Government Trade Corporation’s network-building efforts through an integrated transportation model? There are many brands in Korean ginseng including “K-Ginseng”. It means that the competition is serious, “K-Ginseng” is born in order to increase the value of Korean ginseng and reduce the export cost. We interaged many brands in Gyeonggi Province with one brand  and took the exclusive right to export it on the behalf of the brand. So the export is getting to increase and the cost is getting to reduce. How do you foresee the trends and prospects in the Korean Agri-Food industry landscape? I foresee that the Korean Agri-Food industry will prosper better than expected. With the effect of Korean Wave, many people have concerns about Korean food and consume it more. The progress of the Korean Agri-Food industry can also be influenced by various factors beyond the impact of the Korean Wave (Hallyu). Engaging in favorable trade agreements and collaborations with other countries can open up new markets for Korean agricultural products and contribute to the industry's growth on a global scale. Investments in research and development can lead to the development of new agricultural technologies and crop varieties, and transportation, logistics, and distribution improvements can lower costs and ensure the timely delivery of products. A growing interest in healthy and sustainable food options can drive innovation in the agri-food industry. Adequate infrastructure, including storage facilities and processing units, is crucial for the efficient functioning of the agri-food supply chain. When combined with the influence of the Korean Wave, these factors can contribute to the robust development of the Korean Agri-Food industry. The statistics are proving that. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2061/asia-fruit-logistica-2024-leading-trade-platform-for-asias-fresh-produce-business.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2061/asia-fruit-logistica-2024-leading-trade-platform-for-asias-fresh-produce-business.html Wed, 17 Apr 2024 11:57:47 +0530 David Axiotis, Managing Director of ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024 Asia's fresh produce industry's leading trade show ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA is organizing a China-focused networking and trade event at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center on 27-28 May 2024. The Business Meet-Up in Shanghai brings together leading buyers and suppliers from across the industry to network and explore in-depth the trends and opportunities in the fast expanding China market. The two-day B2B expo event features expert talks and discussions organized by ASIAFRUIT MAGAZINE, ASIAFRUIT LOGISTICA's knowledge partner and leading business conference organizer. David Axiotis, Managing Director of ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024 shared further insights with AgroSpectrum Asia. What are you anticipating for the upcoming edition of Asia’s premier fresh produce trade show, ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024? What is the spotlight of this year’s edition? ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA made an impressive return to our long-established location at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong last year. We had a sell-out show with record visitor numbers, and this resulted in excellent business meetings and outcomes for our exhibitors. The huge success of the event only underlined our commitment to further grow and develop ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA as a high-quality, efficient and leading trade platform for Asia’s fresh produce business. Ahead of this year’s edition of ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA, we’ve been going deeper into markets across Asia with our new series of Business Meet-Ups. These content-backed regional networking events enable us to with connect with leading players and build even greater momentum for the trade show’s return to Hong Kong on 4-6 September 2024. ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA selected four key markets for its Business Meet-Up series – Indonesia, India, Thailand, and China – to deepen engagement with their diverse and vibrant fresh produce communities. By engaging directly with these diverse markets, we’re confident of creating even more opportunities and value for all ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA visitors and exhibitors this year. China’s three major wholesale markets – Guangzhou Jiangnan, Shanghai Huizhan and Sunhola Group – are co-hosting the China Business Meet-Up. How do you perceive China’s role as a major market player? Yes, ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA has announced a new strategic partnership with three of China’s leading wholesale markets – Guangzhou Jiangnan Market, Shanghai Huizhan Market and Hebei Sunhola Market. We’re delighted to form this landmark partnership. Together, these three markets cover the entire China market, from the south through central to north China. Joining forces to co-host the China Business Meet-Up enables ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA to deepen our connections in the fast-expanding China market. At the same time, our partnership will boost the wholesale presence at ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA in Hong Kong, as these leading markets are official partners and will bring an extensive delegation of exhibitors and buyers to attend and do business. China is simply a massive market for suppliers from Asia and all over the world. Analysis from the ASIAFRUIT CONGRESS STATISTICS HANDBOOK 2023 shows that China is Asia’s largest importer and exporter of fresh fruit, and it continues to have a major influence on the overall trade landscape. China’s fruit imports grew to almost 5.8m tonnes in 2022, mostly comprising of tropical fruit and counter-seasonal temperate fruit from the Southern Hemisphere. China also exported around 3m tonnes of fresh fruit in 2022, and it continues to expand and diversify its presence as a supplier to South-East Asian markets in particular. What would be the key takeaways for the global fresh fruit and vegetable business professionals attending the expo? What are the key highlights of the 2024 edition? Visitors to ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA will meet with exhibitors from all over the world and throughout the value chain. They’re showcasing the widest range of industry-leading products and services – their fresh fruit and vegetables, logistics, machinery, technology, packaging, and related services. Visitors will join the biggest and most diverse gathering of the global fresh fruit produce business in Asia. That’s what’s so special about ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA – it’s truly a pan-Asian and an international platform. They can connect with key players for efficient networking and business discussions and develop new business opportunities. Visitors can also gather essential market information on every aspect of Asia’s fast-growing fresh produce business. ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA features a top-quality content programme – curated by our knowledge partner Asiafruit Magazine – and this offers the best information and insights on the key market trends and opportunities in Asia. Could you elaborate on the content programme and what kind of innovations it covers for visitors and exhibitors? ASIAFRUIT CONGRESS, Asia’s premier fresh produce conference event, takes place on the main stage on the expo floor. At ASIAFRUIT CONGRESS, visitors can hear from the big names in the business – high-level speakers and thought leaders – about the big trends, changes and opportunities in the Asia market. In addition to gaining strategic insights at ASIAFRUIT CONGRESS, visitors can also join a wide-ranging programme of informal workshops at ASIAFRUIT BUSINESS FORUM. These sessions provide case studies and expert talks for business success in Asia, and they cover a wide range of key areas across the value chain – marketing, technology, logistics and so on. How do you see the evolving innovations and consumer trends across the fruit and vegetable industry in 2024? Asia’s fresh fruit and vegetable business continues to expand apace, driven by growing economies and rising income levels across the region. Market growth and opportunities are being propelled by the emergence of exciting new varieties, innovative technology, and better logistics that extend the reach of products, and ongoing breakthroughs in market access for suppliers and their products. ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA brings together leading fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers from around the world, and it also provides the stage to showcase these innovative technologies and services in the industry. Some of the new consumer trends we have observed are increased health awareness, a greater willingness to spend on premium imported fruits, and the prevalence of online marketing and demand for fast last-mile delivery. What impact will this trade show have on the APAC/Asian marketplace in strengthening the industry framework? How do you foresee the industry landscape in the region? We will strengthen our communication and cooperation with the international fruit and vegetable industry. By attracting more internationally renowned fruit and vegetable producers, suppliers, and buyers to participate in the show, we will build a broader international exchange platform and promote international technical cooperation and trade. This will help the fruit and vegetable business across Asia to better integrate into the global fresh produce supply chain and boost international competitiveness. AgroSpectrum Asia is the media partner for the event ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2059/korea-discussed-cooperation-with-cambodia-in-export-of-agri-food-products.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2059/korea-discussed-cooperation-with-cambodia-in-export-of-agri-food-products.html Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:43:33 +0530 Agriculture is a key economic pillar of Cambodia, with 22% of the gross domestic product (GDP) of 2022. The nation has been experiencing a rapid economic  As part of his visit to Phnom Penh in the Kingdom of Cambodia, Deputy Minister Kwon Jae-han of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, met with Korean importers who do business in the country and visited local places where Korea exports agri-food products. Cambodia's economy is largely driven by agriculture, which is expected to contribute 22% to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2022. The nation has experienced rapid economic growth with an average annual growth rate of seven percent over the past two decades. The Korean ministry has been carrying out eight ODA projects with Cambodia.  With the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed between the two countries in 2022, the bilateral trade is gaining more momentum.  The export value of agri-food products from Korea to Cambodia reached approximately USD 90 million in 2023, with beverages accounting for 60% and modified milk powder and ginseng taking an increasing share. Also, Korea’s first export of “hanwoo” (Korean beef) to the Mekong region was made to Cambodia in August 2023.  * Export value of agri-food products in 2023: (a) $54 million in beverages, down by 27.2% from 2022; (b) $12 million in modified milk powder, up by 33.0% from 2022; and (c) $2 million in ginseng, up by 22.3% from 2022. In addition, Export value of modified milk power products to Cambodia: $3 million in 2019 → $4 million in 2020 → $6 million in 2021 → $9 million in 2022 → $12 million in 2023 On 28 March, Deputy Minister Kwon held meetings with Korean importers of agri-food products as well as Korean exporters and importers of hanwoo working in Cambodia to discuss the ways to expand export to the nation. The agri-food products importers said: “We want to introduce Cambodian consumers to diverse Korean agri-food products. And large companies and small- and medium-sized companies should share growth to make it possible to enter a new market like Cambodia.” ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2032/vietnam-strives-to-achieve-1-billion-agricultural-trade-value-with-the-uk.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2032/vietnam-strives-to-achieve-1-billion-agricultural-trade-value-with-the-uk.html Fri, 05 Apr 2024 11:02:35 +0530 MARD Minister says Vietnam has strengths in agricultural production, with over $53B in agricultural, forestry and fishery export value by 2023, a trade surplus of $12.07B Vietnam's Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien had a working session with Iain Frew, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom to Vietnam at the headquarters of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien said that Vietnam has strengths in agricultural production, with over $53 billion in agricultural, forestry and fishery export value by 2023, a trade surplus of $12.07 billion, accounting for over 50% of the country's total trade surplus. Currently, Vietnamese agricultural products are present in over 300 countries and territories, making an important contribution to ensuring world food security with rice export volume reaching 8.23 ​​million tons in 2023. However, The low export of livestock products is likely to improve when the prospect of cooperation between the UK and Vietnam in the coming time is promoted. Moving towards a comprehensive cooperative relationship in the agricultural sector, the Deputy Minister mentioned that Vietnam wishes to learn from the UK's large farm model, supporting Vietnam to build raw material areas associated with processing. in an ecosystem. In addition, training high-quality human resources is also a proposed cooperation content, along with veterinary work, especially in the field of vaccine research and production and the field of science and technology in agriculture. Ambassador Iain Frew assessed that the cooperative relationship between Vietnam and the UK has developed in both depth and breadth in the field of agriculture, and expressed hope that it can continue to develop further to improve the quality of agriculture. In the coming time, cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the UK will continue to be promoted. Vietnam is supporting the UK in its process of joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTTP), which is a bilateral agreement between the two countries. By joining, Vietnam will gain greater strength and more opportunities to expand agricultural markets. Ambassador Iain Frew informed the Ministry of highlighted regulations related to imports into the UK after the Brexit process is completed. At the end of April, the UK will apply new regulations on importing agricultural products. Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien believes that the export turnover of Vietnamese agricultural products to the UK under the role of Ambassador Iain Frew as a bridge will grow strongly, and the agricultural trade target of over $1 billion will soon be achieved. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2028/vietnam-to-boost-its-spice-industry-encompassing-14-factories.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2028/vietnam-to-boost-its-spice-industry-encompassing-14-factories.html Thu, 04 Apr 2024 12:45:59 +0530 Việt Nam currently ranks third in the world as a spice supplier and processor after India and China, but mainly exports products with low processed content, said the Việt Nam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA). The entire Vietnamese spice industry currently has 14 factories with deep processing technology. Regarding pepper, Việt Nam is still ranked number one in the world in production and export. However, in the context of competition and favourable market fluctuations for other crops such as coffee and durian, the area and output of Vietnamese pepper are decreasing. Hoàng Thị Liên, VPSA President, said that all efforts and support needed to be focused on pepper to ensure stable area and output so that Việt Nam would continue to take the initiative, playing a role in regulating world market prices as it had been doing. The VPSA said that the country's exports of pepper, cinnamon, anise, chili, nutmeg, ginger and turmeric reached US$1.3 billion last year. The association expects that the country's total spice export turnover will reach $2.2 billion in the next five years ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2025/certis-biologicals-certis-belchim-introduce-new-seed-treatment-biofungicide-for-cereal-growers.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2025/certis-biologicals-certis-belchim-introduce-new-seed-treatment-biofungicide-for-cereal-growers.html Thu, 04 Apr 2024 12:01:34 +0530 Certis Biologicals and Certis Belchim have announced their first biofungicide formulation for cereals seed treatment: TOLTEK. TOLTEK is the first biological fungicide for Take-All disease in cereals registered in Europe and it will be distributed by Certis Belchim. The co-development project between Certis Biologicals and Certis Belchim (registered as TOLTEK FS) started five years ago. The first authorization for the product has been granted in France for use on Wheat, Barley, Spelt and Triticale, with more authorizations for TOLTEK still pending in Germany, Belgium, Czechia, Ireland and the UK. TOLTEK contains the microorganism Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D747, a proven bio-fungicide strain, that has demonstrated effective protection against Take-All disease (Gaeumannomyces tritici) in cereals when used as a seed treatment, in GEP efficacy trials conducted by Certis-Belchim. Take-All pressure has been increasing gradually over the last 20 years and is expected to continue to increase under the effects of global warming. Significant yield damage traditionally observed on short cereal rotations is now being seen in a larger range of agricultural practices. Toltek will be the third solution offered by CERTIS Belchim to control Take-All since 2017: Latitude XL, the seed treatment of reference to control Take-All under high disease pressure and maximize seed sowability. Bon Attitude, the only Take-All decision-making tool available and designed on the basis of the largest existing Take-All field trials database built over the last 25 years. Toltek, the first and only biocontrol seed treatment ever developed for cereal growers fully compatible with industrial requirements of our seed treater partners. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2020/philippines-and-czech-republic-collaborate-on-agricultural-trade-and-technology.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2020/philippines-and-czech-republic-collaborate-on-agricultural-trade-and-technology.html Wed, 03 Apr 2024 09:49:00 +0530 Dairy industry and irrigation management ecosystem to get massive boost The Philippines and the Czech Republic have reached mutual understanding on several agricultural issues to improve bilateral trade and widen technology transfers between the two countries, particularly in livestock and dairy production and water management.  Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. and other officials of the Department of Agriculture recently met with a delegation from the Czech Republic led by Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný in Manila, a follow up to their meeting during the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the European Union member country. The Philippines is particularly interested in the Czech Republic’s success in the dairy industry and in water and irrigation management, livestock production, and its online platform that offers information and comprehensive solutions concerning agriculture, including technology, machinery, and direct communications with machinery producers. Sec. Tiu Laurel said the DA hopes to learn from the Czech Republic’s experiences in becoming one of the top dairy producing country in Europe and one of the major suppliers of beef, and to purchase bull sperm for artificial insemination to improve the quality of local herd. The Philippines imports almost all its dairy requirements and sources from overseas parent stocks for cattle and other livestocks. Aside from assistance from the Czech Republic in updating local farming technology, the agri chief is also looking to expand the market of Philippine agricultural products within the European Union. “We have some products ready for export so market access is also very important to us, especially the European Union which is one of the best markets in the world for our products,” said Sec. Tiu Laurel. Minister Výborný took note of the needs of Philippine agriculture and expressed readiness to provide assistance, including trade negotiations. “We’re definitely ready to offer cooperation. Your aims and ambitions are very similar to what we have in the Czech Republic, where our agricultural sector is also undergoing dynamic changes towards modern technologies, innovations, science and research and the application of their outcomes,” said Minister Výborný The Czech minister has offered training for Filipinos on farming, livestock production and irrigation and water management. Related to this, he said the Czech Republic needs more Filipino workers to further develop the country’s agricultural sector and increase food output. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2010/canada-strengthen-agri-trade-alliance-with-vietnam-to-expand-market-for-canadian-firms.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2010/canada-strengthen-agri-trade-alliance-with-vietnam-to-expand-market-for-canadian-firms.html Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:41:46 +0530 Exporters and Investors will have access to financial products, market knowledge and connections to boost major sectors like clean technology and renewables, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure and more Export Development Canada (EDC), Canada's export credit agency, states that Vietnam is welcoming Canadian exporters and investors take advantage of the vast potential within this market. ECD will soon open a new representation this fall in Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City to ensure it can provide Canadian exporters and investors what they need to enter this fast-growing market. With significant capital available to deploy in the region, on-the-ground market intelligence, connections to the right people and availability of insurance products, EDC can help grow and protect Canadian businesses interested in expanding into this dynamic market.    Mairead Lavery, President and CEO, EDC said "Vietnam offers Canadian exporters a geographical advantage to enter other Indo-Pacific markets with ease while also providing companies a cost-competitive advantage in doing business. Combine that with a growing middle class and one of the fastest growing economies in the world, exporters and investors should be looking to this market as a significant opportunity for growth in the region. "   Vietnamese government has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This creates opportunity for investors and companies in a variety of sectors of Canadian strength including clean technology and renewables, agriculture, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure, to name a few. With EDC's new representation, the team will work with in-market federal, provincial and non-governmental trade experts including members from the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, the Canada Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam and the Canada-ASEAN Business Council, to help Canadian companies take advantage of these opportunities through all stages of export. Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development said "Vietnam's rapid economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region positions the country as a promising hub for Canadian businesses. As Canada's largest trading partner in ASEAN and a key member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Vietnam offers favorable prospects for our exporters and investors. The new EDC representative office in Ho Chi Minh City will be a valuable resource for Canadian companies seeking to grow into the Indo-Pacific region." EDC is committed to helping Canadian companies diversify into this market. EDC can provide companies with access to working capital, a full suite of credit insurance products, expertise and knowledge, and connections to companies in need of Canadian products and services. EDC customer CNC Industries identified Vietnam as a market with opportunity 10 years ago and has not looked back. With the growing need to support a low-carbon future, Vietnam announced a target to achieve net zero by 2050 during the COP26 World Leaders' Summit in 2021 and they reiterated this commitment in its National Climate Change Strategy. This is an important objective for the country and one that will require local and global support. This announcement marks the third representation opening in the Indo-Pacific in the last six months reaffirming EDC's commitment to Canadian companies seeking to diversify into longer-term, higher growth markets. It further complements EDC's existing representations in Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Jakarta, Seoul and Singapore.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2001/chile-and-china-seal-deal-on-almond-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/2001/chile-and-china-seal-deal-on-almond-exports.html Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:44:48 +0530 China has now become Chile’s largest trading partner Chile and China signed a protocol for the access of Chilean almonds to the Chinese market. The new agreement is intended to facilitate the export of Chilean in-shell almonds to China. This protocol allowed Chile to begin exporting fresh peaches and apricots to China, making Chile the first country in the world where all major categories of fresh fruit are permitted to enter the Chinese market. The signing was carried out by the Chilean Minister of Agriculture, Esteban Valenzuela, and the deputy director of the General Administration of Customs of China, Wang Lingjun, at the La Moneda Palace, the Presidential House, accompanied by the President of Chile, Gabriel Boric, and the Foreign Minister. Chilean, Alberto van Klaveren. Boric explained that Chile is China's main supplier of fresh fruits from temperate climates and is also the only country in the world that has all its fresh fruits authorized to enter the Chinese market. "We are sending pears, plums, blueberries, apples, cherries to China, highly appreciated and valued by the population of this country. China is a giant market that gives us many opportunities to continue growing and we are very happy to advance in this matter," he added. According to official data, Chile has a national area of ​​almond trees of 8,724.2 hectares, according to data from 2023, and they are mainly found in the O'Higgins and Metropolitana regions, both in the central area of ​​the country. Chile’s almond production for the 2023/24 season was estimated to reach 11,400 metric tons, marking an increase of 0.88% compared with the previous season. Meanwhile, exports for the 2023/24 season were forecast at 8,300 metric tons, representing a 0.6% increase, with Argentina, Ecuador and Russia as the major overseas markets. China has now become Chile’s largest trading partner, largest source of imports, largest destination for exports and largest market for agricultural product exports. Chile reportedly exported over 574,000 metric tons of fresh fruit to China during the 2022/23 season, with over half of this volume being cherries. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1966/korea-promotes-trade-with-asean-through-free-trade-agreement.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1966/korea-promotes-trade-with-asean-through-free-trade-agreement.html Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:04:50 +0530 Korea-ASEAN FTA to boost digital and supply chain capabilities The Republic of Korea (RoK) is promoting negotiations to improve the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to further benefit businesses. The RoK’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy announced that the 20th Korea-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement Implementing Committee meeting was held in Jakarta, Indonesia from March 12 to 13. As part of the meeting, the RoK and ASEAN member countries reviewed the outcomes of past joint research projects and discuss measures for an upgrade of the bilateral FTA through a workshop. Both sides have been conducting joint research to reflect changes in the situation following the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement signed in 2020, and to upgrade the Korea-ASEAN FTA. Based on the discussions in the workshop, there are plans to engage in substantive discussions to improve the Korea-ASEAN FTA, making it more accessible for businesses and reflecting emerging trade issues such as digital and supply chain. Director General of the ministry’s free trade agreement policy division Ahn Chang-yong said ASEAN is an important partner in the Indo-Pacific strategy of the RoK. Therefore, the country will continue to strengthen economic cooperation with ASEAN through the Korea-ASEAN FTA and RCEP ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1953/indonesian-shrimp-industry-stakeholders-for-greater-competitiveness.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1953/indonesian-shrimp-industry-stakeholders-for-greater-competitiveness.html Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:18:43 +0530 Outlined key strategies for improved Shrimp productivity in 2024 JALA, an aquaculture technology company providing end-to-end shrimp farming solutions in Indonesia, held the Shrimp Outlook 2024 event in Surabaya. With 339 attendees with diverse backgrounds, from shrimp farmers, processing companies, aquaculture industry stakeholders, as well as fry and feed producers, the event discussesed Indonesia’s latest shrimp cultivation performance and outlined takeaways for improved productivity in 2024. Erwin Dwiyana, Marketing Director of the Director General of Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fishery Product of Indonesia’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, in his opening remarks, highlighted the significance of the event amidst ongoing developments in the shrimp industry. Meanwhile, Aryo Wiryawan as Chairman of JALA in his opening remarks addressed the importance of collaboration to thrive in the global market. Haris Muhtadi, Chairman of the Shrimp Club Indonesia (SCI), conveyed that the condition of the shrimp industry in Indonesia may not be favorable, but it is the challenges faced that make industry participants more united and cohesive. Indonesian shrimp industry report throughout 2023 During the main session, Liris Maduningtyas, co-founder and CEO of JALA, delivered an in-depth exposition about the evaluation of Indonesia’s shrimp industry performance in 2023 and insights for 2024. She stated, “The average productivity of shrimp farms is 12 tons/ha. To aim for better profitability, farmers are advised to cultivate shrimp for 70-80 days or 100-110 days.” Liris also emphasized the need to enhance local market absorption. This is crucial to safeguard local shrimp prices from significant fluctuations when the export market becomes unstable. Any efforts to increase production this year should go hand-in-hand with environmental control and data recording. Discussing new funding alternatives for shrimp farms Shrimp Outlook 2024 also discussed strategies to obtain funding for farmers through the first panel discussion, “The Next Level of Farm Financing”. This session explored innovative financing mechanisms for shrimp farmers to propel their business. The discussion featured George Samuel as the Advisor of PT Agro Bahari Nusantara Tbk (UDNG) and Susanto of BRI, moderated by Cynthia Darmawan. George and Susanto discussed the importance of regular data recording and creating financial reports for farmers who want to apply for bank or equity funding. Moreover, farmers are encouraged to be actively engaged in the continuous learning and decision-making processes in their own farm. Raising hope for shrimp market conditions in 2024 One of the greatest challenges for Indonesia’s shrimp industry is the impact of the fluctuating global market. The second panel discussion emphasized strategies in navigating the volatile global market dynamics through the theme, “Bouncing Back Stronger on the 2024 Shrimp Market”, featuring Gunawan Mulyono of AP5I and Ricky Leonardo of TreeDots, moderated by Lois Darminto. Delving into current shrimp market conditions, there is currently an oversupply of shrimp in the global market and increasing competition from countries such as Ecuador and China. Efforts to increase the competitiveness of Indonesia’s shrimp includes providing value-added and cooked shrimp products to achieve better selling prices. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1941/mpoc-spotlights-key-challenges-and-opportunities-in-malaysian-palm-oil-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1941/mpoc-spotlights-key-challenges-and-opportunities-in-malaysian-palm-oil-industry.html Mon, 11 Mar 2024 10:29:35 +0530 Viewpoints from Dato’ Carl Bek-Nielsen, Chairman of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) Dato’ Carl Bek-Nielsen, Chairman of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) emphasised the critical issues facing the palm oil industry, alongside opportunities for sustainable growth and development. Speaking at the Palm Oil Conference 2024, held on March 5th over the session, “Forging a MoreResilient and Sustainable Economic Future for the Palm Oil Industry”, Dato’ Carl highlighted a significant reduction in the expansion of oil palm plantations, with the total area under oil palm plantation now standing at less than 6 million hectares. Conversely, there has been a noticeable increase in the planted area for soybeans. This shift underscores the dynamic nature of the agricultural sector and the necessity for adaptability within the industry". One pressing challenge highlighted by Dato’ Carl is the stagnating yield of the palm industry. While the world average for Crude Palm Oil (CPO) production stands at 3.15 tonnes per hectare, there exists a considerable gap with the best yields reaching 6.1 to 6.3 tonnes per hectare. Addressing this issue requires concerted efforts towards research and innovation to enhance productivity sustainably. Sustainability remains a shared responsibility within the palm oil industry, with palm producersdemonstrating leadership through initiatives such as Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO), Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), and Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO). Despite these advancements, Dato’ Carl cautioned against overzealousness, noting that some stakeholders have lost touch with the ground realities. He emphasised the importance of inclusive sustainability initiatives. Furthermore, Dato’ Carl expressed concerns over the European Union's Renewable Energy Directive (EUDR), stating, “The EUDR has the significant impact on palm oil smallholders' livelihoods in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. This also includes various other agricultural sectors including coffee, rubber, and cocoa.” He further added that we are engaging with stakeholders in the EU and speaking up on behalf of the smallholders, and will continue to do so until justice prevails. “Urgent action and collaboration are required to mitigate adverse effects and ensure a sustainable future for all stakeholders,” he said In conclusion, Dato' Carl Bek-Nielsen underscored the need for collective action and innovation to address the challenges facing the palm oil industry while seizing opportunities for sustainable growth. MPOC remains committed to driving positive change and fostering a resilient and inclusive palm oil sector. The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) is an agency dedicated to promoting Malaysia as a global leader in certified sustainable palm oil. MPOC focuses on positioning Malaysian palm oil as a healthy, sustainable, and ethical choice for consumers worldwide by engaging with stakeholders, improving market access, and promoting the MSPO certification. MPOC has a network of 08 regional offices in various international locations and plays a crucial role in expanding Malaysia's palm oil industry by identifying and capitalizing on market trends. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1939/vietnam-anticipates-seafood-exports-to-reach-9-5-billion-in-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1939/vietnam-anticipates-seafood-exports-to-reach-9-5-billion-in-2024.html Fri, 08 Mar 2024 10:55:17 +0530 Ministry offers additional support to overcome difficulties and obstacles for businesses, and improved competitive capacity for both businesses and the seafood industry. Việt Nam’s seafood exports can reach the $9.5 billion milestone in 2024, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP). The association’s chairwoman, Nguyễn Thị Thu Sắc, said the Southeast Asian economy’s seafood sector finished the year 2023 with $9 billion in export value, an 18% decrease compared to the previous year. She said high inflation, reduced demand, large inventories, decreased export prices, challenges and shortcomings in domestic production and business, such as increased input costs throughout the supply chain, and IUU yellow cards, hindered seafood exports in the past year. But positive signals have been seen in the early months of 2024, with a 64% increase in demand compared to the same period in 2023, reaching $750 million. All major product categories experienced significant improvement compared to the same period last year with China being the most notable breakthrough, reporting an increase of more than three times. Exports to the US have increased by 63%, Japan by 43 per cent and the EU by 34%. Nguyễn furthur added that while growth has not been equally distributed among the sector, promising early figures will play an important role in its recovery this year. “There are still challenges and issues to overcome such as oversupply, high inventories, lower prices, and increased competition but we anticipate stronger demand and higher prices in the second half of the year as prices typically climb as inventories decrease,” she added.  According to VASEP, new challenges such as tensions in the Red Sea leading to increased transportation costs, IUU yellow cards and anti-subsidy taxes will likely pose additional difficulties for businesses this year. Businesses must start taking measures to turn these challenges into opportunities, exploiting and developing suitable products for international markets. The chairwoman reaffirmed that VASEP, along with the business community, remains committed to making every effort, being proactive and dynamic to ensure quality, food safety and traceability, and towards the goal of enhancing the competitive capacity and sustainable development of the seafood industry. She advised Vietnamese exporters to invest in improving the quality and safety of Vietnamese seafood brands while increasing their presence in traditional markets and further penetrating potential markets such as India, the Middle East, and ASEAN. VASEP emphasised the importance of high-quality raw materials in global seafood production and business.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1922/malaysia-strategizes-to-aid-palm-oil-industry-smallholders-to-boost-the-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1922/malaysia-strategizes-to-aid-palm-oil-industry-smallholders-to-boost-the-sector.html Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0530 Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani shared his views The Malaysia Ministry of Plantation and Commodities has been formulating plans for the revitalisation of low production levels among Malaysia’s palm oil sector smallholders. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani in his recent address to Malaysian palm oil industry leaders at the “14th Malaysian Palm Oil Industry Dialogue 2024 on Feb 20, Johari acknowledged the importance of collective actions in navigating the multifaceted challenges confronting the industry.  Johari emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle pressing industry issues such as labor shortages, sustainable agendas, low productivity, competition with other palm oil suppliers, and the current tax structure. Johari also highlighted the crucial need for a robust workforce to propel economic growth. Labour shortages, particularly within Malaysia’s palm oil sector, remain a pressing concern, he said, according to a statement by MPOC. Johari said that collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Human Resources and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be pursued to address this issue. Johari also stressed the importance of establishing a distinctive Malaysian palm oil brand to create a unique market position globally. Maintaining the integrity of MSPO certification standards is imperative, he said.   On the current tax structure, Johari said that collective efforts to address these challenges and pursue viable solutions are underway. Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) chairman Datuk Carl Bek-Nielsen, in addressing concerns regarding the upstream sector, said that the current yields of oil palm fresh fruit bunches are dangerously low. He said that concerted efforts need to be taken without further delay to improve this in order to offset the increase in the cost of production.  “As part of nation-building, the industry must embark on a large-scale replanting programme. Malaysia should be at the forefront among palm oil-producing countries in terms of oil yield per hectare,” he added. Bek-Nielsen said that the downstream sector must make a collaborative effort to ensure that the Malaysian palm oil brand is recognised as ‘premium quality’ globally for food and non-food applications. He emphasised that if achieving this goal necessitates investment in modernising the facilities, then it is imperative that the industry do so. The Malaysian Palm Oil Industry Dialogue 2024, hosted by MPOC, serves as a platform for the Plantation and Commodities Ministry to interact with Malaysian palm oil industry stakeholders through a town hall session to address industry challenges. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1911/asia-fruit-logistica-to-organize-china-focused-trade-show.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1911/asia-fruit-logistica-to-organize-china-focused-trade-show.html Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:08:03 +0530 Event is co-hosted by China’s major three wholesale markets: Guangzhou Jiangnan(South China), Shanghai Huizhan (Central China) and Sunhola Group (North China) As part of its recently launched regional series of events, the Business Meet-Ups, ASIA FRUITLOGISTICA is organizing a China-focused networking and trade event to take place at theShanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center on 27-28 May 2024. The Business Meet-Up in Shanghai brings together leading buyers and suppliers from acrossthe industry to network and explore in-depth the trends and opportunities in the fast expanding China market. The two-day event includes an information-packed programme of expert talks anddiscussions organized by ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA’s knowledge partner and leading businessconference organizer, ASIAFRUIT MAGAZINE. It features a B2B expo and various businessnetworking formats, including a large-scale networking dinner. The China Business Meet-Up will be organized by ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA and co-hosted inpartnership with China’s three major fruit and vegetable wholesale markets, togetherspanning a partner network covering the whole of China’s fresh produce landscape.Guangzhou Jiangnan Fruit and Vegetable wholesale market is located in Guangdong andis the major wholesale market in the southern region of China. Shanghai Huizhan fruit andvegetable wholesale market is strategically located in the metropolitan region of the YangtzeRiver Delta. From here it spans a dense partner network through the surrounding provinces ofShanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui and is strategically located supplying the whole of CentralChina. The Sunhola Group is the operator of the dynamic fruit and vegetable wholesalemarket in north China’s Hebei Province. Located just outside of Beijing and in proximity to theharbor of Tianjin it is covering the vast and growing demand for fresh fruit and vegetables innorthern China. At a festive signing ceremony that took place in Shanghai on January 25th, the partnerscemented their cooperation. The three wholesale markets have reserved a vast participationto the event thus securing the presence of their extensive partner network at the ChinaBusiness Meet Up. International fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers interested to set up and expand theirbusiness in China are called to register as the public registration for the event is now online.The limited remaining participation slots will be strictly allocated on a first-come first served basis ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA has selected four key markets for its Business Meet-Up series –before its final stop in China, the roadshow heads to Jakarta, Indonesia (27 February), toMumbai, India (21-22 March) at Fresh Produce India, and to Bangkok, Thailand (3 April).The countdown to Hong Kong is on! ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA invites all industry professionalsto join the journey, kicking off at the end of February with the ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024Business Meet-up and heading for Asia’s biggest gathering of the global fresh producebusiness at ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA on 4-6 September 2024. ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA is the leading continental trade show for Asia’s fresh producebusiness. The 17th edition of ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA takes place on 4-6 September 2024 atAsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong. ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA is co-located with ASIAFRUITCONGRESS and ASIAFRUIT BUSINESS FORUM, which are organised by ASIA FRUITLOGISTICA’s knowledge partner Asiafruit Magazine. AgroSpectrum Asia is the media partner for the event. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1879/korea-designated-new-global-offices-to-support-k-smart-farm-export.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1879/korea-designated-new-global-offices-to-support-k-smart-farm-export.html Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:32:06 +0530 Five regional trade offices of the Republic of Korea (in Riyadh, Kuwait, Almaty, Baku, and Melbourne) will provide intensive support to Korean companies exporting goods and services related to smart farming The exports and construction project orders of smart farms more than doubled from the previous year to reach $296 million in 2023. With this record, the smart farm sector is emerging as a new export industry.  In February, as part of the efforts to keep the export growth on an upward trajectory, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) designated five trade offices in three regions—the Middle East, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and Oceania—as trade offices dedicated to support smart farm export, and thus established a system to support Korean companies in exporting smart farms and winning a contract for smart farm construction.  In September 2023, the ministry designated the trade office in Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the first trade office oriented toward the support for smart farm export. This year, the ministry imposed the role on four additional trade offices in the regions.   Korean companies seeking to enter those markets can receive support through the trade offices in the following aspects: (a) getting legal advice from local law firms (b) finding collaborative projects and buyers (c) carrying out market research in those regions (d) addressing problems faced by Korean companies while carrying out projects. Also, through collaboration with the trade offices, the agriculture ministry and the KOTRA plan to expand their concerted efforts this year to support smart farm export on various fronts, including holding a K-Smart Farm Roadshow. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1868/westfalia-fruit-forges-sustainable-growth-into-asias-avocado-market.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1868/westfalia-fruit-forges-sustainable-growth-into-asias-avocado-market.html Fri, 23 Feb 2024 09:42:33 +0530 Enters India, China and Japan markets Westfalia Fruit, a leading multinational supplier of avocados and a range of fresh vegetables has capped off an exciting year of growth in Asia – in India and China, two of the fastest growing avocado markets in the world, as well as Japan. Forging India market Westfalia entered the Indian market in 2022, working with local partners quickly establishing itself, investing in local production, nurseries and securing its position as the market leader. The market has grown tenfold in the last few years with consumption increasing from 200 to 4,000 tonnes. 2023 marked the first year of commercial harvest of Indian grown Hass avocados and in the coming years more than 500 acres of Westfalia’s existing Hass plantations in Southern India will come into production. Globally, with the most diverse growing footprint Westfalia has the benefit of being able to source from two production areas at any one time, including Tanzania, Kenya, Peru, Chile, and Australia enabling consistent year-round availability for Indian consumers. In December last year Westfalia Fruit India imported the first commercial shipment of avocados from Australia after market access for Australian avocados was granted. Fruit from Western Australia fits well into the Indian avocado imports calendar with availability between November to March, complementing African import programs from April to November. “We’re excited about Indian access for Australian avocados as well as being very close to securing Indian market access for our South African produced fruit. We believe that the demand for both Hass avocados and our exclusive and premium GEM® variety will continue to grow on the back of strong per capita income growth and a rise in discretionary spending to 36% in 2020. With our investment in local farms, ripening rooms and logistics we anticipate the next few years to be pivotal in the developing Indian market as the appeal and use of avocados widens”. says Zac Bard, Business Development Executive at Westfalia Fruit. Westfalia Avocados in China Market In August 2023, South Africa celebrated after its avocados were granted access to the Chinese market. As the leading exporter of avocados in South Africa, Westfalia Fruit represents half of all avocado exports, and believes this significant development will shape the future of agriculture in the country. “It’s a triumph for the avocado industry in South Africa and it gives us the opportunity to now grow the market and the local production in South Africa, particularly in the early and late season production areas. This is an opportunity for us, as an industry to invest and develop avocado production in South Africa which will directly benefit rural communities, providing jobs, improving infrastructure and overall investment in communities. As with India, Africa is very well geographically placed to supply China and as a globally integrated company we are approaching the opportunities there in a sustainable and responsible way,” continued Bard. Westfalia Avocados in Japanese Market Japan’s love for avocados began almost two decades ago when a Japanese chef working in California began adding the fruit to sushi. This trend filtered back to the country which has had a stable avocado market ever since. In 2023, Westfalia in Peru successfully increased imports to Japan by 58% establishing Westfalia as a leading supplier to the market. Marketing initiatives sponsored by trade bodies have supported the awareness and consumption of avocados as part of Japanese cuisine. In addition, South Africa was recently granted avocado market access to Japan, as a globally integrated business Westfalia’s teams are working together to supply the market 12 months of the year from complimentary growing areas. "Avocados grown in Africa have a hugely positive social footprint in Asian communities; Asia is the future for Africa and it’s going to be a fantastic story to watch how these markets help the continent improve the livelihood in its remote and rural economies. Avocados grown in Africa and sold in Asia are going to change many people’s lives for the better” Bard concluded. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1875/philippines-to-foster-and-support-seaweed-industry-by-industry-stakeholders-coalition.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1875/philippines-to-foster-and-support-seaweed-industry-by-industry-stakeholders-coalition.html Fri, 23 Feb 2024 08:06:00 +0530 Seaweed industry earned around $250 million in 2020-21 and generated export sales of $350 million in 2022 to be the world's second major exporter of seaweed Philippines Department of Agriculture (DA) underscored the need to increase support for local seaweed producers to boost the potential of the second biggest export earner in the country's aquaculture. DA held a gathering of seaweed industry stakeholders to address the concerns. DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. pointed out the local seaweed industry’s potential to regain its status as the world’s biggest exporter.  In 1990, the Philippines accounted for 80% of the world’s seaweed requirement while Indonesia only produced 10%. That has since changed. Indonesia produces five times more than the Philippines. “Indonesia already surpassed our production…(but) we still have unutilized area of 85,000 hectares. Until we reach that, we shouldn’t stop. If possible, we should accelerate the industry’s area expansion. Major concerns raised by industry leaders is limited support for the industry and lack of seedlings, which could be addressed by having bigger tissue culture laboratories and more technicians. Logistics issues also need to be resolved, including building more ports to take raw materials to processing plants and more power plants to address the high cost of power” said Sec. Tiu Laurel. While most seaweed production comes from Mindanao, processing facilities are in Cebu and Manila. The seaweed industry earned around $250 million during 2020-21 and generated export sales of $350 million in 2022. Secretary Tiu Laurel acknowledged the industry’s proposal to provide support in terms of seedlings, implements, lines, floaters, and counterweights to help seaweed farmers, who could produce 70,000 metric tons of seaweeds a year. He said once dried, the seaweed harvest would generate around 10,000 tons every year worth P550 million—a good return for a total investment of P1 billion for the industry, including large tissue culture laboratories, dryers, warehouses and training more technicians ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1870/agriloops-invests-13m-euros-to-build-commercial-scale-shrimp-and-greenhouse-farm-in-france.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1870/agriloops-invests-13m-euros-to-build-commercial-scale-shrimp-and-greenhouse-farm-in-france.html Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:20:00 +0530 Mangrove #1 is a key milestone demonstrating the scalability and profitability of first commercial-scale farm Agriloops, a French company combining shrimp and vegetable farming, has successfully concluded a fundraising round of 13 million euros to finance the construction of its first commercial-scale farm, Mangrove #1. Agriloops has adopted the advanced technique of saltwater aquaponics, combining aquaculture and greenhouse growing to offer local, premium shrimp production. “Mangrove #1 is a key milestone to demonstrate the scalability and profitability of our technology. We are eager to demonstrate our unique approach that offers significant environmental benefits while meeting the growing needs of our industry,” said Jérémie Cognard and Romain Vandame, who founded Agriloops in 2016, adding the fundraising marks a milestone for the company, which has been supported since its inception by companies like Ÿnsect’s co-founders Alexis Angot and Antoine Hubert. After an initial round of funding that financed the R&D phase and a pilot farm in Rennes, this second round of 13 million euros marks a new turning point for Agriloops. It allows the Breton company to begin construction of its commercial facility Mangrove #1, which will cover over 1 hectare in Brittany, France, and boast a production capacity exceeding 100 tons of shrimp and fruits and vegetables annually. It consists of an aquaculture building of 2,000 m² and an adjoining vegetable greenhouse of 5,000 m². According to the founders, this aquaponic farm will become one of Europe’s largest, showcasing Agriloops’ approach to sustainable food production. The water from the shrimp basins, loaded with effluents, is recycled and converted into water loaded with fertilizers to feed fruits and vegetables. This aquaponic loop saves a significant amount of fertilizers and up to 90% of water, explain the two leaders. This approach has garnered support from various stakeholders, including government programs like France Relance and BPI France’s DeepTech Development Aid. Furthermore, Agriloops has attracted investment from a diverse range of backers, including banking institutions, historical investors like BNP Paribas Développement and OGHI, as well as new investors such as SPV Aqua Invest, Breizh Up, Transitions First, and Good Only Ventures. The company’s approach has also been recognized internationally, with support from organizations like the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1863/vietnam-reports-5-14-billion-turnover-in-agri-exports-up-until-in-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1863/vietnam-reports-5-14-billion-turnover-in-agri-exports-up-until-in-2024.html Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:07:05 +0530 Sector has set a target of earning $54-55 billion from agricultural exports this year Vietnam’s export of agricultural products recorded impressive growth in the first month of 2024 and is expected to see a breakthrough in the whole year as per the IPTC reports. In January, the export turnover hit $5.14 billion, up 79.2% year-on-year, with increases reported in almost all commodity groups. According to Vice General Director of Vina T & T Co., Ltd, Nguyen Dinh Muoi, 2024 could be a breakthrough year for the fruit sector now that various products have received good signals from major markets such as Japan, the US, Australia, China, and the EU. "It is noteworthy that the potential of most of these markets is very large, and their doors are wide open for Vietnamese fruits", he added. Similarly, rice is also forecast to have a successful year. Right from the beginning of 2024, many rice exporters have received orders. Chairman of the Board of Directors of Trung An High-Tech Agriculture Joint Stock Company Pham Thai Binh said that the price of Vietnam’s 5% broken rice is currently no less than 700 USD per tonne. In 2024, the country’s rice export volume may be at least the same as in 2023, but the value is certainly 15% to 20% higher. Therefore, the export turnover may surpass $5 billion this year, higher than the $4.8 billion recorded last year, said Binh. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien stated that the sector has set a target of earning $54-55 billion from agricultural exports this year. To promote the export of agricultural products and maintain a strong and sustainable position in import markets, the ministry will work with businesses to well monitor and manage the production process, issue planting area codes, and take measures to meet requirements of major markets. It will also analyse the market to have specific strategies for each period and each industry, and closely follow major import markets, such as China, the US, Japan, and the EU to promote exports and exploit new and potential markets like Islamic countries, the Middle East, and Africa, Tien emphasised ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1850/indonesian-and-western-australia-initiates-potential-agricultural-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1850/indonesian-and-western-australia-initiates-potential-agricultural-cooperation.html Mon, 19 Feb 2024 08:03:04 +0530 Consulate General in Perth Introduces potential agricultural Cooperation between Indonesia at the Food Innovation Precinct WA The Indonesian Consulate General in Perth participated in a luncheon and local product introduction event hosted by the Food Innovation Precinct Western Australia (FIPWA). The event was attended by various parties, including Members of Parliament from Murray-Wellington, representatives from the Peel Development Commission, and representatives from various business institutions such as the Australia China Business Council, Australia Indonesia Business Council, Australia Malaysia Business Chamber, Vietnam Business Council, Peel Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Shire of Murray government. The event aimed to promote the Food Innovation Precinct WA (FIPWA) as the first agricultural innovation research centre in Western Australia, while celebrating the 2024 Chinese New Year celebration. FIPWA itself was inaugurated in February 2023 with a focus on the development of a strong and dynamic food and beverage manufacturing sector. In the field of agriculture, the Consulate General has initiated cooperation with FIPWA since 2022 by collaborating with SEAFAST IPB. This collaboration has then expanded into a regional cooperation involving New Zealand and Singapore, with the initiative planned to be officially inaugurated on February 23, 2024. In his address, the Indonesian Consul General expressed appreciation for the development of agricultural research relations and cooperation between Indonesia and Western Australia that are complementary and mutually reinforcing. It was emphasised that Western Australia, with its technological advantages, can provide significant support for the development of Indonesia's agricultural sector. On the other hand, Indonesia, with its growing startup sector, offers potential cooperation for businesses in Western Australia, not only in agriculture but also in agritourism. The importance of cultural understanding in business activities between Indonesia and Western Australia was also highlighted. This emphasises that sustainable cooperation should not only consider technical aspects but also cultural and social aspects. With this collaborative initiative, it is expected to create a strong partnership between Indonesia and Western Australia in facing global challenges in agriculture and food technology. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1846/vietnam-and-the-philippines-to-increase-bilateral-trade-and-investment-ties-to-foster-mutual-food-security-agenda.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1846/vietnam-and-the-philippines-to-increase-bilateral-trade-and-investment-ties-to-foster-mutual-food-security-agenda.html Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:10:29 +0530 The Philippines is the 16th largest trade partner of Vietnam worldwide and the sixth-largest trade partner of Vietnam in Southeast Asia Vietnam and the Philippines will increase their bilateral trade and investment ties, with a focus placed on rice exports to help ensure food security. During the state visit to Vietnam by the Philippines’ President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, the two Southeast Asian nations agreed that they will devise new mechanisms to enhance regional economic connectivity such as ASEAN’s Free Trade Agreement, Trade in Goods Agreement, and Comprehensive Investment Agreement. The two countries have also pledged to facilitate investments of each other into respective markets, especially projects involving processing, infrastructure, the vehicle supporting industry, renewable energy, and high-tech agriculture. The Philippines is the 16th largest trade partner of Vietnam worldwide and the sixth-largest trade partner of Vietnam in Southeast Asia. At present, there are about 30,000 Vietnamese nationals living and working in the Philippines, where there are also 700 Vietnamese students. Burgeoning mutual trade opportunities: Vietnam currently has five projects in the Philippines, registered at nearly $4 million. Bilateral trade turnover between the pair increased from $2.9 billion in 2012 to $7.8 billion in 2022. In the first 11 months of 2023, the figure hit $7.1 billion. According to an investment report released in late December by the ASEAN Secretariat and the UN Conference on Trade and Development, from 2013 to 2022, more than one-third of the favorable foreign direct investment (FDI) measures in ASEAN related to opening new sectors or activities. For example, in 2021–2022, Vietnam allowed complete FDI in insurance and set implementation guidelines for the 2020 Law on Investment, which includes a restrictive list for market access for foreign investors. Similarly, the Philippines permitted full FDI in renewables and revised its negative list by removing manufacture, repair, storage and distribution of products requiring clearance from its defence department. Foreign ownership restrictions in small- and medium-sized enterprises and trading enterprises were also relaxed. Data from the Vietnamese Ministry of Planning and Investment showed that currently the Philippines has 95 valid ventures in Vietnam registered at $608.2 million, ranking 31st out of 144 nations and territories with projects in Vietnam. Since 2023 leaders of Philippine group Vista Land visited the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho for investment and trade opportunities. including, rice, agricultural products, snacks, fruit juice, and coffee. In Vietnam, URC started operations in 2003 as a trading company specialising in imported products until its first factory with snack and candy lines was built at Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park in the southern province of Binh Duong. URC’s factories have been replicated throughout the country, including three in Binh Duong, one in the south-central province of Quang Ngai, and one in Hanoi. Promotes economic and trade relations In addition to investment, Vietnam and the Philippines have also agreed to promote economic and trade relations, with a major focus laid on the rice trade. They will consider removing unnecessary barriers and support each other to ensure food security, while creating a favourable business and investment climate. Both nations last week also inked an MoU on rice trading cooperation, aimed to help ensure economic benefit and food security. The Philippines is now the largest rice export market of Vietnam, with a volume of 2.63 million tonnes in the first 11 months of last year, valued at $1.41 billion. The two countries last week also set a target of reaching a bilateral trade turnover of $10 billion next year, and promoted cooperation in other potential fields such as digital economy, circular economy, green economy, renewable energy, combating climate change, and supporting each other in developing the marine economy, innovation, and startups. Vietnam and the Philippines forged their diplomatic relations in 1976, which were elevated to a strategic partnership in 2015. In 2019, they signed an action programme on implementing the strategic partnership for the following five years. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1839/malaysias-sabah-cabinet-approves-oil-palm-biomass-industry-policy.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1839/malaysias-sabah-cabinet-approves-oil-palm-biomass-industry-policy.html Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:23:32 +0530 New policy controls export of biomass Malaysia's Sabah cabinet has approved the Oil Palm Biomass Industry policy, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. After chairing the Chief Minister’s Department post-cabinet meeting at Menara Kinabalu, he said the cabinet had also decided to impose a State Sales Tax on biomass exports pending the implementation of the policy. “This is to control the export of biomass,” he said, adding that a Sabah Oil Palm Biomass law would also be enacted to regulate the industry. The policy will be enforced within two years from the date of its approval (after the palm oil industrial cluster (POIC) Sabah Biomass Collection Platform is fully operational) and under the purview of the state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry. Hajiji also told department heads under him that the Cabinet had taken note of the review of the management of the Urban Community Development Committees (JKDB) by the Local Government and Housing Ministry ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1829/market-advisory-council-mac-negotiates-eu-thailand-free-trade-agreement-for-aquaculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1829/market-advisory-council-mac-negotiates-eu-thailand-free-trade-agreement-for-aquaculture.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:00:44 +0530 Thailand is the 4th most important trading partner for the EU in the ASEAN region and 25th worldwide The Market Advisory Council (MAC) provided recommendations to the European Commission concerning the ongoing negotiations for an EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement, which were relaunched in 2023.   In a yearly average between 2020 and 2022, the EU imported 39.644 tons of fishery and aquaculture products from Thailand for EUR 213 million, while exporting 18.153 tons valued at EUR 37 million. The main product imported into the EU from Thailand is prepared and preserved fish, of which canned and preserved tuna represents the majority of the volume. According to MAC members, the European Commission should: Guarantee policy consistency on the fight against IUU fishing & against forced labour, including through the introduction of clear provisions on the three pillars of sustainability and international governance, explicit references to the relevant ILO’s conventions, and use of all tools available under EU law. Take into account ongoing legislative developments in Thailand and the potential rollback of standards concerning the fight against IUU fishing & against forced labour. Identify canned tuna and tuna loins products as “sensitive”, keeping in mind the competitiveness of the Thai industry, the differences in sustainability standards, and the potential negative economic and employment effects. Incorporate the EU’s preferential rules of origin, as derived from the Customs Code. Pierre Commère, Chair of the Working Group 2 (EU Markets), highlighted: “Thailand is a highly competitive country in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. Therefore, the European Commission must account for potential impacts of a FTA on the competitive balance, the economy, and on employment. This is specially the case on the tuna sector for which a high degree of sensitivity has been identified in terms of defensive interest of the EU sector. Further, an ambitious FTA should incorporate clear provisions on the sustainable management of living marine resources and aquaculture products, on the fight against IUU fishing, and on decent labour. For the fisheries and aquaculture sector, the three pillars of sustainability (social, environmental, and economic) and international governance are fundamental. Therefore, the Free Trade Agreement are expected to include chapters that guarantee the effective implementation and control of compliance with regulations, to guarantee a level-playing-field. The EU-Thailand trade in goods was worth over €42 billion in 2022, while trade in services was worth over €8 billion in 2020. The EU is Thailand’s 4th largest trade partner. Thailand is the 4th most important trading partner for the EU in the ASEAN region and 25th worldwide. The EU is the 3rd largest investor in Thailand, representing around 10% of the total Foreign Direct Investment in the country, while being the 2nd largest destination of Thai Foreign Investment. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1828/saudi-international-marine-exhibition-simec-presents-aquaculture-fisheries-seafood-expo.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1828/saudi-international-marine-exhibition-simec-presents-aquaculture-fisheries-seafood-expo.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 12:43:04 +0530 Brought together all sectors and activities associated with marine fisheries and aquaculture sector in one place The fourth edition of the Saudi International Marine Exhibition (SIMEC) was held from 10-12 Feb 2024 at the Riyadh Int. Convention & Exhibition Center in Saudi Arabia. At the three-day exhibition, which featured up to 15,000 visitors, more than 1,500 business meetings took place, 20+ workshops were held, and multiple cooperation agreements and Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) were signed. The 3rd Edition was held from 4-6 Feb 2024. The Saudi Arabian Chefs Association organized the Seas Chef cooking contest at SIMEC this year, in which more than 30 chefs created diverse seafood dishes and were judged by a panel of experts. In addition, there was a Master Class live cooking event, where over 60 trainee chefs and exhibition visitors had the opportunity to cook with professional chefs. Local aquaculture companies produce high quality products for the local and international markets under the strict guidance and control of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA). There is already an advanced and highly productive shrimp farming industry, while the marine fish farming industry is also growing carefully. Additionally, fresh-water fish, mainly tilapia, have been produced in substantial quantities through inland aquaculture in recent years. Several initiatives have been launched by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) to catalyze the private sector's interest and efforts in aquaculture. Among such initiatives are extensive R&D programs for improving domestication and efficiency of native species, market studies and marketing campaigns to increase awareness and consumption of local seafood products, as well as support for the development of infrastructure and capacity.   In implementation of directives of His Excellency Minister of Environment, Water & Agriculture of holding fisheries exhibition, the National Fisheries Development Program organized a remarkable event to highlight the importance and sustainability of the fisheries sector, and how to leverage and fully exploit these untapped resources to advance the associated economic sectors. As part of the event, a major exhibition will bring together various sectors and activities from various sectors and areas to highlight the numerous advantages of Saudi Arabia's strategic location. In order to discuss new developments and emerging issues in the international arena, the conference aimed to attract international experience and global expertise mainly focused on aquaculture, marine fisheries and other significant topics. In the area of aquaculture, SIMEC showcased the latest advanced technologies as the first specialized marine exhibition in KSA. An important meeting point with the decision makers in the fisheries industry, the event was an opportunity to showcase and promote new brands. Some key objectives of SIMEC were, “to provide an annual platform for professional and scientific discussion between the fisheries sector and key players”, “to promote domestic and foreign investment in the aquaculture sector”, “to establish connection with key local decision makers in fisheries and other associated industries”, and “to showcase state -of- the art marine products and cutting- edge aquaculture technologies”. Added features: The first ever specialized exhibition in Saudi Arabia focusing on fisheries, aquaculture and related maritime activities and industries. Networking with the key stakeholders and decision makers in the fields of fisheries, aquaculture and related activities and industries. Ideal platform for trade talks and commercial agreements between importers and exporters of live, chilled and frozen seafood products. Unmatched connection point between the National Fisheries Development Program (NFDP) and private sector partners. Unique opportunity for establishing effective partnerships with the sector’s leading local and international companies, key players and networking with industry experts and professionals. Innovation showcase featuring state -of- the -art products and cutting -edge aquaculture technologies. Prestigious event as a peerless showcase and promotion for new products and related services. Exhibitors Categories: Aquaculture: Aquaculture technology, Inland aquaculture, Solutions, equipment and training companies, Universities and scientific colleges, Feed Fisheries: Fishing boats, Fishing Tools, Port construction Seafood: Fresh and frozen fish (exporter and importer companies), Food processing and packaging Algae: Algae technology, Environmental consulting companies ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1823/worlds-leading-fruit-and-veg-industry-show-fruit-logistica-convenes-global-leaders.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1823/worlds-leading-fruit-and-veg-industry-show-fruit-logistica-convenes-global-leaders.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:42:48 +0530 Attracts top industry people from across the globe and brings together trade’s top decision-makers, with attendance from along the entire international value chain FRUIT LOGISTICA,  the world's largest trade exhibition dedicated to fruit and vegetables, returned to Berlin on 7 to 9 February 2024. Over 2,770 exhibitors from 94 countries and trade visitors from over 140 countries and all continents participated compared to 2,610 exhibitors in 2023. In addition, there was a strong Spanish presence on a high level and increase in Italian exhibitors. Among the 47 countries that booked more space at the show this year, China took nearly three times as much as it did last year, and more than it took before the pandemic. Middle East and North Africa, as well as 211 exhibitors on FRUIT LOGISTICA's Organic Route, an increase of 10% each year. Kai Mangelberger, director of FRUIT LOGISTICA said “The fresh produce business faces numerous challenges in terms of disruption and cost increases that now place its profitability under threat. At times like these, companies need more partners than they did in the past. And that’s why they come to FRUIT LOGISTICA.” Innovation - Leading trends and dynamics FRUIT LOGISTICA retains its position as a centre of fresh produce innovation, with a packed event programme spread across six stages. For the first time this year, a new Farming Forward stage will present groundbreaking events with international and renowned partners such as the CEA Alliance and Wageningen University & Research, on the topics smart agriculture, advanced greenhouse tech, and controlled environment agriculture (CEA). And there is a packed programme of talks, interviews and discussions across all of the event’s content stages: Fresh Produce Forum, Future Lab, Logistics Hub, Tech Stage, and Friday’s Startup Stage. The FRUIT LOGISTICA Innovation Award (FLIA) was expanded for the first time to include a FLIA Technology prize. These two, industry-leading global awards were presented in special exhibition areas. Trade visitors to FRUIT LOGISTICA 2024 benefited from expanded services and networking opportunity. As well as its annual European Statistics Handbook, the essential guide to production and trade in Europe’s fresh fruit and vegetable business, FRUIT LOGISTICA has also published its latest annual Trend Report under the title Arrested development – As towers topple and investor interest cools, what is the future for vertical farming? Produced by Fruitnet, the report takes a deep dive into the world of vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture. Previously heralded as the future of fresh fruit and vegetable production in an increasingly urban world, recent failures in vertical farming have raised doubts about its future. But, as some investors and innovators head for pastures new, there is continued potential for advanced technologies to have a lasting, positive impact on the sustainability of indoor production. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1806/china-hungary-extends-bilateral-cooperation-in-agriculture-and-rural-affairs.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1806/china-hungary-extends-bilateral-cooperation-in-agriculture-and-rural-affairs.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 10:20:58 +0530 The partner countries have strengthened economic and trade investment and enhanced S&T exchange  Ma Youxiang, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, met with Istvan Nagy, Minister of Agriculture of Hungary, in Budapest on Jan. 24. They exchanged views on deepening China–Hungary cooperation in agriculture and rural affairs.  Vice Minister Ma said that through the joint efforts of both countries, the agricultural cooperation mechanism has been operated smoothly, as the economic and trade investment has steadily increased, and S&T exchange has achieved fruitful results. Bilateral agricultural cooperation has provided impetus for improving China–Hungary relations. Vice Minister Ma made three proposals to strengthen China–Hungary agricultural cooperation: 1) Continue to leverage the China–Hungary Promotion Center for Agricultural Science and Technology Cooperation, and enhance the exchange of animal and plant germplasm resources and collaborative R&D in deep processing technology for agricultural products; 2) Plan and implement more “small yet smart” projects, tap the cooperative potential in areas such as beekeeping, and improve the sense of achievement of the two peoples; and 3) Boost economic and trade investment and cooperation in agriculture, and establish platforms for exchange between the companies of both countries.  Minister Nagy spoke positively of the agricultural cooperation between Hungary and China. He said Hungary stands ready to work with China to strengthen and advance economic, trade and S&T exchange in agriculture between the two countries, and achieve more tangible results through bilateral agricultural cooperation. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1794/indonesia-tanzania-agree-to-strengthen-cooperation-in-various-agri-fishery-trade-sectors.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1794/indonesia-tanzania-agree-to-strengthen-cooperation-in-various-agri-fishery-trade-sectors.html Mon, 05 Feb 2024 11:11:09 +0530 Two countries agreed to start negotiations on the formation of a preferential trade agreement (PTA) in 2024. President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said that the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania have agreed to strengthen cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, human resource development, and health. “The friendship between Indonesia and Tanzania is further strengthened today with President Samia’s visit to Indonesia. We have agreed to continue providing concrete cooperation in various fields,” said President Jokowi in a joint press statement with President of Tanzania Samia Suluh Hassan, at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java. In the trade sector, said the President, "the two countries agreed to start negotiations on the formation of a preferential trade agreement (PTA) in 2024. A preferential trade agreement (PTA) will be formed to increase trade and the negotiations will be launched this year”. Regarding investment, the two countries are committed to strengthening cooperation in the oil and gas sector. President Jokowi said that the state-owned oil and gas company PT Pertamina had expanded cooperation in the Mnazi Bay oil and gas block and conducted training for employees of the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC). “In the future, Indonesia hopes that negotiations between Medco Energi for LNG cooperation and SSA (Sinka Sinye Agrotama) investment plans in the fertilizer sector can be realized soon. I have also conveyed the importance of establishing a bilateral investment treaty to protect investment between the two countries,” added President. In the field of development cooperation, President Jokowi said that Indonesia is committed to increasing cooperation in human resource capacity and implementing digital-based systems. “Indonesia is committed to increasing cooperation in revitalizing the Farmer’s Agriculture and Rural Training Center (FARTC) in Morogoro, training human resources in the oil and gas and agriculture sectors, and implementing the National Single System,” he said. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1786/horti-agri-next-han-asia-2025-elevating-the-horticultural-and-agricultural-trade-platform-for-asia.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1786/horti-agri-next-han-asia-2025-elevating-the-horticultural-and-agricultural-trade-platform-for-asia.html Fri, 02 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0530 HAN ASIA 2025 to unveil on March 12-14, 2025, at IMPACT, Bangkok, Thailand VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific, is lunching HAN ASIA 2025, a trade exhibition dedicated to Horticulture and Agriculture that covers the entire supply chain. With the strategic re-branding of horticultural and agricultural exhibitions in Asia, VNU Exhibitions Europe and VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific are positioned as the leading and complete Seed to Food trade hub for Asia Pacific and beyond. With the launch of HAN ASIA, VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific simultaneously introduces regional satellite events in the countries of Vietnam (May 2024) and Indonesia (September 2025), co-locating the events under the name HAN Select, with the successful livestock trade shows of the ILDEX Series. The new international platform for Asia, HAN ASIA, will be held during March 12-14, 2025 at IMPACT, Bangkok, Thailand, parallel to VIV Asia 2025, focusing on the latest products, innovations, and advances in the fields of horticultural food production, landscaping, controlled environment practices, environmental conservation, arable land planting, harvesting, and processing of crops, as well as land and water resources management and new enhancing technologies. The fusion of HAN ASIA and VIV Asia creates Asia's largest Agri-food trade fair—a powerful collaboration of innovation and excellence. HAN ASIA follows the success of HAN MEA 2023 that took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE from November 20-22, 2023, in co-location with VIV MEA 2023 and was organized by VNU Exhibitions Europe. With 10,080 visitors from 113 countries and nearly 500 exhibitors from around 50 nations, the events showcased the global interconnectivity of the animal husbandry and the agribusiness industry. Spanning five halls at Abu Dhabi's ADNEC venue, the exhibitions covered over 17,500 sq.m. of space, drawing attendees not only from the UAE, but also from countries such as Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia. The remarkable 67% interest overlap between the co-located events underscored the dynamic networking and information exchange that characterized this triumphant showcase. “HAN MEA was a testament to our commitment to promoting innovation and collaboration within the agricultural and horticultural sectors in the Middle East and Africa and across the different regions in which we operate. Our decision to extend this initiative to Asia with HAN Asia and the satellite HAN Select events stems from the positive impact witnessed in the MEA region and the growing potential we see.” stated Ms. Birgit Horn, Managing Director of the Agrifood Portfolio of VNU Exhibitions Europe. “Since the first launch of Horti Asia in 2012, we have always been fully committed to the horticultural industry, its community, and its professionals and experts, while working closely together and supporting the development of Asia’s horticultural industry.  We also introduced Agri Asia in 2015 in order to cover the entire supply chain. In close collaboration with the industry, we work hard and are eager to be the premier platform and our mission for Thailand and Asia will continue” said Panadda Kongma, Vice President Business, VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific. “The decision to rebrand and launch HAN ASIA 2025 has been made as the horticulture and agricultural sectors are fundamental pillars of the company’s strategic roadmap and our global direction. We are thrilled to introduce the launch of this new brand at our home base and the ideal gateway to Asia, Bangkok, Thailand.  HAN ASIA 2025 will continue to bring opportunities, innovations, solutions and knowledge from around the world to Asia” added Igor Palka, Managing Director, VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific. AgroSpectrum Asia is the media partner ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1914/vietnam-identifies-philippines-as-high-potential-market-for-agri-exports.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1914/vietnam-identifies-philippines-as-high-potential-market-for-agri-exports.html Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:20:00 +0530 Vietnam is the Philippines' 10th largest trading partner and the bilateral trade topped $7.8 billion in 2022 According to Vietnam's Trade Office in the archipelago nation, the Philippines is a high potential market for Vietnamese exports due to its large population, diverse needs for goods and services, and not too strict import standards. In 2023, the Philippines had 113 million people, ranking 13th in the world, seventh in Asia, and second in ASEAN. The Philippines and Vietnam, both dynamically developing economies in the region, are similar in many ways and have complementary production processes, so they have room to expand their economic and trade ties. Vietnam is the Philippines' 10th largest trading partner, and because of the close proximity and similar consumption habits, the Philippines is a high-potential market for Vietnamese exports. In addition to its limited domestic production, the country has a relatively low import standard for goods and services, making it a major importer of food products. A total of 35 products and groups of products from Vietnam are being sold in the Philippines, including agricultural products, aquatic products, confectionery, animal feed, cement, steel, construction materials, textiles, garments, and machinery. A large proportion of exports has always been made up of farm produce, especially rice. Over the past few years, Vietnam has consistently posted a trade surplus with the Philippines, according to the Trade Office. The bilateral trade topped $7.8 billion in 2022, up 14.7% year on year. That consisted of over $5.1 billion in Vietnam exports to and $2.7 billion in imports from the Philippines, respectively rising 11.6% and 12.8%, according to the Asia - Africa Market Department of the Ministry of Industry and Trade. In 2023, the trade revenue was equivalent to the 2022 figure, $7.8 billion, comprising $5.15 billion in Vietnam’s exports and $2.65 billion in imports, respectively increasing 1% and declining 2% year on year. Rice is a staple export of Vietnam to the Philippines. Last year, the former shipped 3.1 million tonnes of rice, down 2% from 2022, to the latter to earn $1.75 billion, up 17.6%. The Vietnamese grain made up over 80% of the Philippines’ rice import volume, statistics show. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s main imports from the archipelago country include computers, electronic devices, and components, machinery, equipment, tools, and spare parts, metals, electrical cables, aquatic products, automobile components, confectionery, and animal feed. According to the Trade Office, Vietnam should keep its status as the biggest rice supplier for the Philippines while diversifying its export structure and increasing shipment value to further tap into this market. The Philippines is a high potential market, but Vietnamese businesses have yet to pay due attention to it, the office said, pointing out the necessity to step up communications to help companies realize its potential to boost exports. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1759/philippines-invests-p4b-to-develop-at-lagonglong-port-in-misamis-oriental-to-enhance-logistical-capability.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1759/philippines-invests-p4b-to-develop-at-lagonglong-port-in-misamis-oriental-to-enhance-logistical-capability.html Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:52:52 +0530 Lagonglong Port to increase trade capacity in Mindanao, enhance logistical capability in the region, and create new jobs The Philippines Lagonglong Port in Misamis is involved in an infrastructure project aligned with the government's goal of increasing food production. Due for completion in March 2025, Lagonglong Port promises to increase trade capacity in Mindanao, enhance logistical capability in the region, and create new jobs. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said, “Lagonglong Port dovetails with the Department of Agriculture’s push to boost agricultural production, ensure accessibility to affordable food, and achieve food security for our countrymen,”  Secretary Tiu Laurel said during groundbreaking rites for the project. The project is a private commercial port development of Amadi MGT Terminals Inc. that will cost P4 billion to complete. Amadi will spend P1.4 billion for the first phase which will have an annual throughput capacity of 3.3 million metric tons of bulk cargo. The port will also have storage facilities and modern equipment to handle international and domestic cargo, including perishable goods. Aboitiz Construction is building the multi grains terminal for Amadi. The groundbreaking was graced by, among others, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, Misamis Oriental Gov. Peter Unabia, Congressman Christian Unabia, Agriculture Undersecretary Roger Navarro and Lagonglong Mayor Jay Albert Puertas. “We should build more ports like this. This is critical to the modernization of our country. This port, once finished, I believe will reduce feed costs by at least 2.5%, or as much as 5%. It will reduce cost of fertilizers also by 5%, maybe, or as much as 10%, depending on the price,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel. He added that the port project will increase efficiency of transporting vital goods and provide storage facilities that will help maintain the quality of agricultural products and raw materials once finished. The agriculture chief said that once completed, the Lagonglong Port should spur the development of factories, processing plants and other value-adding facilities. “I’ve seen that happen, and I’ve done it. In Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and other areas in the Western Pacific where we built ports,” he added. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1900/indonesia-vietnam-agree-to-promote-agri-fishery-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1900/indonesia-vietnam-agree-to-promote-agri-fishery-cooperation.html Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:48:00 +0530 President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Friday (01/12) met with President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Võ Văn Thưởng for a bilateral meeting at Vietnam’s Presidential Palace in Hanoi, Vietnam. According to the President during the press statement after the meeting, the meeting has resulted in cooperation agreement between the two countries, with measures to boost new bilateral trade targets being one of them. President Jokowi also said he welcomed more investment between the two countries, large companies, and unicorns from Indonesia which have invested significantly in Vietnam. “I am confident they will be given ease and secure protection and I would like to invite Vietnamese companies to strengthen their investment in Indonesia,” the President said, adding that Indonesia and Vietnam have agreed to strengthen the cooperation on food security in both agriculture and fisheries fields. “We have come to an agreement to strengthen cooperation in the fields of agriculture and fisheries; thus. the MoU on fisheries cooperation is a great momentum to encourage collaboration and investment in this sector,” he added. The Head of State also lauded the collaboration on information and communication technology that will advance digital industry and cooperation between the two countries on electric vehicle, battery, and energy transition. “I welcome the investment commitment of VinFast to build an electric vehicle and battery ecosystem in Indonesia. We also agreed to advance cooperation in the fields of energy transition and digital economy to bring prosperity for the people and the region,” the President stated. Indonesia and Vietnam, the President added, are also committed to maintaining stability and economic growth of the region through the concrete implementation of ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and the support to the Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1694/atlantic-project-cargos-agricultural-machinery-shipping-expertise-fortifies-global-food-supply-chain.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1694/atlantic-project-cargos-agricultural-machinery-shipping-expertise-fortifies-global-food-supply-chain.html Mon, 08 Jan 2024 09:38:55 +0530 World leader in international shipping solutions of heavy agriculture and construction equipment solve some of the world's most complex shipping challenges Atlantic Project Cargo, World leader in international shipping solutions of heavy agriculture and construction equipment is specialized in transporting oversized agricultural and construction equipment worldwide. Atlantic Project Cargo has solidified the global agri-logistic industry by door-to-door supply chain solutions that are both effective and economically viable. Revolutionizing Agricultural Businesses with Innovative Transportation Atlantic Project Cargo has a crucial role in enhancing the agricultural business landscape. With a keen understanding of the unique challenges faced by the sector, such as the difficulty associated with shipping oversized farm and construction equipment, and different regulatory requirements associated with various countries, the company maintains safe and efficient transportation of agricultural machinery.  Atlantic Project Cargo is revolutionary, sustainable and economical alternatives to RORO shipping lines which are overburdened and costs soar. In addition, Atlantic Project Cargo, in collaboration with its partners, has devised an economically efficient solution that rerouted the equipment through alternative land and railway transportation.  "Atlantic Project Cargo is more than a logistics provider; we are partners in progress for the agricultural sector. Our approach to transporting oversized farm and construction machinery is not just about overcoming logistical challenges; it's about ensuring a sustainable and secure food supply chain by successfully moving high-tech and heavy farm machinery to regions around the world to increase their food production. The crisis in Ukraine was an example of our team's ability to think creatively and resolve complex challenges to ensure our customers experience successful outcomes when shipping heavy machinery worldwide. We are committed to addressing complex heavy equipment shipping challenges" stated Maryanna Serafinas, CEO of Atlantic Project Cargo. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1693/thai-agricultural-products-and-natural-rubber-in-the-9-asean-markets-witness-trade-surplus.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1693/thai-agricultural-products-and-natural-rubber-in-the-9-asean-markets-witness-trade-surplus.html Fri, 05 Jan 2024 11:06:28 +0530 Highest trade value with China (23.49%), followed by ASEAN (22.81%), the United States (8.03%), the European Union (7.67%) and Japan (7.17%) The Secretary-General of Thailand's Agricultural Economics Office, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Chanthanon Wannakhajorn, stated that despite the current situation of Thai agricultural products and natural rubber in the world market, Thailand continues to export. With an increased rate of expansion This can be seen from the value of Thailand's agricultural trade with the world during the 10 months of 2023 (January - October 2023) equaling 2,012,215 million baht, an increase of 15,987 million baht from 2022, or a 0.80 percent increase. It has the highest trade value with China (23.49%), followed by ASEAN (22.81%), the United States (8.03%), the European Union (7.67%) and Japan (7.17%). For the trade situation of Thai agricultural products and natural rubber in the 9 ASEAN markets (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam) during the 10 months of 2023 (January - October 2023), it was found that Thai agricultural products have expand Compared to the same period of 2022, Thailand still has a trade surplus with ASEAN. Valued at 195,811 million baht, the first 5 important agricultural export groups are  sugar, valued at 81,604 million baht, such as raw sugar; Refined white sugar Beverages worth 43,565 million baht, such as energy drinks, UHT milk, soy milk Rice and cereals, worth 31,284 million baht, such as other white rice 5%, broken rice, Thai white jasmine rice 100%  Miscellaneous edible flavorings worth 27,419 million baht, such as tofu, powdered alcohol, creamer, chili sauce, fish sauce, shrimp paste flavorings made from cereals, flour, and milk, valued at 23,828 million baht, such as flavored food for infants or young children, rice noodles, vermicelli, biscuits. Skits and cakes Meanwhile, imports expanded and decreased with an import value of 131,571 million baht, a decrease of 4.76 percent from 2022.  The first 5 groups of highest imported agricultural products are  edible vegetables worth 20,749 million baht, such as cassava chips, fresh or dried cassava roots; Cassava pellets, dried beans, fresh or chilled chilies Miscellaneous edible seasonings worth 16,378 million baht, such as tofu, powdered alcohol, non-dairy creamers, instant coffee, chili sauce, fish sauce, shrimp paste, soy sauce  Rice and cereals, valued at 15,321 million baht, such as animal feed corn Whole millet, glutinous rice, jasmine rice, basmati rice fish and aquatic animals worth 14,664 million baht, such as frozen ground fish meat and other marine fish. fresh or chilled, such as grouper fish, long-fin betelfish, etc.  prepared products from cereals, flour and milk, valued at 11,126 million baht, such as prepared food for infants or small children, biscuits, cakes, waffles and wafer The top 3 important Thai agricultural export markets include Indonesia, with an export value of 65,104 million baht, or 19.89 percent of the value of agricultural exports in ASEAN. Important export products include raw sugar. pure sugar Other white rice 5%, broken rice, broken glutinous rice Dog or cat food, pig food, shrimp food, fish meal, longan, young coconut, dried longan, prepared food for infants or young children, cakes and biscuits. Next is Malaysia, with an export value of 64,408 million baht, or 19.67 percent of the value of agricultural exports in ASEAN. Important agricultural export products include natural latex. dried rubber sheet Latex crepe rubber, skim rubber, raw sugar Pure sugar, frozen chicken (whole/meat/entrails), other white rice 5%, Thai white jasmine rice 100%, corn for cultivation. Prepared food for infants or young children, rice noodles, vermicelli and biscuits Third place is Cambodia, with an export value of 43,897 million baht, or 13.41 percent of the value of agricultural exports in ASEAN. Important export products include energy drinks, UHT milk, soy milk, refined sugar, confectionery, white chocolate, glucose and glucose syrup, creamer, instant coffee, chili sauce, fish sauce, shrimp paste, oyster sauce, flavored surimi fish fillets, sausages, rice noodles, vermicelli, cakes and biscuits. Records ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1684/thailand-to-open-3-learning-centers-agricultural-tourism-sites-and-agricultural-product-sales-points-in-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1684/thailand-to-open-3-learning-centers-agricultural-tourism-sites-and-agricultural-product-sales-points-in-2024.html Wed, 03 Jan 2024 11:12:34 +0530 Aims to build resilient agriculture ecosystem Pramote Yajai, Director-General of the Department of Land Development, revealed that the Department of Land Development Together with agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. Department is organizing 3 big activities under the project "Sending a happy new year given to farmers Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives for the year 2024” consists of 1. Giving gifts to Thai farmers to have food to eat, use, and have sufficient income 2. Increase happiness in the new year. Travel around Thailand Be happy with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives 3. Enhance your energy in the new year. Selling products at special prices Quality agricultural products during this New Year festival Department of Land Development Has opened a center to welcome tourists to visit agricultural tourist attractions and various agricultural learning centers, providing free admission. There is also a soil analysis service launched with better access to the farmers. This will allow farmers to improve soil before planting crops and using fertilizers effectively by making them aware of the importance of soil analysis. Farmers can request simple soil testing services by volunteer soil doctors across the country with Soil Test Kits through the Soil Test Soil Testing application. Results can be obtained quickly within 1 day or through a thorough soil examination at 13 laboratories across the country.  The Land Development Department is ready to serve every province across the country during the New Year festival until January 31, 2024. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1903/australia-announces-new-trade-opportunities-for-agriculture-in-2024.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1903/australia-announces-new-trade-opportunities-for-agriculture-in-2024.html Tue, 02 Jan 2024 10:59:00 +0530 Agricultural export values are forecast to reach $67 billion in 2023–24 Australia has pleaded to provide improved commodity market access and tariff rate cuts by creating new opportunities for agri-exports. Agricultural export values are forecast to reach $67 billion in 2023–24, the second highest on record, with recent rains expected to drive that forecast even higher. Australia’s network of Free Trade Agreements have already delivered new and valuable opportunities for our red meat, grain, horticulture and other agricultural industries. But improvements in trade agreements, including those with the United Kingdom and India, will deliver new and diversified trade opportunities for Australian farmers in 2024. Minister for Trade, Don Farrell, said the Albanese Government will continue to press hard in 2024 to create more trade opportunities for Australian businesses, exporters, farmers and producers seeking to diversify into new markets. “At a time of heightened global uncertainty, a free, open and rules-based trading system is more important than ever. On balance, trade is a force for good. More trade means more well-paying jobs, more national income, more opportunities for business, and a lower cost of living. Trade agreements are an effective tool to stimulate investment, increase global demand of our premium produce, and create opportunities to diversify into overseas markets" said Minister Farrell. "The Albanese Government is committed to supporting our agricultural industry reach its $100 billion production goal by 2030. To assist the farming sector deliver on this objective, this Government will commence trade negotiations in 2024 with the United Arab Emirates, build on our trade deal with India, and support exporters take advantage of existing trade agreements, including with the United Kingdom” added Minister Farrell. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said 2024 would deliver new opportunities for the nation’s agriculture industry. “These new and exciting trade opportunities have opened new doors for Aussie farmers and producers, which is particularly great news for regional communities and local jobs. Tariff reductions and larger tariff-free quotas on key agriculture commodities under Australia’s FTAs will deliver commercially significant export diversification opportunities for our producers" said Minister Watt. Australia-United Kingdom FTA: Off the back of horticulture tariff reductions, Australian tomatoes are now for sale in major UK retail outlets for the first time. China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA): significant milestone for our trade agreement with China - remaining tariffs on cheese, butter and yogurt have decreased to zero. Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA): Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) into force in December 2022, Australian exports for a range of agriculture products have increased markedly to this dynamic market of 1.4 billion people. Almond exports in January-October 2023 are 124% higher than the same period in 2022; Orange and mandarin exports have increased by 169% over the same period; Broad beans by 264% and roundwood by 120% over the period; Seafood by 138% over the same period; The cotton quota under ECTA was also fully utilised in 2023 and the elimination of the 30% tariff has seen sheep meat exports to India surpass $1 million for the first time ever. Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA): Tariffs on Australia's largest seafood exports to Japan, tuna, and Atlantic salmon, will be phased out by 1 April 2024.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1669/thailand-and-hong-kong-strengthens-bilateral-agri-trade-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1669/thailand-and-hong-kong-strengthens-bilateral-agri-trade-cooperation.html Fri, 29 Dec 2023 09:19:00 +0530 Discusses to boosts Rice import activities A group from Thailand's Agriculture Department studied Thai rice production at the Ubon Ratchathani Rice Research Center of the Rice Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, which plays an important role in research and development. During the visit, the group visited the production of Thai paddy rice at Ubon Saeng Charoen Rangsit 2009 Co., Ltd., a large rice mill which produces Thai jasmine rice for sale in the country and exports it abroad, including checking the genetic identity (DNA) of Thai jasmine rice. Rice importers in Hong Kong are confident in the quality of Thai rice and Thai jasmine rice and will continue to import Thai rice. While exchanging information between Thailand and Hong Kong, Thai rice exporters provided information on the current state of rice trade in 2023 (Jan. - Oct.). During the same period last year, Thailand exported 6.92 million tons of rice, an increase of 11 percent. It is the world's largest rice exporter. According to the latest statistics, Indonesia exports the most Thai rice, while Hong Kong ranks 13th with 0.125 million tons exported, a 5% decrease. Thailand holds more than 50% of Hong Kong's rice market, according to Hong Kong rice importers. To encourage Thai rice sales in Hong Kong and maintain market share for Thai rice, the delegates proposed to establish an program to promote Thai rice in Hong Kong. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1670/nutricell-joins-indonesias-ministry-of-agriculture-in-a-landmark-trade-mission-to-japan.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1670/nutricell-joins-indonesias-ministry-of-agriculture-in-a-landmark-trade-mission-to-japan.html Fri, 29 Dec 2023 08:22:24 +0530 Nutricell, a pioneering company in the field of nutritional science and technology, has participated in the Trade Mission led by The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) of the Republic of Indonesia to Japan, in December 2023. This esteemed delegation aimed to foster bilateral relations and explore new technological advancements in various sectors. Nutricell played a crucial role in these discussions, sharing its expertise and innovations with key Japanese institutions and industry leaders. The trade mission concluded with Nutricell securing new trade commitments with renowned Japanese companies such as Sari Raya and Sky Global. This venture will enhance the presence of Nutricell’s innovative plant-based meat technology in the Japanese market, which is witnessing rapid growth. Engagement with Fuji Film Research Center A significant part of the mission involved Nutricell’s engagement with the Fuji Film Research Center. These discussions centered around the latest advancements in photography, medical devices, cosmetics, and food technology. Nutricell showcased its groundbreaking texturing technology for plant-based meat, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable and innovative food solutions. Collaboration with Japan Nutrition Company (JNC) Furthering its collaborative efforts, Nutricell engaged in a fruitful dialogue with its partner in Japan, the Japan Nutrition Company (JNC). The discussions revolved around yeast technology and nutrition lipid, highlighting Nutricell’s expertise in developing nutrition products from palm oil derivatives. These innovations include the creation of fat powder through calcium soap technology, hydrolysis processes, and the utilization of specific fatty acids for bypass coating of essential nutrients. In alignment with its vision for sustainable development, Nutricell and the MoA team visited AEON, Japan’s leading modern retail market based in Chiba. Nutricell shared insights on the market development of pet care products, especially in mature markets like Japan. AEON’s commitment to developing a new standard in the modern retail industry that supports both people and the environment aligns closely with Nutricell’s mission. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1657/china-vietnam-to-strengthen-billion-dollar-trade-partnership-through-opening-market-for-vn-fruits.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1657/china-vietnam-to-strengthen-billion-dollar-trade-partnership-through-opening-market-for-vn-fruits.html Fri, 22 Dec 2023 11:07:44 +0530 Export revenue would surpass $6 billion and even reach $7 billion in 2024, As China is opening its market for some Vietnamese fruits, it will bring billions of dollars in exports next year and help Việt Nam’s fruit and vegetable industry to set new records. Đặng Phúc Nguyên, general secretary of the Việt Nam Vegetable and Fruit Association, forecast that the export revenue would surpass $6 billion and even reach $7 billion in 2024, providing a significant momentum for Việt Nam to become a global food powerhouse. The industry is on track to hit a milestone of $5.5 billion this year, after posting an increase of 70 per cent in the first 11 months to reach $5.2 billion. This means that the industry finishes two years earlier than the target set by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, at a $5 billion export value by 2025.China remains the largest importer of Việt Nam’s fruits and vegetables with a value of $3.4 billion in January – November, a dramatic increase of 149 per cent over the same period last year and accounting for 65.4% of Việt Nam’s total fruits and vegetables export value. The increase is largely driven by the soar in the durian export after China approved the official export of this fruit in July 2022. Exporters are expecting a durian export value of $2.3 billion this year after earning $2.1 billion in the first 11 months, from a modest value of $300 million last year. Following the recent visit to Hà Nội by Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, China is set to import more fruits from Việt Nam, as part of the effort to boost bilateral trade. During the visit, the two countries established a protocol to officially import fresh watermelon, bringing the total number of farm produce approved for official export to China to 14, which also include dragon fruit, longan, rambutan, mango, jackfruit, banana, mangosteen, lychee, black jelly, passion fruit, durian, sweet potato, and bird’s nest. Bilateral Trade Coperation: The two countries are actively promoting the signing of protocols for official exports of more Vietnamese fruits, such as coconuts, avocado, custard apple and frozen fruits, which are expected to bring billions of dollars to Việt Nam’s exports. According to Nguyên, Việt Nam’s export of watermelon to China might double to $50-60 million in 2024, thanks to the protocol. Statistics of the Plant Protection Department showed that to date, 162 watermelon growing areas and more than 1,000 packaging facilities in 38 provinces has been granted codes for official export to China. Nguyên said that when China opens markets for other farm products, Việt Nam’s fruits and vegetables export could increase by billions of dollars, forecasting a new record high export value next year. Nguyên said Việt Nam has advantages to increase the export of fruits and vegetables to China which spends around $15 billion every year buying fruits and vegetables from other countries, including Thailand, Chile and Việt Nam. Exporters hope that more protocols for official exports of farm produce will be signed after the Chinese leader’s visit to Hà Nội. Nguyễn Minh Tiến, director of the Trade Promotion Centre for Agriculture, said there is untapped potential for Vietnamese fruits and vegetables export to China, given this market’s enormous demand for fresh fruits such as durian and mango. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phùng Đức Tiến said that Việt Nam’s agro-forestry-fishery export to China increased by 18 per cent this year thanks to the signing of protocols in 2022, which opened the door for official exports of many types of farm produces, coupled with China’s removal of Zero-COVID policies which unleashed this market’s enormous consumption demand.With a population of more than 1.4 billion and a rising middle class, China is a huge market for high-quality farm products of Việt Nam. “Việt Nam’s export of farm produces to China currently accounts for less than 5 per cent of China’s import, meaning that the room to increase exports remains huge. The Chinese leader’s visit to Hà Nội is expected to give a boost to the bilateral trade of agricultural products between the two countries. To tap the potential, Việt Nam must focus on improving the quality of farm produce, meeting requirements and establishing trust, Tiến said. Tiến said that the ministry would increase negotiations with China for official exports of more agricultural products with standardised quality, packaging, ensure food hygiene and safety and traceability, and put under Vietnamese brands. There are changes in the way Chinese enterprises do trade with Vietnamese enterprises, switching away from unofficial trade, Ngô Thị Thu Hùng, general director of food exporter Ameji Việt Nam said. She said that Chinese importers have higher requirements for not only product quality and origin traceability but also governance and financial capacity of trade partners, urging Vietnamese exporters to make preparations for the changes. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1648/joint-international-trade-fair-by-zhejiang-and-morocco-witnessed-multisectoral-agri-food-innovation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1648/joint-international-trade-fair-by-zhejiang-and-morocco-witnessed-multisectoral-agri-food-innovation.html Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:42:18 +0530 Thousands of bowls, teas, whole foods, small agricultural machines, food processing machinery, and other items on display from Baixian County, Zhejiang Province The 2023 Zhejiang (Morocco) International Trade Fair featured 90 booths with a total exhibition area of more than 900 square meters. The event was attended by 63 companies from Hangzhou, Taizhou, Wenzhou and other localities. As an ideal platform for international food and beverage suppliers, the exhibition attracted wholesalers, retailers, importers and exporters, distributors, industry associations and organizations from Europe and Africa. Zhejiang (Morocco) International Trade Fair 2023 took place from November 21 to 23 in Casablanca, Morocco. The show was held simultaneously with the Africa Food Show hosted by the MIE group. There were thousands of bowls, teas, whole foods, small agricultural machines, food processing machinery, and other items on display from Baixian County, Zhejiang Province. One billion consumers are served by Morocco, which connects the three major markets of the European Union, the Arab world, and Africa. There is a pressing demand for food products, processing technologies, machinery, and food processing technologies, with a huge market potential and a vast area for cooperation.  A "Chinese Gourmet Section" and a "Weimei Zhejiang Exhibition Section" have been set up at the exhibition site. The tasting part of the show featured chefs who have been established in China for many years preparing dishes, which prompted many buyers to stop and taste, revealing "Chinese charm on the tongue" and enhancing the popularity of the site. In addition to fine teas such as West Lake Longjing and Jiuqu Hongmei, visitors sampled osmanthus jelly, Dingsheng cake, West Lake lotus root starch, and other special foods from Hangzhou Zhiweiguan, an ancient Chinese brand.  The exhibition "Weimei Zhejiang Exhibition Zone" focuses on the theme of "Hundred Counties and a Thousand Bowls" and the culture of Zhejiang yellow rice wine. It presents Zhejiang cuisine in its traditional form through dishes, production techniques, and cultural stories. Through activities such as physical exhibitions, on-site cooking and tea performances, attract local merchants to experience the charm of Zhejiang. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1624/malaysias-tropical-palm-oil-industry-grew-to-be-the-worlds-second-biggest-exporter-by-q4-2023.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1624/malaysias-tropical-palm-oil-industry-grew-to-be-the-worlds-second-biggest-exporter-by-q4-2023.html Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:30:23 +0530 Malaysian palm oil futures will likely trade between RM3,650 and RM3,900 in the short term due to the current supply and demand situation The second largest exporter of palm oil in the world, Malaysia increased its stockpiles of tropical oil. For a seventh consecutive month, Malaysian palm oil stocks grew to their highest level since April 2019 as production outpaced exports of the tropical palm oil. Inventories rose about 1.2% in November from a month earlier to 2.48 million tonnes, according to the median of 11 estimates in a recent survey of traders, analysts and plantation executives. In comparison to a year ago, that's an increase of around 8%. Yet, Crude palm oil output fell about 6.2% to 1.82 million tonnes, the survey showed, the first monthly drop since June. Experts indicate that production was still bigger than November’s forecast for exports at 1.52 million tonnes – a 3.4% gain from October 2023. The outlook for higher stockpiles has added bearish sentiment to the market, said Gnanasekar Thiagarajan, the head of trading and hedging strategies at Kaleesuwari Intercontinental. This can be attributed to demand drop during winter. Palm oil tends to solidify in colder weather, prompting consumers to look for alternative cooking oils. Marcello Cultrera, director at Singapore-based Apricus 8 Pte, predicts that, “Malaysian palm oil futures will likely trade between RM3,650 and RM3,900 in the short term due to the current supply and demand situation”. In 2024, palm oil prices are expected to be capped, with El Nio's late arrival having little impact on production, and other oilseeds are likely to see record supplies despite Brazil's weather challenges. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1614/china-ready-to-increase-imports-of-vietnamese-agriculture-goods.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1614/china-ready-to-increase-imports-of-vietnamese-agriculture-goods.html Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:02:07 +0530 During discussions with Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong, General Secretary of Vietnam and President Xi Jinping confirmed China's readiness to boost imports of Vietnamese goods, particularly high-quality agricultural products. China has been Vietnam's largest trade partner for several consecutive years, while Vietnam is China’s largest partner in ASEAN. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $175.6 billion last year, with Vietnam’s exports reaching $57.7 billion and imports reaching $117.87 billion, according to Vietnam Customs. As of October 20, China stands as the sixth-largest foreign direct investor in Vietnam among 143 countries and territories, boasting 4,105 active projects and over $26.5 billion in total registered capital.Thuong expressed a desire for Vietnam and China to share developmental experiences and enhance practical cooperation across all sectors, particularly in fostering a robust and effective trade and investment relationship. Thuong suggested enhancing transport links and expanding collaboration in agriculture, environment, science and technology, and healthcare, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He also proposed increased people-to-people exchanges, urging engagement among citizens, especially the youth, to foster mutual understanding and friendship, thereby solidifying the social foundation for relations between the two parties and two nations. Xi reiterated China’s commitment to augmenting imports from Vietnam, especially high-quality agricultural products, motivating Chinese enterprises to escalate high-quality investments reflective of China’s scientific and technological advancements. Xi expressed hope for reinforcing the political foundation between the two countries and deepening practical cooperation to stimulate economic recovery and development, and promote strategic connections between the two economies. He advocated for the effective integration of the “Belt and Road” initiative with the “Two Corridors, One Belt” framework, establishing stable regional supply and production chains, enhancing cooperation in state-owned enterprises, and increasing local currency usage in bilateral trade. Both leaders affirmed the new position of Vietnam-China relations and the six cooperation pillars, established through discussions between Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and Party General Secretary and President Xi, have clearly pointed out the direction and started a period of great cooperation between the two parties and two countries in a new era. They also agreed to jointly ensure maritime peace and stability. President Thuong called for resolving disputes through peaceful measures in line with international law and mutual understanding, putting themselves in each other’s shoes, controlling and adequately resolving dispute, working closely with ASEAN to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and develop a substantial and effective Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC), conforming to international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1600/thailand-accelerate-thai-smes-to-use-fta-benefits-and-to-compete-in-the-international-market.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1600/thailand-accelerate-thai-smes-to-use-fta-benefits-and-to-compete-in-the-international-market.html Fri, 08 Dec 2023 09:23:14 +0530 Thailand Department of Foreign Trade Organized a seminar project to promote SMEs to compete in the international market, bringing together government and private sector speakers to push Thai entrepreneurs. Promoting knowledge about FTA benefits in a comprehensive manner will give you a competitive advantage on the foreign trade market. On Nov 28, 2023, Ronarong Poolpipat, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, opened a seminar to promote SMEs to compete in the international market under a project titled "Raising the level of trade to an international level with trade benefits under the FTA." SMEs, particularly manufacturers and exporters, were provided with information about comprehensive trade benefits by the Department of Foreign Trade to help them understand how to benefit from customs tax benefits under free trade agreements. During the ASEAN-China Agreement and the RCEP, there was a workshop on requesting a certificate of origin through DFT SMART C/O and a workshop on checking product properties regarding origin with ROVERs PLUS. This is a tool that provides Thai businesses with convenience and speed in obtaining certificates of origin and inspecting the origin of products. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of the FTA benefits only if this condition is met. A number of private sector experiences have also been transferred to demonstrate the benefits of using FTA rights, including recommendations on how to send products to Chinese markets. SME entrepreneurs, both manufacturers and exporters, showed a great deal of interest in attending the seminar about the RCEP agreement and the market under it. Trade barriers will be reduced and trade competitiveness will be increased by this comprehensive body of knowledge. Under the current global trade conditions, Thai SMEs are handicapped in their ability to compete in the foreign trade market. In addition, Ronarong revealed that the Department will organize a seminar to promote SMEs to compete in the industry. During the first half of 2024, the Department of Foreign Trade will update progress under the FTA agreement, including the development of a service system with various digital innovations to facilitate trade for entrepreneurs, ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1591/zoomlion-agriculture-machinery-global-trade-conference-fosters-agricultural-machinery-development.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1591/zoomlion-agriculture-machinery-global-trade-conference-fosters-agricultural-machinery-development.html Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:59:05 +0530 Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. organized the 2024 Zoomlion Agriculture Machinery Global Business Conference in Changsha , November 28-29. The event attracted nearly 1,000 distributors, including more than 140 international representatives from more than 20 countries. During the conference, participating distributors had the opportunity to take a close look at Zoomlion Agriculture Machinery's cutting-edge equipment collection, consisting of 51 models across 12 categories. The product range covered the entire agricultural process from plowing and planting to harvesting, straw processing and drying. The innovative nature and advanced technology of these products were highly appreciated by visitors. “Zoomlion is poised to create a new paradigm in technology, product development, team building and market expansion,” said Zhan Chunxin, CEO of Zoomlion . We are committed to fully leveraging the power of Internet-based thinking to innovate innovative development models. Our goal is to establish a world-class agricultural machinery and equipment center. » In the field of technology and product innovation , Zoomlion has leveraged the resources of construction machinery, and developed key product lines in the field of agricultural machinery, including tractors and equipment for rice and corn. Technologies such as renewable energy, digitalization and artificial intelligence from its construction machinery segment have been transferred to its agricultural machinery. This approach has created a range of high-end, intelligent and environmentally friendly products that meet the needs of the industry. Zoomlion Agriculture Machinery covers 15 main categories, encompassing the entire agricultural cycle. In terms of production capacity, quality, marketing and services , Zoomlion Agriculture Machinery division has assembled a dedicated team of more than 2,000 experts, specializing in research and development, sales and services. The company has established an extensive network that extends from China to more than 70 countries and regions around the world. The company's innovative overseas business model focuses on end-to-end solutions and digital integration, which has contributed to an increase in overseas revenue of more than 100% year-on-year. the other in November.  Zoomlion Heavy Industry has diversified into construction machinery, intelligent agricultural machinery and innovative building materials. The company has invested heavily in a state-of-the-art construction machinery manufacturing center. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1588/malaysia-to-strengthen-presence-in-china-via-value-added-palm-oil-products.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1588/malaysia-to-strengthen-presence-in-china-via-value-added-palm-oil-products.html Fri, 01 Dec 2023 11:24:21 +0530 Malaysia has a huge potential to cement its presence in China’s market for palm oil and palm oil-based value-added products over the next three to five years while reducing further its dependence on the European market, said the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). Chairman Datuk Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha acknowledged that China’s import volume of the commodity from Malaysia has slowly declined in recent years, but said that Malaysia is now focusing on exporting more value-added products to the country. “This is what we are (seeking) right now. We have no problem with Indonesia exporting a big volume of crude palm oil worldwide. “As for Malaysia, we want them (China) to import higher value-added products (from us) and we are seeing an improvement (in this area) year-on-year,” said Mohamad Helmy, who was part of a palm oil promotion mission to China headed by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is also Plantation and Commodities Minister. He said the Palm Oil Research and Technical Service Institute of Malaysian Palm Oil Board (PORTSIM), founded in 2005, has created between three and eight new value-added products using palm oil annually to cater to Chinese consumer needs. “Chinese consumers now are very sophisticated. They require better health products, better nutrients and, of course, sustainable products, and our sustainable palm oil is the answer. So we are on the right track,” Mohamad Helmy said. He also said Chinese food and non-food manufacturers are currently facing a shortage of tallow (animal fat) for their products, and there is potential for Malaysia to replace that with palm oil. Meanwhile, Malaysian Palm Oil Council chief executive officer Belvinder Sron said China is more conscious about environmental, social and governance requirements because it is exporting to other countries. “We are in a good position to help China meet that demand because we already have our Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certificate (which) is a competitive edge we have against other palm oil producing countries,” she said. She urged Malaysian companies to be more aggressive in penetrating the Chinese market with its 1.4 billion population and to make frequent visits to be closer to their buyers. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1532/china-u-s-agriculture-companies-sign-11-purchase-contracts-agreements.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1532/china-u-s-agriculture-companies-sign-11-purchase-contracts-agreements.html Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:26:04 +0530 China Ambassador and U.S. ag industry reaffirm shared responsibility and importance of innovation and collaboration at USSEC-CFNA Sustainable Agriculture Trade Forum, and U.S. Soy Farm Visit Several Chinese agriculture companies and U.S. commodity exporter companies signed 11 purchasing agreements/contracts at the China-U.S. Sustainable Agricultural Trade Forum and Contract Signing Ceremony co-organized by U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), China Chamber of Commerce for Import & Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce & Animal By-products (CFNA), Iowa Soybean Association, and U.S. Grains Council on the eve of the World Food Prize Foundation’s 2023 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, U.S.A. Among the companies that signed 11 purchasing contracts/agreements were ADM with Bohi Industry, ADM with China Agri, ADM with Fuzhiyuan Feed Protein (Wilmar International), Bunge with Sinograin Oil, Cargill with Sinograin Oil, CHS with Bohi Enterprises, CHS with Sinograin Oil, COFCO International with China Agri, COFCO Agri with Zennoh Grain, Shenzhen Gem with Hangtung Resources, and Zennoh Grain with Bohi Industry. Ambassador Xie Feng, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A. shared, “The China-U.S. agricultural cooperation is a rich land with bright prospects. China is the world’s largest importer of U.S. agriculture exports. The contracts signed today are multiple billions in value. Let us sow more seeds of cooperation on the fields of hope.” Acting Deputy Under Secretary, USDA Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Jason Hafemeister said, “These contracts illustrate the gains from trade: food is moving from surplus regions to deficit; the confidence behind these contracts allows U.S. producers to invest where we have agriculture advantages; and this relationship will help foster innovation needed to sustainably intensify production to deliver nutrition and food security sustainably.” Jim Sutter, CEO of U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and Chair of the U.S. Agricultural Export Development Council (USAEDC) said, “The collaboration between China and U.S. Soy continues to deliver food and nutrition security, and economic growth for consumers, companies and producers in China and the U.S. Sustainable agriculture production and trade are impact multipliers. China has been masterful at leveraging trade to achieve local food security and economic growth. We strive to maintain this stable and mutually beneficial collaboration cooperation between China and U.S. Soy as the ballast for successful bilateral economic and trade relations.” China’s Ambassador Xie and the Chinese industry delegation visited the Kimberley farm in Maxwell, Iowa, U.S.A. witnessed U.S. Soy’s sustainable and precision agriculture practices first-hand. The Sustainable Agriculture Trade Forum was also attended by Ambassador Terry Branstad, President, World Food Prize Foundation; Ambassador Kenneth Quinn, President Emeritus, World Food Prize Foundation; Governor Bob Holden, Chairman & President, U.S. Heartland China Association; Stan Born, Chairman of USSEC; Dawn Scheier, Board Secretary of USSEC; Xiaoping Zhang, Regional Director of USSEC Greater China; April Hemmes, United Soybean Board Director; Kirk Leeds, CEO, Iowa Soybean Association; Grant Kimberley, Senior Director of Market Development, Iowa Soybean Association; Chen Ying, Director of Cereals & Oils Dept., CFNA; Cary B. Sifferath, VP, U.S. Grains Council; Dr. Chad Hart, Ag. Economist from Iowa State University, and several other dignitaries from both countries ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1526/vietnams-agro-forestry-fisheries-sector-witness-trade-surplus-of-9-3b.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1526/vietnams-agro-forestry-fisheries-sector-witness-trade-surplus-of-9-3b.html Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:18:14 +0530 Key earners were fruits and vegetables ($4.91 billion), rice ($3.97 billion), and cashew nuts ($2.92 billion). According to Vietnam's Investment and Trade Promotion Center(ITPC), Vietnam ran a surplus of $9.3 billion in agro-forestry-fishery trade during January – October, up 26.2% from the same time last year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). During the period, exports of the products totaled $43.08 billion, falling 4.2% year-on-year due to a decrease in the export value of key products such as seafood ($7.45 billion, down 20.5%) and forestry ($11.65 billion, down 19.3%). Agricultural exports accounted for nearly half of the total, at $21.94 billion, rising 17%. Key earners were fruits and vegetables ($4.91 billion), rice ($3.97 billion), and cashew nuts ($2.92 billion). Over the past ten months, agro-forestry-fishery exports to Asian and African markets increased 5.7% and 21.6%, while those to American, European and Oceanian ones went down 20.6%, 11.8% and 17.2%, respectively. China, the U.S. and Japan remained the top three buyers of the Vietnamese products, with export value to China accounting for 22.8%, the U.S. 20.6% and Japan 7.5%. The MARD said it will direct competent authorities to guide localities to adjust their production plans and bolster exports, and at the same time accelerate negotiations to remove technical barriers to expand markets for agro-forestry-fisher products. Besides, it will work to support brand and geographical indication protection for Vietnamese products in foreign countries. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1501/vietnam-to-sign-rice-trade-deals-with-indonesia-philippines.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1501/vietnam-to-sign-rice-trade-deals-with-indonesia-philippines.html Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:01:58 +0530 Vietnam exported 2.4 million tons of the grain worth nearly $1.5 billion to the Philippines in the FY2023 representing a 20% increase year-on-year Vietnam is set to sign rice export agreements with Indonesia and the Philippines. During separate meetings with Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said that relevant ministries and sectors would be encouraged to speed up the signing.  The Philippines is Vietnam's biggest rice market, and has started importing again after nearly a month’s suspension due to its imposition of domestic price caps. On October 4, the Philippines lifted the ceiling prices for conventionally milled and well-milled rice varieties. In the first nine months of this year, Vietnam exported 2.4 million tons of the grain worth nearly $1.5 billion to the Philippines, the latter representing a 20% increase year-on-year. Earlier this year Indonesia invited bids for supplying 500,000 tons of rice, including from Vietnam. It imported 871,000 tons from Vietnam in the first nine months, 16 times the volume in the same period last year. Data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development shows Vietnam earned nearly $3.7 billion from rice exports in the first nine months, up 40.4%. The average rice price was 14% up at $553 per ton, occasionally climbing to nearly $650. Besides rice, Chinh and Marcos also agreed that the two countries should create favorable conditions for increased bilateral trade to soon take it to $10 billion. Chinh and Widodo promised to increase trade in agricultural products and promote early ratification of an agreement between the two governments for delimitation of their exclusive economic zones ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1473/singapores-agridence-to-spearhead-digital-transformation-for-rspo-in-palm-oil-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1473/singapores-agridence-to-spearhead-digital-transformation-for-rspo-in-palm-oil-sector.html Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:30:44 +0530 RSPO appoints Agridence to lead the development of a new traceability system for enhanced trade and regulatory compliance Singapore’s Agridence Pte Ltd, the global leader in digitalising the agri-commodities supply chain is set to lead the digital transformation for a unified digital infrastructure that will integrate the Certification, Trade and Traceability System (CTTS) as a streamlined end-to-end system for The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and its stakeholders. This a landmark achievement marks a significant milestone for Agridence, and recognition for its innovation and excellence in developing solutions for sustainable procurement successfully across multiple agri-commodities. The digital transformation project is expected to have far-reaching impact, not only in the palm oil sector but also in setting a precedent for other industries seeking to enhance sustainability and meet regulatory requirements. Agridence successfully leverages its platform experience in Natural Rubber to enter the Palm Oil sector, proving its cross-commodity strategy. Agridence Chairman, Ian Potter said: "RSPO has been a leading actor in the drive to make Palm Oil more sustainable and will be a great partner. With the impending requirement for traceable supply chains that starts with EUDR, digitalisation is imperative for all operators in the space. This project builds on our progress with traceable Rubber and we look forward to demonstrating our agri-commodity experience and product excellence building soft commodity traceability applications for Palm." The challenges faced in palm oil and natural rubber are notably similar due to their shared cultivation landscape and market structures. With insights gained from addressing similar challenges, Agridence has been tasked to spearhead a tripartite consortium of global Agri-Tech firms for RSPO's digital transformation, amalgamating the best minds in technology and sustainability that will deliver an unparalleled step change in efficiency, reliability and technological advancement to this bespoke CTTS, tailored to meet the specific needs for the sustainable palm oil stakeholders. Gerald Tan, CEO of Agridence, said "This extension into palm oil affirms the recognition and trust in Agridence, our track record in natural rubber that has delivered a robust and secure B2B trading platform, integrated sustainability dashboard, and traceability tools." Agridence will be present at the RSPO Annual Roundtable Conference (RT2023) in Jakarta from 20 to 22 November, where they will participate in the panel - The Future of Certification, Trade and Traceability in the Next 20 - which will address the project rollout and its implications for the sustainable palm oil industry in the future. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1444/philippines-to-lead-agrilink-foodlink-aqualink-2023-to-convene-global-agri-industry-players-at-agribusiness-exhibition.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1444/philippines-to-lead-agrilink-foodlink-aqualink-2023-to-convene-global-agri-industry-players-at-agribusiness-exhibition.html Fri, 06 Oct 2023 09:54:06 +0530 28th annual agribusiness exhibition and seminar underscored commitment of both the public and private sectors to promote agricultural growth The Philippines Department of Agriculture (DA), together with exhibitors and participants of various local and international industries, led this year’s AgriLink/ FoodLink/ AquaLink, which commenced on October 5, 2023 at the World Trade Center in Pasay. The AgriLink/ FoodLink/ AquaLink, which is now in its 28th year, is the largest annual agribusiness exhibition and seminar organized by the Foundation for Resource Linkage and Development (FRLD). DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban, Senator Cynthia Villar, and Agrilink 2023 Chairman Ricardo Tolentino officially opened the ceremonies and exhibit.  President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., whose message was delivered by Sr. Usec. Panganiban, stressed that the conduct of the AgriLink/ FoodLink/ AquaLink 2023 reflects the shared commitment of both the public and private sectors to promote agricultural growth in the country. Additionally, Pres. Marcos appreciated FRLD for their continuous support to farmers, fisherfolk, and small and medium-scale enterprises in the agribusiness sector, recognizing that their initiatives provided a platform for integrating various roles in fostering increased production, commercial value chains, market development, and better services. He underscored the importance of the agriculture sector as the foundation of the Philippine economy while highlighting the importance of plant health and value adding as a key to competitiveness. “A strong agribusiness sector cannot thrive without strong plant health, which encompasses integrated agricultural practices, such as sanitation, fertilization, irrigation, soil management, among others, as it leaves everything to chance, luck, or the mercy of nature. Whether the threats to agriculture come from pests, diseases, or climate change, it is important that we continue to protect and safeguard our crops to ensure a healthy harvest,” added Pres. Marcos. Furthermore, he recognized technology and innovation as key drivers of the government’s effort to assess and reduce risks to crops. He called for the adoption of modern farming practices and the development of cutting-edge technologies to promote sustainable and efficient farming processes. The head of state assured that the government will continue to provide unwavering support to farmers, fisherfolk, and small and medium-scale agribusinesses. He urged everyone to support the government’s endeavors in building a more modern, efficient, and sustainable agribusiness sector. “Our ongoing efforts—from investing in infrastructure and improving roads to enhancing irrigation systems and fostering technology development –are all geared towards improving the efficiency and value of our crops and agricultural products,” the President added. Distinguished guests from the international scene including Ambassador of Israel Ilan Simon Fluss, Ambassador of Thailand Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of South Africa BN Radebe-Netshitenzhe, KAMICO Chairman Shin Gil Kim, and the FRLD board of directors and co-organizers witnessed the event. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1410/2023-global-trends-influencing-agribusiness-and-market-dynamics.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1410/2023-global-trends-influencing-agribusiness-and-market-dynamics.html Fri, 22 Sep 2023 10:16:52 +0530 Agrifood market projected to reach $9.73 trillion in 2023 and $12 trillion by 2027, representing a CAGR of +6%. Agrifood market growth is expected to reach $8.67 trillion by 2022, up from $8.28 trillion as per the market analytics. Moreover, the sector is projected to reach $9.73 trillion in 2023 and $12 trillion by 2027, representing a CAGR of +6%. Several factors contribute to this growth, including population growth, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences. Although the ongoing Ukrainian war has increased the industry's challenges and uncertainties, resulting in a drop in production and sales, the non-reducible nature of food products has allowed companies in the industry to increase sales prices in order to compensate for lower volumes.  Countries around the world are making concerted efforts to increase their food production self-sufficiency in order to feed their citizens. Major crops, staple foods and raw materials like pesticides and fertilizers are highly dependent on a few markets, exposing governments and whole populations to food production disruptions and food insecurity. To build self-reliance in their food-supply systems, governments are going to adopt technology and data in large-scale to increase productivity, efficiency, and predictability. Global food insecurity and economic instability will make reducing food wastage a priority for economies. Globally, one third of food produced is lost or wasted, and technology will play an increasingly important role in preventing this. In real-time, digital solutions can send growers real-time advisories to reduce wastage during cultivation by monitoring the crop lifecycle. The Internet of Things (IoT) can enable end-to-end food traceability for farmers, processors, and retailers. Global Agro-food Market Dynamics: In 2022-2023, the global agrifood market will be shaped by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and geopolitical factors. Market dynamics are further complicated by the ongoing war in Ukraine, underscoring the importance of resilience, innovation, and international collaboration to meet the multiple challenges the industry faces. A number of countries have taken measures in response to the Ukraine conflict and rising food prices, such as releasing food reserves, implementing price controls, and offering financial assistance to farmers and consumers. Climate change and deglobalization are reshaping global relationships, which will lead to more strategic positioning for food products in the future. Furthermore, Global warming has resulted in poorer nations suffering from the effects of climate change, the United Nations noted recently. Investments in sustainability projects are expected to continue to grow, despite the woefully underfunded climate adaptation finance. Smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia will benefit from a $1.4 billion commitment from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the US Department of Agriculture will invest $2.8 billion in 70 selected projects as part of its Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program. Following the trends, the private sector is considered to be having a positive impact. FAO’s Food Outlook estimated that the global food bill will rise to $1.98 trillion in 2023, up 1.5% from 2022. It rose by 11% in 2022 and 18% in 2021. According to FAO, food imports by advanced economies continue to grow. However, FAO predicts that food import bills for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) will decrease by 1.5% and those for net food-importing developing countries (NFIDCs) will decrease by 4.9%. The last quarter of 2022 saw financial deterioration in most industries, according to market analysts. On average, revenues grew by 4.0% y/y, but earnings per share (EPS) declined by -4.9%. Despite challenging circumstances, the agrifood industry remained profitable.  Deficiencies and Strengths of the Agro-food Industry: An increasingly diverse and growing market Agrifood serves a wide range of consumer needs and preferences, offering a wide range of products to meet the demands of a growing global population. Advances in technology, such as precision agriculture, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence, have improved efficiency, reduced waste, and increased yield.  A growing focus on sustainability is enabling the industry to adopt sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices, reduce its environmental impact, and respond to consumer demand for eco-friendly products. However, supply chain vulnerabilities in the industry can result from climate change, political instability, and economic fluctuations. Deforestation, soil degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss can be caused by conventional agricultural practices. A heavy reliance on non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels and synthetic fertilizers, can have long-term sustainability implications. In addition, Agri-financing is evolving at a very slow pace. There are also risks associated with emerging diseases and pests that threaten crop and livestock health. An outbreak of African swine fever, avian influenza, or new crop pests can result in significant economic loss, supply chain disruption, and food safety concerns. In spite of this generally positive outlook, the global agrifood production systems remain vulnerable, resulting from extreme weather events, geopolitical tension, policy changes, and developments in commodity markets, which could affect prices and world food security and tip the fragile demand-supply balance. Agri-financing and sustainability investments: The majority of agri-food enterprises in many developing countries are small family farms and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which are majorly contributing to achieving food and nutrition security, promoting inclusive growth, protecting water, land and biodiversity, and achieving climate action. The goal is to make blended financing work for agricultural businesses. Agri-SMEs can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by mobilizing finance in this context and using blended finance. Producer prices have increased, fertilizer costs have eased, and government assistance programs are aiming to provide positive incentives. Agri-SMEs can access more capital and tailored financial products by leveraging blended finance, one of the proven and practical approaches promoted by the global 2030 Agenda. Blended finance instruments can facilitate commercial financing for agri-SMEs in a variety of contexts. Risk mitigation instruments are often particularly beneficial, since credit risk is often a key obstacle to financing. By fostering lending to targeted projects, such as women-owned and youth-led enterprises, blended finance models are able to improve financial inclusion. The creation of new markets and value chains around agri-SMEs can be stimulated by blended finance models - particularly through technical assistance and/or grants. It is important to design blended finance programs with room for experimentation, innovation, and adjustment. By engaging target groups closely, commercial finance challenges can be understood both from a supply and demand perspective. As a key partner in developing and implementing blended finance solutions that impact not only individual transactions, but also market factors underlying investment risk, local institutions – including financial institutions, governments, and players in the agri-food industry – are critical. Despite its challenges, blended finance works well for agri-SMEs - a sector with a lot of promise and importance for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By means of their aid agencies, or development finance institutions (DFIs), or multilateral development banks (MDBs), donor governments have the financial instruments to mobilize private finance for agri-SMEs. Yet, they are currently unable to achieve their potential due to a lack of adequate financing.  Empowering smallholder farmers: In recent years, private players, governments, and development agencies have focused heavily on developing farmer-centric solutions and this trend is expected to accelerate in 2023. A staggering 500 million farmers around the world are small-holders, who are difficult to reach. Stakeholders in the global food system have realized that meaningful and enduring changes to agriculture cannot be achieved until smallholder farmers are trained and empowered to adopt smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable farming practices. In the coming years, farmer empowerment will dominate the corporate boards of agribusinesses since digitalization will help make it easy and inexpensive for them to use technology. The role of regenerative agriculture in soil degradation reduction Soil conservation and biodiversity will receive more investments because productive agriculture relies on healthy soil. In order to prevent soil degradation and maintain and improve soil health, there is much more to be done. Data-driven decisions must be made by farmers regarding the optimal use of water, pesticides, and agrochemicals, as well as regenerative farming practices that can nurture soil health. New initiatives and investments have to be launched by policymakers, agrochemical companies, technology companies, and NGOs. Some Asian markets, such as Hong Kong and Singapore, are particularly interested in vertical farming as an innovation trend. By 2025, the vertical farming market is expected to reach $10 billion, with a growth rate of around 21% each year until then. An Overview of Commodity Trends: According to the FAO's latest Food Outlook, which contains forecasts for production, trade, and utilization of the world's most important basic foodstuffs, production will likely increase across many categories, including rice, grains, oils, milk, sugar, meat, and fish products. Despite last season's record wheat output, it may fall this season. FAO reports that the International trade is expected to drop by 4.3% in volume terms to 53.6 million tonnes in 2023/24 as world rice production increases by 1.3% to 523.5 million tonnes. During 2023, world wheat production is expected to decline by 3.0 percent from it's all-time high of 777 million tonnes in 2022, primarily due to decreases in the Russian Federation and Australia, which registered record outputs in 2018.  Overall, taking swift and decisive action and investing the right amount of money is essential to sustaining the planet and living sustainably. The year 2023 could very well be our make-or-break year. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1381/vietnam-prepares-for-23rd-international-agriculture-exhibition-agroviet-2023.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1381/vietnam-prepares-for-23rd-international-agriculture-exhibition-agroviet-2023.html Mon, 11 Sep 2023 07:44:00 +0530 Hanoi to host with the theme "Connecting the value chain, developing ecological and sustainable agriculture" from September 14 to 17, 2023 Vietnam’s Hanoi Agricultural Trade Promotion Center is introducing the 23rd International Agricultural Exhibition (AgroViet 2023) to be held in Hanoi from 14-17 Sep. The platform will facilitate international economic exchange cooperation, promote brands, products, trade transactions, honor agricultural, forestry, and fishery products and OCOP products, high quality agricultural specialties of localities throughout the country. The forum will be an opportunity for businesses and cooperatives to consolidate and exploit the domestic and export markets. Nguyen Minh Tien, Director of the Center for Agricultural Trade Promotion, said “The 23rd International Agricultural Exhibition is an important annual trade promotion activity organized by the Ministry of Agriculture. Agriculture and Rural Development directs the Agricultural Trade Promotion Center to organize from September 14 to 17, 2023, to promote and expand international economic exchange cooperation, brand promotion, products, trade transactions, honoring high-quality agricultural, forestry, and fishery products, OCOP products, and agricultural specialties of localities throughout the country; This is also an opportunity for businesses and cooperatives to consolidate and exploit domestic and export markets. Within the framework of the Fair, thematic seminars will take place in both live and online formats. Specifically, the Workshop on Green and Sustainable Agricultural Development associated with the rural tourism model; Workshop on "Propaganda and promotion of consumption of typical products and specialties in mountainous, remote and island areas on the e-commerce platform in 2023"; Organize trade conferences between Vietnamese and foreign businesses. Agroviet 2023 will have nearly 200 domestic and international exhibitors with businesses from China, Korea, Australia, Russia and 45 localities across the country such as Hanoi, City. Ho Chi Minh, Ca Mau, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Kien Giang, Soc Trang, Ben Tre, Tien Giang, Dak Nong, Lam Dong, Quang Ngai, Dong Thap, Lao Cai, Hai Phong, Son La, Yen Bai, Thailand Nguyen, Cao Bang, Tuyen Quang, Quang Ninh. The exhibition will feature agricultural and food products from Australia, including abalone, olive oil, Manuka honey, native flower honey, as well as Chinese fresh flowers, vegetables, and fruits. There will also be cheese, butter, sunflower oil, tumblers, wooden dolls, and souvenirs from the Russian Federation. Also a line of Korean sensor technology, such as: sugar content meter, generator, will be displayed at the exhibition in order to promote mechanization in production. In addition, the exhibition will showcase Image sensor technology that detects abnormalities inside fruits and vegetables without having to cut them, using color and shape to classify them. A wide variety of technological agricultural machines and equipment from China, such as refrigeration and insulation equipment, livestock and poultry dryer equipment, electric three-wheeled vehicles, forklifts, excavators, generators, and electric sprayers will also be the event highlights. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1310/philippines-invests-p80-million-to-construct-onion-cold-storage-facilities-in-occmdo.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1310/philippines-invests-p80-million-to-construct-onion-cold-storage-facilities-in-occmdo.html Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:00:53 +0530 Onion cold storage facilities have a capacity of 20,000 onion bags each with a total cost of P40 million per facility. The Department of Agriculture (DA) Mimaropa together with the Local Governments in Occidental Mindoro holds its groundbreaking ceremonies to mark the start of the construction of onion cold storage facilities in the municipalities of Rizal and Sablayan. This project aims to help onion farmers to properly store their produce and maintain its quality before being sold or released to the market. The project is part of the program of the Department of Agriculture under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen food security by having an adequate supply and adequate price of food. The new onion cold storage facilities will have a capacity of 20,000 onion bags each with a total cost of P40 million per facility. The funding from the High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) was granted to the Salvacion United Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SUFMPC) in Rizal and Samahang Gumagawa Tungong Tagumpay Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SAGUTT MPC) in Sablayan. Philippines is working towards exporting onions to other countries. following the mandate of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.--Abundant Agriculture! Prosperous Economy! The cooperative organizations is expected to strengthen due to this provision. DA Mimaropa Regional Executive Director Engr. Maria Christine C. Inting also encourages the farmers to improve its onion cultivation for preparation of the Philippines’ exportation to other countries. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1309/eu-and-new-zealands-free-trade-agreement-fta-to-build-robust-sustainable-agri-business.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1309/eu-and-new-zealands-free-trade-agreement-fta-to-build-robust-sustainable-agri-business.html Fri, 18 Aug 2023 10:33:05 +0530 Key to reducing agricultural emissions by building efficiency; New Zealand's blue print to foster Horticulture sector New Zealand’s government has an ambitious plan for its agricultural sector to be “the world’s most sustainable provider of high-value food and fiber products.” The roadmap for the sector includes targets such as adding $44 billion to food and fiber exports by 2030 while slashing sector emissions by 10 %.  New Zealand’s sustainability commitments also provided the basis for a robust free trade agreement with the European Union that aims to improve the sustainability of both New Zealand and EU food systems.  The deal was signed in July 2023 and includes standards for climate impact, labor and gender equity, as well as subsidy provisions for sustainable fisheries.  Trade between the EU and New Zealand is projected to grow by 30% as a result of the agreement, according to the European Commission.  EU and New Zealand free trade agreement (FTA), will deliver significant gains for the EU. The deal will cut some €140 million a year in duties for EU companies from the first year of application. As a result, bilateral trade is expected to grow by up to 30% within a decade, with EU annual exports potentially growing by up to €4.5 billion. EU investment into New Zealand has a potential to grow by up to 80%. This landmark agreement also includes unprecedented sustainability commitments. The agreement is now sent to the European Parliament for its consent. Following the completion of the ratification process in both the EU and New Zealand, the deal enters into force. The EU-New Zealand FTA will provide new opportunities for businesses by: eliminating all tariffs on EU exports to New Zealand ensuring non-discriminatory treatment to EU investors in New Zealand and vice versa improving access for EU companies to New Zealand government procurement contracts for goods, services, works and works concessions facilitating data flows, predictable and transparent rules for digital trade and secure online environment for consumers; preventing unjustified data localisation requirements and maintaining high standards of personal data protection; dedicating chapter to assist Small and medium businesses to export more  significantly reducing compliance requirements and procedures to allow for quicker flow of goods significant commitments by New Zealand to protect and enforce intellectual property rights, aligned with EU standards Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, says: “New Zealand is a key partner for us in the Indo-Pacific region, and this free trade agreement will bring us even closer together. With today's signature, we have taken an important step in making the agreement a reality. This modern free trade agreement brings major opportunities for our companies, our farmers and our consumers, on both sides. With unprecedented social and climate commitments, it drives just and green growth while reinforcing Europe's economic security". The EU-New Zealand FTA is the first one to integrate the EU's new approach to trade and sustainable development announced in the Communication “The power of trade partnerships: together for green and just economic growth”, For the first time ever in an EU free trade agreement, the deal has a dedicated sustainable food systems chapter. Stimulating agri-food exports by EU trade EU farmers will have much better opportunities to sell their produce in New Zealand immediately upon application of the agreement. Tariffs will be eliminated as of day one on key EU exports such as, wine and sparkling wine, chocolate, sugar confectionary and biscuits. EU farmers will see benefits beyond the tariff cuts. The FTA will protect the full list of EU wines and spirits (close to 2,000 names) such as Prosecco, Polish Vodka, Rioja, Champagne and Tokaji. In addition, 163 of the most renowned traditional EU products (Geographical Indications), such as Asiago, Feta, Comté or Queso Manchego cheeses, Istarski pršut ham, Lübecker Marzipan, Elia Kalamatas olives will be protected in New Zealand. The agreement takes into account the interests of EU producers of sensitive agricultural products: several dairy products, meat, ethanol and sweetcorn. For these sectors, there will be no liberalisation of trade. Instead, the agreement will allow zero or lower tariff imports from New Zealand only in limited amounts (through so-called Tariff Rate Quotas). Boost to Horticulture sector: Future of regenerative agriculture across New Zealand farms New Zeeland is the sixth largest global exporter of wine by value; Kiwifruit are New Zeeland's biggest horticultural crop by economic value. Wine grapes are New Zealand’s largest horticultural crop by area. And almost all wine in New Zealand comes from farms that participate in "Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand", an industry-wide certification program. The program covers all aspects of sustainability, from climate to chemical use to labor rights for workers.  New Zealand has a strong culture in wine grape cultivation, and maintains a vineyard with around 16 different species that are under the vineyards. New Zealand wine exports have surged to new record levels with their largest ever one-year growth, lifting 25% in value to NZD$2.4 billion (about $1.5 billion). New Zealand grows wine grapes using regenerative methods such as intercropping, the practice of growing cover crops between rows of cash crops, and composting, using the spent grape skins from the winery to mulch the vines.  The New Zealand wine sector has set sustainability goals that are critical to the future success of the industry. New Zealand wine is differentiated by the country’s cool climate and water supply, meaning that working to mitigate climate change is in the best interest of vintners and other industry stakeholders. Research is currently underway to identify vines resilient to disease and pest pressure and that are more drought tolerant, says Edwin Massey, general manager sustainability for New Zealand Winegrowers, the national organization for the country's grape and wine sector Strong consumer demand for sustainably certified wines is growing in New Zeeland. Having a robust sustainability certification process helps assure these consumers that New Zealand wine is the right choice for them. Although New Zealand produces less than 2 % of global supply, the country is now the sixth largest exporter of wine by value. Similarly, while wine grapes are New Zealand’s biggest horticultural crop by area, kiwifruit are its biggest horticultural crop by economic value. Kiwifruit is a $2.6 billion sector in New Zealand, with most of the farms found in the Bay of Plenty. Zespri is the marketer for the country’s kiwifruit industry and handles exportation, marketing, and distribution of New Zealand kiwis to over 50 countries worldwide, including the U.S. New Zealand kiwifruit production increased by close to 70 percent between 2010 and 2019, and at the same time, the industry improved efficiencies on-farm and in packing and shipping that accounted for a 24 percent drop in greenhouse gas emissions.  On Orchard, Zespri has developed research and development partnerships to better grow and promote regenerative and sustainable farming practices in the kiwifruit and apple sectors. “Over the next five years, we’re looking to test the regenerative concept in three kiwifruit and three apple orchards, using a specific combination of soil, water and biodiversity management practices, comprehensive monitoring of critical ecosystem services, and undertaking an economic analysis of the results,” Depree explained. Zespri is also working in partnership with key leaders in New Zealand’s primary sectors to prepare for the impacts of climate change and manage biodiversity risks. It also set long-term sustainability goals that account for the priorities of customers, growers and other stakeholders, in packaging, water, climate change, health and wellbeing and community investment.   ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1290/china-to-remove-the-antidumping-ad-and-countervailing-duties-cvd-imposed-on-australian-barley-exports-to-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1290/china-to-remove-the-antidumping-ad-and-countervailing-duties-cvd-imposed-on-australian-barley-exports-to-china.html Mon, 14 Aug 2023 11:15:00 +0530 Australia’s barley exports to China peaked at 6.3 million tonnes in 2016-17 before falling to negligible levels once the duties were imposed in 2020. The Australian grains industry applauds China's decision to remove the Antidumping (AD) and Countervailing Duties (CVD) imposed on Australian barley exports to China.  Grain Trade Australia (GTA) CEO Pat O’Shannassy said “China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) have determined that due to a change in industry circumstances that lifting the AD and CVD duties would be the public interest. In resuming the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between China's barley industry and Australia's, this announcement is a significant step forward”. “Australia has always been trying to resolve the barley dispute is in the beneficial interests of both China and Australia, and respective industries. Australian industry has respected and engaged fully with the processes under the dispute, and we look forward to and naturally welcome such an amicable resolution” said O’Shannassy.  “China has historically had a very important export market for barley from Australia over many decades, with very strong customer relationships and considerable cooperation between industry partners in plant breeding and technical support to meet China’s needs” added O’Shannassy.  Australia’s barley exports to China peaked at 6.3 million tonnes in 2016-17 before falling to negligible levels once the duties were imposed in 2020. The decision is expected to enable mutual trade relationships and exports to resume.  “We would expect the industry in China and Australia to positively respond, now this agreement has been reached between the respective Governments” said O’Shannassy. Australian industry will also remain actively engaged with the other markets that have been importing Australian barley, at both a technical and commercial level” added O’Shannassy. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1279/vietnam-to-strengthen-agri-dairy-and-fisheries-commodities-trade-with-belarus.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1279/vietnam-to-strengthen-agri-dairy-and-fisheries-commodities-trade-with-belarus.html Wed, 09 Aug 2023 11:15:07 +0530 The total bilateral trade turnover between Vietnam and Belarus expected to reach $113.9 million by 2023 end Vietnam's Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien held a discussion cooperation activities regarding economic and trade cooperation, according to statistics of Vietnam Customs, the total bilateral trade turnover between Vietnam and Belarus in 2023 is expected to reach $113.9 million, In 2022, Vietnam's agricultural, forestry and fishery exports reached more than $53 billion and export to more than 200 countries and territories. The main agricultural products Vietnam exports to Belarus include: seafood, rice, cassava, cashew nuts, and tea.  Seafood is another strong agricultural products of of Vietnam accounting for a high proportion of Vietnam's export structure to Belarus. There are 54 Vietnamese seafood processing establishments that are allowed to export seafood to the Eurasian Economic Union (Belarus is a member of this Union). Currently, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has licensed Belarus to export milk/dairy products.    Nguyen Van Long, Director of the Department of Animal Health, suggested that Vietnam and Belarus need to develop a cooperation agreement on veterinary medicine to promote trade in livestock products between the two countries.  This agreement will cover five issues like; Cooperation to better understand the veterinary capacity of each country, thereby resolving issues related to trade in animal products Cooperate to ensure products come from disease-free areas as required by the World Organization for Animal Health Cooperation on veterinary hygiene and food safety Unify measures on animal quarantine Exchange of information between the two veterinary agencies of the two countries to serve as a basis for solving related issues. Ambassador of Belarus to Vietnam Uladzimir Baravikou said "Vietnam and Belarus have a long historical relationship. Uladzimir Baravikou hoped that the two countries would make efforts to promote closer cooperation. Regarding trade in agricultural products, in the coming time, trade procedures and barriers should be removed". ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1270/korea-and-brazil-agreed-to-promote-the-bilateral-cooperation-for-sustainable-agriculture.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1270/korea-and-brazil-agreed-to-promote-the-bilateral-cooperation-for-sustainable-agriculture.html Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:15:32 +0530 Negotiated cooperation in the food supply chain between the two countries and in smart agriculture Hwang keun of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs of the Republic of Korea had a bilateral meeting with Minister Carlos Henrique Baqueta Fávaro of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of Brazil in Sejong discussed ways of cooperation in the food supply chain between the two countries and in smart agriculture.  Minister Chung highlighted its partnership with Brazil's stable grain export amid growing uncertainties over international grain supply due to climate change, COVID-19 and Russian aggression against Ukraine last year. Minister Chung asked for Brazil's cooperation so that agri-food exchange between the two countries can continue without export restrictions.  Brazil is the 2nd largest importer of Korea's beans and corns. In addition, Minister Chung explained the importance of transition into smart agriculture to promote sustainable agriculture in a situation where stable food production is under threat due to recent climate change and the aging rural population and asked for the exchange of information and cooperation regarding smart agriculture between the two countries.  Minister Fávaro agreed to the importance of cooperation of the international community for food security and bilateral cooperation between Korea and Brazil in terms of innovation of agricultural technologies and wished a close exchange and cooperation between the quarantine authorities of the two countries to enable safe and stable agri-food trade in response to animal diseases.  Minister Chung explored interest and cooperation of Brazil to further accelerate export procedures of Korean strawberries to Brazil as a long term interest since 2017. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1266/australian-ramps-up-agri-trade-relationships-with-asian-international-markets.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1266/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/143/1264/the-asian-shrimp-industry-may-face-the-most-difficult-period-between-now-and-the-end-of-2023.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1264/the-asian-shrimp-industry-may-face-the-most-difficult-period-between-now-and-the-end-of-2023.html Fri, 04 Aug 2023 11:15:17 +0530 Indonesia, targeting the US market, cut production by 20% in the first half of 2023; Vietnam – selling to Europe and the US – cuts production by 20-30%; India imports of broodstock have decreased by 40% The second half of 2023 could be “the most challenging period for the global aquaculture industry since the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020”, while for the shrimp industry, this could be the most difficult period. worst since the EMS outbreak in 2011. In its latest outlook for the second half of 2023, Rabobank forecasts a continued low shrimp price, combined with a reduction in fishmeal supplies, due to a decline in forage fishery production related to El Nino, will make profit margins extremely tight in the aquaculture value chain, with shrimp farmers likely to be hardest hit. The report notes, shrimp demand in the US and Europe has dropped sharply in the past 6 months due to inflation and economic recession. Meanwhile, in China - which was expected to soar following the recent lifting of lockdown restrictions - has not recovered as much as anticipated, leaving suppliers stuck with stockpiled inventories. . Rabobank predicts that prices are likely to fall further, as demand from China continues to decline, combined with continued growth in Ecuadorian production, and the report suggests that the Asian shrimp industry could face with the toughest period since an outbreak of early mortality syndrome (EMS) began to hit the region in 2011. In Asia, according to the report, “virtually the entire industry is operating at a loss per kilogram sold". This is the worst year since 2020 due to falling demand. China prop up the world in late 2022 and Q1 2023, but it turns out the Chinese spent less than anticipated. The economy is not opening up as fast as we thought and they are experiencing deflation. What is really worrying is that retail items are flat, which is hindering the recovery in demand in Europe and North America” the report's lead author, Gorjan Nikolik, explained. As a result, producers – especially in Asia – are drastically reducing their investment in broodstock and postlarvae. “Indonesia, targeting the US market, cut production by 20% in the first half of 2023; Vietnam – selling to Europe and the US – cuts production by 20-30%; India has not reduced production – it seems they did not receive timely notice, but now imports of broodstock have decreased by 40% – this could mean a drop in Indian shrimp production. in the second half of the year,” noted Nikolik. The continued growth of production in Ecuador is up by 19% year-on-year in the first half of the year is driving down farm shrimp prices worldwide. “Ecuador created most of the oversupply: because they didn't experience a drop in the first half of the year, because 70% of their supply went to China, they are still growing. Finally, they are reducing the growth rate, from 25% to 12%, but it is still growing and Ecuador will probably record 12-15% growth this year compared to last year. The nightmare scenario [for Asian producers is that Ecuador will start targeting the European and US markets, rather than relying on China," explains Nikolik. Ecuadorian producers are seeing prices drop and realize they can't pump more into the market. If retailers reduce the price of Ecuadorian and Indian produce, that could improve things, but it will be very difficult and most of the sector will lose money. However, according to Nikolik, it is likely that things will improve - but not until 2024. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1262/opportunities-for-u-s-agricultural-and-dairy-products-in-singapore.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1262/opportunities-for-u-s-agricultural-and-dairy-products-in-singapore.html Fri, 04 Aug 2023 10:20:25 +0530 Singapore imports more than 90% of its food and has a diverse, competitive array of trading partners. The United States and Singapore have a long-standing free trade agreement (FTA), and Singapore is a well-developed market for high-quality food and agricultural products. In 2022, the United States exported $1.4 billion worth of agricultural products to Singapore. The United States’ top agricultural exports to Singapore in 2022 were largely consumer-oriented products such as food preparations, dairy products, meat and meat products, potatoes, fresh fruit, and confectionary products. These and other consumer-oriented products, such as alcoholic beverages and pet food, have the potential for increased market share. Consumers in Singapore are affluent, technically savvy, and interested in healthy and innovative foodstuffs. Macroeconomic Perspective Singapore is a high-income country with a per capita gross domestic product (GDP) of $91,100 in 2022 and a population of about 5.7 million. Despite strong economic performance in 2021, Singapore’s economic growth slowed in 2022 to real GDP growth of 3.6 % (it was 8.9 % in 2021), while the average growth rate for the Asia-Pacific region was 4 %, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The slowdown is expected to continue, with the average annual rate of real growth for 2022-2027 forecasted at 2.1 %, according to Euromonitor. In 2023, the IMF expects the annual inflation rate based on average consumer prices to drop to 5.8 % from 6.1 % in 2022. Due to its importance as a regional hub, many multinational companies have their Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore, including processed food companies and commodity traders. Consumption Trends and Market Drivers Singapore is very dependent on imports for food due to its small geographical size, which constrains agricultural activities. In 2022, according to Euromonitor, food and non-alcoholic beverages saw some of the largest price increases compared to other product categories due to inflationary pressures. Euromonitor research found that consumers flocked to convenient, modern supermarkets and hypermarkets during the pandemic and in the face of inflationary pressures, as these outlets offered cheaper private-label brands and lower prices due to close relationships with suppliers. Singapore is a tech-savvy and innovative market. According to Euromonitor, as of 2022, 94 % of the population uses the internet, and 42 % use it to buy and sell goods and services, with 59 % of businesses placing and receiving orders online and grocery e-commerce sales growing nearly 30 % between 2017 and 2022. Key buyers of agricultural products include food and beverage companies, pet food and animal feed companies, and the textile and leather industries. Products with double-digit year-over-year growth in 2021 included meat and dairy products and textile and leather products, according to Euromonitor. Despite having a diverse array of trading partners, Singapore’s food imports can be adversely affected by those partners’ production and trade policies. For example, in 2022, Malaysia banned chicken exports due to domestic supply issues, and bad weather affected Malaysia’s vegetable crop yields, which in turn spiked food prices in Singapore. Trade Policy Singapore has 27 FTAs, including regional agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. The U.S.-Singapore FTA has been in place since 2004. Singapore is an active member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and Codex Alimentarius fora, as well as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. In 2022, according to Euromonitor, Singapore ranked first out of 184 countries on the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and stood first as part of the IEF Trade Freedom Pillar, highlighting its favorable trade environment, free-market principles, and low- and non-tariff barriers. Singapore has a national strategy to promote food security, develop new agricultural technologies, and support the agri-food sector via its Agri-Food Cluster Transformation Fund. Singapore has robust intellectual property regulations and is a member of the World Trade Organization. Prospects for U.S. Agricultural Exports Dairy Products U.S. dairy product exports to Singapore in 2022 grew 17 % and reached an all-time value record of $116 million, consisting of milk albumin and whey protein, dry milk powder, lactose, cheese, and other products. Singapore imported a total of $1.3 billion worth of dairy products in 2022 from all sources, with the top five suppliers being New Zealand, the European Union, Australia, the United States, and Thailand. According to Trade Data Monitor, the United States’ market share grew to 9 % in 2022, up from just less than 7 % 5 years ago, when Singapore’s total dairy product imports were just more than $1 billion. According to Euromonitor, upscale supermarket brands market a large range of international cheeses and yogurts, and private labels are capitalizing on demand for essentials like butter. The total consumption value of dairy products in 2021 was more than $3.5 billion. The dairy product import market is competitive, with only one company, Malaysia Dairy Industries, carving out a 10 % share. There is competition from plant-based alternatives, but Euromonitor anticipates rising demand for products like butter and condensed/evaporated milk through foodservice channels. U.S. agricultural exports are well positioned in Singapore. Consumer-oriented products are likely to see continued demand growth as tourism continues to ramp up and affluent consumers frequent foodservice and grocery outlets. Singapore consumers and businesses also continue to utilize e-commerce channels.  ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1249/malaysias-palm-oil-prices-expected-to-surge-above-rm4300-in-2024-says-mpoc.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1249/malaysias-palm-oil-prices-expected-to-surge-above-rm4300-in-2024-says-mpoc.html Wed, 02 Aug 2023 09:38:03 +0530 Malaysia became the world’s second-largest producer during the first half of 2023 Malaysia’s state agency Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) spokesperson stated in a recent public interaction that the crude palm oil prices in Malaysia is predicted to trade at RM3,700 to RM4,200 a metric ton in the second half of 2023, and expected to remain supported in the long term.  MPOC deputy director Mohd Izham Hassan explained that, by 2024 there is a strong possibility that prices may rise above RM4,300 a metric ton. A number of market uncertainties have contributed to this, including those surrounding the supply of Black Sea sunflower oil and Malaysia's palm oil production, which has remained below expectations. Malaysia reported to be the world’s second-largest palm oil producer during the first half of 2023 which was nearly 3% lower than in the same period last year. So far this year, Malaysia's benchmark crude palm oil futures have declined 7%. In July, traders weighed a decline in rival soft oil prices and supply concerns as they traded around RM3,882. MPOC deputy director forecast largest buyers from India and China to import a combined total of 16.5 million tonnes of palm oil by December 2023, up from 15 million tonnes in 2022. He foresees higher demand for palm oil from ASEAN and MENA due to insufficient domestic production and competitive price of palm oil in those regions. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1237/thailand-evaluates-dairy-farming-practices-to-ensure-continuity-of-raw-milk-supplies.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1237/thailand-evaluates-dairy-farming-practices-to-ensure-continuity-of-raw-milk-supplies.html Mon, 31 Jul 2023 11:15:00 +0530 Recent turbulence in Thailand's Dairy industry might create raw milk shortages affecting domestic market demand as well as concerns over rising production costs A meeting with agencies and representatives to discuss raw milk shortage concerns in Thailand was chaired on July 27 by Thailand's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mananya Thaiset. Wisit Srisuwan, Director-General of the Department of Cooperative Promotion, Veterinarian Praphas Pinyocheep, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development, Somporn Srimuang, Director of the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand (DPO) was at the forum to discuss the concerns. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives discussed the issue of raw milk shortages that negatively affected domestic market demand as well as concerns over rising production costs. Minister Thaiset confirmed that there is still a continuous purchase of raw milk from the DPO and the private sector without any cessation of milk purchase. However, it was found that the total production of raw milk in the country is currently reduced to about 2,700 tons/day attributed to the seasonal changes. The amount of milk will increase at the end of the year when winter starts. Compared to last year when dairy farmers quit and turned to other occupations, there is a need for at least 3,100 tons/day. The need for use of dairy products has increased by about 400 tons compared to the same period last year, when some dairy farmers quit and pursued other careers. As a result, the number of dairy cows in the system decreased.  Currently, raw milk is highly demanded by entrepreneurs in the dairy industry. In this regard, she urged relevant agencies to consult with all sectors. To avoid affecting the amount of milk used in the supplementary food (milk) school project, which requires about 1,000 tons of milk per day. For Thai people to have food security (milk) in the future, more dairy cows must be encouraged and dairy farmers must be promoted to be Smart Farmers with more business-oriented dairy farming to meet market demands that continue to rise. In addition, in the future, more dairy cows must be encouraged. and to accelerate the promotion of dairy farmers to become Smart Farmers, with more business-oriented dairy farming to meet market demands that tend to increase continuously As well as to provide food security (milk) for Thai people. During the discussions at the meeting, it was found that The number of dairy farmers declined due to the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic and the situation of higher feed prices in the world market. Including the dairy farming style of small farmers in Thailand who raise a variety of cows on their own farms, including lactating cows, non-lactating cows, young cows, heifers, non-mixed cows, known as free-feeding cows. which is an additional cost that farmers have to bear resulting in decreased farm income. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1240/searca-to-strengthen-collaboration-in-asia-to-support-agri-industry-needs.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1240/searca-to-strengthen-collaboration-in-asia-to-support-agri-industry-needs.html Mon, 31 Jul 2023 11:08:39 +0530 Reinforces call for HEIs The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) reinforced its call for higher education institutions (HEIs) to strengthen link with industry needs during the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) Regional Training Center (RETRAC) International Conference on 13-14 July 2023. On behalf of SEARCA, Deputy Director for Programs Dr. Nur Azura Adam presented a conference paper titled, Reshaping Instruction, Research, and Development for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Southeast Asia. Taking off from a pandemic scenario, Dr. Nur underscored the role of universities in producing graduates with a transformative mindset and deep understanding of complex social concerns, particularly in the context of food and agriculture. She advocated SEARCA's initiatives under the Academe-Industry-Government (AIG) Interconnectivity Model which emphasized sharing human and financial resources to strengthen the linkage between basic and applied research and industry needs. She further suggested that agriculture and allied program curriculums be aligned with industry needs. The Malaysian deputy director also cited the Southeast Asian University Consortium for Graduate Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC) as an example of an effective network facilitating the free exchange of information, resources, and expertise among top HEIs. Initiated by SEARCA and launched in 1989, the UC stands today with a strong link of universities in Southeast Asia, Japan, Taiwan, Canada, and Germany. It has been essential to SEARCA's mission to develop the next generation of agriculture leaders and professionals. RETRAC, a sister center of SEARCA under SEAMEO, has the mandate to assist SEAMEO member countries in identifying and addressing education, leadership, and management issues. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1236/philippines-and-brunei-discuss-on-agri-trade-prospects.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1236/philippines-and-brunei-discuss-on-agri-trade-prospects.html Fri, 28 Jul 2023 11:03:24 +0530 Philippines will be exploring heightened production and export opportunities for local Jasmine and sticky rice variants between 2024 and 2025 To help Brunei with its increasing demand for rice, the Philippines will be exploring heightened production and export opportunities for local Jasmine and sticky rice variants between 2024 and 2025. A year before the 40th anniversary of the dynamic diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam, Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) Senior Undersecretary and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Megawati Manan exchanged valuable insights on potential agricultural trade opportunities between the two countries, July 26. The two officials also looked at scholarship opportunities and collaborative hybrid rice research at the Universiti Teknologi Brunei – Center for Research on AgriFood Science and Technology (CrAFT), which is the sole research center for agriculture, food science, and nutrition in Brunei. DA Senior Undersecretary Panganiban proposed the export and promotion of Philippine coconut peat, coconut oil, sweet corn, cacao, pineapples, mangos, avocados, durian, fishery products, and poultry products to Brunei markets, especially through the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). Launched in 1994, the BIMP-EAGA initiative aims to enhance trade, industries, investments, tourism, and socio-cultural exchange by means of newly-established intra-region shipping routes, air links, and power interconnection projects. On the other hand, Ambassador Manan laid out possibilities of exporting Halal beef, lamb, and other meat products to the Philippines as well as opening Brunei to Filipino industries as a production hub of Halal products. The two countries also explored the possibility of renewing the Memorandum of Understanding on Food Security and Cultural Cooperation, which was signed in 2011 and had expired in 2016. The said document manifested the spirited collaboration between the Philippines and Brunei towards the realization of the food basket initiatives of the BIMP-EAGA as well as the development of the agriculture, fisheries, food processing and Halal industries in both countries ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1235/japan-vietnam-deepen-bilateral-cooperation-on-trade-promotion-technology-transfer-logistics-in-agro-forestry-fishery.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1235/japan-vietnam-deepen-bilateral-cooperation-on-trade-promotion-technology-transfer-logistics-in-agro-forestry-fishery.html Fri, 28 Jul 2023 10:51:12 +0530 Japan - Vietnam Friendship Parliamentary Alliance leverages on three major strategies to strengthen bilateral relationships The Vietnam-Japan Friendship Parliamentary Alliance met with the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Thanh Nam on 26 July. "Currently, Vietnam is implementing the Strategy for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision to 2050 with three pillars of ecological agriculture, modern rural areas, and civilized farmers. Therefore, in the coming time, we will strongly implement a high-quality human resource training program, taking the Japanese model as a typical model," said Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam. Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam shared three issues that Vietnam's agricultural sector would like to coordinate with Japan. Desire to cooperate with Vietnam Japan University to train high-quality human resources in agriculture. Bilateral trade promotion, technology transfer of agro-forestry-fishery and logistics in agriculture to respond to market signals Creating links, exchanging and learning experiences on cooperatives between the two sides. The cooperation between Vietnam and Japan will train human resources who can ensure that agricultural production meets international quality standards. The Minister emphasized cooperation among Vietnam universities under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development with Japanese schools. Japan’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Tsutomu Takebe emphasized the importance of coordination and cooperation between Vietnam and Japan, especially in the field of smart agriculture and technology, food processing amid the global food security imbalance. Minister Tsutomu Takebe, appreciating the supporting models of field training schools, recommended the collaboration between two countries to cooperate in training high-quality human resources in the agricultural sector.  "Vietnam has about 20,000 cooperatives ready to exchange experiences, proceed to organize annual cooperation programs in the field of agriculture with the Japanese side," said the Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam. Vietnam's agricultural industry generates more than $53.2 billion in export turnover of agricultural products to 196 countries around the world with 10 commodity groups with a turnover of $10 million exports from $1 billion or more, of which 5 items are fruit, cashew nut, coffee, shrimp, wooden furniture, achieving export turnover of over $3 billion. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1226/laos-vietnam-cooperate-to-improve-exported-rubber-quality.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1226/laos-vietnam-cooperate-to-improve-exported-rubber-quality.html Wed, 26 Jul 2023 00:07:13 +0530 Inks MoU to foster sustainable development of the rubber industry bilaterally Chairman of Vietnam Rubber Association Trần Ngọc Thuận and his Lao counterpart Bounthong Buahom signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on boosting the sustainable development of the rubber industry in the two countries. The two sides also agreed that the Lao Rubber Association should strengthen support and attract more rubber processors to meet export requirements for Vietnam and other countries. Accordingly, the two associations will share experiences and support Vietnamese rubber companies that are operating in Laos to become qualified for sustainable development certifications. They will also boost cooperation in agreed areas for mutual benefit. Rubber is one of the top foreign currency earners of Laos, bringing in over $650 million for the country in 2022. To date, Laos has about 300,000ha of rubber, 46 per cent of which is operated by foreign companies under concession agreements, 24 per cent by cooperation agreements with individuals, and 30 per cent by local people. About 85 % of the total rubber trees in the country can be harvested. The main rubber export markets of Laos are China and Vietnam. In Lao, all rubber produced in the country has been exported in raw form because there is no processing plant. The country does not apply any specific standards for rubber quality as it still has no laboratory to test and certify. Rubber is one of four major projects that the Lao Government included in its national socio-economic development plan for the 2016-21 period and a vision for 2025-30. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1218/usda-to-lead-an-agribusiness-trade-mission-to-malaysia-and-singapore.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1218/usda-to-lead-an-agribusiness-trade-mission-to-malaysia-and-singapore.html Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:54:36 +0530 USDA is accepting applications for Agribusiness Trade Mission to Southeast Asia The U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore Oct. 30-Nov. 3. USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service is now accepting applications from U.S. exporters who wish to participate in the trade mission. “Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia. These markets provide both a source of stability for American exports and a tremendous opportunity to further expand U.S. trade in the region,” Taylor said.  “Consumer demand for U.S. products in both Malaysia and Singapore are on the rise, making this agribusiness trade mission extremely timely. It gives U.S. exporters a wonderful opening to build and strengthen their relationships with local importers.” Trade mission participants will travel to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, connecting with key importers and learning first-hand from government and industry leaders about local market conditions. They will also take part in one-on-one meetings with potential customers and have the opportunity to visit local retail stores and food manufacturers to round out the program. Malaysia relies on imports of many key agricultural products, including wheat, rice, protein meal, dairy products, beef, and most deciduous and citrus fruits. U.S. agricultural and related products exports to Malaysia reached $1.13 billion in 2022. Consumer-oriented products represent nearly half of the total U.S. food and agriculture exports to Malaysia, reflecting growing consumer demand and the burgeoning food service sector. Other U.S. products, including soybeans, processed fruits and vegetables, tree nuts and prepared foods also remain popular in the country. Malaysia is a major food processing hub, re-exporting throughout Southeast Asia and beyond. Singapore is an important logistical hub, hosting headquarters for many key buyers of agricultural and food products in the Asia-Pacific region. U.S. agricultural exports to Singapore grew 190 percent from 2012 to 2022, reaching a record $1.4 billion in 2022. Small and highly urbanized, Singapore depends on food imports from a wide variety of suppliers. Singapore classifies as a high-income country, providing a sophisticated market for many U.S. consumer-oriented products ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1216/philippines-to-construct-first-border-inspection-facility-in-bulacan-to-certify-imported-agri-fishery-commodities.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1216/philippines-to-construct-first-border-inspection-facility-in-bulacan-to-certify-imported-agri-fishery-commodities.html Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:35:47 +0530 Signs MoU to establish Cold Examination Facility in Agriculture (CEFA) with state-of-the-art testing laboratories to quality check import commodities The Philippines Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to construct the country’s first border inspection facility on its property at General Alejo Santos Highway, Angat, Bulacan. The Department allotted P2.3-billion in its 2023 budget for the construction which would include hubs in Cebu and Davao. On July 20, the DA and Pacific Roadlink Logistics Inc. (PRLI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the establishment of the Cold Examination Facility in Agriculture (CEFA), which will house state-of-the-art testing laboratories for the examination of all imported animal, fish, plant, and other agricultural commodities.  The project is deemed to warrant the food safety for the general populace. The MOU signing was led by DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban, Senate Committee on Agriculture Chairperson Senator Cynthia A. Villar, House Committee on Agriculture Mark Enverga, and PRLI President Edgar Dominic Milla. Senator Villar announced that the national government will set aside budget for the construction of CEFA to other areas particularly in Southern Luzon. BAI and CEFA Project Director Paul Limson said the construction is expected to be finished within 6 to 8 months. The facility will initially function as a 24-hour Off-Dock Custom Facility to handle agricultural imports from the country’s two main ports: Port of Manila and Manila International Container Port. “We must continuously assert our vigilance in protecting industry from pests and diseases that pose serious threats to agricultural productivity in the country. This partnership is a testament of our commitment,” DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban said. The CEFA aims to strengthen the country’s capability to conduct first border inspections and improve its examination of containerized agricultural commodities. It also seeks to prevent proliferation of agricultural smuggling. Under the MOU, the PRLI allows the government to use for a maximum of 25 years, its 10-hectare land for the CEFA, which will include a laboratory, incinerator, container yard, and truck parking, among others. The facility will be operated by the DA’s Food Safety and Regulatory Agencies (FSRA): Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS). Apart from protecting livelihood and ensuring quality and safe food for Filipinos, the said facility is anticipated to create jobs and bring about economic transformation to the province of Bulacan. Once operational, the facility is expected to employ about 1,500-2,000 unskilled workers in the province. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1209/jollibee-group-foundation-to-promote-agri-fisheries-clustering-consolidation-in-philippines.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1209/jollibee-group-foundation-to-promote-agri-fisheries-clustering-consolidation-in-philippines.html Fri, 21 Jul 2023 11:16:06 +0530 Signs MoU to enhance farmers and fisherfolk access to markets that will enable them to increase their income In a bid to enhance farmers and fisherfolk access to markets that will enable them to increase their income and improve the quality of their lives, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on July 17, 2023, at the DA Central Office in Quezon City. In his message, DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban highlighted the important role of agri-fisheries clustering and consolidation and the Agro-Enterprise Clustering Approach (AECA) in achieving inclusive agricultural productivity in the country. “As you may know, clustering and consolidation is a top priority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Under his leadership, the Department of Agriculture is levelling up and pushing for strategies to achieve key milestones toward food sufficiency and security,” Senior Usec. Panganiban said. He added that one key measure in attaining these goals is the mainstreaming of Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) program in the DA Banner Programs and Operating Units, particularly the institutionalization of the AECA Course in the Department through the Philippine Rural Development Program Scale-Up. “We hope that through this strategy, we are contributing to the national goal of increasing the incomes of our farmers and ensuring that food is always available at the tables of every Filipino family,” he said. As a complement to the efforts of DA, Ma. Gisela Tiongson, President, and Executive Director of JGF, affirmed their commitment in advancing the interest and condition of small scale Filipino farmers and fisherfolk through various agro-enterprise capacity building activities in line with the F2C2 program. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1206/vietnam-malaysia-rethink-to-promote-bilateral-trade-and-investment-ties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1206/vietnam-malaysia-rethink-to-promote-bilateral-trade-and-investment-ties.html Fri, 21 Jul 2023 10:07:00 +0530 Vietnam and Malaysia must enhance cooperation to attract more investment within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote trade and investment between the two countries, according to Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. In ASEAN, Vietnam and Malaysia are major trading partners, with Malaysia ranking fourth for Vietnam, among other ASEAN member nations.  In FDI, Malaysia is Vietnam’s third biggest investor in the region, and with extensive potential opens greater possibilities for the two countries to strengthen their collaboration in both investment and trade, especially the export and import of agricultural and aquatic products. Minister Zafrul emphasized that Apart from agriculture, the two countries should cooperate in the green and digital economy in which both countries are extensively investing in, and urged them to prepare for accessing markets beyond the ASEAN region. Zafrul encouraged the two countries to collaborate on exporting Halal products not only to ASEAN but also to other markets. The minister expressed his belief that there are substantial cooperation opportunities for Vietnamese and Malaysian enterprises, saying health care and cosmetics would be taken into account, but agricultural products and food should be top priorities.  According to Zafrul, representatives from the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) will also visit Vietnam on this occasion. They are scheduled to hold working sessions with Vietnamese businesses that target exports to Malaysia. Malaysia hopes Vietnamese businesses will consider it the global hub for Halal product export, noting his ministry will host the annual Malaysia International Halal Showcase in September, with the participation of numerous domestic and foreign companies. Malaysia is Vietnam’s third biggest investor in the region, and further cooperation in export and import of agricultural and aquatic products can strengthen bilateral trade Vietnam and Malaysia must enhance cooperation to attract more investment within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote trade and investment between the two countries, according to Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. In ASEAN, Vietnam and Malaysia are major trading partners, with Malaysia ranking fourth for Vietnam, among other ASEAN member nations.  In FDI, Malaysia is Vietnam’s third biggest investor in the region, and with extensive potential opens greater possibilities for the two countries to strengthen their collaboration in both investment and trade, especially the export and import of agricultural and aquatic products. Minister Zafrul emphasized that Apart from agriculture, the two countries should cooperate in the green and digital economy in which both countries are extensively investing in, and urged them to prepare for accessing markets beyond the ASEAN region. Zafrul encouraged the two countries to collaborate on exporting Halal products not only to ASEAN but also to other markets. The minister expressed his belief that there are substantial cooperation opportunities for Vietnamese and Malaysian enterprises, saying health care and cosmetics would be taken into account, but agricultural products and food should be top priorities.  According to Zafrul, representatives from the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) will also visit Vietnam on this occasion. They are scheduled to hold working sessions with Vietnamese businesses that target exports to Malaysia. Malaysia hopes Vietnamese businesses will consider it the global hub for Halal product export, noting his ministry will host the annual Malaysia International Halal Showcase in September, with the participation of numerous domestic and foreign companies. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1207/australias-first-national-agricultural-traceability-strategy-to-protect-and-grow-agri-industry.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1207/australias-first-national-agricultural-traceability-strategy-to-protect-and-grow-agri-industry.html Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:06:00 +0530 Supports Australia’s agriculture industry’s goal of growing the sector to a AU$100 billion a year industry by 2030. Australia has proposed a ten year strategy to aid the agriculture sector. It also supports Australia’s agriculture industry’s goal of growing the sector to a AU$100 billion a year industry by 2030. The Strategy was officially launched on 13 July at the Agriculture Ministers Meeting (AMM) in Perth.  Government is investing over $100 million into Australia’s agricultural traceability systems with $55 million invested already this year, an investment that will pay dividends through trade while helping to protect Australia from biosecurity incursions. The 10-year Strategy will guide research, as well as industry and government investment to improve already strong systems, increase efficiencies, and deliver benefits to farmers. Traceability systems provide consumers and markets with information about the origin of their food and fiber. Landmark strategy will help protect and grow Australian agriculture. The National Agricultural Traceability Strategy was developed in 2022/23 through industry and government working together, with a wide range of stakeholders along agricultural supply chains, from producers to retailers. It was also informed by the National Traceability Summit and Working Group Sessions, industry design group sessions, the Australian Agricultural Traceability Alliance Forum, and a Have Your Say public survey. Agriculture ministers from across Australia have come together to deliver the country’s first National Agricultural Traceability Strategy, to protect and grow agriculture sector. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said “Better traceability systems help Australian farmers show where and how food was produced, bringing more value to their production. These systems also help our farmers adapt to changing trade relations, regulatory environments, biosecurity risks and consumer preferences. Modern national traceability system proves Australia’s credentials in areas like biosecurity, food safety and sustainability, in order to gain a market advantage for our producers”. He further added “It can help increase product value domestically and internationally and allows for produce movements to be tracked, in the event of a biosecurity outbreak. Traceability is a shared responsibility and I commend the states and territories and industry for coming together, in partnership with the Commonwealth, to undertake this important work”. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1194/vietnam-and-nebraska-to-launch-mutual-agri-trade-market.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1194/vietnam-and-nebraska-to-launch-mutual-agri-trade-market.html Wed, 19 Jul 2023 07:09:00 +0530 Collaborations to increase businesses investment and technology transfer in the fields of irrigation, livestock irrigation, cultivation and processing of agricultural products. Vietnam and the state of Nebraska began to have trade relations in the past 10 years. In 2020, 8 Vietnamese enterprises signed purchase agreements with US companies to import raw beef, wheat, cornmeal meal (DDGS), soybean meal, soybean meal, corn, and wood. Nebraska is an agricultural state. Specifically, according to statistics of the World Bank (World Bank), Nebraska is the number one supplier in the United States to Vietnam of all kinds of animal feed ingredients. In addition, the state's total export turnover to Vietnam reached $86.3 million in 2022, of which key commodities include soybeans (reaching $45 million in 2022), beef reaching $16.1 million in 2022. The Minister said that in the Strategy for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development for the period of 2021 - 2030, with a vision to 2050, the crop industry aims to renew the crop structure and implement the purpose management regime. use agricultural land more flexibly in order to take advantage of the strategic manufacturing industry to meet domestic demand and serve export. Prioritize the development of crops with comparative advantages and great demand (industrial crops, tropical fruit trees, high-quality rice...). Take appropriate steps to promote the development of promising new crops such as medicinal plants, ornamental plants, edible mushrooms... For the livestock industry, the strategy is to ensure the essential needs of food for the domestic market; developing potential products such as poultry meat, eggs, milk; maintain the raising of pigs and large cattle. Develop livestock, poultry, indigenous livestock, high-value specialties, ensure food safety, environmental sustainability, biosecurity, and disease. "We set a target by 2030 to maintain regularly 29-30 million pigs; 500-550 million poultry; over 14 million cattle (cow, dairy cow, buffalo, goat, sheep). Therefore, the demand is high. cooperation in investment and development of the livestock, slaughter and feed production industry is very large, this is a potential area for US businesses to be interested in learning about and cooperating with Vietnamese businesses. , bringing benefits to both sides," the minister said. The leader of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development said that Vietnam wants Nebraska businesses to increase investment and technology transfer in the fields of irrigation, livestock irrigation, cultivation and processing of agricultural products. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1189/korea-rok-and-japan-become-biggest-importers-of-vietnamese-wood-pellets.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1189/korea-rok-and-japan-become-biggest-importers-of-vietnamese-wood-pellets.html Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:13:51 +0530 Volume of wood pellets exported to the RoK reached 0.65 million tonnes, equivalent to $96.1 million in value The Republic of Korea (RoK) and Japan have become the biggest importers of Vietnamese wood pellets, accounting for over 95% of Vietnam’s total export of this product, according to the Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association.Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association. The wood pellets exported to the RoK are primarily made from by-products of the wood processing industry, such as sawdust, wood shavings, and leftover wood scraps. The exporters are mostly in the southeastern region where wood furniture factories are concentrated. As of June 2023, the volume of wood pellets exported to the RoK reached 0.65 million tonnes, equivalent to $96.1 million in value, representing a decrease of 41% in volume and 45% in value year-on-year. Meanwhile, the Japanese market has shown high stability in both volume and price. In January-May, Vietnam’s exports of wood pellets to Japan reached 0.87 million tonnes worth $151 million, down 5.7% in volume and up 19.7% in value annually. The orders received are mostly long-term contracts. The price of export to the RoK in June was only around $110 per tonne while that to Japan ranged from $145-165 per tonne. Japan requires pellets from domestically grown timber in forests with sustainable forest management certification (FSC). This source of raw material is mainly available in areas with a high concentration of planted forests in Vietnam, particularly in the central and northern regions. Vietnam has become the world’s second biggest manufacturer of wood pellets, only behind the US. From 2013-2022, the volume and value of Vietnam’s wood pellet exports increased by 28 and 34 times, respectively. According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, Vietnam exported 1.57 million tonnes of wood pellets valued at around $256.5 million in the first five months of this year. Exportation is currently on an upward trend. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1179/vietnam-reports-trade-surplus-12-26-b-in-2023-with-significant-contribution-from-agricultural-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1179/vietnam-reports-trade-surplus-12-26-b-in-2023-with-significant-contribution-from-agricultural-sector.html Fri, 14 Jul 2023 09:21:18 +0530 Rice ranks third in Vietnam's export value in the group of agricultural products. Rising demand for rice and higher prices are benefiting the country’s export as well as export enterprises in the industry. This makes stocks of rice exporters appealing investments. In the first half of 2023, Việt Nam posted a trade surplus of more than $12.26 billion, with a significant contribution from the agricultural sector, especially rice, according to the General Department of Vietnam Customs. It is estimated that the country’s rice export turnover reached $2.3 billion, an increase of 34.7 per cent year-on-year. Rice ranks third in export value in the group of agricultural products. Rice exports are estimated to climb 22.2 per cent over last year to 4.27 million tonnes. The positive performance was thanks to high demand in the global markets, especially from traditional importers such as the Philippines, China, and Indonesia. Moreover, rice production in India and Thailand is low as the effects of El Nino caused a reduction in yield.As a result, the abundant supply from the winter-spring season and high yield has met the market’s demand. Notably, Vietnamese rice prices are higher than that of Thailand and India. In June, the country’s 5 per cent broken rice was quoted at about $498 per tonne, while that of Thailand and India were $492 and $453 a tonne, respectively. Việt Nam’s 25% broken rice prices were $478, about $10 higher than Thailand’s rice and about $50 higher than India’s rice. The bullish trend continued in early July. Last week, Vietnamese 5 per cent broken rice was offered at $500 - $510 per tonne, according to statistics from Reuters. While many rice exporters have continuously received large orders, inventories of the winter-spring crop have depleted and traders are currently waiting for supplies from the summer-autumn crop.The recent report from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) expects that Việt Nam will continue to be the world’s largest rice exporter this year, with a volume of 7.2 million tonnes, up from 7.05 million tonnes in 2022. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1170/vietnam-becomes-largest-asean-trading-partner-of-cambodia.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1170/vietnam-becomes-largest-asean-trading-partner-of-cambodia.html Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:40:50 +0530 Bilateral trade reached  $2.8 billion in 2023 mainly by exporting rice, rubber, cashew nut, cassava, corn, banana, mango, tobacco, and natural resources Vietnam became the largest trading partner of Cambodia among members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as bilateral trade made up nearly 50% of the total between Cambodia and the countries in the first five months of 2023. During the five months, trade between the two countries topped $2.8 billion, rising nearly 3% from a year earlier. Cambodia exported about $1.3 billion worth of goods to and imported commodities totalling over $1.5 billion from Vietnam, said the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce as cited by sbm.news. With such positive trade growth, Vietnam was not only the biggest in ASEAN but also ranked third among all trading partners of Cambodia, after China and the US, during the period. The growth in Cambodia’s exports to Vietnam was mainly driven by the higher shipments of farm produce with increase in harvests. Its main exports include rice, rubber, cashew nut, cassava, corn, banana, mango, tobacco, and natural resources. Meanwhile, the main imports from Vietnam include construction materials, machinery, fuels, electrical and electronic devices, fertiliser, seasonings, vegetables, and fruits, the Cambodian newswire reported. Trade turnover between the two countries has risen continually in recent years, by an annual average of 18.5% during 2010 - 2015 and over 21% during 2015 - 2020. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam was also one of the top three trading partners of Cambodia, with bilateral trade surging over 79% from 2020 to $9.54 billion in 2021. In 2022, the figure stood at $10.57 billion, up nearly 11% from the previous year, data of the Cambodian Commerce Ministry showed. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1157/malaysian-prawn-industry-association-raises-concerns-due-to-weakening-biosecurity-laws.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1157/malaysian-prawn-industry-association-raises-concerns-due-to-weakening-biosecurity-laws.html Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:50:00 +0530 More than 3,000 prawn breeders were impacted by Thai and Indonesian prawn sales, according to Malaysian Prawn Industry Association chairman Syed Omar Syed Jaafar After stricter biosecurity laws were implemented overseas, Malaysian prawns are losing out to those from Indonesia and Thailand, according to Malaysian Prawn Industry Association chairman Syed Omar Syed Jaafar. As per the Chairman's recent statement to the national journal, over 3,000 prawn breeders in Malaysia have been affected by the sale of prawns from Thailand and Indonesia. In the Malaysian prawn market, the current operating costs significantly differ from selling price. Breeders are now suffering losses of 40% more than two months ago. Malaysia, produced about 48,000 metric tones of prawns, with the local demand at only around 36,000 metric tones.  “Two months ago, local prawns were still being sold at RM26 per kg but now, the market price has dropped to RM15 per kg. This is due to the influx of imported shrimps in the local market, especially from Thailand and Indonesia, which has caused the supply to exceed existing demand” explains the Chairman. “We export the rest to the international market. However, problems arose when the biosecurity laws of these countries, including Thailand, became stricter, making it difficult and time-consuming to obtain approval for entry, thus lowering the price of our shrimps” he adds. Chairman highlights that at the same time, Malaysia’s biosecurity law facilitates the entry of these imported prawns to the extent that it affects local prices, causing entrepreneurs to suffer losses. According to statements and reports, before 2000, the industry did not face any problem because Malaysian prawns fulfilled around 50% of the demand for prawns in Thailand. However, since the stricter enforcement of the biosecurity law, the industry has started to be affected Chairman Syed Omar urged the Malaysia government to tighten the country’s national biosecurity laws involving shrimps to be equivalent to those implemented by other countries. Statement by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry A statement issued by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry indicates it is prepared to assist prawn breeders after reports that sales have dropped more than 40 percent over the past two months as a result of the abundance of imported prawns.  Minister made the statement at the Penang Fama Fest 2023, at the Bukit Jambul Complex on 9 July. Its Deputy Minister Chan Foong Hin said the Fisheries Department and the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) ensured to help affected farmers in terms of marketing. They emphasized on improving competitiveness in local prawn breeders and to streamline sales mechanism Chan said the abundance of prawns from Thailand and Indonesia is an advantage to consumers because it allows them to buy prawns at a reasonable price because the supply exceeds demand. He said the government does not have any policies that prevent imported food supplies from entering the country since it practices free trade with regards to food supplies. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1155/livestock-aquaculture-philippines-2023-stimulates-best-agri-practices-innovations-services.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1155/livestock-aquaculture-philippines-2023-stimulates-best-agri-practices-innovations-services.html Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:36:00 +0530 The three-day international trade fair expo for the livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries convened more than 300 exhibitors and 10,000 farmers, fisherfolk, traders, buyers, experts, policy and decision makers, and industry stakeholders around the world The three-day expo, the largest international trade fair for the livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries was organized by international events manager was hosted by the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) through the National Livestock Program (DA-NLP) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) with the goal of promoting the development of the Philippine agri-fishery sector. Now on its sixth installment, the Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines 2023 formally opened on July 5 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally leading the ceremony. More than 300 exhibitors and 10,000 farmers, fisherfolk, traders, buyers, experts, policy and decision makers, and industry stakeholders around the world convened at the Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines 2023  to share their products, services, and best practices.  The organizer, Informa Markets Country General Manager for Malaysia and the Philippines Gerard Leeuwenburgh called for every industry player to “step up” by innovating and adapting new technologies, enhancing food production, reducing waste, preventing diseases, and showing genuine concern for environment “to ensure a sustainable production system” and “to be able to keep up with the competition in the [Asia-Pacific] Region.” The President and concurrent Secretary of Agriculture acknowledged the vital role of the private sector in realizing our dreams of progressively expanding and modernizing the poultry and livestock industries in the Philippines. He also emphasized the need to revitalize Philippine agriculture by addressing key issues such as food inflation, the need to boost food production and mobilization, the importance of enhancing profitability and other opportunities in agri-fishery-based livelihoods, the emergence of agricultural pests and diseases, and more. He further reaffirmed the need to find ways to increase our farmers’ incomes to establish a more food-secure, sustainable, and resilient Philippines. The opening ceremony was also attended by Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform Chairperson Senator Cynthia Villar, House Committee Chairperson on Agriculture and Food Representative Mark Enverga, Agricultural Sector Alliance of the Philippines (AGAP) Partylist Representative Nicanor Briones, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, and dignitaries from other countries. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1150/japan-formally-accepts-agreement-on-fisheries-subsidies.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1150/japan-formally-accepts-agreement-on-fisheries-subsidies.html Fri, 07 Jul 2023 10:21:53 +0530 Agreement holds significance to steadfast supporter of the WTO and the multilateral trading system towards reaffirming Japan's status as a prominent fishing nation Japan has deposited its instrument of acceptance for the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, joining other leading marine fish catch producers in affirming support for the Agreement. Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki of Japan met on 4 July to mark the occasion, with the total number of acceptances now over a third of what is needed for the Agreement to enter into force. Adopted by consensus at the WTO's 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) held in Geneva on 12-17 June 2022, the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies sets new binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful subsidies, which are a key factor in the widespread depletion of the world's fish stocks.  In addition, the Agreement recognizes the needs of developing and least-developed countries (LDCs) and establishes a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity building to help them implement the obligations. The Agreement prohibits support for illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, bans support for fishing overfished stocks, and ends subsidies for fishing on the unregulated high seas. DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “I welcome Japan's formal acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. This significant step forward holds great importance considering Japan's status as a prominent fishing nation and as a steadfast supporter of the WTO and the multilateral trading system. As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by overfishing and the depletion of fish stocks, the active participation of Japan and the wider WTO membership will be crucial.” Ambassador Yamazaki said: “The Agreement was passed by the Diet with unanimous approval. This is an expression of our strong determination as a country surrounded by the sea and historically familiar with fishery resources, and as a promoter of a multilateral trade system, to work together as one to ensure food security and achieve sustainable fisheries based on rules.” “Japan will bring the agreement into force by MC13 (13th Ministerial Conference), and aims to conclude the second wave negotiation by MC13. Japan will reach out to other Members to accelerate the ratification process and constructively engage in the future negotiations including the upcoming fish week next week,” he said. Members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiations on outstanding issues, with a view to making recommendations by MC13, to be held in February 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, for additional provisions that would further enhance the disciplines of the Agreement ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1145/china-morocco-sign-deal-to-boost-agricultural-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1145/china-morocco-sign-deal-to-boost-agricultural-cooperation.html Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:12:00 +0530 Sings MoU to enhance cooperation in the fields of distant-water fishing, aquatic products processing technology, organic agriculture, agricultural digitalization, irrigation techniques, and water management China and Morocco have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance bilateral agricultural cooperation. The MoU was signed by Tang Renjian, China's minister of agriculture and rural affairs, with Mohamed Sadiki, the Moroccan minister of agriculture, maritime fisheries, rural development, water and forests. Under the MoU, the two countries agree to enhance cooperation in the fields of distant-water fishing, aquatic products processing technology, organic agriculture, agricultural digitalization, irrigation techniques, and water management. Agriculture plays an important role in Morocco's national economy as it accounts for more than 15 percent of Morocco's total economic output and the agricultural sector employs about 40 percent of the country's labor force. China is the largest supplier of green tea for Morocco, which has become China's second-largest tea export destination. Tang lauded the fruitful cooperation between China and Morocco in the fields of vegetable variety cultivation, cultivation technology, veterinary drug and vaccine research and development, as the two countries enjoy strong similarities and complementarities in agriculture. Minister Tang said that China is willing to work with Morocco to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation on animal disease prevention and control, dry land water-saving agriculture, conservation of marine fishery resources, and protection and utilization of agricultural heritage. Briefing Morocco's agricultural situation and development strategy minister Mohamed Sadiki welcomed the signing of the MoU as an opportunity to boost agricultural cooperation between China and Morocco. He also congratulated China’s Qu Dongyu, the re-elected director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1141/philippines-pca-to-intensify-resilience-in-coconut-industry-through-advanced-tech.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1141/philippines-pca-to-intensify-resilience-in-coconut-industry-through-advanced-tech.html Wed, 05 Jul 2023 03:26:37 +0530 Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to intensify industry modernization and to invest in new technologies ensuring resilience in coconut sector Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. instructed the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to intensify the implementation of the development plan for industry modernization and to invest in new technologies to ensure the resilience of the coconut sector. Speaking during the 50th anniversary celebration of the PCA, the President said “So, the PCA must intensify the implementation of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan to accelerate the modernization of the coconut industry and to improve the lives of our coconut farmers and their families.” The President also encouraged the agency to continue uplifting the lives of the coconut farmers, empower them to improve their conditions, and free them from poverty so they could dream big for themselves and for their loved ones. He recommended PCA to recognize the challenges that lie ahead of the coconut industry—climate change, pests, and diseases remain a significant threat to coconut trees, thus endangering the future of agriculture. He insisted on doubling efforts to tackle these issues and investing in technologies and initiatives that will not only safeguard but also ensure the resilience of the coconut sector of our agriculture. Coconut production in the country increased by 1.6% from 3.20 million metric tons (MMT) in the first quarter of 2022 to 3.26 MMT in the first quarter of 2023. Davao Region is the top coconut producer in the country, with 487.10 thousand MT or a 15% share of the total coconut production in the first quarter of 2023. Other top-producing regions were Zamboanga Peninsula with 14.9% share and Northern Mindanao with 13.6% share. The Philippines is a major exporter of coconut oil and other products such as copra meal and desiccated coconut, whose exports declined in the first four months of 2023. Official reports indicate that coconut exports declined by more than half from $1.04 billion in January to April 2022 to $490.16 million in the same period in 2023. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1132/philippines-bangsamoro-lawmakers-file-bill-to-boost-production-economic-development-in-agri-sector.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1132/philippines-bangsamoro-lawmakers-file-bill-to-boost-production-economic-development-in-agri-sector.html Tue, 04 Jul 2023 10:04:30 +0530 To effectively deliver microfinance services to rural communities, the program will leverage mobile technology and digital platforms. Philippines Bangsamoro lawmakers are working together for the enactment of Parliament Bill No. 184, or the Bangsamoro Agricultural Microfinance Act of 2023, a measure seeking to provide small-scale farmers and fisherfolks with access to credit, adequate infrastructure, market linkages, and other support services to boost their farm production and income. The proponents of the bill include Parliament Members Amilbahar Mawalllil, Atty. Rasol Mitmug Jr., Atty. Sittie Fahanie Uy-Oyod, Hashemi Dilangalen, and Hamid Malik. Aiming to effectively deliver microfinance services to rural communities, the program will leverage mobile technology and digital platforms. PB No. 184 covers farmers, smallholders, microfinance institutions (MFIs), rural banks, cooperatives, and other community-based organizations that provide agricultural microfinance services in the region. Recognizing the significance of agriculture in the region, MP Mawallil emphasized in the bill’s explanatory note that the sector provides livelihood to 70 percent of the population. Small-scale farmers and fisherfolk in the Bangsamoro region face numerous challenges, such as limited access to credit, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient market linkages, and low productivity resulting from outdated farming practices and climate change. These challenges, Mawallil said, have led to decreased productivity and income for these individuals. PB No. 184 seeks to establish the Regional Agricultural Microfinance Program, which will offer agricultural microfinance services to farmers and smallholders in the region. The program will be developed and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform and will be funded through various sources, including the regional government budget, grants, donations, concessional loans, and loans from commercial banks and financial institutions. Community-based microfinance institutions will be established, and capacity-building programs will be conducted to enhance the financial management skills of community leaders and members. Alarming data from the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2020 revealed that only 16.5 percent of households in the BARMM have savings accounts, leaving a staggering 83.5% of households without any form of savings. MP Mawallil stressed the importance of improving financial inclusion in the region, especially in rural areas where most small-scale farmers and fisherfolk reside.  If the bill is passed into law, it has the potential to provide tailored financial services that can significantly enhance the productivity and income of small-scale farmers and fisherfolk in the Bangsamoro region. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1129/australia-grants-au250k-to-boost-agriculture-market-intelligence.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1129/australia-grants-au250k-to-boost-agriculture-market-intelligence.html Mon, 03 Jul 2023 08:24:00 +0530 Targets to provide up-to-date monitoring on global prices, futures markets and fertiliser outlook through the Agriculture Market Information System (AMIS) The Australian government has committed $250,000 to promote a global initiative focused on improving agricultural market intelligence in order to benefit farmers and exporters. Government aims to support greater price transparency across the food supply chain and predictable agricultural trade. Speaking from the 43rd session of the Food and Agriculture Organisation conference in Rome, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said “Australia’s new funding contribution would provide up-to-date monitoring on global prices, futures markets and fertiliser outlook through the Agriculture Market Information System (AMIS). It provides a platform for governments around the world to coordinate policy actions and that helps to prevent unexpected price hikes. It is also vital for supporting global food security, and another way in which Australia is helping to meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals”. AMIS plays an important role in disseminating trade information and technical market data to support the transparency and proper function of global agricultural markets. This information is vital for farmers to make evidence-based decisions, particularly grains producers and exporters. Farmers will benefit from increased global market certainty and predictability in global markets and supply chains. AMIS systematically compiles information on crop supply and demand monitors and reviews policy developments that affect agricultural markets. Australia has now provided $550,000 in total to support AMIS. AMIS provides data on the following areas:  World supply and demand for commodities such as wheat, maize, rice and soybeans. Crop conditions around the world Global policy developments International prices Futures markets Market indicators Fertiliser outlook Ocean freight markets. Minister Watt continued, “AMIS also supports informed decision-making by policy makers, analysts and those directly involved in the trade. AMIS was launched in 2011 by the G20 Ministers of Agriculture following the global food price hikes in 2007/08 and 2010. It is composed of G20 members plus Spain and seven additional major exporting and importing countries of agricultural commodities. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1112/philippines-pave-way-for-russia-philippines-agri-partnerships-and-attract-russian-companies.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1112/philippines-pave-way-for-russia-philippines-agri-partnerships-and-attract-russian-companies.html Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:11:34 +0530 The event aimed to foster collaboration and explore potential business opportunities between the two countries. Philippines Department of Agriculture took part in the Business Mission of Russian companies, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation and Agroexport Center. The event aimed to foster collaboration and explore potential business opportunities between the two countries. The DA’s participation in the mission is expected to pave the way for more partnerships and initiatives that will benefit the Philippine agriculture industry. DA Undersecretary Agnes Catherine T. Miranda represented the Department and conveyed her appreciation to the Russian Federation for their ongoing bilateral trade with the Philippines. She highlighted that Philippine agriculture exports to Russia have grown by 26 percent from 2018 to 2021. The opening ceremony was followed by a tour of the booths belonging to 15 agribusiness companies mainly involved in industries such as poultry products, dairy, pork, wheat, grain, and tea, among others. The main event was the plenary session “Russia-Philippines: prospects for the development of cooperation in the field of agriculture,” wherein Undersecretary Miranda and Bureau of Animal Industry Director and Philippine Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Paul C. Limson delivered the prospects for mutual trade between the two countries. The spotlight was on the emerging agricultural products of the Philippines, including pili, calamari, carrageenan, and coconut abaca. Undersecretary Miranda mentioned that there are excellent capital investment opportunities in cold storage and processing facilities for fresh and value-added farm products throughout the islands. Director Paul Limson presented the Philippine guidelines for ensuring food and animal health safety during accreditation procedures for exporting meat and meat products to the country. Top agriculture exports to Russia are desiccated coconuts, carrageenan, banana chips, coconut milk, and Cavendish banana. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1101/australian-pledges-au4-95-million-in-support-to-small-agricultural-exporters.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1101/australian-pledges-au4-95-million-in-support-to-small-agricultural-exporters.html Mon, 26 Jun 2023 10:11:00 +0530 Grants designed to support small exporters in the dairy, fish, eggs, grain and plant products, horticulture, meat and animal product industries The Australian Government is investing AU$4.95 million in the new round of Package Assisting Small Exporters (PASE) grants to provide novel tools and resources to small agricultural exporters to explore export market opportunities. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said “the grants were designed to support small exporters in the dairy, fish, eggs, grain and plant products, horticulture, meat and animal product industries to overcome barriers to their participation in the export sector. Government is helping our small and medium sized producers become more competitive and access markets they could not access before”. The initiative will expand access to premium overseas markets is fundamental to driving profits back through the farmgate and supporting the agriculture industry to reach its goal of $100 billion in farmgate value by 2030. A range of sectors are already benefiting from previous grant rounds, with successful recipients including universities and industry bodies. As part of the program, six projects are now wrapping up, working on a range of leading-edge initiatives to grow Australia's small agriculture exporters' global market share. They include exploring innovative new agricultural marketing channels, including agritourism in farm income, targeted training and resources for small organics and dairy exporters, and melon supply chain monitoring. Grantees have undertaken in-depth market research to support specific commodities supply chain monitoring, and education and outreach to international trading partners. Projects concluding in 2023 include: The University of Adelaide - evaluation of two Innovative agricultural marketing channels (agriculture product gift giving and agritourism). Murdoch University - building capacity for small grain and horticulture industry exporters to exploit new grain breeding technologies. Dairy Australia Ltd. - developed training, resources and support needed by small to medium exporters (SME) and dairy manufacturers to overcome barriers to exporting in four distinct areas - knowledge, skills, risk, and support. Australian Organics Ltd. - to overcome trade barriers, the project shared trading partner knowledge, in-depth market industry research, technical expertise, and other information on ways to export organic products to target markets. Australian Melon Association Inc. - the project implemented supply chain monitoring practices in several existing melon export chains and used these as case studies to demonstrate to the broader melon industry the commercial benefits of regular monitoring. Kangaroo Industry Association of Australia Inc. - the project delivered activities that communicated the sustainability and welfare credentials of the Australian kangaroo industry in the European Union and United States, which are key markets for the industry. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1046/thailands-sericulture-researches-develops-improved-silk-varieties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1046/thailands-sericulture-researches-develops-improved-silk-varieties.html Fri, 09 Jun 2023 11:15:39 +0530 The Department of Sericulture researches new silk varieties, NAN X J108 which is high yield in the north and in winter" explains Prakob Phaopong, Director-General of the Sericulture Department Thailand's Department of Sericulture researches has developed a new silk variety NAN X J108 (a cross between NAN and J108) that can be raised well in the north. Especially in winter most high cocoons yield large yellow cocoons high fresh nest weight and good nest shell weight have a higher nest shell percentage. Helps to increase income for the farmers. The sericulture industry in the northern region It is a commercial sericulture where sericulture farmers are the main occupation. There are entrepreneurs who come to buy cocoon products. The Sericulture Department encourages farmers to grow sericulture according to market-led production policy in the contract farming system. There is a contract or agreement between each other (Contract Farming), which currently operators need Buying 5,000 tons of cocoons from farmers per year, but farmers produce only 2,000 tons of cocoons per year, still a production insufficient to meet market demand One of the reasons was that farmers produced a small number of cocoons. Due to the lack of silk varieties that produce high yields and are suitable for the area's conditions and farming in each season. As a result, farmers are at high risk in raising silkworms. Due to low surviving percentages and efficient cocoon production, there is not enough cocoon production every year to feed and send to entrepreneurs. To ensure business continuity, the Silk Mulberry Department researched and improves silk varieties to create silk that is strong and grows well. It can increase productivity both in terms of the quantity and quality of silk thread. Silkworm variety NAN X J108 (a cross between NAN and J108) from the yellow cocoon NAN (NAN) mixed with the white cocoon J108, is an international variety. According to the research study, it was found that the new silkworm species Able to feed well, giving high yields of cocoons in the northern region especially in winter most have good agricultural characteristics large yellow cocoon high fresh nest weight and good nest shell weight It has a greater percentage of the nest shell, about 20 - 21 percent, has good fertilization characteristics, is easy to fling, and gives a large fiber length to the nest. And can increase the income from the sale of cocoon products is high.       The Sericulture Department is committed to helping farmers increase production. Therefore, research has been brought to help improve silkworm breeding until new and more efficient silkworm varieties are obtained. The Department will bring the new silkworm species to encourage farmers who grow mulberry silkworms in the northern region to breed in the winter. Interspersed with raising silkworm breeds that were raised in the original breeding Yellow Saraburi (J108 x Nang Lai Saraburi) in other seasons so that farmers can increase cocoon yield. in line with market demands And continue to generate stable income for farmers, ”said the Director-General of the Sericulture Department. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1044/usda-initiates-an-agribusiness-trade-mission-to-japan.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1044/usda-initiates-an-agribusiness-trade-mission-to-japan.html Fri, 09 Jun 2023 10:37:52 +0530 Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor launched an agribusiness trade mission to Japan on 5 June. The U.S. delegation included representatives from 11 state departments of agriculture, numerous farm organizations, and 40 agribusinesses looking to connect with future business partners in Japan. “As one of the largest world economies, Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States. Every year over the past two decades, Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. This shows that there is continuously growing demand for U.S. products in Japan, providing U.S. exporters with a tremendous opportunity to expand their exports," said Under Secretary Taylor. “On this agribusiness trade mission, we have many incredible businesses joining this delegation to showcase the strength of U.S. food and agriculture products. Japanese consumers are especially interested in high-quality, health-oriented products, and I am confident that U.S. businesses can meet and exceed these expectations” added Under Secretary Taylor. USDA helped to facilitate business-to-business meetings for a week between participating small and medium-sized U.S. agribusinesses and Japanese buyers seeking to import American food and farm products. The trade mission itinerary also included meetings with Japanese and local prefecture government officials and industry groups to discuss trade issues and unique opportunities offered by Japanese consumers, retail promotions featuring U.S. products, and visits to Japanese farms and packaging facilities Image Caption: USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor welcomes leaders and officials from the Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Nebraska, and North Dakota state departments of agriculture to Tokyo for the USDA agribusiness trade mission this week. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1038/thailands-agri-trade-to-asean-reported-a-surplus-of-53387-million-baht.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1038/thailands-agri-trade-to-asean-reported-a-surplus-of-53387-million-baht.html Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:22:00 +0530 A 100 billion baht export value is estimated for Thai agricultural products to ASEAN in Q1 2023 Agricultural Economics in Thailand indicates that 100 billion baht worth of Thai agricultural products were exported to ASEAN during the first quarter. A surplus of 53,387 million baht is recorded by Thailand's trade. Chanthanon Wannakhejorn, Secretary-General of the Office of Agricultural Economics (Sor Kor.), Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed the trade situation of Thailand's agricultural products and natural rubber with 9 ASEAN countries, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam. The export value for the same period in 2022 was 101,062 million Thai baht, a 4.18 percent increase over the same period in 2021. The main agricultural exports are sugar, such as brown sugar and white sugar. Refined sugar/energy drinks/rice / non-alcoholic beverages such as UHT milk, soy milk / flavored foods such as tofu, powdered alcohol, creamer / natural latex/dog or cat food/sauces and flavorings Sauces such as seasoning powder, fish sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, ready-made curry paste/additives used for animal feeding  In terms of imports, there has been a decrease in expansion, with a value of 47,674 million baht, a reduction of 2.81 percent from 2022. The main agricultural products imported are cassava chips and cassava pellets and frozen cassava / corn kernels for popcorn (popcorn) and corn suitable for human consumption and animal food / flavored food such as tofu, powdered alcohol, non-dairy creamer / cigarettes containing tobacco / flavored food for infants or young children / Vegetable fats and oils such as soybeans, corn, coconut, peanuts / Broken kernels and coarse rice / Canned tuna / Bakery snacks such as biscuits, cakes, pastries / Live cattle. In the ASEAN market, Thailand still maintained a trade surplus of 53,387 million baht (an increase of 19.53 percent) during the first quarter of 2023. The major export products are sugar / rice / dog or cat food / nuts / fresh fruits (longan, lychee, mangosteen) / non-dairy creamer / flavored food for infants and young children / non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol e.g. UHT milk, soy milk / broken rice. According to Agricultural Economics in Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia rank 2nd and 3rd in ASEAN trade value. Vietnamese economists report that Malaysia accounts for 17.81% of the export value of 18,001 million baht. The main export products are natural latex / sugar / meat pieces and other parts of chicken (wings, thighs, liver) frozen / dog or cat food / Palm kernel oil / Tapioca starch / Food flavoring for babies and young children / Sauces and flavorings for making sauces such as seasoning powder, fish sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, ready-made curry paste in Malaysia. While Cambodia reports an export value of 13,331 million baht, accounting for 13.17 percent. The main export products are sugar / energy drinks / non-alcoholic beverages such as UHT milk, soy milk / non-dairy creamer / type of flavoring. For animal husbandry / ready-to-cook noodles / sauces and ingredients for making sauces such as seasoning powder, fish sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, instant curry paste / sausages / flavored fish such as fish sausage, fish balls / oil cake and other hard residues obtained from the extraction of soybean oil, such as defatted soybean flour and soybean meal. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1037/vietnam-promotes-agri-commodity-trade-with-brazil.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1037/vietnam-promotes-agri-commodity-trade-with-brazil.html Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:19:00 +0530 Vietnam is Brazil's largest trading partner in Southeast Asia; Brazil is Vietnam's largest trading partner in South America Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has emphasized the importance of cooperation with Brazil as the two countries have significant potential to complement each other and cooperate for mutual development. In Hanoi on June 6, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien met with Brazilian Deputy Foreign Minister Eduardo Paes Saboia's delegation and worked with Mr. Marco Farani, Brazilian Ambassador to Vietnam. 2024 marks 35 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Brazil. Brazil is a member of the South American Common Market and is Vietnam's largest trading partner in South America. Vietnam is also Brazil's largest trading partner in Southeast Asia. Similar to Vietnam, Brazil's current policy focuses on foreign policy, poverty relief, and developing a green economy. In July 2018, the two sides signed a ministerial Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural Cooperation. They are also discussing the possibility of a Memorandum of Understanding on Forestry Cooperation. In order to strengthen the relationship between the two countries and develop agricultural cooperation, Brazil's Agriculture and Livestock Minister expressed interest in creating favourable conditions bilateraly to promote trade in agriculture, forestry and fishery between the two countries. Marco Farani, Brazilian Ambassador to Vietnam, stated that the two countries will continue to strengthen cooperation in the future with the major markets for agricultural, forestry and fishery products. With its advanced technologies, experienced experts, and large research institutes, Brazil is willing to share and cooperate with Vietnam in the science and technology field. Deputy Minister speculated on the possibility of a high-level bilateral exchange between the two countries to discuss specific cooperation. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1035/australia-record-90b-in-production-and-75b-in-exports-in-farm-incomes-in-fy-2022-23.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1035/australia-record-90b-in-production-and-75b-in-exports-in-farm-incomes-in-fy-2022-23.html Thu, 08 Jun 2023 13:19:00 +0530 Ministry elaborates priorities towards biosecurity, workforce, sustainability, and trade around Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australia's Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Murray Watt summerised the achievement of the sector over the past one year. Discussing the progress, Minister Watt said, "Despite significant global challenges and major flooding at home in the last year, the sector continues to prosper with record production of $90 billion, record exports of $75 billion and high farm incomes across a range of industries. Now we want to build on that platform, focusing on our priorities of biosecurity, workforce, sustainability, and trade. The partnerships we have built, the listening we have done and the additional $2.3 billion in federal funding in the past year will support the sector as we continue to support it to reach its $100 billion goal.” Some of the majorly invested sectors are; Biosecurity : Since 2022, Australia has vigorously invested on sustainable funding model for biosecurity with permanent funding of $1.03 billion locked in. This is the first time an Australian government has ever provided such a significant funding injection, and it heralds the beginning of a new era of biosecurity protection in Australia. It is estimated that Australia has committed over $40 million for 65 Indigenous Ranger groups to participate in a North Australian Coordination Network, which will greatly enhance surveillance capabilities in the north of Australia. Among the significant achievements are, "keeping Australia free of Foot and Mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease", "Delivering Australia’s first National Biosecurity Strategy", "Creation of a joint taskforce with the National Emergency Management Agency, increased preparedness for exotic animal disease incursions:, "Implementing a national traceability system for sheep and goats" and "Delivering critical support to overseas partners to combat exotic animal and plant diseases". Sustainable production and climate adaptation  Government has worked with our agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors to become even more sustainable by: Investing $302 million through the Natural Heritage Trust to drive climate-smart agriculture practices and sustainable agricultural outcomes, in partnership with industry Investing a record $300 million in the forestry sector that will support the expansion of the plantation estate, modernise our timber manufacturing and increase its role in reducing Australia’s emissions Investing $20 million to implement the National Soil Action Plan Committing over $38 million in ABARES for data and analytic capability to support the sector to face climate change Committing $29 million for the Methane Emissions Reduction in Livestock (MERiL) program and investing $8 million to advance seaweed farming—something that has potential to help reduce livestock emissions as a feed supplement  Committing $20.3 million to the Carbon Farming Outreach program  Joining the global community in its efforts to reduce emissions, including signing the Global Methane Pledge and the Forests and Climate Leaders Partnership Working with States and Territories to develop the first National Statement on Climate Change and Agriculture Furthermore, Australia has committed to genuine sustainable production and best practices in animal welfare, which means that it meets the high standards expected by consumers and markets in the animal welfare sector. Such as, Investing $302 million through the Natural Heritage Trust to drive climate-smart agriculture practices and sustainable agricultural outcomes, in partnership with industry Investing a record $300 million in the forestry sector that will support the expansion of the plantation estate, modernise our timber manufacturing and increase its role in reducing Australia’s emissions Investing $20 million to implement the National Soil Action Plan Committing over $38 million in ABARES for data and analytic capability to support the sector to face climate change Committing $29 million for the Methane Emissions Reduction in Livestock (MERiL) program and investing $8 million to advance seaweed farming—something that has potential to help reduce livestock emissions as a feed supplement  Committing $20.3 million to the Carbon Farming Outreach program  Joining the global community in its efforts to reduce emissions, including signing the Global Methane Pledge and the Forests and Climate Leaders Partnership Working with States and Territories to develop the first National Statement on Climate Change and Agriculture TradeThe Australian-UK FTA came into force, providing massively expanded trade opportunities for Australian producers, exporters, and importers. To improve agricultural trade, Australia has: Gained, improved, and maintained access to 107 markets an increase worth a potential $5.47 billion Delivered market strategies for LSD and FMD safeguarding trade in an outbreak Progressed negotiations for the Australia-EU FTA Built on our trade relationship with India—a potentially huge market—through ratifying the Australia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement Begun restoring trade with China, including recently resuming cotton and timber exports and progressing the removal of barley tariffs Provided $1.6m to progress mandatory country of origin labelling for seafood ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1028/vietnams-natural-rubber-farmers-benefit-from-a-smallholder-profit-sharing-program.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1028/vietnams-natural-rubber-farmers-benefit-from-a-smallholder-profit-sharing-program.html Tue, 06 Jun 2023 11:57:31 +0530 Yulex has partnered with PEFC by investing in smallholders to support Equitable Agriculture and reduce systemic inequalities in the natural rubber supply chain As part of its commitment to smallholder rubber farmers in Vietnam and Thailand, Yulex is investing in smallholder rubber farmers by sharing premium profits back with the smallholders. U.S.-based Yulex LLC is a company with operations in the U.S. and Southeast Asia that creates Deforestation-Free supply chains for major US | EU consumer brands. With its proprietary technology and patents, Yulex is able to replace petroleum-based products with natural rubber products. Globally, 85% of natural rubber is produced by small holders managing a 2-to-3-hectare farm where the annual income is less than $3,000 per annum. With the limited earnings of smallholders, investing in essential training, resources, and certification programs to promote sustainable natural rubber production may not be feasible. Rubber production makes it difficult for smallholders to sustain their livelihoods without certification compliance pressure. By creating Equitable Ag, the initiative provides access to Equitable Agriculture to smallholders. Dr. Liz Bui, Yulex's Chief Business Officer, stated, "Yulex wants to inspire consumers and brands to connect and contribute to smallholders via the Yulex Equitable Ag Program. We were the first company to introduce certified Deforestation-Free supply chains to consumer brands and now, with another first, we are working directly with PEFC and smallholders to solve social inequity issues in the supply chain." Yulex was the first to develop and introduce Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified supply chains for natural rubber to the sporting goods and apparel industries in partnership with Patagonia. Yulex has expanded its supply chain to include the Programme for Forest Certification Endorsement (PEFC). The Yulex and PEFC partnership in Southeast Asia helps create linkages among smallholder groups, private enterprises, traders, and rubber processors. By sharing profits directly with the smallholders and traders, Yulex will improve wages, support rural livelihoods, and contribute to the economic development of smallholders and their communities. In addition to Equitable Ag, the Company will work with smallholders to increase biodiversity and income on plantations through regenerative agriculture. Richard Laity, PEFC Southeast Asia Manager, stated, "Smallholder communities encounter significant challenges when establishing connections in the market. Yulex' dedication to aiding smallholders in Vietnam and Thailand will have a profound impact on the natural rubber community. Consumer brands in various industries will benefit tremendously from Yulex' program. PEFC urges others to join them in enhancing the natural rubber value chain to support smallholder rubber farmers." ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1013/unlocking-food-security-challenges-in-malaysia.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1013/unlocking-food-security-challenges-in-malaysia.html Tue, 06 Jun 2023 10:50:00 +0530 By Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak, Chief Executive Officer, Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation (Bioeconomy Corporation) The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) of Malaysia envisions biotechnology as one of the key solutions to address Malaysia's food security challenges. Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation (Bioeconomy Corporation), which drives biotechnology growth for economic development under MOSTI, supports this viewpoint. The agency upholds MOSTI's vision by providing biotechnology entities with the necessary resources and support to encourage the development of innovative solutions that can help address the challenges facing Malaysia's food security, including food supply shortages, increased production costs, and surging food prices. Although these biotechnology innovations may not provide a complete resolution of all the issues related to food security, they offer many practical solutions that can significantly mitigate these challenges. Firstly, biotechnology can lower food production costs by reducing input and raw material expenses. Local biotechnology firms produce alternative protein sources from plants and insects, such as Black Soldier Fly larvae, that are protein-rich animal feed and convert organic waste into protein. This approach reduces reliance on costly imported animal feed like maize and addresses food waste. The global insect feed market is predicted to reach RM9.7 billion by 2031, with the fly larvae segment projected to have the highest revenue and fastest CAGR of 26.5% from 2022 to 2031, as per Allied Market Research. Biotechnology will undoubtedly contribute to this substantial growth. Malaysian companies are adopting advanced technologies to increase breeding and production of main crops like rice, cucumber, and chili. For instance, molecular breeding enables farmers to identify the best crop varieties without waiting for the plant to physically grow, while micropropagation methods such as tissue culture allows for the production of planting materials or seedlings without relying on seed germination time. These biotechnology applications save farmers significant time and produce planting materials with desirable traits, such as high yield and disease resistance, leading to increased crop productivity and profitability. Moreover, biotechnology firms are leveraging palm oil mill waste and agricultural by-products to produce biofertilisers and organic composts that can enhance crop yields by up to 40% by harnessing the power of beneficial microbes. These products increase nutrient availability and revitalise soil health by nitrogen fixation and phosphate and potassium solubilisation. Using biofertilisers and biopesticides can also reduce reliance on harmful chemical fertilisers and pesticides, thus preventing resistance to pests and diseases, soil degradation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Advancements in cellular technology have also enabled companies to develop alternative proteins like seafood and meat in laboratories without conventional farming methods, reducing water consumption, land space, and greenhouse gas emissions. The cultivated meat conference in Kuala Lumpur on March 16 marked a significant step towards securing the future of food in Malaysia. Research and Markets estimates that by 2040, 60% of meat products may be produced in bioreactors and sold in stores and restaurants worldwide. A local biotechnology company plans to set up Malaysia’s first cultivated meat production facility in Penang in 2024, revolutionising the food landscape and offering an alternative option to feed the growing population. Malaysian biotech companies are making significant strides, but larger-scale implementation is needed for profound impact on food security. MOSTI's National Policy on Science, Technology & Innovation and National Biotechnology Policy 2.0 provide a solid framework, and support for biotechnology growth, but they require effective collaboration and practical implementation by public and private stakeholders. Tax incentives provided to qualified biotechnology companies with BioNexus Status and awareness programmes are helpful, but user engagement is crucial for biotechnology to be effective. Without users, biotechnology will remain theoretical without real-world impact on food security. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1020/differentiated-portfolio-and-strong-execution-drives-helps-target-sustainable-growth-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1020/differentiated-portfolio-and-strong-execution-drives-helps-target-sustainable-growth-2025.html Mon, 05 Jun 2023 16:34:00 +0530 By Chuck Magro, Chief Executive Officer, Corteva Corteva delivered a solid start to 2023, reflecting focused execution coupled with continueddemand for our innovative technology solutions. Our strategic actions to focus our portfolio inareas where we deliver differentiated value to customers are translating into accelerated growth innew product sales, continued margin expansion, and higher quality earnings. Ag fundamentals remain constructive as tight global grain supply continues to put pressure onending stocks, keeping crop prices above historical averages and farm income levels healthy. Wealso see customer buying behaviors beginning to normalize as supply chain reliability improves. We are on track to deliver our 2025 financial objectives as our leading R&D organizationcontinues to invest in new and differentiated technologies to drive a more sustainable global foodand fuel system. In the first Quarter 2023, net sales rose 6% versus the prior year with gains in both segments. Organic sales increased 10% in the same period, led by EMEA and North America. Seed net sales grew 7% and organic1 sales increased 10%. Price gains were led by the continued execution on the Corteva’s price-for-value strategy and recovery of higher input costs. Volume declines were driven by a shortened Safrinha season, supply constraints in Latin America, and the exit from Russia. Crop Protection net sales grew 5% and organic sales increased 10%, led by value capture in EMEA. Price gains reflected strong execution in response to cost inflation. Volume gains from continued penetration of new products, including EnlistTM and ArylexTM herbicides, were more than offset by product exits and delays in Latin America and APAC due to weather. GAAP income and earnings per share (EPS) from continuing operations were $607 million and $0.84 per share for the first quarter of 2023, respectively. Operating EBITDA1 and Operating EPS1 were $1.23 billion and $1.16 per share, respectively. Strong price execution, product mix, and productivity actions more than offset inflation and currency headwinds. Corteva increased full-year 2023 guidance to include the impact of the Biologicals acquisitions and expects net sales in the range of $18.6 billion to $18.9 billion. Operating EBITDA1 is expected to be in the range of $3.55 billion to $3.75 billion. Operating EPS1 is expected to be in the range of $2.80 to $3.00 per share. New Product Launches During the Quarter Reinforce Value of Innovation Pipeline Corteva announced plans for the commercial launch of Optimum® GLY Canola - a new, proprietary glyphosate trait technology intended to deliver enhanced weed control and a wider window of herbicide application, compared to firstgeneration glyphosate trait technology – so farmers have more choices and flexibility for effective weed management. Corteva also announced the commercial launch of VorceedTM Enlist® Corn, which combines three modes of action for above-ground insect protection and three modes of action for below-ground insect protection including RNAi technology. It also includes tolerance to four herbicides – glyphosate, glufosinate, 2,4-D choline and FOPs – to help improve resistant weed management. Finally, the Corteva announced the commercial launch of AdaveltTM Active - a novel fungicide with a new mode of action that protects against a wide range of diseases that can impact crop yields. Corteva received product registrations in Australia, Canada, and South Korea, and plans to offer Adavelt TM Active in additional countries in the future, pending regulatory approvals. Acquisition of Symborg and Stoller, Two Leading Biologicals Companies During the quarter, the Corteva acquired Symborg, an expert in microbiological technologies based in Murcia, Spain; and Stoller, one of the largest independent companies in the Biologicals industry with an expertise in plant health and nutrition, based in Houston, Texas. These investments reinforce the Corteva ’s commitment to providing farmers with sustainable tools that deliver optionality, enhanced value, and increased productivity. These acquisitions, when combined with its internal innovation capabilities, cement Corteva’s Biologicals business as one of the largest in the world, with a platform positioned to accelerate growth within the rapidly expanding biologicals market. Collaborations to Bring Sustainable Solutions to Farmers During the quarter, the Corteva announced a multi-year collaboration with Bunge to develop and commercialize new soybean varieties with greater protein content, optimized amino acid profiles and lower levels of anti-nutritional factors for the animal feed industry. In-line with Corteva’s commitment to delivering sustainable innovation to its customers, these products present a potential new value stream opportunity for farmers while giving feed compounders a more nutritious option to reduce their use of synthetic additives, lower costs, and shrink their carbon footprint. Separately, the Corteva announced a commercial collaboration with Bunge and Chevron U.S.A. Inc., a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, to introduce proprietary winter canola hybrids intended to increase availability of plant-based oil feedstocks for the biofuel market. As part of a new double crop system in the southern U.S., this innovation will deliver solutions for farmers to increase productivity and income on their acres, while contributing to market expansion for lower carbon fuel options. Further, winter canola can act as a cover crop to enhance soil health and make farming practices even more sustainable. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1010/the-uk-secured-a-revised-free-trade-agreement-fta-with-australian-producers.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1010/the-uk-secured-a-revised-free-trade-agreement-fta-with-australian-producers.html Thu, 01 Jun 2023 11:02:19 +0530 Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UK FTA) Australian producers, agricultural importers and exporters have exciting prospects for trade opportunities with the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UK FTA) effective from 31 May 2023. Within 10 years, tariffs on agricultural goods under the FTA will be completely eliminated. With the elimination of tariffs on 99% of Australian goods exported to the United Kingdom, including Australian farm exports, Australian producers and agricultural exporters will have the best access to the UK since the 1970s. The deal includes the immediate elimination of all tariffs on wine, the majority of seafood (including tariffs on all finfish), short and medium-grain rice, honey, olive oil, nuts, and the majority of fruit and vegetables (including onions, oranges and grapes). Furthermore, duty-free transitional quotas will also be established for the following products: beef, sheep meat, sugar, wheat and meslin, barley, dairy including cheese and butter, long grain and broken rice. Improved market access to an otherwise premium and highly protected UK market gives Australian farmers more opportunities to provide sustainable, high-quality agricultural produce to British consumers and a strong competitive advantage over other trading partners. The A-UK Free Trade Agreement is Australia's most comprehensive agreement with any trading partner, second only to the FTA with New Zealand. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1009/usda-prepares-for-agri-trade-mission-to-japan-to-strengthen-bilateral-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1009/usda-prepares-for-agri-trade-mission-to-japan-to-strengthen-bilateral-cooperation.html Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:45:00 +0530 USDA aims to expand bilateral trade relationships in the agricultural trade mission to Japan, June 5-8 U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor will lead the trade mission. The delegation includes a robust representation of the U.S. agriculture sector, including businesses, state departments of agriculture, and commodity groups. “As one of the world’s leading economies, Japan is a significant market for U.S. food and agriculture exports. It is an incredible honor to lead this delegation as we work to expand our bilateral trade relationship even further. The diverse set of businesses in our delegation connect many women-, minority-, and veteran-owned U.S. agribusinesses with potential business partners in Japan," said Taylor. Japan is the fourth-largest market for U.S. food and agricultural exports. In 2022, U.S. exports matched the previous record, totaling $14.6 billion, with exports of soybeans, dairy and other products reaching new highs. The United States is vital to ensuring food security in Japan, with nearly a quarter of all Japan’s food and agricultural imports coming from U.S. exporters. While in Japan, trade mission participants will engage directly with potential buyers, receive in-depth market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. In addition to representatives from the following businesses and organizations, Taylor will be joined by Idaho State Director of Agriculture Chanel Tewalt, Indiana State Director of Agriculture Don Lamb, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles, Nebraska Director of Agriculture Sherry Vinton, North Dakota Commissioner of Agriculture Doug Goehring, and officials from the California, Georgia, Kansas, Maine, Washington, and Wisconsin state departments of agriculture and many other prominent delegates of USDA. USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1011/strategic-deal-on-high-quality-development-of-the-salmon-and-trout-industry-begins-in-china.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1011/strategic-deal-on-high-quality-development-of-the-salmon-and-trout-industry-begins-in-china.html Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:30:00 +0530 Heilongjiang Institute and Qingdao Guoxin Blue Silicon Valley Development Co., Ltd. jointly signed a salmon and trout strategic cooperation agreement China's Heilongjiang Institute and Qingdao Guoxin Blue Silicon Valley Development Co., Ltd. signed a strategic cooperation agreement on May 27 on salmon and trout. In Qingdao Haitian Center, an exclusive forum on the development of large-scale farming ships of high quality was held. The "Strategic Cooperation Framework Agreement for the High-quality Development of the Salmon and Trout Industry" deal is singed by Wang Yumei and Zhao Yu on behalf of Heilongjiang Institute of the Chinese Academy of Water Sciences and Qingdao Guoxin Blue Silicon Valley Development Co., Ltd. Leaders from Shandong Province and Qingdao City attended the ceremony, including Wang Xiaohu, President of the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wang Jianhui, Chairman of Qingdao Guoxin Group, Zhao Yu, General Manager, Wang Yumei, Secretary of Heilongjiang Institute's Party Committee, and Wang Bingqian, Director of the Research Office of Aquatic Genetics, Breeding and Biotechnology. Salmon genetics and breeding innovation team of the Heilongjiang Institute providing Guosen Group with all-round support for the cultivation of new species of sea-suitable salmon, seed supply and breeding technology. Wang Yumei said that the Heilongjiang Institute will rely on the content of the strategic framework agreement, give full play to its own cold-water fish research and talent advantages, and cooperate with Qingdao Guoxin to carry out deep-sea aquaculture research on high-economic-value salmon and trout, and jointly promote the entire chain of China's salmon and trout industry. construction and high-quality development. Zhao Yu, said, "Guoxin Group's 2.0 series of breeding workboats will start construction one after another in 2023, and the demonstration fleet of breeding workboats has begun to take shape". Guoxin Group, the Chinese Academy of Water Sciences and Heilongjiang Institute hold a long-term partnership and multual support to Blue Silicon Valley of China. Blue Silicon Valley and the Heilongjiang Institute of the Chinese Academy of Water Sciences will jointly explore and create a comprehensive mass production of salmon and trout in the deep sea mode, and jointly promote the industrialization process of salmon and trout in the deep sea and the high-quality development of the marine fishery economy. At the signing ceremony, theme activities were conducted in honor of the first 100,000-ton smart fishery large-scale farming ship in the world "Guoxin No. 1" and "Guoxin No. 2-1" and "Guoxin No. 2-2" construction activities of Guoxin's new generation of standardized breeding ships. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1012/vietnam-has-emerged-as-the-fourth-largest-rubber-supplier-to-south-korea.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1012/vietnam-has-emerged-as-the-fourth-largest-rubber-supplier-to-south-korea.html Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:15:00 +0530 Vietnam's rubber exports to South Korea account for a total market value of $18,92 million, ranking fourth after Thailand, Indonesia, and China as the top exporters. Recent statistics from the General Department of Customs indicate that, as of the first quarter of 2023, Vietnamese rubber exports to South Korea totaled 12,470 tonnes at a market value of $18.92 million. This marks an uptick of 5.6 % in volume but a downtick of 15% in value year-on-year. Vietnam’s natural rubber is the primary product exported to South Korea. Particularly, SVR 10 accounted for the largest portion of the total exported rubber, 28.05%, followed by SVR CV60 and SVR 3L with 24.53% and 14.44%, respectively. The drop in value is attributed to the sharp decrease in the average export price of all rubber types over the same period in 2022. Thailand, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines are the top five rubber suppliers to South Korea, with Vietnam ranking fourth. However, the Vietnamese rubber market share is shrinking here, while the market shares of Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Singapore tending to increase over the same period in 2022. In the South Korean market, Vietnam’s rubber has to compete with Thai and Indonesian rubber.  Therefore, the Import-Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade recommends Vietnamese businesses diversify their products to meet the requirements of the market. The ministry will continue to work and optimise the efficacy of the structures for bilateral cooperation to complete specific goals, such as putting together an action plan to achieve the bilateral trade target of $100 billion in 2023. Vietnamese companies also need to encourage technology transfer, raise the standard of human resources, and improve trade and investment in the textile, automotive, mechanical, and electronic industries. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/994/basf-strengthens-rd-with-more-powerful-supercomputer.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/994/basf-strengthens-rd-with-more-powerful-supercomputer.html Tue, 30 May 2023 09:35:00 +0530 Estimates market value of approximately AU$10 million. The Australian avocado industry will soon have access to Thai markets as Western Australian producers of Hass avocados will soon be able to export their produce there. Thailand was Australia’s 12th largest agriculture, fisheries, and forestry export market by value in 2021, worth $1.5 billion, including horticulture at $105 million. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Murray Watt said this was a significant market access win for avocados, with an estimated market value of approximately $10 million. "The Australian avocado industry has recently experienced substantially lower prices on the domestic market due to high supply. Opening new market access and trade opportunities will help the avocado industry maintain a steady supply and prices. It supports the horticultural sector in meeting its target of a $20 billion sector by 2030 and the broader agricultural industry to grow toward a $100 billion sector" explains Minister Watt. Australia aims to continue to expand market access and expand trade opportunities for Australian fresh produce. To enable a trade to commence for Australian avocados, Thailand needs to undertake verification activities, which is expected during the upcoming Western Australian 2023-24 avocado season. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1001/japan-and-vietnam-strengthen-agribusiness-ties-through-g7-summit.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1001/japan-and-vietnam-strengthen-agribusiness-ties-through-g7-summit.html Tue, 30 May 2023 09:30:00 +0530 Bilateral trade relationship aims to promote Japanese grapes into Vietnam and Vietnamese green-skinned grapefruits into Japan As part of the recent G7 meeting, Vietnam and Japan held their first high-level meeting in Hiroshima to coordinate on how to solve global challenges like food security and environmental protection. During the meeting, the two countries agreed on major directions and specific measures to promote the extensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Japan to strengthen defense-security cooperation in the field of industrialization and modernization, as well as building an independent and self-sufficient economy; affirming the importance of boosting investment and trade cooperation between the two economies. As part of his proposal to promote a new wave of Japanese investment in Vietnam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh suggested that the two sides cooperate in the fields of high-tech industry, energy conversion, production capacity improvement, and competitiveness. In addition, Vietnam is expected to play a significant role in the global supply chain of Japanese enterprises. Vietnam proposed Japan support the development of the value chain of agricultural products by transferring technology and building capacity in the distribution and processing sectors and encouraging strategic investors in the fields of clean energy and renewable energy. The purpose of this is to promote procedures and coordinate the early announcement of Japanese grapes into Vietnam and Vietnamese green-skinned grapefruits into Japan. The two sides affirmed to coordinate their stances on issues of mutual concern at multilateral and regional forums such as ASEAN, the United Nations, and APEC. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/983/vietnam-new-zealand-to-boost-trade-investment-ties.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/983/vietnam-new-zealand-to-boost-trade-investment-ties.html Thu, 25 May 2023 12:50:00 +0530 Vietnam is now the New Zealand's 13th largest trading partner with trade between the two countries reaching a average annual rate of 14.2%. New Zealand and Vietnam have signed a bilateral trade cooperation agreement to extend the efforts and close cooperation to uplift the economies mutualy. At the 8th meeting of the Vietnam-New Zealand Joint Trade and Economic Commission (JTEC) held in Hanoi on May 23, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang said there is a lot of potential for Vietnam and New Zealand to further strengthen cooperation in trade, industry and investment. An overview of bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, education and training, tourism, aviation, and labor was discussed at the meeting co-chaired by Thang and Vangelis Vitalis. Since the two countries established a comprehensive partnership in 2009, trade between the two countries has grown at an average annual rate of 14.2%. Vietnam is now New Zealand's 13th largest trading partner. In 2022, two-way trade reached 1.2 billion USD, up 14% from last year. A total of 39 valid New Zealand direct investment projects have been registered in Vietnam with a total capital exceeding $209.7 million, placing them 39th out of 143 countries and territories that have invested in the country. The Vietnamese government has invested 38.4 million USD in 11 projects in New Zealand, mainly in the processing and manufacturing industries, wholesale and retail activities, and accommodation services. Bilateral cooperation has been enhanced in trade, investment, and economy, including multilateral trade negotiations, agriculture, agribusiness, clean technology, agricultural supply chain development, education, aviation, and tourism. Vietnam and New Zealand aim to increase their trade turnover to 2 billion USD by 2024. Vietnam's lime and grapefruit market opening and New Zealand's squash and strawberry market opening in 2022 was appreciated by both sides. To facilitate businesses of the two countries to take advantage of the new import-export opportunity, Vietnamese officials suggested relevant ministries, sectors, and agencies of New Zealand coordinate closely and provide detailed instructions on procedures. The two sides discussed cooperation in multilateral frameworks and agreed to continue coordinating and supporting each other in mechanisms and frameworks such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/979/farmed-salmon-exports-to-asia-are-doubled-by-scotland.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/979/farmed-salmon-exports-to-asia-are-doubled-by-scotland.html Wed, 24 May 2023 08:36:00 +0530 Scottish salmon exports to Asia have increased by $15 million, while volumes have increased 97%. In the first quarter 2023, Scottish salmon exports to Asia more than doubled in value to £24 million (€28 million/$30 million), driven by strong demand from China, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea. Among Scottish salmon exports, North America (29 %) and Asia (18 %) account for more than 47 percent, according to UK government data. The total value of exports to Asia increased by £12 million (€14 million/$15 million), while volume increased 97 percent. China and Taiwan individually added a combined £12 million (€14 million/$15 million) market value growth during the period. Singapore and South Korea also performed well, contributing significantly to the 1,900 metric tons of fish exported to Asia. Scottish salmon producers trade body Salmon Scotland said there were further opportunities for growth in North America and Asia because of rising consumer demand and ongoing efforts to reduce trade barriers. Total Scottish salmon export sales between January and March reached £134 million (€154 million/$166 million), an 18 percent increase from the same period in 2022. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/973/vietnam-and-eu-businesses-strengthen-agricultural-product-export-cooperation.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/973/vietnam-and-eu-businesses-strengthen-agricultural-product-export-cooperation.html Tue, 23 May 2023 08:19:00 +0530 EuroCham to strengthen Vietnam's import and export turnover of agricultural goods Vietnam's Agriculture and Rural Development and European Business Association recently exchanged views and suggestions to promote the agricultural export chain and enhance integration between Vietnamese and EU businesses. Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Thanh Nam held a meeting with Gabor Fluit, Asia Managing Director of De Heus Group (Netherlands) and President of the European Business Association. (Eurocham) in Vietnam. Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam said that "the import and export of agricultural products between Vietnam and the European Union (EU) has slowed down recently. According to our information, in the first quarter of 2023, import and export turnover of agricultural products reached $1.2 billion, down 14% compared to the same period in 2022 (about $1.4 billion). This is a matter of concern, and we are delighted to welcome the members of the European Business Association in Vietnam. We are ready to listen to recommendations from Eurocham, our view is how to promote trade between the two sides." Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam assessed that 2023 will be a difficult year, especially in the field of agricultural products import and export. To boost imports and export turnover, the Deputy Minister expressed boosting and fostering European and Vietnamese businesses. President of the European Business Association for 2023 - 2025, Gabor Fluit who is also the first President appointed by the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) to strengthen the agricultural sector in Vietnam, emphasized the export of Vietnamese agricultural products to Europe. Minister Tran Thanh Nam suggested partnering with the European Union and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to organize a forum to discuss two issues more deeply. First, an exchange on food safety issues focuses on administrative procedures, helping businesses better understand agriculture's operating mechanisms. The second is examining food safety supply chain practices. "We can successfully build a safe food supply chain between European and Vietnamese businesses, associated with reducing greenhouse gas emissions" stressed Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam. A number of forums of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development revolve around “food safety” and “reducing greenhouse gas emissions”. Since COP26, Vietnam has implemented many forest carbon projects, built a project of 1 million hectares of high-quality rice, and reduced emissions in Dong by the Mekong River to implement its commitment at COP26. In the Central Highlands coffee material area, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is working to reduce emissions and develop sustainably. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/956/philippines-invest-p65-3-b-in-agri-fisheries-with-4-new-projects-introduction.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/956/philippines-invest-p65-3-b-in-agri-fisheries-with-4-new-projects-introduction.html Thu, 18 May 2023 11:26:25 +0530 APA, FishCoRe, PRDP and MIADP are the four priority projects securing the grants. Philippines Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced an investment of P65.3 B (nearly $12 Billion USD) in agri-fisheries with the launch of 4 upcoming projects in agri-fisheries. Arnel De Mesa, the DA's Assistant Secretary for Operations, presented four new major projects at the event to demonstrate the agency's commitment to transforming agriculture and fishing. In partnership with international funding institutions such as the World Bank and the Food and Agriculture Organization, the recently approved projects include: Adapting Philippine Agriculture to Climate Change (APA) With a project cost of P2.3 billion, the APA aims at increasing the resilience of agri stakeholders in areas vulnerable to climate change particularly in the Cordillera, Cagayan Valley, Bicol, Northern Mindanao, and Soccsksargen regions. Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency Project (FishCoRe) The FishCoRe targets to improve management of fishery resources and enhance the value of fisheries production in select Fisheries Management Areas (FMAs) covering 24 provinces with P11.422 project cost. Scaled-up Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) The Scale-up PRDP will expand its coverage in 82 provinces nationwide with a total project cost of P45.012 billion to improve the farmers’ and fisherfolk’s access to markets and increase their incomes from agri-fishery value chains. Mindanao Inclusive Agriculture Development Project (MIADP) The MIADP will focus on 26 ancestral domains in Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and BARMM to sustainably increase their agricultural productivity, resiliency, and access to markets and services with a project cost of P6.625 billion. At the annual National Farmers' and Fisherfolk's Month (NFFM) celebration on May 15, 2023, the DA also honored the farmers and fisherfolk and their valuable contribution to food security and economic development. Senior Undersecretary at the Department of Agriculture (DA), Domingo Panganiban said, "Expanding investments in food production will create jobs and promote progress in the sector". ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/954/guizhou-agricultural-products-directory-unveils-80-premier-agricultural-brands-worldwide.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/954/guizhou-agricultural-products-directory-unveils-80-premier-agricultural-brands-worldwide.html Thu, 18 May 2023 09:49:43 +0530 The directory includes three national agricultural brands, Guizhou's top ten provincial brands, and nine city/prefecture brands, as well as detailed information about these brands. Under China's Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Guizhou Province, a directory of agricultural products from Guizhou has been launched in Shanghai, revealing 80 prominent and distinguished agricultural brands of Guizhou Province. The directory includes three national agricultural brands, Guizhou's top ten provincial brands, and nine city/prefecture brands, as well as detailed information about these brands. Representatives of Guizhou's major agricultural brands showcased their products, including Job's Tears Seeds, Guizhou Mushrooms, Guizhou Tea, and Duyun Maojian Tea. The directory was unveiled at the launch ceremony at the Shanghai International Convention and Exhibition Center, jointly organized by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Guizhou Province and the Development and Reform of Guizhou Province. Bu Tao, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Guizhou Province, introduced the directory. Tian Xiaohong, Deputy Secretary-General of the Silk Road International Chamber of Commerce (SRCIC), said, "This conference demonstrates Guizhou Province's determination and confidence to develop agricultural brands in the series "Mistletoe”. SRCIC will leverage the power of our platform and channels to help Guizhou's agricultural industry, businesses and brands find partners on the global market. We hope to contribute to Guizhou's unique agricultural industry development." China's Guizhou province is located in the southwestern region and is rich in soil fertility and biodiversity. The directory includes 14 categories carefully selected and evaluated by experts over the past two years. These selected brands are in the public domain and may be adopted by qualified agricultural producers in their designated areas. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/937/shanghai-cooperation-organization-sco-member-countries-adopts-the-smart-agriculture-project.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/937/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/143/926/vietnam-predicts-pepper-and-spices-exports-to-reach-2-b-by-2025.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/926/vietnam-predicts-pepper-and-spices-exports-to-reach-2-b-by-2025.html Thu, 11 May 2023 15:11:43 +0530 Pepper accounted for 69.4%; cinnamon 20.6%; Star Anise 5.1%; nutmeg and mace 2.3%; ginger and turmeric 1.6%; and chili peppers 0.8% in Vietnam's during FY2022 Vietnam's pepper exports have reached $1.1 billion in 2022, and is expected to reach $2 billion according to President of the Vietnam Pepper Association (VPA) Hoang Thi Lien. President Lien further stated that, pepper and spices export revenue reached $1.4 billion, by referencing to the highest growth rate of this industry in post-COVID periods. In addition, Vietnam has standardized its production process along with boosting Organic production which is greatly expected to influence a improved purchase price in the global market. The total global pepper production in 2023 is estimated to reach 526 thousand tons compared to 537.6 thousand tons in 2022. Vietnamese cinnamon production in 2023 is predicted to increase compared to 2022, reaching around 45,000 tons. Le Viet Anh, Head of Office of Vietnam Pepper Association, anticipates that the pepper season in Vietnam in 2023 is relatively optimistic, with an estimated harvest output of 200,000 tons, up 9.3% compared to last year. Meanwhile, according to the International Pepper Community (IPC), the harvests from other producing countries such as Brazil, Indonesia, and India are all expected to decrease in comparison to 2022 yield. Vietnam's pepper and spice industry contributed to a total of over $1.4 billion in export revenue in 2022. In the pepper and spice industry, pepper accounted for 69.4%; cinnamon 20.6%; Star Anise 5.1%; nutmeg and mace 2.3%; ginger and turmeric 1.6%; and chili peppers 0.8%. According to the report of the Vietnam Pepper Association, in Q1/2023, Vietnam exported 76,727 tons of pepper, with export revenue reaching $235.9 million up 40.5% in quantity but down 7.3% in value compared to the same period last year. In addition, cinnamon exports reached 18,685 tons with $54.8 million, up 45.8% in quantity and 13.8% in value. Star Anise exports reached 3,369 tons worthing $21.6 million, up 261.9% in quantity. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/925/china-stresses-upon-agriculture-fishery-cooperation-with-pacific-island-countries.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/925/china-stresses-upon-agriculture-fishery-cooperation-with-pacific-island-countries.html Thu, 11 May 2023 13:10:00 +0530 China focuses on Agricultural and fisheries cooperation, economic and trade collaboration, increasing multilateral coordination, and improving livelihoods China is all set to expand deepen practical cooperation with Pacific island countries in agriculture and fishery to make new contributions to building an even closer community with a shared future between China and Pacific island countries. A opening ceremony of the China-Pacific island countries agriculture and fishery ministers was held in Nanjing. Agricultural and fisheries cooperation, economic and trade collaboration, increasing multilateral coordination, and improving livelihoods are all areas where China stands ready to deepen practical cooperation with Pacific island countries. Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong said "under the strategic guidance of leaders of the two sides, China and Pacific island countries have achieved fruitful results in agriculture and fishery cooperation. This meeting is of great significance for the two sides to ensure food security, strengthen marine protection and sustainable use, and accelerate agricultural modernization". Using agriculture and fishery cooperation to build an even closer community with a shared future between China and Pacific island countries, China hopes to push cooperation to new heights. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1674/vietnams-mard-convened-to-discuss-establishing-an-export-agricultural-forestry-and-fishery-logistics-chain.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1674/vietnams-mard-convened-to-discuss-establishing-an-export-agricultural-forestry-and-fishery-logistics-chain.html Wed, 04 Jan 2023 09:04:34 +0530 Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) organized a roundtable conference on export agricultural, forestry, and fishery logistics. During the conference, Nguyen Anh Phong, Deputy Director of the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agricultural and Rural Development, raised the issue of the small-scale production of agricultural products in Vietnam including retail and fragmented, purchasing agricultural products in large quantities is very difficult to do. In addition, the country has a long and narrow territory, agricultural products are diverse and rich across regions, and China is the main market for agricultural exports. “With the characteristic of a narrow and long territory, the demand for logistics services serving the gathering and preservation of agricultural products and transshipment in main raw material areas is very high. Including a diverse system of transporting agricultural products along the length of the country to major cities; logistics system in border areas and transportation system, agricultural product transit center connected to border areas” explained Nguyen. In global agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, logistics services are becoming increasingly important due to large-scale, commodity agricultural production and the diversification of products. Markets and wholesale markets have been upgraded, as have logistic services including transportation, preservation, storage, classification, and packaging. However, logistics for Vietnam's agricultural value chain is still facing many problems, including high costs, infrastructure development that cannot keep up with actual demand, and limited service supply capacity. Specifically, logistics costs currently account for 12% of seafood prices, 23% of wooden furniture prices, 29% of fruit and vegetable prices, and 30% of rice prices. Vietnam's logistics cost ratio is currently 6% higher than Thailand's, Malaysia 12% and Singapore up to 300%. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Thanh Nam emphasized that the limitations are due to the fact that Vietnam has not had a long-term strategy and planning for agricultural logistics development with a long-term vision. A lack of policies to support logistics development for agricultural production and business areas, as well as a lack of policies to develop agricultural product linkage centers and agricultural focal centers that are only in the pilot stage. Ministry of Agriculture proposed to implement 3 projects:  Establishing a cross-border agricultural, forestry, and fisheries logistics chain connecting the markets of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and China Establishing an agricultural, forestry, and fishery export logistics infrastructure chain integrating e-commerce and multimodal transportation Establishing an agricultural, forestry, and fisheries logistics chain by air connecting Asean and Chinese markets; which focuses on cross-border e-commerce applications. "Vietnam has 7 economic regions with different production conditions, infrastructure, and market connection needs. Therefore, building a strategic network of regional logistics centers with connectivity only solves the problem." solve the overall planning problem, create synchronous mechanisms and policies to support both agriculture and logistics to develop together. However, the design and construction of regional logistics centers requires research. , detailed assessment to ensure the project brings practical results, meeting long-term development needs," the Deputy Minister emphasized. ]]> https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1677/middle-easts-ministry-of-agriculture-and-food-industries-mafi-unveils-massive-300m-agri-food-industrial-complex.html https://www.agrospectrumasia.com/news/143/1677/middle-easts-ministry-of-agriculture-and-food-industries-mafi-unveils-massive-300m-agri-food-industrial-complex.html Mon, 02 Jan 2023 11:18:53 +0530 Comprising five state-of-the-art plants with an annual production capacity of over 100,000 tons of agricultural food products in Phase I the complex is estimated for a turnover of $200M Middle East's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) unveils a groundbreaking agri-food industrial complex, set to become the largest in the Middle East. With a significant investment of up to $300 million, the project is being undertaken in collaboration with a foreign investor. At the Council of Ministers headquarters, an signing ceremony unfolded, in the presence of key dignitaries including Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the Prime Minister, Ahmed Samir, the Minister of Industry, Hossam Hibah, the CEO of the General Authority for Investment, and Ahmed Abou Hashima, Founder and Chairman of MAFI Company for Agricultural Produce Industries. Additionally, representatives from leading global companies specializing in cutting-edge agri-food technologies were also in attendance, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the auspicious occasion. Comprising five state-of-the-art plants, the complex is set to become a beacon of innovation and productivity. MAFI for Agricultural Produce Industries, under the leadership of Ahmed Abou Hashima, has unveiled plans for a sprawling agri-food complex. Spanning an expansive area of 154,000 square meters in Industria Sadat City, this visionary project is set to redefine the industry landscape. Among its notable features are two of Egypt's largest plants dedicated to the production of orange and tomato concentrates, as well as various fruit products and citrus oils. Notably, it also houses the first-of-its-kind cloudy product plant in the Middle East, showcasing a commitment to pioneering advancements. Furthermore, the complex boasts one of the world's largest freeze-drying facilities for fruits and vegetables, along with a cutting-edge factory for freezing these perishable commodities. The complex has an impressive annual production capacity of over 100,000 tons of agricultural food products in Phase I, with an estimated turnover of $200M. In Phase II, the production capacity will expand to reach 200,000 tons, equivalent to a turnover of $400M. The project aims to contribute to the growth of the Egyptian economy while striving to achieve a balance between imports and exports. In line with its ambitious vision, the complex is geared towards exporting over 80% of its production. ]]>