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South Korea introduces striking new prickly pear cactus varieties

Agriculture

South Korea introduces striking new prickly pear cactus varieties

Researchers in South Korea have introduced two eye catching varieties of the prickly pear cactus, marking a fresh step in the country’s plant breeding efforts.

Developed by the Gyeonggi do Agricultural Research and Extension Services, the new varieties named ‘Dual Label’ and ‘Gold Label’ are set to enter the market this year.

The prickly pear cactus, originally from the tropical rainforests of Brazil, is known for its ability to grow on trees or rocks and for blooming even during the winter season. This makes it especially appealing as an ornamental plant.

The newly developed ‘Dual Label’ variety stands out for its unique flower pattern. Each bloom displays three colours at once, with pink on the outer edges of the petals, yellow in the middle, and white at the centre. This striking contrast sets it apart from traditional single coloured varieties and is expected to attract strong interest from buyers looking for something different.

Meanwhile, ‘Gold Label’ offers a more subtle but equally appealing look. Its flowers carry a soft golden shade with a balanced and uniform shape. Trials carried out on farms have shown that this variety performs consistently, with stable colouring and reliable blooming. These qualities make it well suited for indoor decoration and as a thoughtful gift option.

Both varieties are expected to support the growth of locally developed plants in a market that has long depended on imports. By introducing home grown options, researchers hope to strengthen the domestic industry and offer more choices to consumers.

The development of these varieties is the result of several years of focused work. The research team has spent between five and ten years selecting genetic materials and studying flower colour and shape to better match market demand. This careful approach has helped create plants that are not only attractive but also commercially viable.

Jung Yun-kyung, Director of the Cactus and Succulent Research Institute at the Gyeonggi-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services, said, “We will continue to develop varieties suited to domestic cultivation conditions and strengthen data-driven breeding to lead the development of new floral varieties.”

Vietnam Poultry Association drives sustainable growth in the sector.

Poultry

Vietnam Poultry Association drives sustainable growth in the sector

Vietnam’s poultry industry is moving toward greener and more sustainable practices, marking a significant shift from traditional farming methods.

The Vietnam Poultry Association (VPA) outlined its plans for 2026 during its 2025 annual review conference held on March 6 in Ho Chi Minh City. The past year has been a turning point for the sector, signalling a clear commitment to sustainable and efficient production systems.

The VPA currently has 318 members, including 103 enterprises and cooperatives alongside 215 individual members. Over 2025, the association strengthened its governance by introducing 15 internal regulatory frameworks, consolidating six specialised committees, and opening a representative office in Ho Chi Minh City. These measures enhanced operational efficiency, transparency, and support for members.

Nguyen Quy Khiem, VPA Vice Chairman and General Secretary, said the association actively assisted member enterprises through communication campaigns, seminars, trade fairs, and both domestic and international trade promotion initiatives. These efforts have helped businesses expand partnerships and access new markets.

Member enterprises continue to play a central role in the poultry value chain. In 2025, they produced an estimated 530 to 550 million day-old chicks, accounting for 65 to 70 percent of the national supply, including 310 million coloured-feather chickens, 120 million white-feather broilers, and nearly 100 million ducklings. These products met domestic demand and were exported to Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

VPA members also dominate poultry feed production, holding 60 to 65 percent of the domestic market. Several companies have developed large-scale veterinary medicine and vaccine production, exporting to over 50 countries and territories. Investments in modern slaughtering and processing lines have created fully integrated value chains, improving the overall value of poultry products.

A key achievement in 2025 was stabilising the market amid misinformation about ‘fake eggs’. The VPA worked closely with authorities and media to restore consumer confidence. Egg prices recovered from around US$0.05–0.06 per egg to US$0.07–0.08 by mid-year, and currently range between US$0.09–0.10.

At the conference, Chairman Nguyen Thanh Son noted upcoming challenges, including global market volatility, rising input costs, import competition, and stricter environmental and animal welfare standards. In response, the VPA plans to strengthen trade promotion, expand exports, provide more training for members, and continue supporting sustainable growth in the poultry industry.

VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2026 Brings the Industry Together in Bangkok(Image credit :VIV Health & Nutrition Asia)

Event News

VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2026 wraps up on a high note

VIV Health and Nutrition Asia 2026 concluded on a strong note in Bangkok, bringing together professionals from across the animal feed and health sector for three engaging days.

Held from 10 to 12 March at BITEC, the event ran alongside VICTAM Asia, GRAPAS Asia, and Horti and Agri Asia, creating a shared platform that welcomed 10,639 visitors from 73 countries. This marked a notable rise in attendance compared to the previous edition and reflected growing interest across the region.

The exhibition space was equally impressive, with 300 exhibitors spread across more than 17,000 square metres. The event attracted a high number of senior decision makers, with VIV Health and Nutrition Asia alone welcoming 125 industry leaders, reinforcing its role as a focused and influential meeting point for the sector.

The co-location of four specialised events played a key role in the success of the show. Each exhibition brought its own audience while allowing visitors to explore a wider network of ideas and solutions. From animal nutrition and feed production to grain processing and agri technology, the event created a natural flow of conversation across different areas of the supply chain.

International participation added further depth, with strong representation from countries such as Japan and South Korea. The presence of global organisations and academic institutions also enriched the discussions. Experts addressed key industry concerns including African Swine Fever, alternative proteins, digital farming, and antimicrobial resistance, offering practical insights for professionals working in the field.

The conference programme stood out as a major highlight. Built around sustainability and innovation, it featured 73 speakers across more than 34 sessions. Topics covered poultry, aquaculture, cattle, and swine, with a clear focus on real world challenges and solutions. Sessions on laboratory practices, sustainable shrimp farming, and nutrition strategies in aquaculture drew strong interest, reflecting the industry’s shift towards more responsible and efficient practices.

Natasha Hall, Vice President of VIV Worldwide, said, “This edition marks a defining moment — one that reflects not only the growth of this platform, but the momentum of an entire industry. The dedicated national pavilions from Japan and South Korea, two of Asia’s most dynamic and innovative markets, speak volumes about the rising international confidence in what this event represents. Their presence underscores a shared belief that collaboration across borders is essential to shaping the future of the sector, and we look forward to the ideas, connections, and opportunities their participation brings.”

Jeroen van Hooff, CEO & President of Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs and VNU Group, added, “These days were not just about sitting and waiting, rather, they were about walking the floor, having the conversations that had been in the pipeline for months, finding the solutions that brought attendees here, or discovering ones they never anticipated.”

He adds, “To the exhibitors who placed their trust in VIV Health & Nutrition Asia: the investment of time, budget, and team did not go unnoticed. The commitment was to deliver a qualified audience, a well-organized event, and the best possible conditions for business to happen. To the visitors who made the show what it was: their decisions, the feed purchased, the technology adopted, the partnerships formed, are what shape the entire animal protein value chain. Three days well spent, and we remain dedicated to evolving our show format alongside the needs of our community. We look forward to building on what we have created here in the editions ahead.”

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GAR, CIRAD renew partnership for sustainable palm oil

Representatives from CIRAD and GAR (3rd and 4th from left) sign an MoU to advance sustainable palm oil research at the Indonesia-France Business Forum 2025. (Image source: Golden Agri-Resources)

Integrated palm oil company Golden Agri-Resources (GAR) has entered into a new agreement with the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD) to accelerate innovation in sustainable palm oil

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in Jakarta, marks a renewed phase of collaboration, focused on addressing pressing challenges in the palm oil industry. This latest initiative builds upon a 25-year partnership between CIRAD and the SMART Research Institute (SMARTRI), GAR’s primary agricultural R&D facility.

Originally established in 1996, the collaboration between GAR and CIRAD has evolved through successive agreements covering sustainable production, environmental stewardship, and precision agriculture. Over the years, the partnership has resulted in nearly IDR550 billion (approx. US$33.78mn) in joint investments in research and development.

Science driving sustainability

Together with WWF Indonesia, the partners also created the biennial International Conference on Oil Palm and the Environment (ICOPE). At the February 2025 edition, global researchers and early-career scientists shared new insights into topics such as biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation in the palm oil sector.

The partnership has supported major global research initiatives, including the Sustainable Palm Oil Production (SPOP) project backed by the French National Research Agency, and the International Oil Palm Genome Projects (OPGP) Consortium.

Through the renewed agreement, both organisations have committed to science-driven, practical solutions for enhancing sustainability in palm oil. Their collaboration will include research into plant performance modelling and simulations on climate change impacts, all aimed at supporting smallholder livelihoods amid increasing climate pressures.

“Our partnership with CIRAD brings together global scientific expertise with field research that addresses the realities of Indonesia’s palm oil landscape. It enables us to develop innovative, practical, and scalable solutions, with benefits not just for our plantations, but for independent smallholders across Indonesia,” explained The Biao Leng, president director at Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food, GAR’s Indonesian subsidiary.

Beyond improving productivity, the renewed partnership will explore agroforestry models to enhance national food security, reduce emissions, and contribute to Indonesia’s broader sustainability goals.

“Our collaboration with GAR demonstrates how international partnerships can combine scientific rigour with practical results. It enables us to address key sustainability challenges such as climate resilience, land-use efficiency, and smallholder inclusion. This is a truly integrated approach to transforming the sector,” said Jean-Marc Roda, CIRAD regional director for Southeast Asia Island Countries.

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

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

Vietnam’s appetite for imported meat continued to grow in 2025, with total purchases surpassing US$2bn for the first time.

The country imported around 978,300 tonnes of meat and meat products during the year, reflecting strong consumer demand and expanding needs within the food processing sector.

Figures compiled by the Import and Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, together with the General Department of Customs, show that Vietnam spent more than US$2.004bn on meat imports in 2025. Compared with the previous year, import volumes rose by 11.6 per cent, while the overall value increased by 12.2 per cent. The rise points to a steady shift in consumption patterns, with more households and businesses turning to imported animal protein.

India remained Vietnam’s largest supplier. The country exported 188,700 tonnes of meat to Vietnam, valued at US$681.32mn, accounting for nearly one fifth of total import volume.

Frozen pork was one of the fastest growing segments. Imports reached 183,400 tonnes, worth US$418.54mn. This marked an increase of 18.75 per cent in volume and almost 21 per cent in value compared with 2024.

Vietnam relied heavily on Russia for frozen pork, which supplied 48.44 per cent of total imports in this category. Brazil followed with a 30.91 per cent share, underlining the importance of both countries in meeting Vietnam’s protein needs.

The average import price of frozen pork stood at roughly US$2,273 per tonne. This increase came at a time when domestic live hog prices in early 2026 fluctuated between USD 2.65 and 3.30 per kilogramme, creating additional pressure along the supply chain.

While imports surged, exports remained limited. In 2025, Vietnam exported only 22,300 tonnes of meat, generating US$116.49mn in revenue. Hong Kong remained the largest destination for Vietnamese meat, although shipments to the market declined by more than 21 per cent compared with the previous year.

The figures highlight a widening gap between Vietnam’s import demand and its export capacity, as domestic consumption continues to outpace overseas sales.

Empowering the next generation of farmers through innovation

The workshop aimed at cross-sector collaboration to build inclusive, tech-enabled climate services.

Recently, the Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe (MSD), in partnership with Safe4All Africa and the Zimbabwe Farmers’ Union (ZFU), hosted a five-day workshop to address climate change and food insecurity challenges across Africa

Held in the wake of new weather station installations in Mashonaland East, the event brought together meteorologists, journalists, civil society groups, farmers, and other stakeholders for a focused dialogue on climate adaptation and early warning systems.

The workshop was a collaborative platform to share knowledge, promote climate-smart agricultural practices, and scale innovative technologies that enhance community resilience. Safe4All Africa, a non-governmental organisation founded in January 2024 and operating in Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Ghana, showcased several digital tools designed to help smallholder farmers manage climate risks.

Among the tools introduced were the Uliza-WI Chatbox, an AI chatbot providing localised forecasts and real-time farming advice; the Drop App, which tracks rainfall and sends drought alerts; the Climate Impact Atlas, an interactive platform highlighting high-risk climate zones; and a 24/7 Call Center Line, offering voice-based weather updates and expert support for farmers with limited internet access.

With Africa warming nearly twice the global average, and Zimbabwe increasingly vulnerable to droughts and shifting seasonal patterns, such innovations are crucial. Over 60% of Zimbabwe’s population relies on agriculture, making access to timely, localized climate data vital for national food security.

The Zimbabwe Farmers’ Union played a key role in ensuring farmer participation and emphasised the importance of local engagement. “We believe that technology must be rooted in local realities,” said Prince Kuipa, ZFU Operations Director. “By working closely with government agencies and tech innovators, we can ensure that smallholder farmers don’t get left behind in the climate conversation.”

MSD reaffirmed its commitment to expanding localized forecasting and early warning systems. These efforts align with Zimbabwe’s National Adaptation Plan and Vision 2030, the country’s strategy to achieve upper-middle-income status by the end of the decade.

The workshop concluded with a strong call for cross-sector collaboration to build inclusive, tech-enabled climate services that protect people and the planet.

Microwave and NIR. Complementary, not competitive, technologies

Hydronix makes a comparative analysis of NIR and microwave systems. (Image source: Hydronix)

There is a common misconception that, where moisture measurement is required, there is a choice between NIR and microwave sensors

Both technologies can measure moisture, but each has its advantages and disadvantages in different applications that must be considered.

This article compares both NIR and microwave systems and explains that, when it comes to measuring and controlling moisture, these technologies do not compete against each other but are complementary solutions. Each system should be selected based on what they do best.

Comparison: NIR and Microwave

NIR sensors can, in addition to moisture, measure other constituents like fat and protein content. They do not require contact with the actual substance being measured; and as they measure only the surface layer are able to measure small amounts and static material.

Digital microwave sensors, use a penetrative measurement technique to measure deeper into the material. they are not affected by changes in dust, light and material colouration. They can use a highly wear resistant ceramic that is designed to withstand material contact rather than delicate lenses. This enables microwave sensors to withstand high wear, dusty industrial environments.

Complementary: NIR and Microwave

Because of the huge range of potential applications, and the wide range of requirements within each of those applications, NIR and digital microwave sensors each have their place. The key is to understand what type of sensor to choose for each application, how many to install, where to place them and where they would benefit from being paired with a counterpart, whether NIR or digital microwave. They are not mutually exclusive.

One common example is drying applications where controlling the moisture will affect the amount of protein denaturisation and degradation that occurs. Digital microwave sensors can be used before and after the process to measure the moisture content of the material and determine control variables for the dryer.

Conclusion

Sensors should be used for their relevant strengths and specific purpose, for example, NIR to measure fat and protein measurement and/or where small amounts or static material must be measured. Digital microwave sensors where only moisture measurement in online dynamic processes is required.
This can result in a comprehensive, cost-effective solution for a much wider range of process steps, and better overall process control.

Read the entire story: https://hubs.li/Q02V74kM0

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Crops

Australian Government Review of Horticulture Code of Conduct.

Agriculture

Australian Government review of horticulture code of conduct

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Korea introduces striking new prickly pear cactus varieties

Higher-Quality and More Valuable Grains Through Moisture Control. (Image credit: Hydronix)

Livestock

GEA takes AI dairy farming to the next level with New Belfast Software Lab.(Image credit: GEA)

Livestock

GEA takes AI dairy farming to the next level

GEA has opened a brand new software development lab in Belfast, Northern Ireland, marking a bold step forward in its mission to reshape modern dairy farming through technology. Housed at The Innovation Centre, the lab will bring 20 new roles in software development and UX design to the region, all dedicated to advancing GEA's flagship AI livestock solution, CattleEye, alongside its wider digital farming portfolio.

CattleEye is no ordinary piece of kit. The system is built to detect and predict lameness in cattle at an early stage and gather vital data on body condition scores, giving farmers the kind of precise, timely insight that can genuinely change how they manage their herds. Already active on more than 140 farms spanning the UK, Europe, the United States and Australia, the technology is currently keeping watch over more than 200,000 cattle across 23 countries as part of GEA's DairyNet herd management platform.

GEA acquired CattleEye in 2024, and the Belfast expansion represents the next chapter in embedding that technology deeper into its farming ecosystem. "With our new software lab in Belfast, GEA is strengthening its role as a technology leader in digital dairy farming," says Andreas Seeringer, CEO of GEA Farm Technologies. "By improving animal health and well-being through AI-based solutions like CattleEye, dairy farms become more efficient, more sustainable, and ultimately more profitable. That is why we commit to accelerating development in this area, driving technology innovation in our digital herd management solutions."

Northern Ireland was a natural fit for the venture, given its deep rooted dairy farming heritage and a tech sector that is quietly making a name for itself. Terry Canning, CattleEye co-founder and Senior Director at GEA, describes what the lab means in practice: "The new software lab will be a significant milestone in integrating CattleEye fully into our state-of-the-art herd management systems and will extend our digital footprint in farming. In the future, farmers can expect features which help reduce additional investments in equipment and necessary animal treatments. It will also help customers to farm more efficiently and cut greenhouse gas emissions through automated data insights."

Regional development agency Invest NI, backed in part by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, is supporting the project financially. Vicky Kell, Director of Innovation, Research and Development at Invest NI, was clear about what it signals: "This investment in R&D is a vote of confidence in our talent, infrastructure and capabilities in Northern Ireland. The benefits of investing in R&D are rich, and the CattleEye solution is a testament to how R&D can further develop innovative products which can drive competitiveness in the global agri-tech market."

Vietnam Poultry Association drives sustainable growth in the sector.

Vitarich and Novogen collaborated to boost egg production in the Philippines.(Image credit: Vitarich)

Equipment

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

Equipment

Rainbow Colors pioneering hydrogen technology in agriculture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philippines boosts food supply with Bicol Mega Cold Storage. (Image credit: Business mirror))

The redesigned New Holland T7 Standard Wheelbase tractor, now available in the new Dynamic Blue colour. (Image credit: New Holland)

Technology

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

Water & Irrigation

Orbia Netafim and Amazon India drive major irrigation projects

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)

Crops

South Korea introduces striking new prickly pear cactus varieties

Agriculture

South Korea introduces striking new prickly pear cactus varieties

Researchers in South Korea have introduced two eye catching varieties of the prickly pear cactus, marking a fresh step in the country’s plant breeding efforts.

Developed by the Gyeonggi do Agricultural Research and Extension Services, the new varieties named ‘Dual Label’ and ‘Gold Label’ are set to enter the market this year.

South Korea introduces striking new prickly pear cactus varieties

Higher-Quality and More Valuable Grains Through Moisture Control. (Image credit: Hydronix)

Livestock

Vietnam Poultry Association drives sustainable growth in the sector.

Poultry

Vietnam Poultry Association drives sustainable growth in the sector

Vietnam’s poultry industry is moving toward greener and more sustainable practices, marking a significant shift from traditional farming methods.

Vietnam Poultry Association drives sustainable growth in the sector.

Vitarich and Novogen collaborated to boost egg production in the Philippines.(Image credit: Vitarich)

Equipment

Philippines boosts food supply with Bicol Mega Cold Storage. (Image credit: Business mirror))

Equipment

Philippines boosts food supply with Bicol Mega Cold Storage

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.

Philippines boosts food supply with Bicol Mega Cold Storage. (Image credit: Business mirror))

The redesigned New Holland T7 Standard Wheelbase tractor, now available in the new Dynamic Blue colour. (Image credit: New Holland)

Technology

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

Technology

Aonic expands global reach with drone innovation

Aonic, a drone technology company founded in Malaysia, has secured US$10mn in Series A funding to support its next stage of growth.

The investment is led by Kairous Capital, with backing from Jelawang Capital through its Emerging Fund Managers Programme. This funding marks a major step in Aonic’s journey to expand beyond Southeast Asia while strengthening its research, development, and production capabilities.

The company has steadily built a strong presence in the region by offering complete drone solutions for agriculture and industry. Its technology is designed to reduce reliance on labour intensive and risky manual work. By introducing drone spraying, Aonic has helped farmers improve efficiency and productivity. Internal data shows that farmers using its drones have seen income rise by 50 per cent, output increase by around 54 per cent, and water usage for spraying drop by about 75 per cent compared to traditional methods.

"Aonic is scaling a proven system," said Cheong Jin Xi, Founder and CEO of Aonic. "We've spent years building the engineering, manufacturing, and operational foundations to support real-world, field-ready operations. This funding enables us to expand globally with the same level of consistency and reliability we've achieved in Southeast Asia."

What sets Aonic apart is its fully integrated ecosystem. The company designs and manufactures its own drones while developing software in house, allowing full control over quality, cost, and future direction. It also supports farmers through training programmes, financing options, and access to agricultural supplies, making it easier for both smallholders and large operators to adopt new technology.

"We have been searching for transformative food and agri-technology for a long time, and Aonic is a rare Malaysia-based company that can deliver across Southeast Asia at scale," said Adrian Hia, Partner at Kairous Capital. "The team pairs deep technical capability with exceptional execution and financial discipline, bringing measurable outcomes for farmers."

With operations in more than 15 countries and a growing support network, Aonic is now preparing to take its Malaysian built innovation to a global stage while continuing to uplift the agriculture sector at home.

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