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Avian flu viruses is raising concerns over poultry health, food security and regional egg supplies.

Poultry

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to spread across East and West Asia, with new outbreaks affecting poultry farms in countries including the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Iraq and Israel.

The resurgence of the H5 group of avian flu viruses is raising concerns over poultry health, food security and regional egg supplies.

Among Asian nations, the Philippines has reported the highest number of new poultry outbreaks in recent days. Over the past 10 days, the country’s animal health authorities confirmed 10 outbreaks of HPAI to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). Most involved the H5N1 virus, particularly in Isabela province in northern Luzon, affecting both large commercial farms and smaller backyard flocks. These latest cases bring the total number of outbreaks on Luzon over the past four years to 293, impacting around 2.35 million birds through culling or mortality.

New detections have also been reported in Mindanao, including South Cotabato, Davao del Sur and North Cotabato, involving grazing ducks infected with H5N1 and H5N8 strains. Authorities cite contact with infected birds and contaminated fomites as the likely sources of infection. As of 31 December, only one active outbreak remains under investigation in Central Luzon.

In Japan, five additional H5N1 outbreaks were confirmed between late December and early January, mainly affecting large laying hen farms. These cases raise the country’s total outbreaks since October to 13, with more than 3.87 million poultry directly affected. Further suspected cases are currently under review.

The spread of avian flu has significantly disrupted South Korea’s egg supply, prompting the government to import over 2.2 million eggs from the United States in January. Since October, South Korea has confirmed 34 poultry outbreaks, including a notable case involving the H5N9 virus, detected for the first time in domestic birds.

Elsewhere in East Asia, Taiwan reported a new H5N1 outbreak in early January, affecting nearly 60,000 laying hens in Chiayi county. In western Asia, H5N1 has re-emerged in Israel and Iraq, with infections linked to contact with wild birds.

With outbreaks spanning multiple regions and virus strains, authorities warn that enhanced biosecurity, surveillance and rapid response will be critical to limiting further spread across Asia’s poultry sector.

NUS develops microneedle system for faster plant growth. (Image credit: NUS)

Fertilizers & Pesticides

Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have unveiled a cutting-edge microneedle biofertiliser system that could redefine sustainable agriculture and precision farming.

The innovative technology uses dissolving microneedle patches to deliver living biofertilisers directly into plant tissue, bypassing soil-related limitations and significantly improving efficiency.

In controlled greenhouse trials, leafy vegetables such as Choy Sum and Kale showed faster and healthier growth, recording higher shoot biomass, increased leaf area and greater height all while using over 15 per cent less biofertiliser compared to conventional soil inoculation. This breakthrough highlights a promising pathway to reduce fertiliser waste and minimise environmental impact.

Traditionally, biofertilisers  beneficial bacteria and fungi that enhance nutrient uptake and stress tolerance are applied to soil, where they face competition from native microbes and adverse conditions. The NUS approach sidesteps these challenges by delivering microbes straight into leaves or stems, enabling faster and more targeted results.

“Inspired by how microbes can migrate within the human body, we hypothesised that by delivering beneficial microbes directly into the plant's tissues, like a leaf or stem, they could travel to the roots and still perform their function, but much more effectively and be less vulnerable to soil conditions,” said Assistant Professor Andy Tay from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at NUS, who led the study.

The plant-friendly microneedles, made from biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), dissolve within a minute of application, releasing their microbial payload gently into the plant. Laboratory tests confirmed minimal tissue disruption, stable chlorophyll levels and a rapid return to normal stress markers, underscoring the system’s safety and viability.

The team successfully delivered a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) cocktail directly into plant tissue, outperforming soil-based treatments. Importantly, growth response correlated with microbial dosage up to an optimal threshold, allowing growers to determine the lowest effective dose and cut costs.

“Our microneedle system successfully delivered biofertiliser into Choy Sum and Kale, enhancing their growth more effectively than traditional methods while using over 15 per cent less biofertiliser,” Asst Prof Tay said. “By faster growth we refer to higher total plant weight, larger leaf area and higher plant height.”

With strong potential for urban farming, vertical farms and high-value crops, the researchers are now exploring scalability, automation and wider crop trials. This pioneering “microneedle biofertiliser” concept positions smart agri-tech at the forefront of eco-friendly, future-ready farming.

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.

African Farming

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

Delegates can explore a wide array of offerings. (Image credit: Aquaculture Vietnam)

The Aquaculture Vietnam 2026 and VietShrimp Asia 2026 events are joining forces for the very first time, creating a robust, all-encompassing platform that spans the entire fisheries and aquaculture value chain from broodstock and feed to cutting-edge farming technologies, processing, and international export.

This strategic co-location is designed to accelerate business growth, global connectivity, and technological innovation, providing an invaluable stage for companies to present advanced solutions, state-of-the-art products, and industry-first innovations to a worldwide audience.

VietShrimp Asia, previously known as the Vietshrimp Aquaculture International Fair since 2016, has cultivated a decade-long reputation as Vietnam’s premier event in the shrimp and broader fisheries sector. It consistently attracts thousands of participants, including industry leaders, policymakers, and businesses spanning the full fisheries ecosystem. In 2026, the event shifts from its traditional Mekong Delta setting to Ho Chi Minh City, a thriving economic hub offering superior connectivity and infrastructure. This relocation, paired with the co-hosting of Aquaculture Vietnam, is set to amplify the event’s international visibility and industry influence.

Organised by Informa Markets, a leading global exhibition organiser, the joint expo is projected to welcome over 200 exhibitors and 7,000+ professional visitors from more than 30 countries, across a vast 8,800 m² exhibition space. Delegates can explore a wide array of offerings including advanced aquaculture equipment and feed, biosecurity and breeding systems, digital and logistics solutions, and critical inspection services such as water quality testing and export quarantine support.

Beyond the exhibition floor, attendees can engage in conferences, technical seminars, and networking initiatives, gaining insights into market trends while supporting local farmers and enterprises in enhancing competitiveness and global reach. Exclusive networking tools, such as match-making platforms and commercial support programmes, will further facilitate collaboration and business development.

To boost participation, the organisers are offering early-bird pricing for exhibitors, encouraging both domestic and international players to join what promises to be a flagship global aquaculture gathering in March 2026.

(Image credit: LAMMA SHOW)

The LAMMA Show stands as the UK’s leading agricultural machinery and technology exhibition, uniting farmers, manufacturers, suppliers, and agribusiness professionals under one roof.

Scheduled for 14–15 January 2026 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, the event continues to be a cornerstone of the British farming calendar. Entry is free with advance registration, with a nominal charge for those registering on the day.

Running from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on Day One and 8:00 am to 4:30 pm on Day Two, the show offers ample opportunity for visitors to explore, learn, and network. Each year, LAMMA attracts over 40,000 visitors and hosts more than 700 exhibitors, reinforcing its status as a major hub for the UK farming and agritech community.

The exhibition floor highlights cutting-edge agricultural machinery, equipment, and smart farming technology, ranging from tractors and combines to specialist implements for arable, grassland, dairy, and beef sectors. Known for its exclusive machinery launches and UK debuts, LAMMA enables attendees to assess the latest innovations, compare solutions, and make informed investment decisions.

Beyond machinery, LAMMA delivers a strong programme of seminars, workshops, and expert-led discussions focused on sustainability, productivity, crop management, and the future of farming. Dedicated areas such as Future Farming, Low Carbon Agriculture, and Dairy and Beef hubs showcase forward-thinking practices shaping the industry. Supported by a dedicated event app, LAMMA ensures a seamless, connected experience, making it an essential event for modern agriculture professionals.

Early-bird booth registration is now open.(Image credit: VietShrimp)

Aquaculture Vietnam 2026 and VietShrimp Asia 2026 proudly extend a warm welcome to partners, visitors, customers, and members of the media as they prepare to host one of the most influential international aquaculture events in Asia.

Set against the backdrop of Vietnam’s rapidly advancing fisheries industry, the co-located exhibitions promise to deliver unmatched opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and global market expansion.

With more than 3,200 km of coastline, rich marine biodiversity, and a vast network of rivers and canals, Vietnam holds remarkable natural advantages for fisheries development. Over recent years, aquaculture has become a powerful economic pillar supporting food security, generating employment, and driving export growth.

According to the Department of Fisheries, the first half of 2025 saw total fisheries output reach 4.5 million tonnes, a rise of 3.1% compared with 2024. Aquaculture contributed 2.57 million tonnes—nearly 60% of total production. Export turnover climbed to US$5.25bn, up an impressive 19.5% year-on-year. Although full-year forecasts expect a slight decline from 2024, export value will still reach US$9–9.2bn, with shrimp leading at US$3.6–3.8bn, followed by pangasius, tuna, and other key aquatic products.

Despite its strong rebound, the industry continues to face challenges including underdeveloped logistics, fragmented production, and increasingly strict global standards on traceability, sustainability, and food safety. These pressures highlight the urgent need for digital transformation, technology adoption, and value chain integration. Priorities include advanced environmental monitoring, recirculating aquaculture systems, and smart farming techniques that align with national development plans such as Decision 389/QĐ-TTg (2024).

For the first time, Aquaculture Vietnam 2026 and VietShrimp Asia 2026 will be co-located, creating a powerful platform that unifies the entire fisheries value chain from broodstock, feed, and farming equipment to seafood processing and global export solutions. This landmark collaboration marks a new chapter for the industry, offering a comprehensive environment for knowledge exchange, investment, and innovation.

VietShrimp, established in 2016, brings a decade of success as Vietnam’s leading shrimp and fisheries event. Now, in partnership with Aquaculture Vietnam and hosted in Ho Chi Minh City by Informa Markets, the exhibition will expand its reach and influence across the region.

The 2026 edition will be the largest to date, showcasing 200+ exhibitors, attracting 7,000+ professional visitors from over 30 countries, and covering 8,800 m² of exhibition space. Attendees will discover cutting-edge aquaculture technologies, sustainability solutions, inspection services, digital tools, and value chain optimisation systems.

The event will also feature conferences, technical seminars, business matchmaking, roadshows, and specialised support for farmers—ensuring that participants gain actionable insights and real business opportunities.

Join the journey of innovation and sustainable growth at Aquaculture Vietnam 2026 & VietShrimp Asia 2026, held from 11–13 March 2026 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), Ho Chi Minh City.

Join VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2026.(Image credit: VIV Health & Nutrition)

Visitor registration is now officially open for VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2026, the region’s must-attend gathering for professionals shaping the future of animal feed, nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and health technologies.

Taking place from 10–12 March 2026 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), the event returns with an expanded programme and a renewed focus on innovation across the entire animal protein value chain.

Co-located once again with VICTAM Asia, the 2026 edition will bring together industry leaders, researchers, technology providers, and decision-makers from across Asia and the global marketplace. Over three days, attendees can expect an immersive experience designed to support business growth, showcase product breakthroughs, and facilitate meaningful connections within the fast-evolving animal feed and health sectors.

As the region’s essential platform for animal nutrition and health innovation, VIV Health & Nutrition Asia will present a comprehensive view of the industry from feed ingredients and functional additives to pharmaceuticals, genetics, veterinary solutions, and cutting-edge health technologies. The partnership with VICTAM Asia reinforces the event’s reach, combining VIV’s international network with VICTAM’s established expertise in feed processing and milling technology.

This powerful collaboration will see more than 300 exhibitors presenting their latest products, systems, and technological advancements. Attendees will have access to live demonstrations, detailed product displays, and expert guidance on next-generation solutions in feed efficiency, animal health management, and sustainable nutrition. With over 9,000 visitors expected, the event remains a vital destination for discovering new suppliers, forming strategic partnerships, and staying ahead of market developments.

A highlight of the show is its three-day conference programme addressing the region’s most pressing challenges. Morning plenaries will set the stage for in-depth, species-specific sessions covering poultry, swine, aquaculture, and cattle. Key themes include antibiotic reduction, feed system resilience, biosecurity, digital health, alternative ingredients, circular production models, and emerging policy frameworks. The event will conclude with a regional dialogue centred on shared commitments to feed self-sufficiency and sustainable disease management.

Bangkok continues to serve as an ideal host city-a dynamic business hub with exceptional connectivity across ASEAN, China, South Asia, and beyond. Its modern facilities, cultural richness, and strong agricultural industry links make it the perfect backdrop for networking and knowledge exchange.

Early registration allows visitors to avoid queues, access exclusive updates, and begin scheduling meetings before arriving. Participants are encouraged to register now via www.vivhealthandnutrition.nl to plan their visit and make the most of this essential industry event.

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Crops

Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers. (Image credit: Ottevanger)

Agriculture

Triott Group has announced a major strategic step by bringing all its feed-related businesses together under a single, globally recognised name: Ottevanger.

With immediate effect, Ottevanger, Almex, Inteqnion, IVS Dosing Technology and Pelleting Technology Netherlands (PTN) will operate as one unified brand, reinforcing Ottevanger’s position as a leading global partner to the feed industry.

Based in Moerkapelle, the Netherlands, this consolidation represents a new chapter in Ottevanger’s long-term vision to provide complete, future-ready solutions for feed mills worldwide. By integrating these specialist companies under one name, customers benefit from a single point of contact, enhanced transparency and a more streamlined approach to project delivery and long-term collaboration.

The move also strengthens internal cooperation across disciplines, enabling Ottevanger to design and deliver tailored solutions that respond to the rapidly evolving demands of the global feed sector, including automation, digitalisation and sustainability.

Following the consolidation, Ottevanger now operates through four fully integrated business units, each designed to address both current operational challenges and future industry needs. Ottevanger Milling Engineers focuses on the design and construction of fully automated, turnkey feed mills, including both conventional and modular concepts. Ottevanger Process Solutions delivers high-quality equipment and advanced processes, supporting data-driven, fully automated milling from raw material intake through to packaging.

Meanwhile, Ottevanger Services provides comprehensive support to feed producers, including reliable on-site and remote maintenance, troubleshooting and spare parts supply. Completing the structure, the Ottevanger Development Centre looks to the future by optimising feed mill performance through practical research and development, testing and the creation of sustainable, next-generation solutions.

Commenting on the milestone, Director Ernst Jan Ottevanger said: “For more than a century, Ottevanger has been a family business, built on the finest Dutch quality and craftsmanship. Now we are formally extending our family to welcome these four trusted partners that have already contributed so much to our collective success based on the same shared values.” He added: “This is a significant moment for our company, but more importantly, for our customers worldwide. We are now far better placed to deliver the innovation and lifetime value they need to compete more effectively.”

Ottevanger will continue its close collaboration with Top Silo Constructions (TSC) to deliver advanced feed storage solutions, while TSC remains independent due to its diverse customer portfolio.

A new geography of agricultural production is emerging, driven by mechanisation.

NUS develops microneedle system for faster plant growth. (Image credit: NUS)

Livestock

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

Aquaculture

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.

SecureDX and Panacea Korea enhance animal health. (Image credit: EIN PRESSWIRE)

Avian flu viruses is raising concerns over poultry health, food security and regional egg supplies.

Equipment

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

Equipment

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.

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

The initiative is part of the PDTS call.(Image credit: INTA)

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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