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The future of crop production at DLG Feldtage 2026. (Image credit: DLG)

From 16 to 18 June 2026, Bernburg in Saxony-Anhalt will once again become the central hub for modern crop production as the DLG Feldtage returns to the fields of the International DLG Crop Production Centre.

Set on DLG’s expansive 600-hectare trial farm near Leipzig, the open-air event is gearing up to showcase practical farming innovations under the inspiring theme “Crop Production out of the Box”. With more than 150 exhibitors already registered, the organisers are still welcoming further participants via dlg-feldtage.de.

Recognised as the leading international field exhibition for crop professionals, DLG Feldtage brings together farmers, agronomists, machinery experts and researchers seeking hands-on insights into the future of crop production. This year’s programme spans everything from plant breeding and crop protection to fertilisation strategies and cutting-edge agricultural machinery. Visitors can look forward to a rich mix of demonstrations, expert knowledge and real-world trial plots, supported by popular formats including DLG Spotlights, Expert Stages and Pop-up Talks.

The thematic DLG Spotlights are set to be a major draw. The “Planting Green” Spotlight will delve into direct drilling into living cover crops, with live plots demonstrating soil-friendly techniques, nutrient efficiency and modern weed management approaches. Equally compelling is the “Value Chain for Quality Wheat” Spotlight, which traces how premium wheat quality is upheld from field to processing, illustrating the collaboration required across agriculture, trade and milling. Meanwhile, the “Organic Farming” Spotlight will highlight diverse rotations, robust crop choices and practical advice for organic growers looking to refine both production and marketing.

Across the site, visitors will find dedicated meeting zones for discussions on oil and protein crops, resilient cropping concepts and strategies for navigating weather-related risks. As always, machinery demonstrations are a core attraction. Across six themed areas from direct seeding and deep tillage to mechanical weed control 66 machine combinations will take to the field, each accompanied by expert commentary and presented once per day.

Following its successful debut in 2024, FarmRobotix returns with the latest robotics, automation tools and AI-driven innovations for crop production. A special demonstration area will spotlight autonomous field systems, offering a glimpse of how technology may redefine farming in the years ahead.

Beyond the plots and machines, the DLG Plaza will serve as the social and professional heart of the event, hosting expert talks, panel sessions, regional food and relaxed networking. Short and sharp Pop-up Talks will take place at exhibitor stands and Spotlight areas, covering timely topics such as fertilisation and crop protection. The popular DLG CropNight will also make its return, inviting attendees to unwind with live music, food and summer drinks. Camping facilities will be available for visitors wishing to stay on site.

For more information please visit www.dlg-feldtage.de

EIMA Agrimach underscored how professional training could empower India’s rural workforce.(Image credit: Eimaagrimach)

India’s agricultural sector had been undergoing significant modernisation, with technological advancements reshaping the way farming operated.

However, the growing demand for highly skilled professionals exposed a training gap that threatened to limit the benefits of this transformation.

The third day of EIMA Agrimach, an exhibition showcasing machinery and agricultural technologies for India and Southeast Asia, focused on professional skills and training. The conference, titled “Skilling Rural Youth and Farmers for a Mechanized and Digital Agriculture Future”, addressed the urgent need to equip the workforce with the expertise required for mechanized and digital farming. The event was organised by the Italian Federation of Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers (FederUnacoma) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in New Delhi.

Moderated by Ruchira Saini, Head of Advocacy and Government Relations for India and South Asia at Corteva Agriscience, the panel included notable speakers such as V.N. Kale, Additional Commissioner for Machinery and Technologies at the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare; D.K. Singh, Senior Researcher at the AgriPV Centre of Excellence; Mukesh Jain, Director of the Northern Region Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institute (NR-FMTI); Satender Singh Arya, CEO of the Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI); Varun Yadav, Manager at the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture; and Shruti Aggarwal, Senior Manager at YARA International.

Mechanisation and digitalisation had emerged as the key drivers of agricultural transformation, with drones, AI-based tools, and digital platforms becoming increasingly integral. Yet, speakers emphasised that the workforce, largely rural, still struggled to adopt these technologies effectively. Training gaps persisted even among younger generations, who, despite being more open to innovation, often lacked access to structured skill development programmes.

The conference concluded that bridging this gap was critical not only to boost productivity but also to improve livelihoods in rural areas and support inclusive growth. Experts highlighted the importance of innovative training models developed through collaborations between industry, universities, and institutions, alongside a clear roadmap to enable farmers to participate more actively in India’s agricultural modernisation.

By addressing these challenges, EIMA Agrimach underscored how professional training could empower India’s rural workforce, ensuring that mechanisation and digitalisation truly translated into a more productive and sustainable agricultural sector.

Join the agricultural revolution at EIMA Agrimach. (Image credit: EIMA Agrimarch)

The ninth edition of EIMA Agrimach India 2025 has opened in New Delhi, presenting the latest in agricultural machinery and technology.

The event, which is being held from November 27 to 29, serves as a significant international exhibition targeting India and Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing agricultural sector. Innovation is at the forefront of the event, with the opening conference highlighting the increasing importance of mechanisation in India’s agricultural transformation.

The inauguration ceremony took place this morning at the IARI PUSA University Campus. During the ceremony, representatives from institutions and organising bodies emphasised the importance of agriculture in the Indian economy. TR Kesavan, Chairman of the FICCI-EIMA Agrimach India Organising Committee and Board Member of TAFE, opened the discussions by highlighting the strategic role of India-Italy partnerships in advancing agricultural mechanisation. "The collaboration between Italy and India is crucial for the development of advanced agricultural technologies that can drive the sector forward," he said.

Simona Rapastella, Director General of FederUnacoma, the Italian Federation of Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers, also spoke on the growing importance of bilateral cooperation. "Emerging institutional relations between Italy and India have gained momentum, strengthening the foundation for further collaboration," she noted, emphasising that India is a key player in Italy’s trade strategy and included in the Italian Export Action Plan for non-EU markets.

India’s agricultural economy has undergone rapid transformation, primarily driven by mechanisation, which has elevated farming operations and enhanced productivity. Shashi Kant Singh, Partner at PwC India, pointed out that while the sector has made significant strides, it still holds vast growth potential, with mechanisation and next-generation technologies playing a crucial role in realising that potential.

The Italian Trade Agency (ICE) has been instrumental in supporting this collaboration. Sabrina Mangialavori, Deputy Director of ICE New Delhi, explained that the Agency provides various services, including promotional activities and international market expertise, to help Italian SMEs establish strong commercial ties with Indian farmers and agri-businesses. "EIMA Agrimach serves as a strategic platform for strengthening India-Italy relations," she said.

The India-Italy collaboration extends beyond technological exchange to include government-backed incentives that encourage mechanisation in the agricultural sector. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, outlined the Indian government’s efforts to support mechanisation and introduce next-generation machinery. He also emphasised the need for greater access to mechanical equipment for small farmers, who represent a significant portion of India’s agricultural workforce.

A key challenge, according to Chaturvedi, is improving after-sales service and expanding access to technology for women in agriculture. This would ensure more inclusive growth within the sector. Francesco Lollobrigida, Italian Minister of Agriculture, shared a video message where he highlighted that "Made in Italy" agricultural machinery is known for its quality, reliability, and sustainability. "These qualities are well suited to meet the technological needs of Indian agriculture," he stated.

The opening session concluded with Subroto Geed, Co-Chairman of FICCI’s National Agriculture Committee and President for South Asia at Corteva Agriscience, reinforcing the potential of India’s growing agricultural economy. Geed noted that increasing global demand for food, driven by population growth, presents a tremendous opportunity for India’s agricultural sector. "This potential can only be realised with committed engagement across the entire agricultural value chain," he concluded.

EIMA Agrimach India 2025 is proving to be an essential platform for showcasing innovation and fostering stronger cooperation between India and Italy, positioning both nations to address the challenges and opportunities of modern agriculture.

 

EIMA International has established itself as one of the world’s most influential exhibitions for agricultural and gardening machinery.(Image credit: EIMA)

EIMA International has established itself as one of the world’s most influential exhibitions for agricultural and gardening machinery.

Held every two years in Bologna, Italy, the event is organised by FederUnacoma, the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, alongside BolognaFiere. Since its launch in 1969, EIMA has grown into a major platform for manufacturers, industry experts, and buyers seeking the latest advancements in agro-mechanical technology.

The exhibition draws a diverse international audience, with companies from across the globe presenting cutting-edge machines and equipment. Delegates from more than 80 countries attend each edition, underscoring the event’s global reach and economic relevance. Hosted across an impressive 375,000 m², including 122,000 m² of dedicated exhibition space, EIMA offers visitors unmatched access to innovations that are shaping the future of farming.

EIMA International is organised into 14 distinct merchandise sectors, covering every aspect of modern agriculture. These range from engines, irrigation systems, soil-working and sowing equipment to harvesting machinery, crop protection technologies, components, and transport solutions. The structure of the fair allows visitors to explore the full agricultural supply chain in one location.

Alongside the main sectors, EIMA features several highly specialised themed showcases that highlight emerging trends. EIMA Components focuses on essential parts and accessories, while EIMA Green offers a hub for garden machinery and green-space maintenance tools. EIMA Energy is dedicated to renewable power for agriculture and forestry, and EIMA Idrotech spotlights advanced irrigation and water-management systems. One of the most forward-looking areas is EIMA Digital, where exhibitors present precision-farming technologies, electronics, and digital systems designed to boost efficiency and sustainability.

To enhance the visitor experience, the event is divided into two phases. The opening days are set aside exclusively for business professionals, enabling targeted networking and commercial negotiations. The remaining days welcome a wider audience, including gardening enthusiasts and small-scale growers.

In recent years, EIMA has hosted around 1,750 exhibitors from approximately 50 countries, displaying more than 60,000 models of machinery and equipment. Its scale and reputation firmly position it as a leading global event for agricultural machinery, landscaping technologies, and green innovation.

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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.

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.

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.

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.