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Far Eastern Agriculture

In The Spotlight

The two exhibitions will serve as an integrated sourcing and business development platform.

Event News

Consistently surpassing geographical horizons, VIV Worldwide has launched VIV Select China, which will be strategically collaborating with Pet Fair Asia in Shanghai this August

Set to take place from 19-23 August 2026 at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center (SWEEC), the partnership will bring together the livestock production and animal health community and the global pet industry. While VIV China will be held from 19-21 August, the 28th Pet Fair Asia will be on from 19-23 August.

Organised by Globus Events, the two exhibitions will offer access to complementary resources across livestock production, feed and ingredients, animal health, supply chain services, pet food and finished pet products during one business trip to Shanghai.

VIV Select China 2026 will host more than 500 exhibitors across over 50,000 sq m, and will cover poultry, waterfowl, swine and other livestock sectors, with solutions spanning animal health, feed and feed additives, farm equipment, biosecurity and production technology. Pet Fair Asia, on the other hand, will occupy 320,000 sq m, including 17 main exhibition halls, 10 supply chain halls, and an outdoor area. 

The two exhibitions will serve as an integrated sourcing and business development platform that will bring upstream technologies and ingredients to downstream product innovation and consumer demand.

With animal health being a common factor joining the two exhibitions, there will be a diverse exhibition of solutions in disease prevention, biosecurity, vaccines, antibiotic-reduction strategies and animal nutrition. Technologies proven in livestock production may also support innovation in companion animal healthcare, veterinary products and clinical disease management.

Pet food is also a key common factor in both the exhibitions. At Pet Fair Asia visitors can expect products across staple diets, functional treats, veterinary diets and specialised nutrition, bringing together established brands, emerging companies and OEM manufacturers.

Insights into pet food innovation and consumer trends can help livestock producers and ingredient suppliers identify new opportunities in raw material development, formulation, sourcing and production planning. The collaboration can potentially result into stronger value chain, from farm and ingredient supply to finished pet products.

EuroTier 2026 to Spotlight Smart Livestock and Poultry Farming Innovation

Event News

EuroTier 2026, recognised as the world’s leading trade fair for animal farming, is set to return from 10 to 13 November 2026 in Hanover, bringing together global professionals focused on livestock and poultry production

With the ticket shop now open, anticipation is building for an event that will highlight the future of modern animal farming.

Spread across a vast exhibition space, the event will host more than 2,100 exhibitors from over 50 countries. The focus will remain firmly on livestock sectors including dairy and beef cattle, pigs, and poultry. Under the guiding theme “Intelligence in animal farming”, the event will explore how smart technologies can improve productivity, animal welfare, and sustainability across these industries.

A key feature of the exhibition is the strong emphasis on practical innovation. From advanced breeding strategies to modern feeding systems, exhibitors will present solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of farmers. Dedicated spotlight areas will bring these ideas to life through live demonstrations and interactive displays.

In the Spotlight TopTierTreff, breeders from around the world will gather to exchange knowledge and showcase the latest developments in cattle breeding. Meanwhile, the Spotlight Barn Robot Event will focus on automated milking systems, offering insights into how robotics can transform dairy operations, particularly for large herds.

Environmental responsibility is also a central theme. The Spotlight on emission reduction in pig and poultry farming will present technologies aimed at lowering environmental impact while maintaining productivity. Experts will demonstrate how farms can balance efficiency with animal health and environmental care.

The event will also feature several expert stages where specialists will discuss key issues in livestock and poultry farming. Topics will include animal health, feeding strategies, sustainability, and market trends, providing visitors with valuable knowledge to apply in real world settings.

“As a leading innovation hub, we not only offer an international top class technical and exhibition program. This year, our visitors can also look forward to numerous new features. With the EuroTier Milky Way, exhibitors will present innovations and solutions covering the entire value chain of milk production across three halls. Further highlights include DLG VetCon, the new networking and professional training event for large animal and herd veterinarians including a foyer exhibition, as well as the Innovation Boulevard, where selected innovations from the two award schemes Innovation Awards EuroTier and EnergyDecentral 2026 will be showcased. This will allow EuroTier to set new standards not only in terms of product and topic diversity, but also as the world’s largest international business and networking platform,” says Ines Rathke.

EuroTier 2026 will once again serve as a vital meeting point for farmers, industry leaders, and experts, encouraging collaboration and shaping the future of livestock and poultry farming.

Pioneering greenhouse heating with a 2 MW CO₂ heat pump (Image credit :Hortidaily))

Equipment

Plant nursery, Kwekerij Aarts, has taken a bold step towards sustainable horticulture by installing a 2 MW air to water heat pump to support a new 3.6 hectare greenhouse

The system is thought to be one of the largest of its kind within the greenhouse sector, marking a significant shift in how growers approach energy use.

Owner Rens Aarts explored several options before settling on the heat pump. Grid limitations ruled out combined heat and power as the main solution, and although a geothermal permit was secured, the final choice leaned towards a more flexible and forward thinking system. The unit, running on CO₂ as a natural refrigerant, has been in operation since early this year.

"We are willing to pioneer," says Rens Aarts. "We knew we were taking a path where no one had gone before."

The family business has always embraced innovation. With 9.6 hectares already in use for cucumbers and autumn tomatoes, the expansion demanded a heating capacity far beyond standard systems. Careful planning ensured the greenhouse was well insulated and supported by a low temperature heating network designed for efficiency.

"We preferred a natural refrigerant and chose CO₂. Our first thought was that if a leak were to occur and refrigerant entered the greenhouse, CO₂ would not be harmful to the plants," Aarts explains.

The system operates best with a steady return temperature of 30°C, allowing it to deliver flexible output levels. Alongside the heat pump, solar panels and an additional CHP unit provide energy balance and backup. Smart software manages the entire setup, ensuring consistent performance despite fluctuations in weather and electricity supply.

"We can control three heating networks independently, or extend a network when we need a lower return temperature," Aarts explains.

The project has not been without challenges, particularly in maintaining stable conditions for the heat pump. However, interest from other growers is already growing.

"Make sure you have this properly calculated under winter conditions," Aarts advises colleagues. "That is when it really matters."

With plans for future expansion, Kwekerij Aarts is setting a clear example of how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand.

African Farming

  • HSW ECO MATIC® 6ml _ 10ml (for injection, oral and pour-on application)

Hydroponic Systems recommends the Agrifresh aluminium thermodiffuser mesh as a proven solution. (Image credit:Hydroponic Systems)

Hydroponic Systems is helping greenhouse growers tackle the challenge of optimising microclimates without compromising light or productivity.

In warm regions, particularly for heat-sensitive crops like strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers, managing radiation, temperature, and heat stress is critical. Heat-diffusing mesh has become an essential tool in balancing light levels and reducing heat buildup inside greenhouses, proving to be one of the most effective solutions for these challenges.

The mesh works by partially blocking infrared radiation while allowing useful diffuse light to pass through. This reduces internal temperatures, alleviates heat stress, and sustains photosynthetic activity. According to Hydroponic Systems, this approach helps "improve fruit quality, reduce plant stress, and stabilise growing conditions," especially during periods of high radiation.

The mesh achieves this through a combination of light diffusion and thermal reflection. The diffusion process disperses light, preventing hot spots and ensuring even distribution of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) across the plant canopy. This enables middle and lower leaves to contribute more effectively to photosynthesis. Aluminium particles embedded in the polymer structure reflect infrared radiation, which helps control heat accumulation. The result is a more stable greenhouse environment with fewer temperature spikes.

Hydroponic Systems recommends the Agrifresh aluminium thermodiffuser mesh as a proven solution. This patented fabric creates an effective thermal barrier without compromising light quality. According to the company, it works best in professional greenhouses of around half a hectare or more, where managing temperature and radiation is crucial for maintaining high yield and quality.

In practice, reduced infrared radiation leads to lower heat accumulation and fewer temperature fluctuations, especially during critical growth stages. Increased diffuse light improves PAR distribution, supports stable photosynthesis, and reduces the risk of heat stress. As a result, growers experience "more uniform fruit, fewer deformities, and better colour and firmness."

Strawberries, in particular, show significant benefits, with improved uniformity, firmness, colour, and crop stability. Similar positive trends have been observed in tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and other crops.

For optimal performance, proper installation is key. Correct height, tension, and orientation affect the mesh's effectiveness. Hydroponic Systems advises careful integration with ventilation systems for best results.

LUBING GreenTec Plastic Pads are engineered for long-term durability.

As climate volatility continues to challenge modern horticulture, greenhouse operators are increasingly turning to advanced evaporative cooling technologies to maintain consistent growing conditions.

LUBING GreenTec’s Fogging- and Pad-Systems are designed to deliver precise climate control, supporting healthier crops, improved yields, and sustainable greenhouse management.

At the heart of the solution is high-pressure fogging technology. “LUBING GreenTec's high-pressure Fogging-Systems use direct evaporative cooling by injecting water at 70–100 bar through specialized nozzles, producing droplets smaller than five micrometers," Alexander Eugen, Deputy Head of Sales and Export at LUBING GreenTec, explains. "These droplets evaporate rapidly, lowering air temperature and raising humidity without wetting the plants."

By enabling ultra-fast evaporation, the system helps stabilise the vapour pressure deficit (VPD), a key metric in reducing plant stress and unlocking maximum growth potential. Thanks to its modular configuration, the fogging system can be tailored to greenhouses of varying sizes and adapted to diverse climatic zones. It can operate as a standalone solution or in combination with pad cooling, allowing growers to fine-tune conditions across different greenhouse areas.

Pad cooling applies the same evaporative cooling principle through a different process. “Air is drawn through wetted pads, and as part of the water evaporates, the air is cooled and humidified,” he explains. “Our water distribution ensures even wetting across the pad surface, which enhances cooling efficiency while reducing energy use.”

LUBING GreenTec Plastic Pads are engineered for long-term durability. Their advanced material structure supports uniform water flow, resists UV exposure, and allows cleaning with high-pressure washers, significantly extending lifespan compared to conventional paper pads.

Automation plays a crucial role in efficiency. “Both the Fogging- and Pad-Systems integrate seamlessly with climate computers, which process temperature and humidity sensor data to trigger activation automatically,” he notes. “Our systems also support zone control, so different areas of the greenhouse respond independently to local conditions. This enables growers to coordinate fogging or pad cooling with ventilation, shading, and CO₂ delivery for optimal results.”

Durability and ease of maintenance remain central to the design philosophy. “Components are made from stainless steel to resist corrosion, while modular pump assemblies and clip-profile pad mounts simplify servicing.” He adds, “In practice, growers report that our systems require relatively little maintenance, and our technical support helps minimize downtime.”

Proven results reinforce the value of these systems. A tomato greenhouse in Mexico recorded a yield increase of around 25% under extreme heat, alongside a 15–25% reduction in operating costs. Across Europe, flower growers in Germany, Italy, and Switzerland have maintained ideal humidity levels of 50–80%, improving crop quality and streamlining climate management.

Sustainability remains a key focus. The high-pressure fogging system maximises evaporation, reducing overall water consumption, while the Plastic Pad-System is manufactured from recycled materials and designed with low-pressure loss to cut fan energy use—making LUBING GreenTec a future-ready choice for climate-smart greenhouses.

 

Propane Dehumidifier Improve Greenhouse Efficiency.(Image credit: Bimco Holland)

As global pressure mounts to phase out refrigerants with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), the horticulture sector is rapidly adapting to more sustainable climate-control technologies.

Bimco Holland is responding to this shift with the launch of its latest innovation, the Bimco-4Eco — a compact dehumidification unit designed to meet future environmental regulations while delivering major energy savings for growers.

The refrigerants landscape is evolving quickly, and products with high GWP values are increasingly under scrutiny. According to Bimco Holland, it is only a matter of time before such refrigerants are fully phased out. This reality prompted the company to develop the Bimco-4Eco, for which a patent has already been filed.

“It is a compact, easy-to-install unit, designed with upcoming regulations in mind,” said sales manager Joost de Goeij. “With a GWP of just 4.5 and the natural refrigerant R290, the 4Eco is completely future proof.”

The Bimco-4Eco replaces the earlier Bimco-4E model, which operated on R407C. The new system instead uses R290 — commonly known as propane offering a significantly lower environmental footprint. Joost highlights another key benefit: “Because we use R290 and only a small amount of refrigerant, the legally required yearly leakage check is no longer needed, which saves growers both money and administrative hassle.”

Designed specifically for modern greenhouse operations, the Bimco-4Eco focuses on practical performance and flexibility. Bimco recommends installing multiple compact units per greenhouse section rather than relying on a single central system. This approach improves air distribution and creates a more uniform growing climate. “By placing multiple compact units rather than one large central machine, the greenhouse climate becomes far more uniform. This helps prevent wet corners and cold spots.”

Operating at a modest noise level of 63 dB, the unit delivers a soft, horizontal airflow to avoid overdrying around the machine. Weighing approximately 140 kilograms, it can be installed easily without cranes or major structural adjustments, fitting neatly between gutters, walkways or above technical rooms.

Beyond sustainability, the Bimco-4Eco delivers measurable performance gains. “By treating moisture internally instead of relying on cold outside air, growers can save up to 50 percent energy compared to traditional heating and venting, especially when combined with good screen management,” said Joost.

The unit also supports better disease control, improved crop uniformity and higher yields. Growers may also be eligible to apply for an EG subsidy, further enhancing the technology’s appeal.

EVJA aims to make digital agriculture practical and accessible. (Image credit: EVJA)

Digital transformation in agriculture is gaining momentum across Europe, yet adoption remains uneven. In Italy, only 9.5% of agricultural land is currently digitised, according to data from the Smart Agrifood Observatory.

Despite this modest uptake, the pace of technological change has been rapid. As the team at EVJA explains, “Despite this marginal progress, the sector has transitioned from a few isolated sensors in the field to a wealth of data, forecasting models, regulatory requirements, and sustainability metrics in just a few years.”

This fast evolution has created a new challenge for farmers and agronomists. Multiple digital tools often operate in isolation, using different data standards and interfaces. “The risk is clear. There are so many disconnected solutions, each with its own language. This increases complexity instead of simplifying the work of farmers and technicians,” EVJA notes. To address this, the company developed its Agronomic Intelligence Platform, a single, integrated solution designed to turn complex agricultural data into practical, on-farm decisions. “It is a unified platform for monitoring, analyzing, advocating, and ensuring sustainability by transforming complex data into actionable decisions.”

At its core, the platform aims to simplify data-driven agronomy through one website and mobile app. Farmers and technicians gain access to real-time monitoring of soil, climate and crop conditions, alongside disease forecasting models, an event calendar, complete historical datasets, yield estimation tools and an up-to-date CO2 balance. This all-in-one approach supports precision agriculture, climate-smart farming and measurable sustainability outcomes.

A standout feature of EVJA’s solution is its modular structure. Farms can begin with a Basic plan, which includes monitoring, data history and a digital calendar, and then expand as needs grow. Advanced modules such as Defense, Agronomic Modelling, Yield and CO2 allow the platform to scale alongside the business, supporting a transition towards more efficient, transparent and sustainable farming practices.

The EVJA control unit, equipped with essential sensors, underpins the platform. Through the app, users can view real-time graphs showing soil moisture, temperature and other key parameters, as well as analyse historical data by season, plot or crop. The Defense modules integrate seamlessly, offering AI-powered forecasting for diseases such as downy mildew, alternaria, botrytis and powdery mildew. These models are refined using user-recorded observations, treatments and notes, improving accuracy over time.

Beyond plant protection, the platform includes advanced agronomic models covering evapotranspiration, accumulated temperature, light exposure and chilling hours. These tools help farmers plan irrigation and crop development without complex calculations. The yield module, designed for leafy vegetables and castor beans, supports production forecasts, harvest timing and supply chain planning. Meanwhile, the CO2 module calculates emissions and sequestration, providing reliable data for ESG reporting and retailer requirements.

Through this platform, EVJA aims to make digital agriculture practical and accessible. As the company puts it: “Innovation in the field, sustainability in the yield.”

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Crops

Bhutan's food offerings effortlessly meet sustainability criteria.

Agriculture

Bhutan recently concluded its mini-market event in Singapore after Bangkok, as part of its shift to market-oriented agricultural system from subsistence farming 

Bhutanese entrepreneurs are looking for post-event business exchanges with clients and consumers from Singapore. This anticipation is built on the interests generated from the mini-market's diverse displays, including everything from processed foods to agricultural goods from 11 Bhutanese agri-food entrepreneurs. 

Backed by Singaporean partners, JICA Bhutan and the IFC-World Bank Group, the mini-market had a Bhutanese delegation led by the country's Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho. “Bhutan offers the world something special, a clean, natural, and high-quality food products grown in one of the last pristine environments on Earth,” said Younten Phuntsho. 

Bhutan's food offerings thus effortlessly meet sustainability criteria even as the world looks at it as a goal to be reached. Known for its one-of-a-kind and sustainably produced eatables, Singapore's regional market has peaked Bhutan's interests for a meaningful partnership.

Environmental responsibility besides, public health also remains a priority for the Bhutan government in developing the country's agriculture industry for a stronger economy at large. 

Acknowledging all the partners involved, the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC) shared its long-term plans to promote Bhutanese agri-food products in global markets through such events and trade platforms. 

 

 

 

Philippines expands affordable rice programme to support millions (Image credit: Agro spectrum Asia)

Livestock

Smarter water care arrives with EDIE Generation 2 for livestock and poultry farms. (Image credit: Kemin Industries)

Poultry

Kemin Industries has unveiled its latest innovation, EDIE Generation 2, a modern system designed to improve water disinfection across livestock and poultry operations 

This new solution reflects a growing shift towards smarter and more connected farm management tools.

Built to simplify everyday operations, EDIE Generation 2 brings together automation, live monitoring, and seamless connectivity in one easy to use platform. The system allows farmers and operators to manage water quality with greater precision while reducing the need for constant manual checks. By doing so, it supports both animal wellbeing and overall farm productivity.

"Water quality plays a critical role in animal health and operational productivity," said Dillon Mellick of Kemin Animal Nutrition and Health. "With EDIE Generation 2, we are delivering connected intelligence that helps producers manage water disinfection more precisely, more efficiently, and with greater confidence."

The system works directly within the water line, tracking chlorine dioxide levels and offering optional readings such as pH and oxidation reduction potential. This gives users a clear and immediate view of water conditions, helping them respond quickly when adjustments are needed.

In addition to monitoring, EDIE Generation 2 records key data such as water usage, dosing patterns, and equipment performance. It also connects to a mobile app, allowing users to check updates and receive alerts remotely. Built in sensors notify staff when chemical levels are low, while a refined controller with a clear display makes operation straightforward.

Designed to work alongside PRO OXINE AH, Kemin’s chlorine dioxide disinfectant, the system delivers consistent and reliable application without the need for manual mixing. It can also be added to existing setups, making it a flexible option for farms looking to upgrade.

With this launch, Kemin continues to focus on practical solutions that improve farm hygiene and strengthen biosecurity through smarter water management.

Indonesia boosts dairy industry through cow imports.

Genesys drives poultry innovation in Asia (Image credit: Genesys )

Equipment

Philippines boosts food supply with Bicol Mega Cold Storage. (Image credit: Business mirror))

Equipment

The Philippines has taken a significant step towards improving its agricultural system with the launch of the Bicol Mega Cold Storage Warehouse.

This major project, backed by an investment of P500 million, reflects a strong effort to modernise food logistics and support farmers across the region.

The facility was officially opened by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., alongside Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and Camarines Sur Governor Luis Raymund Villafuerte. It stands as the first completed project under the Department of Agriculture’s Cold Storage Expansion Program and aligns with the goals of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act.

Designed to address long standing challenges in storage and transport, the warehouse provides reliable temperature controlled spaces for different types of produce. Livestock, fruits, and vegetables are stored under carefully managed conditions to maintain freshness and quality from the farm through to the market. With a capacity of over 200,000 tonnes each year, the facility is expected to benefit a large number of farmers as well as consumers.

“This facility underscores the commitment of the Marcos administration to cut post-harvest losses, raise farmers incomes, stabilize food supply, and ensure lasting rural development,” Tiu Laurel said.

Governor Villafuerte highlighted the wider impact of the project, noting that it will serve not only the Bicol region but also suppliers from other parts of the country. “This is a game changer for Bicolandia, which has long played a key role in feeding the nation, whether directly through food production or as corridor where agricultural products pass through,” he said.

Beyond storage, the site includes rooms for blast freezing, processing, and packaging. These features allow farmers to extend the shelf life of their produce and improve its market value. The timing is especially important as rising fuel costs and ongoing supply challenges have made distribution more difficult.

By linking storage with better transport and logistics, the facility helps farmers avoid losses and sell their goods under better conditions. Alongside this project, the government is also developing more cold chain facilities across the country, building a stronger and more connected food system for the future.

Pottinger's V 6520 C. (Image source: Pottinger)

Pioneering greenhouse heating with a 2 MW CO₂ heat pump (Image credit :Hortidaily))

Technology

Advancing thai farming through Smart Technology. (Image credit: Khon Kaen University)

Technology

From 25 to 26 March 2026, Khon Kaen University worked alongside GISTDA and the MHESI Northeastern Network Operations Unit to host a hands on workshop focused on modernising agriculture through smart technology.

Held across two community rice centres in Nakhon Ratchasima and Khon Kaen, the initiative aimed to strengthen farmers’ skills and introduce practical tools for more efficient farming.

The workshop blended learning with real experience. Farmers were guided on how to use the SGi Farm platform to manage data across the entire production process. This included everything from registration and mapping cultivation areas to tracking field activities, yields, and final outputs. By organising this information in one system, farmers can plan more effectively, lower costs, and improve productivity in a measurable way.

A key part of the programme was the use of satellite based climate data. Farmers were shown how this information can support better decisions on irrigation, planting schedules, and harvesting. With clearer forecasts and insights, they can respond to changing conditions more confidently and maintain both quality and quantity in their produce.

Dr. Siraprapa Bamrungkit, a lecturer at the Faculty of Economics, Khon Kaen University, stated that in addition to developing the upstream and midstream value chain, the university plays a crucial role in advancing the downstream segment. KKU provides comprehensive support for product and packaging development, from designing brand identity and selecting appropriate materials to creating labels and product information. This support extends to integrating a traceability system via QR codes on packaging to enhance credibility, add value, and strengthen market competitiveness.

Beyond improving farming practices, the project encourages long term economic growth. It opens new market opportunities while helping communities adapt to modern consumer expectations. The initiative also reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, supporting food security, reducing inequality, and promoting innovation driven development.

Orbia Netafim and Amazon India Launch Water Saving Drip Irrigation Projects Across Bengaluru and Hyderabad. (Image credit: Netafirm)

Aonic expands Global Reach with Fresh Investment in Drone Innovation (Image credit: Aonic)

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