The International Dealer Centre will again serve as the central meeting point for the international agricultural machinery trade at Agritechnica 2025. (Image source: Agritechnica)

This year's Agritechnica 2025 will bring in a range of new developments aimed at advancing steady digitalisation on farms

As the world’s leading trade fair for agricultural machinery, Agritechnica 2025 will take place from 9-15 November in Hanover, Germany, bringing together manufacturers, dealers, farmers, and industry experts from around the globe, fostering international exchange and networking. This year’s edition introduces new formats aimed at enhancing visibility and connections within the sector. Registered dealers can be listed on the official website and in the trade fair app, making them easily accessible to both customers and exhibitors.

Agricultural equipment dealers have limited ability to respond to external pressures such as deferred purchasing by farms, extreme weather events, and political uncertainty – though some are countering with attractive sales or financing offers. When it comes to digitalisation, which poses a direct and internal challenge for the trade, the situation looks different: Success increasingly depends on the expertise, technical know-how, and the quality of digital solutions and services offered by machinery dealers. 

"Agricultural equipment dealers are expected to integrate digital technologies into their portfolios and provide tailored solutions to farmers. But this is often easier said than done. The technologies involved are complex and require extensive consultation, while rapid innovation cycles in systems, machines, and software demand constant upskilling," says Ralph Königs, Business segment dealer manager, Agritechnica.

The International Dealer Centre will again serve as the central meeting point for the international agricultural machinery trade at Agritechnica 2025. Trade visitors can access an exclusive lounge for dealers, business partners, customers, and employees. Daily 'Pop-up Talk Dealer' sessions will feature international speakers, followed by informal networking opportunities. An on-site information counter will also be available to address questions on training and professional development in the sector. 

AAGB-2025 featured a comprehensive scientific programme, including three plenary talks and a high-level panel discussion focused on outlining a roadmap for groundnut improvement over the next decade. (Image source: ICRISAT)

ICRISAT in collaboration with the Peanut Research Foundation organised the 13th International Conference on Advances in Arachis through Genomics and Biotechnology (AAGB-2025) which took place from 23-25 March 2025 in Goa, India

The AAGB-2025 served as a vital platform for bringing together a global community of scientists, researchers, and industry experts to explore cutting-edge developments in groundnut (peanut) genomics and biotechnology and the innovations aimed at enhancing crop resilience, productivity, and nutritional quality. The conference saw participation from over 250 delegates from more than 18 countries including India, China, the US, Japan, Mali, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Burkina Faso, among others.

AAGB-2025 featured a comprehensive scientific programme, including three plenary talks and a high-level panel discussion focused on outlining a roadmap for groundnut improvement over the next decade. The event also hosted 10 thematic scientific sessions, bringing together leading experts from around the world. In addition, the three-day conference also featured a dedicated poster session showcasing 26 posters. The conference provided a valuable platform for young researchers and students to present their work and interact with global experts.

These sessions covered a wide array of critical topics, including genebank genomics and pan-genomics, trait mapping and gene discovery, genomics-assisted breeding, food safety, nutrition and quality, functional genomics, genome editing, and other emerging technologies. Discussions also focused on strategies for effectively translating genetic innovations into practical applications in groundnut cropping systems. 

Awards were also presented by deputy director general – research and innovation, ICRISAT, Dr Stanford Blade for five outstanding posters and five exceptional presentations by young researchers during the conference.  Another key highlight of the event was the involvement from industry stakeholders, with exhibitions by organisations such as DSS Takara, the South Africa Groundnut Association (SAGA), and Premas Life Sciences, underscoring the strong industry-science partnership in advancing groundnut research.

“For dryland crops like groundnut, strong partnerships and collaborative efforts are essential to drive meaningful impact at the field level. It is encouraging to witness the active engagement of both national and international partners, including the Peanut Research Foundation, in advancing this critical area of research,” said director general of ICRISAT, Dr Himanshu Pathak. President of the Peanut Research Foundation, Dr Steve Brown joined the event virtually and expressed his pleasure regarding their partnership in organising the conference. 

Attendees at the show will get the opportunity to discover how Berry’s expertise in both flexible and rigid plastics enables the development of packaging. (Image source: Berry Global)

Berry Global will be showcasing its latest circular packaging innovations for the food industry at this year’s Foodex exhibition scheduled to take place from 7-9 April at NEC Birmingham

The display will focus on circularity-driven solutions - such as the use of mono-materials for improved recyclability, and recycled content in non-contact sensitive applications such as collation shrink films and stretch wrap for pallet protection - while maintaining essential packaging roles like product protection, preservation, and consumer convenience.

Attendees at the show will get the opportunity to discover how Berry’s expertise in both flexible and rigid plastics enables the development of packaging that supports brand positioning, enhances functionality and meets the evolving requirements of food producers and retailers.

Flexible packaging highlights will include:

- Omni Xtra + Cling Film: A recyclable polyethylene alternative to PVC cling film, delivering high clarity, anti-fog properties, and strong shelf presence.

- Entour Mono-Material Lamination Films: Designed for bags, pouches, and flow wraps, these films offer a recyclable* alternative to hard-to-recycle multi-material structures.

- Mono-Material Pouches: Berry’s mono-material pouches offer a recyclable* solution for dry food applications such as snacks and pet foods, delivering excellent barrier properties, durability, and high-quality print surfaces to support strong branding and shelf impact.

- Films for Frozen Foods and Snacks: Designed for versatility and durability, Berry’s range of single wound sheet (SWS) films provide robust protection for many types of products including frozen food and snacks. Made from recyclable mono-material polyethylene, they can supportsustainability goals without compromising performance.

- Secondary &Tertiary Packaging: Containing high-quality post-consumer recycled content, Berry’s Collation Shrink Film and Bontite Sustane 30% PCR Stretch Film are helping customers meet their targets to include more recycled materials while maintaining packaging integrity.

On the other hand, rigid packaging innovations range from squeezable bottles to high-capacity jars that are designed to meet the practical demands of both consumer-facing brands and busy foodservice environments. Two notable products include their Euro Squeeze and Orion bottles that offer easy, mess-free dispensing for sauces, dressings and condiments, with compatibility across multiple closures and fill types. Two other examples include Sapphire and Bear jars that provide durable, stackable solutions for larger volume applications.

With a focus on functionality, storage efficiency, and labelling flexibility, all formats are also designed for recycling – supporting customers’ sustainability goals without compromising performance or usability.

These discussions provided valuable perspectives on the future of regenerative agriculture, advanced horticulture techniques, and technological innovations shaping the industry. (Image source: Horti Agri Next)

The first edition of Horti Agri Next Asia 2025 has successfully concluded last week, marking a significant milestone in bridging agriculture, horticulture, feed technology, and crop technology within the industry

The event welcomed 5,663 trade visitors from 36 countries, who explored cutting-edge solutions from 70 leading companies representing 14 countries across Asia. It highlighted the strong synergy between Horti Agri Next Asia (HAN Asia) and VIV Asia 2025, fostering collaboration across key sectors. 

Beyond the product showcase, the event served as a dynamic networking hub, bringing together industry professionals, thought leaders, and innovators to exchange insights on market trends, emerging business opportunities and the latest advancements. A key highlight of the event was the comprehensive conference programme, featuring 18 sessions and 77 expert speakers from across Asia. These discussions provided valuable perspectives on the future of regenerative agriculture, advanced horticulture techniques, and technological innovations shaping the industry.

Co-located with VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2026, the next edition of Horti Agri Next Asia will take place from 11-13 March 2026, at BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand. 

VIV Asia 2025 offers more than just exhibits as it delivers a dynamic and immersive experience with special zones and exclusive networking opportunities. (Image source: VNU)

VIV Asia 2025, the leading international trade exhibition for the animal protein production industry is set to return with its biggest edition yet from 12-14 March 2025 at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani in Bangkok, Thailand

This flagship event is co-located with Meat Pro Asia dedicated for meat processing and packaging, and Horti Agri Next Asia, dedicated for advancements in horticulture and agriculture. Together, these three dynamic exhibitions create an unparalleled business and networking experience, covering the entire agrifood supply chain from seed to feed to food.

Drawing closer to the event, here’s a preview of what to expect at this year’s VIV Asia:

A strategic species-specific approach

With key themes such as disease management, biosecurity, and regenerative agriculture, VIV Asia 2025 will showcase the latest innovations and breakthroughs across four key animal protein sources: poultry, swine, aquaculture, and dairy. Attendees will gain first-hand insights into the most advanced developments in breeding, health, nutrition, and smart farming technologies, ensuring they stay ahead in this fast-evolving industry. Whether you're a producer, supplier, or investor, this is your chance to explore cutting-edge solutions tailored to your sector.

Agrifood digitalisation with AgriBITs

As another milestone for VIV Asia 2025, AgriBITs will be launching for the first time its two-day programme which features key sessions highlighting the latest breakthroughs in automation, biotechnology and AI solutions for the agrifood industry. From precision farming and smart feed technologies to data-driven production systems, AgriBITs is a solid platform for knowledge-sharing and network-building and a valuable opportunity for industry leaders to stay ahead of emerging technological trends.

Meat Pro Asia: The ultimate meat processing and packaging showcase

As a co-located event, Meat Pro Asia will bring together the latest solutions in meat processing, food safety, cold chain logistics, and automation. This specialised trade show is a must-attend for businesses seeking to optimise processing efficiency, meet global standards, and explore next-generation packaging technologies as it addresses consumer demand for quality, safety, and sustainability in the meat supply chain.

Panadda Kongma, vice president - Business at VNU Asia Pacific and Kerstin Horaczek, vice president - Technology Shows at Messe Frankfurt jointly express, “With the global reach of VIV worldwide and Messe Frankfurt’s network of food technology events, Meat Pro Asia 2025 is your gateway to innovation and success.”

Horti Agri Next Asia: Advancing sustainable agriculture and horticulture

In parallel with VIV Asia, Horti Agri Next Asia will focus on sustainable farming solutions, bringing forward key developments in controlled-environment agriculture, crop protection, vertical farming, and agri-tech. As global food security and climate resilience gain increasing importance, this event will spotlight breakthroughs that enhance productivity while reducing environmental impact. Whether you are looking for the latest in horticultural food production or drone technologies for smart agriculture, this exh ibition is your go-to destination. 

Exclusive features and special areas to elevate your experience

VIV Asia 2025 offers more than just exhibits as it delivers a dynamic and immersive experience with special zones and exclusive networking opportunities. At the heart of the event, VIV Square serves as the central hub for industry connections and knowledge. For more expert-led seminars, there’s the Food Tech Transition Square. Meanwhile, there are also networking events planned such as the VIV Asia Golf Connect 2025, Grand Networking Reception, the Networking Shrimp Cocktail, and Country of Honor Night, with some being exclusive, invitation-only gatherings for high-level business interactions. Additionally, the VIV Worldwide Booth in Hall 6 offers direct access to the global VIV network and team. Other noteworthy areas to visit are the Dutch Pavilion and the expanded CropTech - FeedTech hall areas.

Seamless experience with complimentary shuttle services and guided tours

To enhance visitor convenience, free shuttle services will be available to registered attendees, ensuring easy access from MRT Sirat to IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Additionally, guided tours will provide curated insights, helping visitors navigate key innovations and maximise their time at the show. These tours cover five core areas: swine, poultry, aquaculture, food processing, and agriculture, with real-time translation services.

Looking forward to VIV Asia 2025, Birgit Horn, managing director at VNU Europe says, “This year’s edition of VIV Asia is fast becoming our biggest and most impactful event yet. This is where innovation, collaboration, and opportunity come together. We are truly excited to see the meaningful partnerships and connections that will emerge, reflecting the dedication and efforts of all participants.”

Join thousands of industry professionals, leaders, innovators, and decision-makers at VIV Asia 2025 from 12–14 March at IMPACT in Bangkok, Thailand and experience the future of agrifood unfold firsthand. Visitors can register at www.vivasia.nl or via this link before 11 March 2025 for free admission.