Far Eastern Agriculture - Far Eastern Agriculture

In The Spotlight

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

Equipment

Revolutionize your greenhouse with Propane Dehumidifiers

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)

Equipment

Agronomic Intelligence Transform Farming in Italy

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.”

Beijing_International_Flower_Industrial_Park_event

The park’s strategic location enhances its role as a gateway for international flower commerce.(Image credit: Floral daily)

Agriculture

Beijing International Flower Park officially opens

China’s floriculture sector reached a major milestone on 8 December with the official opening of the Beijing International Flower Industrial Park.

The inauguration ceremony brought together around 100 representatives from across the national flower industry, underlining the project’s significance for both domestic and international markets.

Situated in Panggezhuang Town, Daxing District, the park spans 552.6 mu (approximately 36.84 hectares) and is equipped with 60,000 square metres of state-of-the-art greenhouses. Designed as a next-generation floriculture hub, the park aims to integrate “innovation and R&D + production demonstration + digital trade + cultural tourism experience,” with a strong emphasis on bulb flowers for research, cultivation and global trade.

The park’s strategic location enhances its role as a gateway for international flower commerce. Just 20 minutes from Beijing Daxing International Airport and close to the Jingkai Expressway, it offers efficient logistics for both imports and exports. A number of leading domestic and international flower companies have already established a presence, creating a vibrant ecosystem for collaboration, innovation and commercial growth.

Looking ahead, the park plans to introduce more premium international flower varieties while actively promoting distinctive Chinese local breeds to overseas markets. This dual strategy is expected to strengthen China’s competitiveness in the global floriculture industry and support domestic enterprises in expanding internationally.

The opening was marked by a Home Gardening Forum, where industry experts and business leaders shared insights on popular ornamental plants including Phalaenopsis, Amaryllis, Paphiopedilum and Rhododendron. Together, these initiatives position the park as a key driver of innovation, trade and sustainable growth in China’s rapidly evolving flower industry.

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

HSW ECO MATIC

ALMACO Telematics boosts seed research efficiency

Telematics enhances efficiency and uptime for seed research. (Image source: ALMACO)

ALMACO Telematics is a next-generation system delivering remote access to real-time machine data—boosting efficiency, performance, and uptime for seed research professionals

Available on both the R1 Single-Plot and R2 Twin-Plot Research Combines, it’s the only telematics offering integrated specifically for seed research, reinforcing ALMACO’s leadership in precision agtech.

With insights into numerous machine parameters, the platform provides deep visibility into settings, location, diagnostics, software, and performance. This empowers fleet managers and researchers to easily monitor and optimise machine use for peak operational output.

Maximising uptime through smart diagnostics

A key feature of ALMACO Telematics is its remote diagnostics and repair capability, protecting uptime and reducing disruptions. Over 30% of service issues can be resolved remotely, removing the need for a field technician and delivering cost-effective value.

Simplified software upgrades

The system enables remote software updates, ensuring machines stay up to date without site visits. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs while supporting continuous tech improvement.

Enhanced fleet oversight

From their desks, managers can track machine performance and advise operators to refine seed trial accuracy. Telematics interfaces can also be remotely customised to support the specific goals of different research operations, improving data precision and machine functionality.

A smart investment for research operations

By reducing field calls, improving uptime, and enhancing resale value, ALMACO Telematics offers a strong return on investment. With its real-time oversight and proactive maintenance tools, seed research professionals can operate with confidence and lower costs.

“The integration of ALMACO Telematics marks a significant step forward in precision seed research,” said Mat Titus, service director at ALMACO. “By offering real-time data access and remote diagnostics, we are enabling researchers to focus on what matters most—developing the next generation of seed innovations.”

Crops

The park’s strategic location enhances its role as a gateway for international flower commerce.(Image credit: Floral daily)

Agriculture

Beijing International Flower Park officially opens

China’s floriculture sector reached a major milestone on 8 December with the official opening of the Beijing International Flower Industrial Park.

The inauguration ceremony brought together around 100 representatives from across the national flower industry, underlining the project’s significance for both domestic and international markets.

Reduco emerged as the successor, operating as the production arm of the cooperative Beyond Wood. (Image credit: Greenport West-Holland)

The greenhouse is equipped with cutting-edge agricultural technologies.(Image credit: Turkmen portal)

Livestock

The future of marine resources.

Aquaculture

The future of marine resources: Philippines and BBNJ

The Philippines is intensifying its efforts to ratify a landmark international treaty aimed at protecting marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ), reinforcing its commitment to ocean conservation and sustainable marine resource management

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has pledged full support to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in promoting the Senate’s concurrence to the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). Signed under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the BBNJ treaty addresses the conservation and equitable use of marine resources in high seas and other regions beyond exclusive national control.

Although Ferdinand Marcos Jr., President ratified the agreement in 2024-a year after its global adoption - the treaty still requires Senate concurrence before the Philippines can officially participate.

Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Agriculture Secretary emphasised the agreement's relevance for the Philippines, said, “The BBNJ Agreement is crucial for conserving and sustainably managing marine biodiversity in areas beyond the Philippines’ jurisdiction, allowing the country to safeguard its rich marine ecosystems while ensuring fair access to and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.”

As a nation composed of over 7,000 islands and located near areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), the Philippines has a strong stake in the treaty’s success. It was an early signatory and active participant in the negotiation process, aligning with global conservation goals and the principles of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award.

Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate stressed the strategic timing of the ratification: once approved by the Senate, the Philippines will be eligible to participate in the first Conference of Parties (COP1). This milestone event is expected to take place shortly after 60 countries submit their ratification instruments to the United Nations. As of late August, 55 nations have completed the process, with momentum building towards reaching the required threshold during the UN General Assembly from September 23–26.

The BBNJ treaty represents a critical tool for archipelagic nations like the Philippines—not only to influence global marine governance but also to safeguard marine ecosystems, promote fair benefit-sharing, and support the livelihoods of coastal communities reliant on ocean resources.

Crayfish provide a nutrient-dense, low-impact protein source that requires minimal feed.

Image_of_Simon_Martyn_and_Dr_Stein_at_iFIC

Hamlet Protein manufactures high-quality soy-based protein ingredients designed for young piglets, poultry, and calves.(Image credit: Hamlet Protein)

Equipment

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

Equipment

Revolutionize your greenhouse with Propane Dehumidifiers

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.

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.

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

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

Technology

Feeding Management offers significant cost savings, improved transparency of feeding programs.(Image credit: SILOKING)

Machinery & Equipment

SILOKING: the future of digital feeding management

SILOKING’s Feeding Management platform is transforming livestock nutrition by combining precision, transparency, and convenience in one digital solution

Designed for users of SILOKING Data and Wireless weight systems, this web-based feeding tool enables farmers to manage feed rations, monitor costs, and optimise mixing accuracy—all from any internet-connected device. Best of all, it is included free of charge with compatible SILOKING hardware, making advanced feeding management accessible to modern farms.

The platform operates through four key steps: planning rations, executing feeding operations, controlling results, and driving success. During the planning phase, farmers can define feed components, including dry matter and costs, create custom animal groups or unloading points, and build tailored loading and unloading programs. During feeding, actual loads are captured automatically, mixed, and recorded, with data export available in Excel or PDF formats for easy archiving and reporting.

Control and monitoring are enhanced through precision comparisons of target versus actual feed loads, time-filtered reports, and detailed consumption analyses. These insights feed directly into performance metrics such as feed cost per kilogram of milk, feed efficiency, and concentrate efficiency, helping farms reduce waste and improve productivity.

Being fully web-based, Feeding Management eliminates the need for manual updates and allows access via PC, tablet, or smartphone, whether on the farm, in the office, or even remotely. Optional SIM-based mobile data transfer from on-machine weight systems ensures real-time documentation and seamless integration with SILOKING hardware.

Beyond operational benefits, Feeding Management offers significant cost savings, improved transparency of feeding programs, and enhanced compliance with dairy industry regulations and quality assurance programs. By aligning feed mixes with planned rations and analysing load data, farms achieve higher efficiency and better animal performance while minimising waste.

Designed with direct input from farmers, the platform features intuitive dashboards, intelligent recipe management, and actionable analytics, making deviations easier to identify and corrective measures simpler to implement. SILOKING Feeding Management is more than software—it’s a comprehensive tool for smarter feeding and better farm management, bringing precision, efficiency, and profitability to modern livestock operations.

ROK aims to position itself at the forefront of green bio innovation.

The latest generation of Braud harvesters demonstrates impressive versatility across a wide range of vineyard structures. (Image credit: New Holland)

Crops

Reduco emerged as the successor, operating as the production arm of the cooperative Beyond Wood. (Image credit: Greenport West-Holland)

Agriculture

Reduco transforming eggplant residuals into panels

Turning eggplant residuals into high-performance construction panels may sound unconventional, but Dutch innovator Reduco is proving that circular building solutions can come from the most unexpected places.

According to Greenport West-Holland, these panels are fully circular, moisture resistant and fire safe, offering a promising alternative to conventional construction materials. Founder Wilfried Martens now hopes the market will adopt the product, enabling large-scale production in the coming years.

Martens did not originally come from the construction sector. After working as a dairy farmer, he decided to leave agriculture behind and pursue a new direction. A chance encounter with eggplant nursery Greenbrothers in Zevenbergen sparked an innovative idea: could residual streams from eggplant cultivation be transformed into durable building panels? This question led to the creation of Nova Lignum thirteen years ago. Although that company eventually went bankrupt, the concept itself proved resilient.

Reduco emerged as the successor, operating as the production arm of the cooperative Beyond Wood. The cooperative’s mission is to add value to agricultural residual streams for the construction industry. Initial success came from using willow residuals, and once that process was proven, the earlier eggplant concept was revived as a next step towards fully circular construction materials.

Wilfried Martens explained the reasoning behind this structure, and said, "It is important to create a high-quality building material to compete in construction, because you are dealing with competition from current products. By working together in a chain, you can create value together and strengthen each other. That is why the entire chain is represented in the cooperative Beyond Wood. It is a way to work together towards social goals and find better solutions than each on their own."

The collaboration with Greenbrothers was built on trust and shared innovation. Processing eggplant stems presented technical challenges, particularly the need for intensive manual preparation.

For now, production is paused, but momentum is building. The eggplant initiative is also featured on the Bioboost platform, which connects and promotes biobased innovations within horticulture, reinforcing the role of plant-based residuals in the future of sustainable construction.

Reduco emerged as the successor, operating as the production arm of the cooperative Beyond Wood. (Image credit: Greenport West-Holland)

The greenhouse is equipped with cutting-edge agricultural technologies.(Image credit: Turkmen portal)

Livestock

Crayfish provide a nutrient-dense, low-impact protein source that requires minimal feed.

Aquaculture

Philippines launches innovative crayfish nursery initiative

The Philippines has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its position in global aquaculture with the launch of its largest crayfish nursery—a flagship development designed to scale production of the high-value Australian Redclaw crayfish.

The project, built through the partnership of Farm Fresh Early Catch Inc., Taiwan’s Da Shin Biotech Ltd., and the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), marks a defining moment for the country’s fast-growing aquaculture sector.

The new nursery will focus on mass-producing Cherax quadricarinatus, a resilient and fast-growing species prized by both domestic and international markets. Government officials say the initiative supports national efforts to strengthen food security while boosting long-term livelihood opportunities in rural areas.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., in remarks delivered by Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa, highlighted the power of collaboration behind the facility. “Built through the partnership of Farm Fresh Early Catch Inc., Da Shin Biotech, and the DA-BFAR, this nursery shows that when government, private innovators, and fisherfolk come together, progress stops being a dream—it becomes our shared reality,” he said.

Tiu Laurel added that crayfish aquaculture “opens new doors for our fisherfolk—bringing in more income, more livelihood, and more food on our tables,” while underscoring the need for responsible production and adherence to BFAR’s ecological protection guidelines. Every pond, he said, must “nurture care, discipline, and respect for the balance of our ecosystems.”

Situated in Candaba - a wetlands area renowned for its freshwater abundance—the 1,280-square-metre facility features 16 tanks capable of producing up to 48,000 fry every two weeks. It also introduces advanced water-recycling systems that help reduce waste and conserve freshwater, addressing one of the most common environmental criticisms of aquaculture operations.

The nursery will supply Farm Fresh’s existing 3-hectare grow-out ponds, which already produce around 30 tonnes of market-ready crayfish each year. It will also support a broad network of partner growers as production expands nationwide.

From 2026, Farm Fresh plans to roll out large-scale grow-out operations covering 1,500 hectares in Luzon and 750 hectares each in the Visayas and Mindanao. When these sites reach full capacity, they are projected to deliver more than 1,200 tonnes of crayfish every six months—volumes that could position the Philippines as a competitive player in the regional and global aquaculture market.

Crayfish provide a nutrient-dense, low-impact protein source that requires minimal feed. The project is expected to generate over 3,000 direct jobs and stimulate additional enterprise in farming communities.

The launch marks the beginning of a world-class crayfish industry designed to place the Philippines firmly on the global aquaculture map.

Crayfish provide a nutrient-dense, low-impact protein source that requires minimal feed.

Hamlet Protein manufactures high-quality soy-based protein ingredients designed for young piglets, poultry, and calves.(Image credit: Hamlet Protein)

Equipment

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

Equipment

Heat-diffusing mesh for boosting greenhouse climate

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.

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

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

Technology

ROK aims to position itself at the forefront of green bio innovation.

Infrastructure

ROK creates an innovative ecosystem for the green-bio industry

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has designated seven provinces Gyeonggi-do, Gangwon-do, Chungcheongnam-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongsangnam-do, Jeollabuk-do, and Jeollanam-do as the first-ever “Green Bio Industry Promotion Zones” in accordance with Article 15 of the Act on the Promotion of the Green Bio Industry.

This milestone marks a significant step in the Republic of Korea’s strategy to strengthen its green bioeconomy and drive sustainable industrial growth.

Introduced for the first time this year, the Green Bio Industry Promotion Zone system is designed to establish a comprehensive, region-led framework for business support. The initiative is built around provincial hubs where green bio companies, universities, research institutes, and essential infrastructure for technology verification and certification are closely integrated. Through this clustered approach, local governments are expected to play a leading role in nurturing innovation, accelerating technology transfer, and supporting market-ready solutions.

The selected zones were evaluated and designated following a rigorous assessment process. Key criteria included industrial growth potential, implementation capacity, policy relevance, and overall feasibility. This ensures that each province is well positioned to contribute effectively to the national green bio strategy while leveraging its own regional strengths and resources.

The green-bio industry itself is regarded as a next-generation growth engine, encompassing six major sectors: microorganisms, natural products, food materials, insects, seeds, and veterinary medical products. With the designation of the Green Bio Industry Development Zones, collaboration networks among provinces are expected to deepen. In parallel, processes for verification, evaluation, certification, and commercialisation of green bio technologies and products are set to accelerate, helping to create a dynamic and competitive innovation ecosystem.

MAFRA plans to support the designated provinces by granting eligibility to participate in government-funded infrastructure development projects, including the Green Bio Venture Campus and advanced biofoundries. In addition, policy incentives will be provided to companies operating within the zones, further encouraging private-sector participation and investment in sustainable bio-based industries.

To ensure accountability and continuous improvement, MAFRA will receive quarterly performance reports from the local governments managing the designated zones. Annual performance evaluations will also be conducted to closely monitor implementation progress. Importantly, the results of these evaluations will be reflected in the formulation of policies for the following year, reinforcing a results-driven and adaptive governance approach.

Through these measures, the ROK aims to position itself at the forefront of green bio innovation, fostering regional development while advancing a resilient, sustainable bioeconomy aligned with global green growth trends.

ROK aims to position itself at the forefront of green bio innovation.