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Australian Government Review of Horticulture Code of Conduct.

Agriculture

The Australian Government has announced an independent review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct to ensure it remains effective and relevant to the needs of the horticulture sector.

The review will be led by Mr Chris Leptos AO. He will consult with growers, traders, industry representatives and government agencies across the supply chain. A consultation paper will be released to invite feedback and submissions from stakeholders.

Horticulture is Australia’s third largest agricultural industry. Production value is forecast to reach 18.9 billion dollars this financial year, with exports expected to reach 4.4 billion dollars.

The Horticulture Code of Conduct regulates trade between growers and traders of wholesale unprocessed fruit, vegetables, nuts and herbs. It was last reviewed in 2015.

Central wholesale markets are supplied by about 10,000 growers and serviced by more than 400 fruit and vegetable wholesalers. Around 13 million sales transactions take place each year, covering 4 million tonnes of produce valued at more than 8 billion dollars.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Julie Collins MP, said: “The Horticulture Code of Conduct was designed to protect our growers and traders who are responsible for so much of Australia’s incredible fresh food,” she said. “The horticulture sector has changed since the Code was last reviewed in 2015, and we want to understand if the Code is still fit-for-purpose. This is an important opportunity for growers, traders, and stakeholders from across the horticulture supply chain to have their say and to ensure we continue to improve transparency and accountability.”

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities, and Treasury, Andrew Leigh MP, said: “Fair competition is the foundation of a strong horticulture sector,” he said. “The Horticulture Code exists to stop unfair dealing and keep the playing field level. From the first handshake to the final invoice, we expect growers and traders to deal in good faith. Strong competition isn’t just good economics—it drives innovation, efficiency, and better outcomes for growers and consumers.”

A final report will be provided to the government by the end of April.

CEVA & Saudi Arabia collaborates to transform veterinary medicine. (Image credit: Arab news)

Poultry

Saudi Arabia has taken a major step towards strengthening its animal health sector through a new partnership with CEVA to localise veterinary vaccine manufacturing within the Kingdom.

The agreement was signed under the patronage of His Excellency Eng. Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al Fadley, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture and Chairman of the National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program, in the presence of senior leaders from the sector.

The Memorandum of Understanding sets out a joint plan to establish domestic production capabilities, transfer advanced technology and technical expertise, and expand industrial and commercial scale manufacturing across different regions of the country. The aim is to create a sustainable operating model that meets national demand while reinforcing biosecurity and food security.

Under the agreement, both sides will work to improve production efficiency and build a clear commercial pathway for locally manufactured vaccines. The cooperation also covers the development of mRNA vaccine technologies and joint research into a vaccine for MERS CoV in camels. This includes designing and evaluating targeted solutions to combat the virus. In addition, the partnership will focus on the development of rabies vaccines and related products, supporting national disease control programmes through reliable vaccine supply, capacity building and integrated prevention strategies.

A key objective is to serve the Kingdom’s poultry vaccine market, currently valued at around US$19.7mn. The plan targets roughly 30 per cent of this market, backed by an initial investment of close to US$66mn. With continued government backing and rising poultry production, the market is projected to grow by more than 10 per cent annually, reaching an estimated US$33bn by 2030.

CEVA’s participation in the Veterinary Biotechnology Future City at the Biotech Park in Dhurma Governorate marks an important milestone. It reflects the Program’s wider strategy to develop advanced industries in livestock and fisheries while building strong international partnerships with leading companies, research institutions and universities.

The agreement also ensures that locally produced vaccines are tailored to disease strains present in the Kingdom. Specialised training programmes will support compliance with international Good Manufacturing Practices standards, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to position itself as a global biotechnology hub and strengthen the long term sustainability of its animal health sector.

Rainbow Colors pioneering hydrogen technology in agriculture. (Image credit: New Energy Coalition)

Equipment

A tulip forcing company in the Netherlands is breaking new ground in clean energy.

Rainbow Colors, based in Andijk in North Holland, has installed a solid oxide electrolyser to produce green hydrogen. Project partners say it is the first agricultural business in the world to apply this advanced technology. With a capacity of one megawatt, the system is also among the largest operational solid oxide electrolysers currently in use, marking a major step forward for hydrogen development in North Holland North.

The project is being delivered in partnership with Danish technology firm Dynelectro, while Dutch company Ekinetix is responsible for building the required infrastructure. The installation forms part of the regional programme Fieldlab Waterstof in de Agri, which focuses on creating a hydrogen network tailored to the agricultural sector.

Rainbow Colors has been involved in the initiative since 2023 as a pilot site for hydrogen production. By using surplus solar energy along with battery storage, the company aims to ensure a steady and reliable supply of hydrogen. The technology partners explain that solid oxide electrolysers are more efficient and experience less wear than conventional systems. Their longer operational life and improved performance are expected to lower the overall cost of hydrogen production. The system also offers a practical response to grid congestion, while increasing access to clean energy within the region.

The installation is described as pioneering not only because it is the first of its kind in agriculture, but also because it ranks as the third largest operational unit of this type worldwide. It is expected to serve as a model for other agricultural businesses seeking solutions to high energy costs and limited grid capacity.

Beau Broen, project leader at New Energy Coalition and coordinator of the hydrogen pilot projects within Fieldlab Waterstof in de Agri, said: "It is impressive to see how international innovation comes together in this project. By implementing Dynelectro's electrolyser at project partner Rainbow Colors, the region is taking an important step towards decentralized hydrogen production. It also provides an economic boost by making affordable green hydrogen available. The project underlines the innovative role North Holland North plays in the energy transition."

With this facility now operational, locally produced green hydrogen becomes available in the Netherlands, helping to address the balance between supply and demand. By using surplus renewable electricity, hydrogen can be produced for less than ten euros per kilogram and used locally. The wider programme brings together businesses and knowledge institutions across North Holland North, positioning the province as a leading hydrogen region and showing that emission free energy solutions are already within reach for agriculture.

African Farming

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

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.”

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Crops

China Becomes Brazil’s Leading Fertiliser Supplier, Surpassing Russia.

Agriculture

China has emerged as Brazil’s largest supplier of fertilisers, marking a significant shift in the country’s agricultural trade landscape.

According to a report, China overtook Russia for the first time after shipping 9.76 million tonnes of fertilisers to Brazil between January and October 2025.

The main products exported were ammonium sulphate and NP based fertiliser formulations containing nitrogen and phosphorus, both essential nutrients for crop development. During the same period, Russia supplied 9.72 million tonnes, maintaining its position as a key strategic partner in Brazil’s fertiliser market.

The sharp rise in imports from China has, however, placed pressure on Brazil’s port infrastructure. A surge of vessels carrying fertiliser cargo led to extended queues at the Port of Paranagua throughout the year. On average, ships waited nearly 60 days before unloading.

"This backlog created a significant logistical bottleneck, putting pressure on the port's operating capacity and increasing costs and demurrage, which is the fee charged when a container, vessel or cargo remains longer than permitted in a port, terminal or depot," the report quoted. 

The congestion has raised concerns among traders and farmers alike, as delays and additional charges can ultimately increase the cost of agricultural production. Efficient fertiliser supply is critical for Brazil, one of the world’s leading agricultural producers, particularly as farmers prepare for major planting seasons.

The report also highlights ongoing challenges in the market. It notes that the exchange ratio between agricultural crops and phosphated fertiliser sources remains unfavourable, meaning farmers are receiving less purchasing power from crop sales when buying fertilisers.

Despite these pressures, fertiliser deliveries across Brazil increased by 9 per cent through August compared with the previous year. Industry analysts suggest that total deliveries could reach a new record in 2025. The state of Rio Grande do Sul is expected to play an important role in shaping the final outcome, largely due to delayed purchasing decisions earlier in the season.

The shift in supplier dynamics reflects broader changes in global trade flows, as Brazil continues to diversify its sources while balancing cost, reliability and long term supply security.

Australian Government Review of Horticulture Code of Conduct.

Vietnam’s meat imports exceed US$2bn as demand climbs.

Livestock

Chicken prices remain stable in Polewali Mandar as ramadan begins.

Poultry

As Ramadan gets under way, residents of Polewali Mandar Regency in West Sulawesi can expect steady chicken prices despite earlier concerns about increases.

Local authorities say the situation remains under control and supplies are more than adequate to meet seasonal demand.

Fitriani, Head of the Food Security Division at the Marine and Fisheries Office of Polewali Mandar, confirmed that recent price rises are still within acceptable limits. “There has been an increase, but it is still reasonable and below the Government Reference Price (HAP) set by the government,” she said.

Alongside the Industry and Trade Office and officers from the Criminal Investigation Agency of the Indonesian National Police, she inspected Pasar Sentral Pekkabata to assess the market situation. According to Fitriani, live chickens are currently selling for around Rp70,000 per bird, with an average weight of 2.5 kilograms.

“The current market price per bird is Rp70,000, with an average weight of 2.5 kilograms. That means the price per kilogram is only around Rp28,000. This is not far from the government’s HAP of Rp25,000 per kilogram for live chickens at the producer or farmer level,” she explained.

She added that supplies in Polewali Mandar are secure, with traders holding up to twice their usual stock. The modest price rise is seen as a seasonal trend linked to increased demand before Ramadan, when families traditionally hold thanksgiving gatherings and prepare special meals.

At provincial level, Nur Kadar from the Food Crops, Horticulture, and Livestock Office of West Sulawesi said prices remain stable across the region. Meanwhile, at national level, the Ministry of Agriculture has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding both consumers and traders.

“In line with the Minister of Agriculture’s directive, we want to ensure the public obtains products that are safe, healthy, wholesome, and halal at affordable prices, while traders still receive reasonable margins,” said Agung Suganda in Jakarta.

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman also stressed that ample production and strong stocks should prevent unjustified price hikes. Authorities say monitoring will continue through Eid al Fitr to maintain steady supply and fair pricing.

IPEMA Poultry India receives exhibitor award at KIPF 2026. (Image credit: IPEMA)

Broiler chicken prices climb above government benchmarks

Equipment

Limex unveils Modular 8 washing system for crates. (Image credit: Limex)

Equipment

Limex has unveiled its latest innovation in industrial washing technology with the introduction of the Modular 8, a highly flexible and configurable washing machine platform designed for crates, seed trays, flower buckets and floats.

The new line marks a significant shift towards modular engineering, allowing customers to build exactly the washing solution they need using standardised components rather than costly custom-built systems.

Unlike traditional crate and tray washers that often require extensive engineering work to meet specific customer requirements, the Modular 8 is built from individual modules that connect seamlessly into a single washing line. These include pre-wash units, one or more main wash modules, rinse sections and blow-off units. This modular approach enables users to tailor the system precisely to their operational layout, hygiene standards and processing capacity.

By installing multiple main wash modules in sequence, the system increases soaking time and washing power, delivering higher throughput without compromising cleaning performance. Each standard module also offers multiple configuration options, such as higher-pressure pumps or advanced filtration technologies. The platform supports both left-hand and right-hand configurations, ensuring maximum flexibility for different production environments.

"With the Modular 8, we make it easier to choose exactly the configuration that matches the customer's capacity, hygiene requirements, and budget," says Joep Janssen, owner of Limex. "Our engineers have designed the machines in such a way that they follow each other seamlessly."

With a tunnel width of 800 millimetres, the Modular 8 is suitable for a broad range of applications, including harvest crates, seed trays, flower buckets and DWC floats. The system has also been designed with maintenance efficiency in mind. Improved accessibility of components simplifies cleaning, inspection and servicing, helping to reduce downtime and improve overall operational efficiency.

The Modular 8 builds on Limex’s reputation for proven, high-quality engineering. Constructed from robust stainless steel, the platform delivers durability, reliability and long service life. Twelve Modular 8 lines are already in operation across multiple countries, demonstrating strong market acceptance.

This launch sets the foundation for future developments, with the Modular 10, Modular 14 and Modular 18 planned to follow. These larger, configurable models will eventually replace Limex’s existing cart washers and big box washers, reinforcing the company’s commitment to modular, future-ready industrial washing solutions.

Rainbow Colors pioneering hydrogen technology in agriculture. (Image credit: New Energy Coalition)

FAO drone training for effective pest management for Locusts. (Image credit: FAO)

Technology

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

Machinery & Equipment

New Holland Agriculture continues to set new standards in modern viticulture with its acclaimed Braud grape harvester range - a series celebrated globally for precision, productivity and long-lasting reliability.

Built on decades of specialist expertise, the Braud brand has become synonymous with exceptional grape-harvesting performance, and under the New Holland umbrella it remains a trusted partner for winemakers seeking both efficiency and gentle crop handling.

Each Braud harvester reflects a signature blend of engineering excellence and vineyard-friendly design. The machines are created to treat vines with care while delivering powerful harvesting capability, ensuring that grapes are collected cleanly and with minimal damage. This focus on protecting fruit integrity directly enhances vineyard productivity and supports the production of higher-quality wines.

The latest generation of Braud harvesters demonstrates impressive versatility across a wide range of vineyard structures. With both high-capacity and extra-high-capacity models, including the popular 9000 L and 9000 X series, the range adapts effortlessly to narrow boutique vineyards, expansive commercial estates, and even sloped terrain. Their advanced systems  such as the industry-proven Noria basket conveying system, optional destemmer technology, and innovative side-conveyor configurations  ensure consistently clean, gentle and efficient fruit handling.
This adaptability makes Braud harvesters an ideal choice for growers looking to streamline operations while maintaining strict quality standards. Backed by a global legacy and trusted by thousands of vineyard operators, these machines are built to deliver season after season, reducing labour needs, improving harvest speed, and preserving overall vine health.

Engineered for durability and operator comfort, the Braud range combines robust construction with intuitive controls, offering ease of use without compromising on precision. The result is a harvester that not only boosts productivity but also supports sustainable agricultural practices, helping vineyards reduce waste and optimise long-term output.

Choosing a Braud grape harvester means investing in a heritage of innovation, reliability and world-leading vineyard technology  giving growers confidence in every harvest and reinforcing New Holland’s reputation as a champion of next-generation viticulture solutions.

COMPASS accurately detects and removes a wide range of foreign materials, including dirt clods, rocks, sticks, insects and animal parts.(Image credit: Key Technology)

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

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