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

Poultry

Across Asia, poultry producers have been steadily moving towards more advanced systems, with gender sorting becoming an essential part of modern hatchery operations

Traditionally done by hand, this process has long supported export requirements, where uniformity and precise weight standards are critical. However, the industry is now facing growing pressure due to labour shortages and uneven manual accuracy.

In response, Ceva Santé Animale has expanded the use of its Genesys solution across the region. Designed for today’s high demand hatcheries, Genesys offers a reliable way to automate gender sorting while improving consistency and efficiency. Its ability to integrate smoothly into existing systems and handle large scale production makes it particularly suited to Asian markets.

Accurate gender sorting brings clear advantages. Since male and female broilers grow at different rates, separating them early allows farmers to fine tune feeding plans and manage processing schedules more effectively. This leads to better flock uniformity, improved processing outcomes, and reduced waste across the value chain.

The growing importance of this technology was evident during the Gender Sorting Symposium held in Singapore on 24 and 25 March 2026. The event brought together hatchery managers, farm operators, nutrition experts, and processing specialists, all focused on improving performance in poultry production. Discussions highlighted how precise sorting at the hatchery stage can influence everything from animal welfare to final product quality.

Genesys stood out during the event for its dependable performance at industrial scale. It was recognised for delivering consistent results, supporting efficient workflows, and helping producers reduce losses while improving sustainability. These qualities have positioned it as a trusted option for hatcheries aiming to modernise their operations.

The overall message from the region is clear. Asian poultry producers are embracing smarter and more predictable systems to meet rising demand and stricter standards. With continued adoption of technologies like Genesys, the industry is moving towards a more efficient and sustainable future.

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.

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

Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture is rapidly expanding its nationwide rice initiative under the programme “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!”, a key effort backed by Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The move comes as rising fuel costs continue to affect food prices, putting pressure on household budgets across the country.

To ease this strain, the government is increasing the number of distribution points and extending operating hours, allowing more Filipinos to purchase rice at a subsidised price of P20 per kilo. According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., the goal is to ensure food remains accessible despite ongoing economic challenges linked to transport and logistics.

By the first quarter of 2026, 932 selling sites had already been set up nationwide. These include KADIWA centres, National Food Authority warehouses, and outlets managed by local and national agencies, along with partners accredited by Food Terminal Inc.. As of early April, the programme has reached 6.45 million beneficiaries, including senior citizens, low income households, solo parents, persons with disabilities, farmers and fisherfolk.

“We have sufficient food supply, but elevated fuel and logistics costs are pushing market prices to levels that further contain the budgets of many Filipinos,” Tiu Laurel said. “By expanding access to affordable rice and essential goods, we are directly easing that pressure and ensuring vulnerable sectors are protected while we work to stabilize both prices and supply.”

Further expansion is already in motion. The DA plans to introduce another 900 outlets, focusing on areas with greater need such as Capiz, Bukidnon and Cebu. This effort is supported by a strengthened partnership between Food Terminal Inc. and the National Food Authority, ensuring both supply and funding remain stable throughout 2026.

The agreement includes the procurement of 1.8 million sacks of rice backed by a 3 billion budget. Officials say this will not only support consumers but also protect farmers by maintaining fair buying prices.

“We assure that this budget will be used to secure better prices for our farmers, especially during the harvest season. In some areas, we have already increased our buying price to as much as ₱30 per kilo to prevent a drop in farmgate palay prices,” said NFA Administrator Larry R. Lacson. “The NFA continues to step in to protect the income of our farmers,” he added.

“Given the current instability in market prices due to external conflicts, we are seeing a significant increase in buyers turning to our outlets to access quality rice at lower cost,” said Joseph Rudolph C. Lo. “We are closely coordinating with government partners to manage this demand and are preparing to expand our network further, with a target of reaching 1,800 P20 rice selling sites nationwide by the end of 2026,” he added.

African Farming

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LightWeeding enables farming innovation

The LightWeeder is an agri-robot that can kill weeds using a unique concentrated light method. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Earth Rover, a UK based agri-robotics company and Agri-EPI Centre member, has developed the LightWeeder to solve key challenges faced by laser-based weeding systems

The LightWeeder is said to be the world’s first eye-safe, herbicide-free, carbon-neutral, commercially viable weeding system. The LightWeeding technology uses semiconductor LEDs to solve key technical, safety and commercialisation challenges faced by laser-based weeding systems.

The LightWeeder is part of CLAWS (Concentrated Light Autonomous Weeding and Scouting), an agri-robot that can kill weeds using a unique concentrated light method, and can also scout fields to obtain a complete data map of all crops after planting, showing the crops exact location, size, and any early signs of disease.

The main features of CLAWS are:

  • Weeding – chemical-free and inherently safer than laser weeding. No till and no crop damage and can be used in any conditions without compacting the soil.
  • Scouting – In-depth analysis of crops to allow better harvest predictions and increased yields.

The complete system is ultra-lightweight at 300kg, meaning it requires low amounts of energy to run, and is also claimed to be cheaper and more environmentally friendly than many of its competitors. The system currently runs on batteries and in future, solar panels therefore uses no fossil fuels and help farmers meet their net-zero targets.

With increasing types of chemical-resistant weeds, a significant downturn in availability of hand labour plus a shift in society towards more organic options, now more than ever there is a need to change the way we farm. A recent report by Rothamsted Research shows weeds pose an unprecedented threat to our food security and highlights the need to diversify weed control as an urgent priority.

As explained by John Taylor, farm director at Pollybell Organic Farm, “The key element here is that the LightWeeder not only makes chemical-free farming more effective but it also solves the huge issue farmers are facing today in terms of the huge loss in the labour force. Being able to weed fields autonomously means that food production doesn’t just grind to a halt.”

According to Earth Rover, LighWeeder is energy-efficient and no-till and does not cause damage to drip irrigation or crops. It is also not dependent on soil conditions and does not enable weeds to develop resistance. 

 

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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

Strengthening poultry health with MEVAC MULTI ADENO (Image credit: Kemin Industries)

Poultry

MEVAC MULTI ADENO is designed to support poultry health by protecting chickens against serious viral infections that can affect productivity and survival

This inactivated tetravalent vaccine targets key strains of Fowl Adenovirus infection, which are widely present in poultry populations and linked to conditions such as Inclusion Body Hepatitis and Hydropericardium Syndrome.

Fowl adenoviruses are known to exist in multiple forms, grouped into several species and serotypes. These viruses can lead to a range of health issues in chickens, from respiratory problems to severe liver damage. Among them, inclusion body hepatitis is particularly concerning, as it affects both broilers and layers and can lead to noticeable losses on farms. Birds suffering from this condition may show signs such as reduced appetite, lethargy, increased water intake, and diarrhoea, along with higher mortality.

This vaccine works by preparing the bird’s immune system to respond effectively to infection. It contains inactivated strains of adenovirus linked to the most common disease causing types, helping to reduce both clinical symptoms and death rates. It is intended for use in chickens and can be given from seven days of age, depending on veterinary guidance.

The recommended dose is 0.5 ml per bird, administered either under the skin in the lower neck area or into the muscle of the thigh or breast. Proper handling is important, including shaking the bottle before use and ensuring sterile equipment is used during administration.

Care should be taken not to vaccinate birds that are already unwell or immunocompromised. The product should also not be mixed with other veterinary medicines. While no adverse effects have been reported even at higher doses, its safety during the laying period has not been fully confirmed.

To maintain effectiveness, the vaccine must be stored between 2°C and 8°C, away from direct sunlight, and must not be frozen. Once opened, it should be used within three hours.

Overall, MEVAC MULTI ADENO offers a practical approach to managing viral challenges in poultry, helping farmers maintain healthier flocks and more stable production.

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

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

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

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

Water & Irrigation

A new partnership between Orbia Netafim and Amazon India is set to deliver significant water savings through large scale drip irrigation projects across key agricultural regions in India.

The collaboration will help save nearly 325 million litres of water every year while supporting more than 110 independent farmers in the agricultural belts surrounding Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

Announced on 27 February 2026 in Tel Aviv and Bengaluru, the initiative focuses on improving irrigation practices and addressing growing concerns around water security in these rapidly expanding urban regions. The programme will introduce modern drip irrigation systems across 80 hectares of farmland in western Bengaluru and 40 hectares in northern Hyderabad.

In Bengaluru, farms currently growing gourds and tomatoes will transition from traditional flood irrigation methods to more efficient drip irrigation systems. Around 70 independent farmers are expected to benefit from this shift. The change is projected to save approximately 175 million litres of water each year while maintaining crop productivity and improving irrigation efficiency.

In Hyderabad, a similar transition will take place across 40 hectares of maize and vegetable farms, benefiting roughly 40 farmers. The project is expected to conserve about 150 million litres of water annually in the region.

The initiative also contributes to Amazon’s wider environmental commitments. By supporting improved irrigation methods, the company is working towards its goal of becoming water positive in India by 2027. This means returning more water to communities than is used in its direct operations.

Abhinav Singh, Vice President of Operations, Amazon India and Australia, said: "This initiative focuses on practical solutions that make a measurable difference on the ground, helping farmers improve the efficiency of their irrigation systems while contributing to water security in water-stressed regions. We're committed to such collaborations as part of effort to support responsible water use in India”.

Water resources in both Bengaluru and Hyderabad have come under increasing pressure in recent years. In Bengaluru, participating farms rely on water sources linked to the TG Halli Reservoir, which also supplies several residential areas, commercial districts and Amazon facilities across west and north Bengaluru. In Hyderabad, farmers draw water connected to the Kondapochamma Sagar reservoir, an important part of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme.

Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone of crops in measured amounts. This method reduces evaporation, runoff and unnecessary water use, which is especially important in regions experiencing irregular rainfall and declining groundwater levels.

“We are proud to collaborate with Amazon on this important initiative, which demonstrates how precision irrigation can deliver real impact for farmers and communities alike,” said Max Moldavsky, Director of Innovation and Climate Solutions, Orbia Netafim. “By helping farmers transition to drip irrigation, we are improving water efficiency, strengthening livelihoods, and contributing to broader water security efforts. This project reflects Orbia Netafim’s long-standing global commitment to water stewardship and climate-resilient agriculture.”

This marks the first collaboration between Amazon India and Orbia Netafim focused on urban water challenges in India’s fast growing cities. Building on previous irrigation modernisation projects in Karnataka, including the Ramthal Community Irrigation Project, Orbia Netafim continues to promote practical and scalable solutions that improve water management while supporting both farming communities and urban water security.

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

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

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