Krone and Lemken, through a joint project, have launched a design concept – Combined Powers – which is an autonomous ‘process unit’ consisting of a drive unit and various implements
After passing trials in cultivating, ploughing, sowing, mowing, tedding and raking last year, the concept will be integrated in the well-proven forage harvesting and tillage systems of the two companies.
Using a diesel-electric drive that generates up to 170kW (230hp), the drive unit is designed to meet the power input requirements of the implements used in the processes above. The drive power is transferred electrically to the wheels and the pto and from there to the implement which couples to a three-point linkage. The drive unit boasts multiple and extensive sensor systems which monitor the immediate surroundings and the implement attached, ensuring safe operation and optimum results as the primary objectives. Operators control and monitor the combination from a mobile device, transmitting jobs and job reports via a communication module and the agrirouter, the established data exchange hub.
The specialty of the process unit is that it is controlled by the implement and not vice versa. This detail was considered imperative for achieving optimum results. The implement and the drive unit act as one integrated smart system. Based on the long experience in the application of ISOBUS and TIM on Krone and Lemken machines, the drive unit and implement communicate and interact, sharing literally all types of data.
The Combined Powers design concept also brings further benefits, because it was also developed to counter the increasing shortage of skilled labour in agriculture. Also, it will free farmers from spending those long days in the field. Instead, they will become system operators who merely monitor the process unit which delivers a consistently accurate quality of work. Thanks to its enormous versatility, the unit is designed for year-round work and a long service life. Intensive trialling in all types of conditions and seeking feedback from farmers and contractors will continue this year.
Further information is available at www.combined-powers.com
In The Spotlight
Unauthorised agricultural medicines can be harmful for the environment.
The regulatory agency in the Gash Barka area has held food safety workshops for people and animals, focusing on farmers and owners of organisations that provide social services in the sub-zones of Sel'a, Kerkebet, Laelai Gash, Gogni, and Mogolo
During the seminars, Meaze Neguse, an expert in animal resources regulation, cautioned that hazardous food could risk the lives of both people and animals. He stressed the importance of safety and hygiene throughout the whole food production chain, from farm to consumer, and emphasised the close relationship between food safety and environmental protection. He exhorted everyone involved in the food processing and distribution industry to work with regulatory professionals.
Hadish Gebremeskel, a representative of the plant regulatory service, spoke at length about the immediate and indirect negative consequences of misusing pesticides. He aimed at the serious implications of employing unauthorised or harmful agricultural medicines without consulting specialists, noting that these methods are bad for the environment, people, and animals. He requested farmers to switch to organic production methods and utilise only licensed pesticides.
Sub-zone officials, for their part, said that the seminars make a big difference in achieving the objective of "Ensuring Nutritious Food for All and Everywhere." They urged farmers and food processing companies to use the skills they acquired during the training in their regular activities.
The global phosphate fertilizer market is expected to grow upto US$84bn by 2031. (Image credit: Adobe Stock)
The phosphate fertilizers market is on a robust growth trajectory, anticipated to expand from US$57.5bn in 2024 to a significant US$84bn by 2031
This growth corresponds to a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2031, according to the latest research. Phosphate fertilizers remain crucial for global agriculture, enhancing crop yields and soil fertility, thus playing a vital role in food security and sustainable farming practices worldwide.
Rising population levels, increasing food demand, and the need to improve agricultural productivity drive the expansion of phosphate fertilizer consumption. The market is segmented by product type, with single superphosphate (SSP) and triple superphosphate (TSP) being among the leading segments due to their efficiency and widespread adoption. Geographically, Asia Pacific dominates the market owing to extensive agricultural activities and supportive government policies encouraging fertilizer use.
The phosphate fertilizers market is pivotal in supporting global agriculture by providing essential nutrients that improve soil health and crop output. In 2024, the market value stood at US$57.5bn, expected to rise steadily to US$84bn by 2031, reflecting the growing need for sustainable and enhanced agricultural practices worldwide. The surge is driven largely by increased adoption in developing regions, where food production must keep pace with rising populations and changing dietary preferences.
Growth in the market is primarily fueled by the high demand from staple crops such as wheat, rice, and maize, which require phosphorus for optimal growth. Among different phosphate fertilizer types, single superphosphate holds a significant share due to its cost-effectiveness and suitability across diverse soil types. Regionally, the Asia Pacific market leads because of extensive farmland, large farming communities, and government incentives aimed at boosting fertilizer use to ensure food security and economic growth.
The programme emphasises a community-led approach, ensuring it is culturally relevant and sustainable. (Image credit: Adobe Stock)
BRAC has received a US$300,000 grant from The Rockefeller Foundation to create a programme aimed at helping three million women smallholder farmers in Bangladesh, Liberia, Tanzania, and Uganda by 2030
This initiative targets vulnerable communities affected by climate change. It will first launch in Bangladesh's coastal and drought-prone areas, providing farmers with services like agricultural technology, weather forecasts, adaptive insurance, and better market connections.
Deepali Khanna, head of Asia, The Rockefeller Foundation, stated,“Smallholder farmers are on the frontline of so many challenges, including the impact of climate change. Through our support of BRAC, we are empowering smallholder farmers not only to withstand disruptions, but also to advance solutions that can help build the foundation for lasting economic opportunity.”
The programme emphasises a community-led approach, ensuring it is culturally relevant and sustainable. The aim is to equip communities with skills to build resilience against challenges like rising salinity and erratic rainfall. BRAC plans to raise an additional US$300mn for this program, intending to impact around 14 million people positively.
“At BRAC, we believe in equipping people and communities with the skills they need to build their own resilience,” said Asif Saleh, executive director of BRAC. The Rockefeller Foundation’s support takes an important step in showing that locally driven innovation, when scaled up, can unlock pathways for millions of people to do that.”
Liberia, China to mechanise agriculture. (Image source; Adobe Stock)
Chinese Ambassador to Liberia, Yin Chengwu, recently met with J Alexander Nuetah, Minister of Agriculture of Liberia
Chengwu emphasised the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators stand on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, and expressed that China is willing to strengthen agricultural cooperation between the two countries, deepening the bilateral relations.
Nuetah said that Liberia is grateful to China for its strong support for Liberia's development and looks forward to continuing to strengthen cooperation with China on agricultural mechanisation and modernisation.
Microwave moisture measurement. (Image source: Hydronix)
Stop Wasting Time and Money: Download the free eBook
Why Measure Moisture?
Getting the moisture balance right is a vital task to ensure the accuracy of processing across a range of applications to maintain final product quality.
This free eBook will cover:
• Why material moisture varies continuously
• Why moisture measurement is crucial for processing
• Why moisture control is critical for improving efficiencies
There are a variety of moisture measurement techniques, but some work better than others depending on the application and the quality of the sensors chosen. This eBook explains why microwave moisture measurement is the most effective.
Download the free eBook, no details required: https://landing.hydronix.com/master-your-moisture-fea-jul25
ZIVO Bioscience and top animal health firm launch studies on poultry immune-boosting compounds
ZIVO Bioscience, Inc., a biotech and agtech research company developing immune-boosting compounds from proprietary algal cultures, has announced a new partnership with one of the world’s leading animal health companies
The collaboration focuses on advancing ZIVO’s novel biologics for use in the poultry industry and may expand to other livestock and companion animals in the future.
The companies have signed two agreements to conduct independent studies that will explore the potential of ZIVO’s compounds to support poultry health. The goal is to enhance existing vaccination strategies and help address diseases that continue to affect poultry production.
Expanding poultry protection
The first agreement involves a 42-day challenge study focused on coccidiosis, a common and damaging parasitic disease in poultry. This study aims to confirm earlier positive results from ZIVO’s compound, now used alongside the partner’s vaccine. It will also collect samples to evaluate new performance measures. Findings will support ZIVO’s regulatory process with the USDA’s Center for Veterinary Biologics and help establish a strong business case for commercial use.
The second agreement outlines a study of ZIVO’s compounds using a model for a viral poultry disease that causes high mortality and has no available cure. The virus was chosen for its well-known in vivo model, clear clinical results and short testing timeline. The goal is to confirm the antiviral effects ZIVO has already observed in earlier trials, including reduced severity and spread of low-pathogenic avian influenza. Positive outcomes could lead to broader studies covering more viral diseases.
The collaborating animal health company will fully fund both studies. Researchers will assess how ZIVO’s compounds can shorten the time between vaccination and immunity, protect birds in vulnerable periods, enhance immune response and reduce the impact of diseases that suppress the immune system.
“This collaboration supports our strategy to partner with a major animal health company that brings scientific expertise and R&D infrastructure to advance our innovations to global markets efficiently and at scale,” said John Payne, chairman and CEO of ZIVO Bioscience. “We are aligned with this company on the broad applicability of our immune-modulating technology and its potential to create a disruptive, non-antibiotic therapeutic platform.”
VIV Select China returns to Nanjing in September 2025, building on momentum from its 2024 showcase. (Image source: VIV Select China)
Visitor pre-registration is officially open for VIV Select China 2025, the leading event spotlighting cutting-edge developments and business partnerships in China’s animal protein industry
Taking place from 10–12 September at the Nanjing International Expo Center, the show will bring together top professionals and innovators from across the swine and poultry value chain, including feed and feed additive solutions, animal health, veterinary products, breeding and farming equipment, and egg processing technologies.
Spanning 48,000 sq m, this expansive exhibition will welcome over 500 exhibitors, including prominent Chinese companies such as Big Herdsman, Guangzhou Guangxing, Nxin, Famsun, Zhengchang, Shandong Kaicheng, Melan Group, Zhongmu, Kexing, Ruisheng, Dongxiao, and Highvarve.
Spotlight on the new AI+ smart farming zone
New to this year’s event is the AI+ Smart Farming Area, a space dedicated to showcasing the integration of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and sustainable agricultural technologies. This feature allows attendees to explore advanced digital breeding and precision production management tools. With a strong focus on global supply chain integration and sustainable scaling, this area embodies the event’s commitment to driving digital evolution in agriculture. As the sector reconvenes face-to-face, the event promises to offer meaningful connections and high-value commercial opportunities.
Main conference themes: AI, sustainability, global growth
The conference will follow a three-part thematic structure centered on: “Technological Breakthroughs (AI & Smart Farming), Green Transformation (Low-Carbon/Circular Economy), Global Collaboration for Overseas Expansion (Standards/Supply Chain)”.
These topics will explore how smart technologies and AI are optimising output and quality in animal protein production, enabling the transition to low-carbon practices, and facilitating circular economy models for better resource efficiency and reduced waste.
The VIV International Summit encourages shifting from domestic competition to global collaboration. Its focus: moving from product-only exports to full-chain partnerships and establishing robust, standardised supply systems to support the sustainable internationalization of China’s livestock sector. AgriBITs, launching in China for the first time, will provide a worldwide lens on AI, automation, and digitization trends impacting the livestock space.
Empowering connections with Hosted Buyer Program
To maximise business development, VIV Select China 2025 is continuing its Hosted Buyer Program, designed to connect exhibitors with qualified procurement professionals. Applicants approved via the official website’s Hosted Buyer section will receive exclusive perks including complimentary accommodation and access to V-Match, a bespoke business-matching service.
V-Match, launched in 2024, simplifies the buyer-exhibitor experience by curating meetings based on pre-screened profiles in a dedicated networking lounge. The last edition of this programme recorded 298 successful matches, reflecting its efficiency in generating real business leads.
Easy travel and international access
In support of international participation, China has expanded its visa-free entry policy to include 34 countries, with transit stays now extended up to 240 hours. To further streamline visitor access, Nanjing has introduced a new digital hub called “In-Nanjing”, offering seamless support services to incoming global guests.
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HSW ECO MATIC® 6ml _ 10ml (for injection, oral and pour-on application)
Unauthorised agricultural medicines can be harmful for the environment.
The regulatory agency in the Gash Barka area has held food safety workshops for people and animals, focusing on farmers and owners of organisations that provide social services in the sub-zones of Sel'a, Kerkebet, Laelai Gash, Gogni, and Mogolo
During the seminars, Meaze Neguse, an expert in animal resources regulation, cautioned that hazardous food could risk the lives of both people and animals. He stressed the importance of safety and hygiene throughout the whole food production chain, from farm to consumer, and emphasised the close relationship between food safety and environmental protection. He exhorted everyone involved in the food processing and distribution industry to work with regulatory professionals.
Hadish Gebremeskel, a representative of the plant regulatory service, spoke at length about the immediate and indirect negative consequences of misusing pesticides. He aimed at the serious implications of employing unauthorised or harmful agricultural medicines without consulting specialists, noting that these methods are bad for the environment, people, and animals. He requested farmers to switch to organic production methods and utilise only licensed pesticides.
Sub-zone officials, for their part, said that the seminars make a big difference in achieving the objective of "Ensuring Nutritious Food for All and Everywhere." They urged farmers and food processing companies to use the skills they acquired during the training in their regular activities.
The global phosphate fertilizer market is expected to grow upto US$84bn by 2031. (Image credit: Adobe Stock)
The programme emphasises a community-led approach, ensuring it is culturally relevant and sustainable. (Image credit: Adobe Stock)
Microwave moisture measurement. (Image source: Hydronix)
Stop Wasting Time and Money: Download the free eBook
Why Measure Moisture?
Getting the moisture balance right is a vital task to ensure the accuracy of processing across a range of applications to maintain final product quality.
This free eBook will cover:
• Why material moisture varies continuously
• Why moisture measurement is crucial for processing
• Why moisture control is critical for improving efficiencies
There are a variety of moisture measurement techniques, but some work better than others depending on the application and the quality of the sensors chosen. This eBook explains why microwave moisture measurement is the most effective.
Download the free eBook, no details required: https://landing.hydronix.com/master-your-moisture-fea-jul25
ZIVO Bioscience and top animal health firm launch studies on poultry immune-boosting compounds
Horizontal nozzle-pressurised spinning could be a huge boost to the global dairy farming industry. (Image source: UCL)
Zoomlion showcases tailored solutions for Africa’s growth at China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo. (Image source: Zoomlion)
Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. took centre stage at the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, China, from 12 to 15 June, showcasing its latest agricultural and engineering machinery solutions tailored specifically for the African market
Since making its entry into Africa in 2007, Zoomlion has played an integral role in infrastructure development and agricultural modernisation across the continent. The company has also been committed to nurturing local talent, evident in its ongoing technical training programmes, such as those provided to Ugandan farmers to enhance agricultural skill sets.
At the trade expo, Zoomlion displayed a comprehensive line-up of machinery, ranging from construction cranes and earthmoving equipment to aerial work platforms and advanced agricultural machinery. These products are engineered to withstand and perform efficiently in Africa’s diverse and often demanding working conditions.
Zoomlion’s footprint in Africa has expanded significantly over the past 18 years. The company has delivered more than 10,000 units of equipment to markets across the continent, establishing itself as one of Africa’s leading machinery suppliers. In addition to setting up subsidiaries in key markets like South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania, Zoomlion has developed a robust after-sales infrastructure. This includes spare parts centres in Algeria and South Africa, a joint-venture manufacturing plant in Algeria, and an expanding network of dealers and service providers across the region.
The company has also been instrumental in supporting critical infrastructure projects throughout Africa. These include Egypt’s New Administrative Capital—home to Africa’s tallest skyscraper at 385.8 metres—the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project in Tanzania, which boosts the country’s energy capacity nearly fourfold, and the N'Djamena Stadium in Chad, designed to host international sports and cultural events. Another notable contribution is the Rosso Bridge, linking Senegal and Mauritania, which will enhance regional trade and connectivity.
Zoomlion’s growth trajectory in Africa continues to accelerate. Sales in the first quarter of 2025 alone accounted for 60% of the total recorded in 2024, underlining rising demand for its solutions. As of May 2025, the company’s Africa team comprised over 300 employees, with more than 90% of them being locally hired—demonstrating Zoomlion’s commitment to job creation and skills development in the region.
The R1 Single-Plot Research Combine by Alamco. (Image source: Alamco)
Monarch MK-V tractor demonstrating V2G through Borg Warner DCFC and Gridtractor CMS. (Image source: Gridtractor)
Entocycle operator using controls web. (Image source: Entocycle)
Entocycle, a UK-based developer of insect farming technology that transforms food waste into sustainable protein for animal feed, has collaborated with Siemens to launch the country’s first digitalised insect farm showroom
The facility is uniquely located beneath four Victorian railway arches in central London.
Focused on creating a sustainable protein alternative, Entocycle chose the high-profile London Bridge area to boost visibility, attract top talent, and engage potential investors in its innovative approach to circular food systems.
Before construction began, Entocycle used Siemens’ digital twin technology to create a virtual model of the site. This simulation helped maximise the use of the complex arch-shaped space and minimise construction errors, saving time and costs.
The site has since undergone a full digital transformation and now runs on Siemens AI and automation systems. Advanced technologies integrated into the facility include robotic arms, machine vision systems that monitor 3,000 larvae per second with up to 100% accuracy, and climate-controlled chambers. These upgrades have significantly enhanced production by reducing larvae growth time and improving survival rates by 30%.
Now in operation for a year, the facility has demonstrated that insect farming can address two major environmental challenges: cutting the UK’s annual 10.7 million tonnes of food waste (of which 30% is lost through supply chain inefficiencies) and reducing reliance on 3.3 million tonnes of imported soy used for animal feed.
With proof of concept established, Entocycle plans to expand its model to industrial scale, aiming to support farms, agri-businesses, and waste management companies in cutting emissions and rethinking protein supply chains.
Matt Simonds, managing director at Entocycle, said: “We’ve spent a decade developing this concept, which has grown from equipment pieced together from hardware retailers to the bespoke and highly advanced factory we’re running today. The London Bridge centre proves our concept, which leverages the black soldier fly as nature’s recycler, that can be scaled around the world to help tackle the dual issue of food waste and sustainability issues in animal feed supply.
“Insect farming is an exciting emerging industry, and our vision is to be the go-to provider of technology to customers alongside our partner Siemens. In 10 years’ time, we expect Entocycle-designed farms to be processing millions of tonnes of food waste around the world, saving millions of tonnes of carbon emissions with it. Partnering with Siemens to deliver our solution internationally provides us with the trust and scalability we need to deliver on our global ambitions.”
Keith Thornhill, head of food and beverage for UK & Ireland at Siemens said: “Entocycle has created the blueprint for high-tech insect farming. It’s successfully applied modern manufacturing technology to its highly niche subject of rearing black soldier flies. And the outcomes are clear to see in increased insect survival rates and slashing the time staff would spend counting insects.
“It’s a fantastic concept ready to be delivered to customers around the world, regardless of site size and location. We’re proud to support it as a great example of technology with a purpose in addressing crucial sustainability challenges.”
Entomatic is highly versatile and can be used in horizontal and vertical row crops. (Image source: Biobest)
Among Bayer’s 11 sets of tanks, the measurement range varies from a maximum of 9 tons to a minimum of 4 tons. (Image source: Bayer)
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Latest news
Unauthorised agricultural medicines can be harmful for the environment.
The global phosphate fertilizer market is expected to grow upto US$84bn by 2031. (Image credit: Adobe Stock)
The programme emphasises a community-led approach, ensuring it is culturally relevant and sustainable. (Image credit: Adobe Stock)
Liberia, China to mechanise agriculture. (Image source; Adobe Stock)
Microwave moisture measurement. (Image source: Hydronix)
ZIVO Bioscience and top animal health firm launch studies on poultry immune-boosting compounds
Yanmar’s YR Series rice transplanter conducts demonstration activities at the Smart Farm Showcase
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Entocycle operator using controls web. (Image source: Entocycle)
Entomatic is highly versatile and can be used in horizontal and vertical row crops. (Image source: Biobest)
Among Bayer’s 11 sets of tanks, the measurement range varies from a maximum of 9 tons to a minimum of 4 tons. (Image source: Bayer)
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Illustration showing how the sponge nanocomposite material recovers phosphate and metals from water. (Image source: Kelly Matuszewski, Northwestern University)
Smart greenhouses utilise sensors responsible for heat control to modify in-house conditions based on the indoor climate. (Image source: Adobe Stock))
Moisture control is a key factor in ensuring the final feed is palatable, retains its nutrients, and is consistent. (Image source: Hydronix))
The project is designed to validate wheat germ cell-free protein synthesis as a rapid and affordable approach to drug development. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Value Line Steering system marks a significant step toward more sustainable, efficient, and profitable farming practices. (Image source: Topcon Agriculture)
Telematics enhances efficiency and uptime for seed research. (Image source: ALMACO)
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