Gulf agriculture magazine Jan-Feb 2016

JANUARY

ISSN 1751-8407

FEBRUARY

2016 TM

YOUR GATEWAY TO THE MIDDLE EAST AGRIBUSINESS VISIT US AT

VIV MEA

GFIA

GULFOOD

FEBRUARY 15 - 17, 2016, ABU DHABI, UAE

FEBRUARY 16 - 17, 2016, ABU DHABI, UAE

FEBRUARY 21 - 25, 2016, DUBAI, UAE

VIV MEA FEATURES CONTENT-RICH SEMINARS

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BIOSECURITY IN LIVESTOCK FARMING

26

WOVEN PLANTER BAGS FROM AUSTRALIA

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SPREAD OF PANAMA DISEASE IN BANANA

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50-85HP MF 300 SERIES SET FOR INTRODUCTION

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CONTENTS

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12 NEWS UPDATE

PAGE 04

GFIA CALLS ATTENTION TO GLOBAL HUNGER ISSUE

PAGE 12

GETTING TO KNOW BLUELAB PRODUCTS

PAGE 14

FRANCE'S LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY ANNOUNCES ITS PARTICIPATION

PAGE 20

GULFOOD 2016 TO DELIVER MORE TASTES, TRENDS AND TRADE

PAGE 22

GROWTECH EURASIA HAS BROKEN THE RECORDS WITH THE NUMBER OF VISITORS IN ITS 15TH YEAR.

PAGE 24

DOMINANT OFFERS A CHOICE OF COLOURED LAYER

PAGE 30

VERANDA BREEDER: ROYAL CLASS BREEDER HOUSING

PAGE 32

ZOONOSES ASSOCIATED WITH POULTRY FARMING

PAGE 34

SPECIALIST IN FEED RAW MATERIALS & INGREDIENTS

PAGE 36

FLOWER POWER - ROSE GROWERS IN FULL BLOOM THANKS TO PHILIPS LED LIGHTING

PAGE 38

NEW HOLLAND T7.315 TRACTOR WINS MACHINE OF THE YEAR 2016 TITLE IN THE L CATEGORY AT AGRITECHNICA SHOW

PAGE 46

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Editor in Chief Mohammed Nasser Editor Marie Matthew Associate Editor Andrew Thomas Graphic Designer Elizabeth John Marketing Manager Megha Mary Matt Production Manager Abdul Shareef Contributors Neville J. Chandler, P.K. James, Douglas Bott, Shakeeb Kolakadan, Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas Head Office Matt Media International Ltd, Woodgreen, London N22 5AR, UK. E-mail: gulfag@emirates.net.ae, Web site: www.gulfagriculture.com

Middle East Office Al Saad Advertising & Publishing L.L.C., P O Box 25694, Sharjah, UAE, Tel:+971 6 5639494, Fax:+971 6 5639449.

Gulf Agriculture is read by agri professionals, farm managers & owners, landscape consultants, contractors, agri-equipment suppliers, horticultural engineers, greenhouse managers, agronomists, veterinary surgeons, ministries, poultry & dairy breeders, importers, distributors, manufacturers and whole salers of food and agri inputs.

Printed and published by Matt Media© Intl. Ltd.(U.K.) 2016 All rights reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are requested to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstance. The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for any error or omissions contained in this publication.

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JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

NEWS UPDATE

Ministry of Environment issues new ministerial decree on production, import and distribution of fertilizers and soil conditioner H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, has issued Ministerial Decision No. 784 for 2015 related to “Federals Laws' Executive Regulations” no. 39 for 1992.

This law covers the production, import and circulation of fertilizers and soil conditioner.

In addition, it aims to facilitate

and reinforce the country's position in the agricultural sector leadership and raise the standards of procedures for importing, producing and distributing fertilizers and soil conditioners according to the international standards.

The decision states that “It is allowed only to import, produce, use and trade of fertilizers and agricultural soil conditioners that are registered at the Ministry and match the specifications and standards set in this decision.” It states also that required licenses must be

Partnership to support bilateral relations & boost agriculture & animal and fish farming H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad, UAE Minister of Environment and Water and H.E. Dr. Sufian Sultan Al-Tamimi, Minister of Agriculture, Palestinian Authority, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the field of agriculture and animal and fish farming. The collaboration is a major leap in the distinguished relations shared between the UAE and Palestine.

According to H.E. Bin Fahad, the UAE is keen to establish partnerships with countries in the region and across the world to address various environmental issues, especially when it has emerged as a leader in the field of environment. He pointed out that the MoU aims to strengthen and develop cooperation between the UAE and the State Palestine in agriculture and animal and fish farming in order to achieve sustainable development goals.

Under the terms of the agreement, the UAE and Palestine will share their experiences in areas, including agricultural scientific research, fight against desertification, and the use of saline water in agriculture. In addition, both parties will exchange their expertise in soil and water, extension of agricultural areas, date palm cultivation, and other agricultural products along with fishing and fish farming areas.

The UAE and Palestine will also work together in veterinary services, such as veterinary quarantine, control of cross-border communicable diseases, and early diagnosis of animal diseases. Lastly, they will exchange experiences in agricultural pesticides and seeds and integrated control of agricultural pests as well as encourage participation in agricultural fairs.

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obtained from the Ministry along with the relevant government authorities, and it identifies standards and technical specifications including health safety and environmental measures to be followed for the use, produce, handle and storage of fertilizers and soil conditioners to ensure that farmers achieve the best returns and to mitigate any negative or harmful impact on the environment.

The decree also stipulates that the fertilizer companies are responsible for disposing of the waste products of fertilizers and soil conditioners according to the Environmental Federal Law No. 24 for 1999 and according to the instructions defined by the local authorities.

According to the decree, the fertilizer companies must keep records showing the trade of fertilizers and in the meantime the Ministry has the right to cancel the registration of any kind of fertilizer registration if it has been registered using incorrect information; or if its usage can lead to serious health issues, or due to any impact on environment or animals; or if its registration is cancelled in the country of origin; or if it is banned by international organizations for public health reasons or any other reasons.

The decree also included practices which are contrary to the provisions of the decree such as the import or export of any kind of fertilizer and soil conditioner does not meet the decree standards and specifications; or not obtaining the necessary permits and licenses from the Ministry and the relevant authorities; or distribution, manufacture and production of expired or JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

NEWS UPDATE

banned fertilizer, as well as do not follow professional environmental safety measures defined by the local authorities. In the event that a company imported a shipment violating the decree provisions, the shipment will returned to its home country, or the Ministry will destroy the shipment; and in both cases the company will bear the costs.

The Ministry along with special authorities have the right to implement the necessary actions - including the closure of facilities that violate the provisions of the decree for a maximum period of three months. A decision will be taken to allow the facility to operate

again once the violation corrected within the closure period, and in case the facility was not able to correct it within this period, a permanent closure decision will be taken and its license will be withdrawn. The decree gives the facility the right to appeal against the permanent or the temporary closure decision issued by the Ministry or the local authority but within 30 days of receiving the decision, otherwise in this respect the decision will be final.

EIMA Agrimach, a winning project The fourth edition of the New Dehli exhibition ended with a remarkable increase of visitors.

Launch of construction at the Valagro production plant in Brazil Valagro, leader in the production and marketing of biostimulants and specialty nutrients, announced that it has started the construction of its new plant in Pirassununga, in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The project, announced in 2014 with an investment of 10 million euro, includes the construction of a plant with two production lines for the processing and packaging of solid watersoluble fertilizers and biostimulants. The plant will cover an area of about 60,000 m2 and will ensure a production of about 8,000 tons of product a year.

The transition to the operational phase of the project - which will end in January 2017, with the opening of the plant - has been achieved through the attainment of the national and regional environmental licenses, attesting to compliance with rigorous local standards of environmental safety and sustainability, in line with

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Giuseppe Natale

the Valagro's values based on the full respect of human health and the environment.

Thanks to the production plant in Pirassununga, Valagro will be able to respond even more effectively to the needs of the Brazilian market - where it is already active with its own branch since 1998 with special attention to some of its major customers in this area, including Coopercitrus.

"The construction of the Pirassununga production facility greatly supports our supply chain logistics getting us closer to our

customers in Brazil, and more broadly will allow us to respond effectively to different needs," explains the CEO of the Group, Giuseppe Natale. "Secondly, this provides us the

flexibility by production realised at the local level.

For Valagro, all of the above, together, means fully implementing the Group's principle of putting the customer in the centre."

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

NEWS UPDATE

The audience exceeded 40,000 units, confirming the exhibition as a landmark event for India and the countries of Asia and the Far-East.

Cooperation between Italy and India will go on in 2016 with demonstration events in the regions of the subcontinent and the presence of many Italian businesses and delegations at the next EIMA International in November in Bologna. Already scheduled for December 2017, the fifth edition of the big Indian event in New Dehli.

Success beyond all expectations for the fourth edition of EIMA Agrimach, the international exhibition of agricultural machinery which ended in December. In the three days of the Indian trade fair, that put on display

machinery, equipment and components in the stands inside the pavilions, in the outdoor areas dedicated to brands of agricultural machinery and in the vast courtyard reserved for field tests, the visitors reached the number of 40,300 units, with an increase of 26% compared to the previous edition of December 2013.

A result that rewards the work of the organizing bodies - the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry FICCI and the Italian Federation of Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers FederUnacoma - that wanted to organize the event not as a “market” of machines for agriculture, but as an exposition of “business-tobusiness” technological

innovations, dedicated primarily to traders and professionals.

The choice itself of the location in which the event takes place, the campus of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute IARI and the official partnership of the Indian Ministry of Agriculture and the Indian Council for Agricultural Research ICAR, indicate the will to turn this event into an instrument of strategic orientation of the activities of the primary sector and of development of agricultural business models better suited to the country.

Therefore, the results of the event reinforce the ItalianIndian cooperation in the field of agricultural mechanization.

It is a partnership involving, besides FederUnacoma as an

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GULF AGRICULTURE

7

NEWS UPDATE

organizer, the ICE Agency, the Italian Ministry of Economic Development (which supported the Agrimach project since its first edition in 2009) as well as the Emilia Romagna Region, in the territory of which are located some of the major production areas of the Italian agricultural machinery, with many brands

Norbert Schlingmann appointed AEF General Manager The AEF is pleased to announce that the Steering Committee has agreed on the appointment of the first AEF General Manager.

Norbert Schlingmann will take on this responsibility.

Schlingmann is currently employed at Claas as head of an electronics development department and has been working in different AEF committees from the beginning. To date he is leading the Project Team “Service and Diagnostics”. In this function he has played the major role in the development of the AEF ISOBUS Database.

Schlingmann (52) is married and has four children. He lives in Beelen, Germany.

It was Schlingmann's profound knowledge of the AEF that eventually proved decisive for the Steering Committee in the selection process, making him stand out from a number of applicants.

Reporting to the Chair Group and Steering Committee the General Manager is going to be in charge of the operative business and administration of AEF as well as commercial aspects, such as budget generation and supervision.

Schlingmann specifically plans to improve working procedures within the AEF, including communication between the Team Leaders, also to help reduce the workload of actively engaged members, as well as to ensure financial efficiency.

Schlingmann: “I am looking forward to this challenge! Based on the AEF's solid foundation I, together with the Steering Committee, will lead the organisation into the future.”

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that in recent years have started business activities and production in India.

The Italian team, composed of the Confindustria Association (FederUnacoma), the Ministry and the Region, proves how synergy and orderliness together are the winning combination to expand business into new markets. Cooperation between Italy and India provides other demonstration events for 2016, such as the field tests carried out in May this year in the State of Maharashtra and important initiatives at EIMA International.

At the world exhibition, to be held in Bologna from 9 to 13 November 2016, will in fact take part many Indian companies and a large delegation of operators and institutional representatives of the country, with a view to intensify the possibility of business cooperation and partnership between companies and to identify, among the unlimited selection of technologies displayed at EIMA International, those that are best suited to the needs and development policies of the Indian Subcontinent. The appointment with the next edition of EIMA Agrimach is already scheduled for December 2017.

Quinoa labelled 'perfect crop' for UAE climate conditions Scientists have identified quinoa as an optimal crop for cultivation in the marginal climatic conditions of the UAE following years of extensive research.

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has worked in partnership with

Abu Dhabi's Ministry of Environment and Water and the Abu Dhabi Farmer Service Centre in the UAE since 2010 to test selected quinoa varieties and learn about their potential to be grown in saline environments.

Dr Nanduri K. Rao, Plant Genetic Resources Scientist at International Center for Biosaline Agriculture, confirmed that quinoa has exceptional adaptation qualities for marginal environments such as the UAE. Speaking ahead of his participation in the upcoming Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture (GFIA), 16-17 February at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, he said: “Trials in the UAE resulted in the identification of four quinoa genotypes that are suitable for sandy soils such as those in the Arabian Peninsula.”

“They also matched highest yields reported from countries where quinoa is cultivated traditionally such as Bolivia, the crop's homeland. This makes quinoa a crop of choice for marginal environments and I encourage farmers to plant it in their fields.”

Tested quinoa varieties produced impressive results of 10.5 tons/ha, even with high salinity (EC) when planted in abandoned saline farms and where traditional crops could not grow properly.

Besides its stress tolerance, quinoa is one of the most nutritious food crops currently known. The grain has high nutritional quality, and according to Dr Rao, “It is far superior to the commonly grown staple food crops, such as wheat, rice, and corn.”

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Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture on Wednesday 17 February in the event's Innovations Theatre will discuss quinoa as a futureproof crop for climate smart agriculture. Dr Rao is confident that the crop's ecoversatility combined with its high nutritional value makes quinoa a prominent opportunity to address the future global food demand.

“I strongly believe that public-private sector partnerships are essential to finding innovative solutions to water scarcity in agricultural sector and to ensure that scientific innovations become valuable tools for farmers.”

According to Dr Rao's report there are more than 15,000 accessions of quinoa conserved in the genebanks, most of them in the Andes region and whose potential and nutritional value has not been investigated outside South America.

The GFIA exhibition and conference, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, and in strategic partnership with ADFCA, will feature more than 300 next-generation agricultural solutions that could shape the future of sustainable farming around the world.

Co-located alongside VIV MEA, the two events are expected to host more than 500 exhibitors of innovative technology, making Abu Dhabi home to the largest agricultural event in the region. The organisers also expect to build 10

GULF AGRICULTURE

upon last year's 4,550 visitors from 85 countries.

GFIA is sponsored by the UAE Ministry of Presidential Affairs, Khalifa International Award for Date Palm & Agricultural Innovation, Abu Dhabi Farmers Services Centre, Emirates Food Industries, Koppert Biological Systems, AGCO, GODAN and CoolFarm and staged with the support of Masdar Institute, University of Arizona, Kingdom of The Netherlands, Clinton Climate Initiative, CTA, Global G.A.P, CGIAR, SAI Platform, Wageningen UR and the Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau.

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Climate Smart Agriculture: Key to Africa's Development Collaboration by various stakeholders including governments, NGOs and research bodies is needed now to rapidly scale-up the African agricultural sector to improve food security and resilience to climate change,” said Mrs Estherine Fotabong, NEPAD Programmes Director, at the NEPAD Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) event held on the sidelines of COP21 in Paris, on December 7.

Research by NEPAD (www.Nepad.org) through the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme shows that climate change effects are becoming more frequent and more severe, threatening the reliability and productivity of agriculture, exacerbating the already extreme levels of poverty, and reinforcing persistent inequity and chronic under-nutrition.

The African Union's New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) is supporting the implementation of CSA in Africa through the Agriculture Climate Change Programme and other related initiatives. These efforts will sustainably increase productivity, resilience and adaptation, as well as build capacity at all levels, especially for smallholder farmers and institutions in order to attain the goal of 25 JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

NEWS UPDATE

million African farmers practicing Climate-Smart Agriculture by 2025.

“The African agricultural sector employs 65 per cent of the continent's population, 50 per cent of them are women and climate change is predicted to have significant impact on agriculture, therefore, constituting a major hurdle for Africa,” said Mr Miti Chikakula, COMESA Agriculture Officer. “By adopting CSA practices, smallholder farmers can reduce the risks they face due to climate change, while enhancing food security and livelihoods,” he added.

As negotiations for COP21 draw to a close, participants raised concerns about the need to include climate smart and gender appropriate policies in the COP21 agreements because women are the majority of African smallholder farmers.

Participants also commended the NEPAD Agency's efforts in making Climate Smart Agriculture a reality for millions of smallholder farmers and forestalling the negative impacts of global climate change.

The side event discussed the continent's approach to climate change and agriculture, showcased progress, experiences, and lessons from recent work to support the scaling up of CSA in Africa and the way forward beyond COP21. Discussions also centered on what efforts are required by both Africans and development partners to bring about practical and grassroot-based actions on agriculture and climate change; and opening up new JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

opportunities for African farmers.

In closing, Mr Martin Bwalya, NEPAD Coordinator of Programme Implementation reaffirmed NEPAD's commitment to fighting climate change in Africa and to enhancing resilience and livelihoods through smart collaboration across all

disciplines and sectors; evidence based processes; expanding the cadre of negotiators in terms of numbers and fields; strengthening capacities of smallholder farmers and institutions; embracing local knowledge and involving women who are active participants and players in agriculture.

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GFIA PREVIEW

GFIA CALLS ATTENTION TO GLOBAL HUNGER ISSUE THIRD EDITION OF GLOBAL FORUM FOR INNOVATIONS IN AGRICULTURE JOINS HANDS WITH VIV MEA TO DEBATE SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION AND SECURITY

W

ith the latest World Food Programme statics showing that 795 million people are undernourished and the global population is projected to reach almost 10 billion by 2050, food security and production sustainability have become major challenges requiring urgent action.

It is against this background that the Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture (GFIA) takes on an extra dimension when it convenes for a third year at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from February 16-17.

In a joint effort to lead a global dialogue on food security and climate resilience, GFIA will run alongside VIV MEA, a new regional version of the highly successful livestock production

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events held in Europe and Asia which are helping to bring about a rethinking on global food security.

The co-hosting of the two events in the UAE capital is built on the belief of the organisers that, in order to solve the world's major food issues, cooperation between many public and private sectors is crucial. Combined, these events will deliver the largest agricultural exhibition in the Middle East.

The forum will welcome innovators, entrepreneurs, politicians, academics and other experts to debate and bring about game-changing solutions for global agriculture and food production sector.

With the participation of 300 exhibitors, Mark Beaumont, Project Director of the combined GFIA exhibition and conference, is confident that the partnership with VIV MEA will position the forum as a global forerunner in catalyzing innovative agriculture solutions.

“This is now the world's most influential event for sustainable agriculture,” said Beaumont. “It is establishing Abu Dhabi as an international centre of science excellence in sustainable agriculture, giving local students, farmers and food producers the opportunity to collaborate with the international scientific community.”

“The key is to bring together public decision-makers, private sector champions and civil

society leaders who develop and catalyze innovations for sustainable agriculture. Through cross-sector collaboration, we can bring about a food-secure future, and the prominent role the UAE has taken on this issue makes Abu Dhabi a perfect stage.”

The partnership with VIV MEA brings an additional 3,000 agriculture experts to network, collaborate, and take part in workshops showcasing latest technology developments aimed at providing solutions not only to food production sustainability, but also to tackle water shortages; an issue of paramount importance in the Middle East.

“The co-hosting of these important international events in Abu Dhabi underlines the commitment of the UAE to drive a global dialogue on food security and climate resilience,” said Ali Yousef Al Saad, Acting Director of Communication and Community Service at Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority.

“We live in a waterJANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

GFIA PREVIEW

constrained region and must use these forums to enhance our contribution to the development and implementation of smart solutions for increased food production.”

Al Saad added: “GFIA is quite unique in that it attracts stakeholders right across the agricultural value chain. This means Abu Dhabi becomes the stage for the whole mix of people needed to change systems at large - scientists, inventors, farmers, investors, food producers, NGOs, supply chain and government. This makes it such an important event.”

Key discussions will revolve around innovative approaches to agribusiness, animal production, crop protection, nutrition, renewable energy, saltwater agriculture, soil health, urban agriculture, and water technology, as well as nextgeneration solutions for regions affected by water scarcity.

Ruwan Berculo, VIV JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

HELD UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF H.H. SHEIKH MANSOUR BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF THE UAE, MINISTER OF PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF ABU DHABI FOOD CONTROL AUTHORITY (ADCFA), GFIA PROVIDES THE PERFECT FORUM FOR DEVELOPMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF INNOVATIONS CRUCIAL FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND A FOOD-SECURE FUTURE Worldwide Project Manager, believes the partnership of the two events combined with the world's leading academics in the field and government experts will be key drivers for the development of innovative

solutions for sustainable food production, especially in the areas experiencing rapid population growth.

“The timing is absolutely right to bring VIV to the Middle East,” Berculo insists.

“Growing urbanisation, rapid growth in the tourism sector and increasingly globalized diets are seeing a significant increase in the demand for livestock products in the region.

These countries want to produce food and not just import it, so investments in the food production sector are increasing all the time.”

Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADCFA), GFIA provides the perfect forum for development and assessment of innovations crucial for sustainable agriculture and a food-secure future.

GULF AGRICULTURE

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GFIA PREVIEW

GETTING TO KNOW BLUELAB PRODUCTS

‘‘

WE REALIZE THAT MORE AND MORE PEOPLE THESE DAYS, ARE BECOMING ACCUSTOMED TO WAKING UP AND CHECKING THEIR NEAREST WEB-ENABLED GADGET, BE IT A SMARTPHONE OR TABLET; NOW WITH OUR CONNECT SUITE GROWERS CAN BE CHECKING THEIR CROPS AT THE SAME TIME.” Greg Jarvis, company owner and CEO

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B

luelab develops, manufactures and sells monitoring and control instruments widely used in hydroponic, aquaponic, aquaculture, horticulture and general agriculture applications.

The Bluelab product range improves the growing experience and outcomes for novices through to commercial growers, making life as a grower easier.

At the start of Bluelab's range are the simple digital Pens that make routine spot checking of solutions easy. The next step up is Bluelab's range of portable handheld meters, followed by continuous easy-toread monitors, such as the Bluelab Guardian, which offers a visible-across-the room indicator of key growing parameters; pH, temperature and EC. Remote monitoring is easy via Bluelab's Connect Software which enables multiple monitoring points in the growing facility that report back wirelessly to a central computer, from there allowing remote checking from any device that can access the web, including smart devices.

Connect enabled products data log to a computer for interrogation of measurements over time, key to efficiency and more profitable returns. “We realize that more and more people these days, are

becoming accustomed to waking up and checking their nearest web-enabled gadget, be it a smartphone or tablet; now with our connect suite growers can be checking their crops at the same time,” says Greg Jarvis, company owner and CEO. Near the top of the product range is the pH Controller Connect which monitors and corrects pH in reservoirs accurately and simply, reporting back via the Connect software as well. This automation offering reduces operational costs in the grow space as well as the benefit of advanced pH stability.

Launching in 2016 is Bluelab's next generation nutrient dosing system. Driven by the Pro Controller, the Peripod system doses liquid nutrients into hydroponic reservoirs at variable rates following a programmable feed schedule. The advanced control optimizes crop health while maintaining a stable reservoir.

As a dynamic, growing organization, Bluelab continues to learn by focusing on continual improvement and innovation. The company's philosophy is honesty, integrity and simplicity. “Success by simplicity,” is their motto.

Bluelab products are distributed worldwide through retail outlets. A list of certified stores and distributors is available online at bluelab.com JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

VIV MEA PREVIEW

FULL VIV MEA PROGRAMME FEATURES CONTENT-RICH SEMINARS

V

IV MEA 2016 will be rich in valuable business information for animal protein producers when it opens in February in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The new show takes place 15th17th February 2016 and is dedicated to serving animal protein providers from the Middle East and Africa to Turkey, Iran and the countries of the Indian sub-continent.

Already sure to be the Middle East region's largest

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trade fair on modern poultry production and processing, the event will also give significant attention to the dairy milk sector and to aquaculture.

What is more, the schedule features a highly informative programme of seminars and conferences on different animal proteins, prepared in association with media partners and technical leaders.

On Sunday 14th February, International Poultry Production/International Hatchery Practice presents a

full-day knowledge session for poultry managers on topics including how to give chicks a healthy start. A parallel presentation on the same day

by Perendale's International Aquafeed will provide a short course on manufacturing aquaculture feeds.

The morning of Monday 15th February brings a Global Milling conference from magazine Milling & Grain alongside a Watt Global Media poultry seminar that covers broiler production and JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

VIV MEA PREVIEW

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATES SUGGEST THAT THERE WILL BE APPROXIMATELY 4,000 VISITORS OVER THE THREE DAYS OF THE TRADE FAIR. THE ORGANIZERS EXPECT THAT THE LARGEST NUMBER WILL COME FROM THE COUNTRIES BORDERING THE PERSIAN GULF ALONG WITH IRAN AND TURKEY. ANOTHER 25% OR SO ARE LIKELY TO BE FROM AFRICAN COUNTRIES AND AROUND 10% FROM INDIA, PAKISTAN AND BANGLADESH

trade issues in the Middle East/Africa region. The afternoon sessions include a seminar sponsored by the Dutch Poultry Centre to look at some egg quality issues and Middle East Agrifood Publishers MEAP teaming up with the World's Poultry Science Association to discuss commercial and scientific trends in poultry production.

For the morning sessions of the conference programme on Tuesday 16th February there is a Reed Business International focus on poultry health and an International Dairy Topics seminar that asks “Upsizing --- Is it the way forward?”. Vertical integration JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

in the dairy supply chain is the theme for a Global Dairy Farmers afternoon session while International Meat Topics runs a discussion on how to meet the meat safety challenge.

Exhibition space for VIV MEA 2016 was fully booked in just eight months, with the leading global suppliers to the animal protein sectors showing their support. In total there will about 270 exhibitors with stands in three halls of the Abu Dhabi national exhibition centre (ADNEC).

The strong worldwide interest in this first-ever VIV MEA has been demonstrated further by the number of people registering in advance to attend the event. A preliminary count at the start of 2016 found individual preregistrations from 84 countries. Almost 70% of applications had come from countries in the Middle East with Asia and another 9-10% were from Africa. The other large segment involved applications from Europe and Russia, but South America, North America and Oceania were also represented.

“The early indication is that we will have most preregistrations from Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Nigeria and

Saudi Arabia,” says VIV shows manager Ruwan Berculo. “The other countries in the Top Ten are Egypt, India, Iran, Sudan and Jordan.

I think it shows that we have succeeded in promoting the appeal of the inaugural VIV MEA as being for an extended region of the world, so that it is well on course to become the third international hub in our portfolio of business events for the animal protein sectors, alongside VIV Asia and VIV Europe.”

As well as the pre-registered individual participants, Berculo continues, the show is set to receive special VIP delegations from over a dozen countries.

Those confirmed so far will travel not only from the Middle East area (UAE, Iran, Turkey), but also from India and Pakistan, from further into Asia (China, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand) and from Africa (Egypt, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Sudan).

Preliminary estimates suggest that there will be approximately 4,000 visitors over the three days of the trade fair. The organizers expect that the largest number will come from the countries bordering the Persian Gulf along with Iran and Turkey. Another 25% or so are likely to be from African countries and around GULF AGRICULTURE

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VIV MEA PREVIEW

10% from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

VIV MEA 2016 in Abu Dhabi has the added advantage that it will be colocated at the ADNEC exhibitions complex with a world event which works with organisations including the United Nations and the World Bank in offering a showcase for innovative and sustainable technologies relating to food production. Known as the Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture or GFIA, in 2016 this returns to Abu Dhabi for the third consecutive year.

Moreover, across at the Dubai World Trade Centre between 21st-25th February there is the opportunity to

visit the world's largest annual show on food and related hospitality products. Gulfood in its 2016 edition will have more than 110 international pavilions in addition to several hundred stands

featuring individual companies, providing valuable insights into food product developments for all Middle East businesses involved in animal protein production and processing.

ZINPRO CORPORATION ANNOUNCES PARTICIPATION IN VIV MEA 2016

Z

inpro Corporation, the global leader in animal trace mineral nutrition, recently announced its participation in VIV MEA 2016, February 15-17, 2016. The inaugural VIV MEA tradeshow will convene at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in cooperation with GFIA 2016.

“VIV events are always among the most professional and well-organized tradeshows for the animal health and nutrition industry - wherever they are held,” says Khaled Qasem, D.V.M., area manager - Middle East/North Africa (MENA), Zinpro Corporation.

“As Zinpro continues to grow its business in the MENA region, this event will serve as a hub for connecting with many of our customers and partners as well as fostering future connections.”

Abu Dhabi offers easy access to travelers and is one of the most secure cities in the region, adds Dr. Qasem.

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“It's also a very specific meeting that targets poultry, dairy and aquaculture producers,” he says. “These are all sectors where Zinpro Performance Minerals® can play a beneficial role in helping to improve animal performance.”

Zinpro Performance Minerals deliver proven performance, which is backed by extensive peerreviewed research. Earlier last year, the company reached a significant milestone in dairy research, becoming the first trace mineral company to record 50 peer-reviewed dairy publications. The quality of Zinpro research is well-known within the industry and demonstrates the company's commitment to consistently find ways to improve animal well-being and overall productivity.

“In the MENA region, where viral disease pressure, animal immune status and a variety of stressors, namely heat stress, are major

challenges, many livestock and poultry producers are already using Zinpro Performance Minerals,” says Dr. Qasem. “Not only are they seeing performance improvements in their breeding animals, but they are also seeing performance benefits to their young stock, by feeding products like Availa®4, Availa®Zn, Availa®Z/M, Availa®Se and Availa®Cr.” Zinpro Corporation offers leading business and product solutions to improve animal performance and well-being. “We see the VIV MEA event as a wonderful opportunity to help strengthen our already excellent relationships with current clients and partners and to expand our animal nutrition business into new countries in the Middle East and North Africa regions,” says Dr. Qasem. “We look forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces to the Zinpro booth, which can be found in Hall 6, Stand C085.”

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

Formulation software, quality control software

FRENCH PAVILION

VIV MIDDLE EAST AFRICA 2016 ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTER 15-17 FEBRUARY 2016 HALL 6

Litter conditioner & complementary feed supplements

Egg processing lines

Manufacturer, liquid complementary feed, premixture of additives

L’ÉLEVAGE, NATURELLEMENT

Quality processing solutions

Natural, nutrition, environment

Because life is powered by water

Medicator, poultry health, dosing pump Animal nutrition

Feed-additives, animal nutrition, premix

Separators, deboners, desinewers

Nutrition, feed, supplement

Plant extract, premium natural feed additive

Premix, consultancy, nutrition

Expertise in nutrition and animal production

Livestock building manufacturer patented steel structure

Animal nutrition & health

Tradition, selection, innovation

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

For more information, please contact: Sophia SALMI, Head of Agribusiness sophia.salmi@businessfrance.fr Or Miryem OUKAS, Head of Communications miryem.oukasmessidi@businessfrance.fr

VIV MEA PREVIEW

FRANCE'S LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY ANNOUNCES ITS PARTICIPATION

T

20

he Middle East offers the prospect of fruitful dialog for the livestock industry, and particularly for poultry farming. This first edition of VIV MEA, expected to be strong, to be held from February 15 to 17 2016 in Abu Dhabi, will host almost 20 French companies specializing in animal feed/nutrition and livestock equipment.

BUSINESS FRANCE, THE NATIONAL AGENCY SUPPORTING THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE FRENCH ECONOMY WILL GATHER IN AN INNOVATIVE FRENCH PAVILION THE ENTIRE LIVESTOCK SECTOR, FROM FEED THROUGH TO MEAT FOR THE FIRST EDITION OF VIV MEA (ADNEC - HALL 6).

The VIV Middle East Africa exhibition provides France with an opportunity for all companies exhibiting in the French pavilion to showcase their innovations in the following areas: L Animal feed, nutrition and health, L Specialist equipment for poultry and cattle rearing: handling and slaughtering

equipment, feed preparation and distribution, L Products and services for animal reproduction and poultry genetics.

The event brings together the whole of the poultry and cattle industries from upstream (genetics, insemination, nutrition and health) to downstream (slaughtering and meat

GULF AGRICULTURE

processing), not forgetting breeding equipment and materials. Being one of the fastest-growing economies in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates have a stated goal of attaining food selfsufficiency. Governments have decided to invest massively in equipment and the development of new technologies with the aim of focusing on local production, particularly in the agri-food, agriculture and livestock sectors. This policy is combined and backed by a strong consumer demand for local quality products.

Livestock now represents a significant part of agriculture, though as yet insufficient to meet the needs: breeding of dairy cattle, sheep, goats, camels and chickens is JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

VIV MEA PREVIEW

integrated alongside imports of all inputs - genetics, feeds and nutrition, veterinary medicine, equipment, etc.

Thanks to the genetic quality of its livestock and the strength of its livestock industry, France is a major breeder and a leader in the European Union for its productivity, value-added products and the global distribution of its exceptionally diverse range of breeds. France is also one of the world's leading producers of milk and meat thanks to the vitality of its livestock which contribute to name France as an international excellence and reference in this industry.

France is Europe's leading producer of poultry, producing a combined total of just over 1.8 million tonnes in 2014 (13.5% of total production in the European Union).

French pavilion located Hall 6 at VIV MEA, ADNEC, from February 15 to 17 2016.

About Business France : Business France is the national agency supporting the international development of the French economy,

responsible for fostering export growth by French businesses, as well as promoting and facilitating international investment in France. It promotes France's companies, business image and nationwide attractiveness as an investment location.

Broiler breeding is an important source of revenue for the French economy, accounting almost 60,000 employees including: L Hatcheries: 120 companies, 1,200 breeders of breeding stock and 6,500 jobs, L Breeders: 14,000 breeders including 4,000 labels, 27,900 breeding premises, L Feed manufacturers: 340 production facilities producing 7 million tonnes of poultry feed (33% of total livestock feed production), including 3.8 tonnes of cereal, and 4,000 jobs, L Industrial slaughterhouses, cutters and preparers: 170 companies, 415 slaughtering facilities, As the world's number six exporter, France still plays a dominant role in the international stage.

Come and meet us on the JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

GULF AGRICULTURE

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GULFOOD PREVIEW

GULFOOD 2016 TO DELIVER MORE TASTES, TRENDS AND TRADE

T

he 2016 edition of Gulfood, the world's largest annual food and hospitality trade show, will cement its standing as the world's leading global food trading platform when more than 5,000 international companies from 120 countries gather at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 21-25 February.

Among the 85,000-plus visitors from more than 170 countries expected, Gulfood 2016 will host international heads of state, ministers,

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government officials and national trade associations from five continents.

With event and year-round legacy trading expected to run into billions of dollars, Gulfood 2016 will connect nations and suppliers, open distribution channels for industry-related business, and highlight Dubai's strategic role as a key global food industry trading hub.

Having this year celebrated its landmark 20th outing, Gulfood 2016 is poised to deliver 'More Tastes, More

Trends and More Trade' as the specialist event readies to welcome tens of thousands of finished food suppliers, bulk commodity wholesalers and exporters, and the show's largest-ever collection of hospitality equipment suppliers.

Led by the nation's Ministry of Agriculture, Gulfood 2016 will also welcome its first Russian national pavilion - one of 114 national pavilions spanning in excess of 120,000m2 of world-class, multi-functional indoor exhibition space and two JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

GULFOOD PREVIEW

purpose-built, temporary structures spanning a 10,900m2 at DWTC. The expanded indoor exhibition space includes three new DWTC halls - Za'abeel 4, 5 and 6.

“Gulfood is internationally renowned for providing a trusted and accessible platform for the world's food industry to meet, transact and trade out of Dubai - one of the world's most diverse, energetic and vibrant trading hubs,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions & Events Management, DWTC. “As global food producers and traders establish new supply routes to reach customers and monetise opportunities in emerging markets, the heightened visitor experience will enable industry heavyweights to make strategic purchasing decisions with trusted suppliers, all while consolidating the UAE's key role as a major transshipment destination for food products and hospitality equipment,” added LohMirand.

Gulfood 2016 will host the third Halal World Food, the world's biggest annual Halal food sourcing trade event. The dedicated show-within-a-show leverages Dubai's mounting credentials as a global Islamic Economy capital and increase the emirate's share of yearround trading in halal foods.

“This is now an essential prerequisite for any supplier looking to establish a foothold in the world's fastest growing food industry sectors with the global Halal market expected to reach US$10 trillion by 2030,” said LohMirand.

While facilitating global transactions for halal food and foodstuff commodities such as meat, cereals, grains, rice and JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

tea, Gulfood 2016 will shine a spotlight on coffee. In a historic first, Gulfood 2016 will host the ninth World Cezve / Ibrik Championship, the first time the competition for the centuries-old art of brewing coffee in a 'Cezve' or 'Ibrik' - the small, long-handled pot - has been held in the Arabian Gulf.

With an international field of 20 baristas bringing their own style and cultural elements to one of the world's oldest and

WITH THE NUMBER OF F&B OUTLETS IN THE UAE EXPECTED TO DOUBLE BY 2020 WHEN DUBAI HOPES TO RECEIVE 20 MILLION TOURISTS AS THE EMIRATE HOSTS EXPO DUBAI 2020 FOOD SERVICE AND HOSPITALITY EQUIPMENT IS AN EXPANDED FOCUS AT GULFOOD 2016.

most traditional coffee-making methods, popularly known as 'Turkish coffee', the World Cezve / Ibrik Championship will see the UAE's very-own Karthikeyan Rajendran squareoff against reigning world champion Italy's Davide Berti.

Owned and organised by the Speciality Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE), the ninth World Cezve / Ibrik Championship will be overseen by an independent judging panel that will rate baristas' brewing skills on criteria including taste, presentation and technique.

“To debut the World Cezve /

Ibrik Championship in a region of the world where the technique was first created feels like something of a homecoming,” said David Veal, Executive Director, SCAE. “Cezve coffee preparation remains hugely popular across the Middle East, as evidenced by the standards shown during the National Championship in October. I'm sure our other competitors will be keeping a keen eye on Karthikeyan Rajendran - he's definitely got a chance of giving the UAE its first World Cezve title.”

The show-floor culinary demonstrations will peak at the annual Emirates Culinary Guild International Salon Culinaire - a showcase of the region's best culinary talent and expertise. One of Gulfood's undisputed draws for the regions' top professional chefs, pastry chefs, cooks and bakers, this year's Salon will see more than 1,300 professional chefs evaluated by a panel of 25 renowned experts, mandated by the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS) to judge culinary events across the globe.

With the number of F&B outlets in the UAE expected to double by 2020 when Dubai hopes to receive 20 million tourists as the emirate hosts Expo Dubai 2020 - food service and hospitality equipment is an expanded focus at Gulfood 2016.

Every year, thousands of f&b products and services debut at Gulfood and the seventh Gulfood Awards will recognise best-in-class excellence of individuals and companies behind the region's leadership and innovation in the food and drink industry.

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GROWTECH EURASIA REVIEW

GROWTECH EURASIA HAS BROKEN THE RECORDS WITH THE NUMBER OF VISITORS IN ITS 15TH YEAR

T

he major meeting of the agricultural industry, Growtech Eurasia 15th International Greenhouse, Agricultural Equipment and Technologies Fair took place in Antalya Expo Center between December 2nd - 5th, 2015 on an area of 40,000 sqm with the attendance of 683 companies from 30 countries and 79,624 visitors from 77 countries.

Growtech Eurasia 15th Antalya Agricultural Fair brought together products and

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services related to Greenhouse and Technologies, Agricultural Technologies and Equipment, Irrigation Systems, Seed Growing, Seedling Cultivation, Plant Nutrition and Protection, Biological Control, Agricultural Machinery and Equipment with national and international achievements for 4 days and offered the latest technologies, products and methods to exhibitors and visitors.

Mentioning that they brought together all the components

needed in the agricultural industry within the organization of Growtech Eurasia, UBM EMEA (Istanbul) Fairs Group Director Engin Er said "Growtech Eurasia Antalya Agricultural Fair received the largest attention this time. We broke the record of the previous 15 years in the number of visitors and reached 79,624 visitors from 77 countries. We enlarged our fairgrounds by 15% compared to thr previous year for 683 exhibitors from 30 JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

GROWTECH EURASIA REVIEW

countries. We also generated over 550 million dollars business volume with the opportunities that we offered to our exhibitors and visitors including a Buying Committee of 40 persons from 10 countries, which are Albania, Azerbaijan, Croatia, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Kosovo, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan and Tunisia under the organization of West Mediterranean Exporters Union as coordinated by the Ministry of Economy."

As in every year, new products and methods have been introduced throughout the fair.

Tomatoes containing 3 times more lycopene compared to normal tomato and high rate of aroma which is only observed in fruits, companies that build and commission turn-key vineyards and orchards and giant tractors with prices on par with Ferrari cars and hay bale machine were the highlights of the event.

Organized for the 8th time in Growtech Eurasia Fair, Growtech Agricultural Awards were also granted during the event. As 19 projects were submitted for the awards, the winners were AGROWELD GREENHOUSE TECHNOLOGIES in the Greenhouse Technologies category, DOKTAR TARIM in Agricultural Informatics and Consultation category, GEOFLOW in Irrigation Systems and Equipment category, GAP AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE in the Agricultural Machinery and Equipment category and KOPPERT and YEDITEPE SAGLIK HIZMETLERI in Plant Nutrition and Protection categories. The companies received their awards JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

personally from the jury.

The Main Sponsor for Growtech Eurasia 2015 Agricultural Fair was Bactogen, a company that produces organic fertilizers with an Innovative Agriculture approach, the Communication Sponsor was Turkcell, a company who also offered the first personal agricultural consultation service in the world with Turkcell Farmer Union, and the Co-sponsor was Findeks, the new financial service platform designed for individuals and the real sector.

‘‘

GROWTECH EURASIA ANTALYA AGRICULTURAL FAIR RECEIVED THE LARGEST ATTENTION THIS TIME. WE BROKE THE RECORD OF THE PREVIOUS 15 YEARS IN THE NUMBER OF VISITORS AND REACHED 79,624 VISITORS FROM 77 COUNTRIES. WE ENLARGED OUR FAIRGROUNDS BY 15% COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS YEAR FOR 683 EXHIBITORS FROM 30 COUNTRIES.

GULF AGRICULTURE

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EXCLUSIVE

ANIMAL HEALTH

BIOSECURITY IN LIVESTOCK FARMING

By Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas, BVSc & AH, MS (Edin.)

F

ood security and stability has become one of the major concerns for countries all over the world, especially in the recent era of rising global tensions. This in turn has furthered the emergence of many livestock farms to sustain the local demand for dairy and meat products in the market.

However, not all livestock farms are totally successful in generating the necessary yield and maintaining good herd

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health.

Outbreaks of diseases are common on livestock farms and they negatively impact the economic viability of the project, but also adversely affect the welfare and health of animals. Hence, effective biosecurity measures are of utmost importance in maintaining herd health and generating revenues.

Biosecurity measures can be defined as management practices that prevent spread of

pathogens (disease-causing organisms) from infected animal to susceptible animals, thereby also aiding in the prevention of introducing pathogens into a herd, region or country.

In the recent years, the scientific discipline of Biosecurity has become of major importance in the veterinary sector, particularly due to the outbreak of diseases as well as intentional introduction of disease-causing JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

ANIMAL HEALTH

pathogens in to sovereign territories, which in other words, is also called Bioterrorism.

Some of the benefits of employing Biosecurity measures include: 1. Optimization of Animal Health and Welfare 2. Improvement of Animal Productivity 3. Reduced production and Input costs 4. Enhanced value of Herd 5. Guaranteed increase in total revenue It is highly recommended to have a biosecurity plan in place while in the planning stages of a livestock farm. Incorporating Biosecurity protocols into an already existing facility is far more costly and may not be possible in many cases, due to the existing infrastructure.

Hence, it is recommended that all plans for a new livestock facility be drawn up in JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

conjunction with inputs from veterinary consultants with knowledge in biosecurity.

Biosecurity management in any farm can be established at 2 levels: 1. External Biosecurity: These are protocols established to prevent introduction of pathogens

into the farm from external sources like introduction of new animals, entry of outside vehicles, personnel into the farm etc.

2. Internal Biosecurity: These are protocols established to promote effective control of pathogens that are already present in the farm.

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ANIMAL HEALTH

An effective biosecurity program identifies risks and addresses those risks through effective management to minimize potential threats to animal health and welfare.

Some Basic Biosecurity Measures that can be followed in any farm are as follows: 1. Maintenance of a closed herd: A closed herd is one in which there is no introduction of new animals from outside the farm. As far as possible, maintaining a closed herd is one of the best ways to prevent outbreak of diseases.

Disease causing microorganisms enter herds 28

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through addition of animals from external sources. Closed herds effectively mitigates the possibility of pathogen introduction.

2. Quarantine, Isolation and Testing of new animals: When a closed herd is not possible, strict protocols must be ensured with purpose built quarantine or isolation facilities, away from the main farm to isolate, monitor and test new animals for diseases.

Necessary vaccinations and anti-microbial treatments must also be conducted during this period.

3. Restriction of farm personnel and streamlining of work flow: Pathogens can be introduced and transmitted via clothing, inanimate objects and vehicles. Hence, It is of absolute importance to monitor personal hygiene of farm personnel as well as restrict their movements between various regions of the farm. It is also equally important to establish a workflow pattern in such a way that pathogens are not transmitted via farm personnel to healthy animals on the farm.

4. Periodic analysis of feed and water supply: Feed and water contamination are one of the other major threats to farm biosecurity. Therefore water quality and contamination of feed must be monitored regularly.

5. Regular Veterinary Monitoring and Treatments: The health status of every herd must be regularly monitored and treated by qualified veterinarians.

Veterinarians play a major role in both external and

internal biosecurity levels, thereby arresting the immediate spread of infections. Regular examinations of farm animals will help in early detection and preventing spread of diseases, thereby ultimately promoting animal health and generating increased farm revenues.

6. Carcass Disposal: Incineration, burying, composting and rendering are some of the options for carcass disposal. Every farm must employ a disposal method that is inline with the biosecurity measures that are undertaken. For example: In rendering, service vehicles are to collect carcasses only at a designated point on the periphery of the farm without entering the farm.

7. Cleaning and Disinfection: Cleaning animal housing facilities with water and appropriate animal-friendly disinfectants will help prevent build of pathogens in the farm environment.

Removal of organic matter from surfaces with hot water or a high-pressure sprayer is a highly recommended way of cleaning. Disinfectants are usually selected based on the mechanism of action, presence of organic matter, water quality, pathogens, dilution rates, corrosive properties and animal safety.

Employment of accurate biosecurity protocols will ultimately ensure the best results for any sector of livestock farming.

Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas is the director and founder of Charis Vets. He is a licenced veterinary practitioner in the kingdom of Bahrain.

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

OFFICIALLY ENDORSED BY THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND WATER

13 - 15 March 2O16 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

THE MIDDLE EAST'S LARGEST TRADE EVENT DEDICATED TO AGRIBUSINESS, POULTRY AND LIVESTOCK, AQUACULTURE AND VETERINARY MEDICINE

CE L

VISIT AGRAME TO: Æ Witness a 20% larger event than its predecessor in 2015

RATING EB

Æ Meet over 220 exhibitors from all over the world Æ Witness products and services on display from more than 30 countries Æ See country pavilions by China, Spain, The Netherlands and Pakistan Æ See veterinary products at the co-located VET Middle East event Æ Attend seminars, conferences and business networking sessions Æ Secure an opportunity to see the leading names

Serving the agricultural industry in the Middle East.

in agribusiness and related industries under one roof.

Entry is FREE for visitors – Register online now!

WHAT WILL YOU SEE

• • • • • •

Fertilizers Hydroponics Equipment & Supplies Irrigation Systems & Equipment Pesticides & Chemicals Seeds & Seedlings Water Pumps and Technology

• • • • • •

Aquatic Pest Control Cages Fish Nets & Containment Equipment Hatcheries & Fingerling Supplies Processing & Packaging Machinery Seafood Cleaning

• Additives • Breeding and Laboratory Services • Farm Systems • Feed Supplements • Hatchery Systems • Veterinary Supplies

For more information contact : info@agramiddleeast.com Officially Endorsed by

Organised by

Sponsored by

• Components, Spare Parts and Accessories • Machines & Equipment • Mobile Loading Machines • Multifunctional Machinery • Tractors

www.agramiddleeast.com Supported by

POULTRY

DOMINANT OFFERS A CHOICE OF COLOURED LAYER

T

he privately owned firm, DOMINANT CZ, offers a choice of coloured layer hybrid DOMINANT CZ programmes for egg production and cockerels festive meal. All of the parent stock programmes use auto sexing for easy segregation of day old hen and cockerel chicks.

The strategy of the selection programme is to support the adaptability, flexibility and robustness in the bird for a variety of production conditions.

DOMINANT CZ's programmes are more than 20 years old and have been used in more than 45 countries on four continents.

DOMINANT CZ's birds are used as grandparents, parents

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and final hybrids in different production systems - for example in large cage based farms in Nigeria, Uganda, Kazakhstan and Ukraine and in ecologically sensitive production systems in Switzerland.

Our programmes guarantee optimal productivity in small scale family farming systems in many European countries as well as in Africa and Asia countries in different production systems.

The company aims to improve and produce from its own original layer programmes products that will perform in different management, feeding and environmental conditions anywhere in the world. The high flexibility and adaptability

of our programmes provides health, productive birds.

Regular testing of Dominant CZ's programmes under a variety conditions invariably produces positive results.

Although our birds differ in their colour, key characteristics such as growth, feed consumption and egg production are similar. This is beneficial for certain breeder customers who wish to offer a variety of products to their customers.

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

POULTRY

DOMINANT CZ provides a 'one stop genetic shop'.

Currently our selection strategy is focusing on bird temperament, good feather cover throughout lay, high egg production of some 300 eggs per year, higher egg weight at the start of laying period (important for parent stock), high numbers of hatching eggs, strong day old chicks at the commercial product level.

Adaptability and flexibility of our programmes gives many customers an economical advantage in the harsh environmental conditions of developing countries and in small scale egg production operations around the world.

The history and tradition of layer selection in Czechoslovakia commenced in 1928. The first closed lines were produced in 1955 at the Dobrenice Research Station under the DOMINANT name.

Selection uses internationally recognised genetic principles and latterly their geneticists JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

have applied biological processes to practical selection.

Since 1989, after the political and economic changes in Czechoslovakia, the results of this breeding programme have been internationally available via the sales and export of day olds to countries such as Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovenia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Bangladesh, Angola, Nigeria and Ecuador.

DOMINANT CZ co-operates with universities and animal research institutes to apply the latest technologies to layer selection. In doing this every effort is put into keeping flexibility and robustness in the breeding programmes so that our birds will be suited for different and suboptimal feeding and production practices.

Within this importance is placed on maximal homogeneity and standardisation of all coloured DOMINANT CZ programmes.

This results in similar growth parameters and final body weights because of the common

synthetic background of all our pure lines. These were derived from Rhode Island, Sussex, Plymouth Rock, New Hampshire and Leghorn lines.

Breeding strategy aims to maximize yield from parent stocks by the production of large numbers fertile hatching eggs.

Day old chicks are exported upon the signing of the contract with DOMINANT CZ from Lihen Studenec Ltd's hatchery.

The minimum number of day old chicks for an export is 500.

Specialised trucks are used for shipments of less than 1500 km. International shipments are despatched by air from Prague, Munich, Frankfurt a/M, Amsterdam or Paris. Day old chicks are vaccinated against Marek's disease using a bivalent vaccine.

For more information visit www.dominant-cz.cz DOMINANT CZ RNDr. Milan Tyller Tel.: +420 602 642 557 Fax: +420 466 942 175 Email: tyller@dominant-cz.cz

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31

POULTRY

VERANDA BREEDER: ROYAL CLASS BREEDER HOUSING THIS ROYAL CLASS HOUSING SYSTEM OFFERS 5 STAR ACCOMMODATION FOR BROILER AND LAYER BREEDERS. BY COMBINING A HIGH LEVEL OF AUTOMATION WITH THE USE OF VERTICAL SPACE, THE SYSTEM OFFERS THE MOST EFFICIENT PRODUCTION OF HIGH QUALITY HATCHING EGGS

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V

encomatic introduces its renewed group housing system for hatching egg production: the Veranda Breeder. This royal class housing system offers 5 star accommodation for broiler and layer breeders. By combining a high level of automation with the use of vertical space, the system

offers the most efficient production of high quality hatching eggs.

Meets the requirements of modern breeders The new Veranda Breeder has been designed to meet the requirements of modern breeders, and fully complies to European standards for animal JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

POULTRY

welfare. Birds are housed in a healthy environment and have controlled access to a scratching area, where they are able to perform their natural dust bathing behaviour.

First class eggs High numbers of first class eggs is the key to success in breeder housing. Excellent egg quality is guaranteed with the integrated nest box that closes at night, which prevents contamination by the birds.

Possible out-of-nest eggs roll to the nest automatically, as the slats are sloping.

The manure falls onto a manure belt and is transported out of the house frequently.

Ammonia and fine dust levels

Grando Nest

are extremely low, improving a healthy climate for both birds and employees. Next to a perfect climate, the birds are housed on hygienic slats. This reduces the contact of birds with manure, thus improving bio-security, and reducing exposure to pathogens.

Optimum working conditions On top of a royal class environment for the birds, the Veranda also ensures optimum working conditions and requires minimum labour. Employees are no longer working among

the birds, and benefit from a highly controlled working environment. This all together makes the Veranda Breeder the most modern breeder housing system on the market.

Vencomatic Group is known for its innovative and sustainable systems for the poultry industry. Combining three well-known brands Vencomatic, Agro Supply and Prinzen - Vencomatic Group offers a full range of innovative systems for all types of poultry farms worldwide.

Come and see us on VIV MEA: Hall 5, stand E023.

For more information please find the video on our YouTubechannel, visit www.vencomaticgroup.com

Vencomatic Group is a global supplier of innovative and sustainable housing and egg collection systems for the poultry sector. With many years of experience, we are the expert in this field and a reliable partner for you. Vencomatic Group combines three strong brands in the poultry sector: • Vencomatic - Housing equipment • Prinzen - Egg handling • Agro Supply - Climate control

Veranda Breeder

Please visit us at VIV MEA - Hall 5 booth E023.

For more information visit www.vencomaticgroup.com

PSPC 7

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

GULF AGRICULTURE

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EXCLUSIVE

POULTRY

ZOONOSES ASSOCIATED WITH POULTRY FARMING

F

By Dr. Rajani Rajesh, BVSc & AH

arm animals and poultry can carry a range of diseases, some of which can be passed onto humans.

These diseases are known as 'zoonoses'. Transmission may result from direct contact with diseased birds, contaminated feaces, or through consumption of contaminated farm produce.

Therefore, the consistent practice of proper animal care, good farmer hygiene and sanitation will minimize the occurrence of transmission of diseases from the animals to humans. Some diseases that might be transmitted from poultry to human are : Avian influenza (AI) Avian influenza viruses are very contagious among birds and

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some of these viruses can sicken and even kill certain domesticated bird species including chickens, ducks, and turkeys. Infected birds can shed avian influenza A viruses in their saliva, nasal secretions, and faeces. The primary risk factor for human infection has been direct contact with live or dead infected poultry, but a few cases have resulted from consumption of uncooked poultry products. The signs and symptoms in humans have ranged from conjunctivitis to influenza-like illness to lower respiratory disease.

A potential future threat to public safety comes from the ability of AI viruses to exchange genetic material with

human or other animal influenza viruses. This could create a new virus that humans have little or no immunity to that can spread easily between people. Good farming practices are essential to reduce the risk of illness and to prevent them spreading during an outbreak.

Salmonella Salmonellae bacteria are capable of causing enteritis and septicaemia in birds. Infected animals may produce meat, milk or eggs containing Salmonella. Feed contamination with Salmonella is known to be a source of infection for poultry.

Therefore, it is recommended to monitor the Salmonella status of poultry feed, and if found JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

POULTRY

positive to take corrective measures. The use of heattreated feeds or feeds subjected to other bacteriostatic or bactericidal treatment is recommended (e.g. organic acids). Vaccination can be used as part of an overall Salmonella control programme.

Salmonellosis in humans is caused by the ingestion of food contaminated with Salmonella typhimurium in poultry meat and Salmonella enteitidis in eggs. It is one of the most significant causes of food poisoning in humans. Proper cooking kills Salmonella bacteria in meat and eggs.

Campylobacter Campylobacter bacteria tend to multiply in large numbers in the hindgut of chickens, mainly in the ceca. Insects and rodents promote transfer of the Campylobacter infection from the general environment into the poultry buildings. The antibiotic treatment, phage therapy, competitive exclusion and vaccination have been adapted at the farm level to reduce colonization of Campylobacter in poultry gut.

It is a main cause of enteritis in humans. Effective sanitation of drinking water, sourcing of water from high quality supplies, avoidance of contact with pets and other species, good hygienic practices by poultry handlers. All poultry should be cooked to reach a minimum internal temperature of 165째F to prevent infection through infected meat.

Escherichia coli E-coli is present in a wide range of animals, from poultry to cattle. E. coli is an opportunistic pathogen that can produce a variety of symptoms JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

in commercial poultry. E. coli is present in the birds and the poultry house environment and infects birds. However, if growers provide birds with proper house environment, ensure that they have easy access to feed and water as well as limit exposure to pathogens, E. coli infections can be limited or eliminated. Infection to humans is caused by eating contaminated food or contact with faeces. Good personal hygiene is essential in prevention of the disease.

Mycobacterium avium It is closely related to the human and bovine tuberculosis bacteria.

In humans, M. avium infections can cause local wound infections with swelling of regional lymph nodes.

Transmission occurs primarily through aerosolization and inhalation of the agent in dried bird droppings and contaminated soil. The infection is most severe in immunocompromised individuals. The generally accepted methods for controlling avian tuberculosis in poultry include identification and eradication of infected birds using intradermal tuberculin testing, replacement of contaminated housing and equipment, and isolation of new stock from the contaminated environment by rearing and maintaining new stock on wire or concrete floors. Avoiding overcrowding and other stressors, and ensuring that the birds are fed a nutritionally complete and balanced diet are also important in minimising the incidence and impact of this disease.

Newcastle disease Caused by avian paramyxovirus. The best

protection against the disease in birds is vaccination. Clinical signs in humans include conjunctivitis and possibly mild flu like symptoms. Infections are usually self-limiting with supportive care.

Here is a checklist to decrease human health risks: L Wear respiratory protection

when appropriate.

L Wear gloves when handling

birds, animal tissues, body fluids and waste and wash hands after contact.

L Wear dedicated protective clothing such as a lab coat or coveralls when handling birds.

Launder the soiled clothing separate from your personal clothes and preferably at the animal facility.

L Keep animal areas clean and disinfect equipment after using it on animals or in animal areas.

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ANIMAL FEEDS

Nutriplus Commodities FZCO

N

utriplus commodities FZCO is one of the leading international commodities trading companies in the feed ingredients and raw material supply in the Middle East.

Based in Dubai, Nutriplus is involved in trading, indenting and representing for International exporters and reputed producers of feed commodities in the USA, Europe etc.

“Our major customers are the end users in Livestock farms, Poultry farms, Feed mills in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Jordan, Qatar and Kuwait for last more than a decade.

“We are now adding new markets to Sudan, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Egypt and India. Our recent participations at trade shows of these countries made our markets entry more viable”.

“Respecting our commitment and dedication, our buyers and sellers always trust and keep confidence on us which make us regularity and consistency in our business”. This is due to our past performance which we have achieved through our long term supply chain relationship with our suppliers in International Commodity markets and buyers in the Middle East.

“The major feed raw materials and ingredients we supplying are Amino

Specialist in Feed Raw Materials & Ingredients

‘‘

EXPANSION in innovative additives & Supplements, Farm Equipments & Tools and concept of unique Dairy & Poultry Supply Chains

Plus Soy by pass Protein, Megalac Rumen Protected Fat, DDGS (Distiller's Dried Grains), Corn Gluten Meal, Whole cotton seed, Sugar beet pulp pellet, Soya bean Meal, Yellow corn, Feed barley, Fish meal, Alfalfa Hay, Amino Acids, MCP/DCP etc.

Nutriplus Commodities is growing year by year and adding new innovations to its business practice. The company is under expansion and entering into different sectors of markets related to Dairy / Poultry and Feed industry.

The introduction of BCF Technology, Ultra Sound and X-Ray

equipments in the end of 2014 achieved great acceptance from our farm, veterinary and animal health sector.

In the Poultry sector we successfully launched and the result is established by introduction of All Natural Flies control barrier for repel and kill flies in the barn and poultry house.

Entry as an Amino acid supplier at the end of 2014, we got remarkable opportunity to supply our newly launched DL-Methionine and L-Lysine for the poultry sector. Proven result has been showned for the growth and performance of broiler farms in the poultry sector.

Our special program for coming years is to introduce specialized additives, supplements, vet accessories for farm and feed industry. Some of the selective products we started already and adding as our new innovation are Bio-Chlor for Rumen Fermentation, Trace Mineral ingredients such as Magnesium Oxide, Sodium bi carbonate buffer etc.

Our goal as a total farm and feed supporting service, we are in the diversification of value added product such as Milking Parlor, Dairy Processing Accessories and Tools for Mobile Milking Machine and Critical Spare parts and replacements.

Megafat 88 Megalac Calf and Lamb Milk replacer Toxin Binder

Liquid Vitamins Acidifier Omega 3 Supplements

HORTICULTURE

FLOWER POWER - ROSE GROWERS IN FULL BLOOM THANKS TO PHILIPS LED LIGHTING

R

oyal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), the global leader in lighting, is helping rose growers increase yields and improve the quality of the most romantic, yet lightintensive flower in the world.

Philips GreenPower toplighting LED solution brings more light for the same amount of energy, optimized light spectrum and a significant reduction in radiated heat. Recently, Philips announced that three major cut rose producers from Belgium and The Netherlands have installed GreenPower toplighting and are using Philips' light recipes to obtain significant improvements.

Philips GreenPower LED toplighting, introduced in July 2015, enables higher yields, greater quality and lower costs than other available solutions.

LED toplighting is 50% more efficient in converting electricity to light (up to 2.7μmol/Joule) than high pressure sodium (HPS) systems that have been prevalent in the market. The new solution allows growers to give crops the optimum light levels, reducing radiated heat and increasing yields. Plant quality is improved because each plant gets the right light spectrum for optimal growth and development. Growers can also reduce operational costs, seeing

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up to 42% energy savings compared to HPS lighting, lower installation costs and maintenance costs.

“There is a growing amount of scientific evidence showing the benefits of LED toplighting for the floriculture business,” said Udo van Slooten, General Manager of Philips Horticulture LED Solutions. “This technology is particularly interesting for rose growers because their crops require some of the highest levels of light in the floriculture industry.

It's not unusual for roses to require 4,000 to 5,000 light hours in a year. Growers can use LED toplighting to save energy, steer their climate better, create more lighting hours in spring, summer and autumn and get more growth and/or quality.”

The floriculture industry has embraced Philips GreenPower toplighting LED since it was introduced earlier in 2015, with many leading growers installing the solution in their greenhouses. LED toplighting has been particularly attractive to cut rose producers because they require more light hours per year than other less intense flowers.

“With LED toplighting, I can switch on my LED separately so less heat is produced, meaning we don't have to vent

off excess heat and can leave the windows closed longer,” Wim Scheers, owner of Scheers Nursery said. “Keeping air JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

HORTICULTURE

inside reduces my costs, and also helps me maintain a better balance because I'm not constantly having to add extra JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

CO2 to compensate for what's going out the window. I will be able to light my plants for more hours without raising the crop

temperature and retain more CO2 which will increase my crop growth and thereby increase my quality or yields.â&#x20AC;?

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PLANTER BAGS

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES EXPANDS

T

Bag remains the undeniably highest quality and longest lasting planter bag. Many cheap imitation bags have been marketed since, but none has stood the test of time and climates as well as the Easy-Fill™ planter bag . With close to 18 million bags sold in over 20 countries, their reliability and strength is without fail.

This product continues to sell well and is being adopted by new markets, such as blueberries for its superior root growth, reliability and ease of transport compared to traditional growing methods.

WHS Australia is involved from the manufacturing of the HDPE products to the final sale. This advantage provides quality control at every level of the process. Building on their experience and reputation, a number of products have been added to the HDPE range: These include, HDPE UV stabilised, lock stitched knitted Shade Cloth, which is available in all shade factors and has a minimum 5 year warranty. The EasyGrow™ Hedge Bag is also a new addition. These 1m long rectangular bags are ideal for planting and shaping hedges. They are easily transported due to their durable carry handles.

One of the most exciting new products in this range is the high performance HDPE Geomembrane that is 100% made in Australia from Chevron Phillips Marlex® K307 MDPE Hexene Copolymer. Industry applications for this Geomembrane include pond and water feature liners. More generally these geomembranes are used in gas and chemical tank containment liners as well as landfill liners.

Of particular interest to Nurseries and Growers is their very high quality Weed Control Mat. It is also available in a variety of widths, to help control weeds without the use of chemicals, but still allowing air and water to penetrate through to the underlay. It is UV Stabilised and provides long life.

Obtaining good quality hardwood stakes that are sourced from environmentally sustainable areas has become a global priority. WHS Australia provides Indonesian V-Legal hardwood stakes to the Horticultural Industry as well as First Cut Bamboo canes for a variety of uses in Horticulture.

WHS Australia remains committed to providing the highest quality products that its customers have depended on for almost 20 years.

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JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

he Australian company that was the first in the world to conceive the round bottom woven planter bag with handles, has recently expanded to include new investors Geoff and Lina Stowe. They will be joining Steve Turner, innovator of the Easy-Fill ™ highest quality High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) woven planter bags. Steve is well known and respected in the Horticultural Trade for his industry knowledge, quality products and long term customer relationships. Together, as WHS Australia, they have expanded their product range to provide even more high quality horticultural products.

After almost 20 years, the Easy-Fill™ Planter

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EASY-FILL

™

WHS AUSTRALIA

WOVEN PLANTER BAGS WITH ROUND BOTTOM AND EXTRA STRENGTH HANDLES

W H

S

AUSTRALIA

WHS - Australia was the first to design, manufacture and test the woven planter bag with round bottom and extra strength handles over 15 years ago.

Our woven planter bags are made from top quality prime virgin materials and all components including sewing thread contain UV additives for strength and durability.

Since then, our customers have come to rely on the EASY-FILL™ for quality and durability.

Our bags have been tested in the harshest climates from the sub-zero climates of the European winter to the extremely hot temperatures of the Middle East.

Don’t be fooled by cheap and very poor quality imitation planter bags. Insist on EASY-FILL™ brand as you will be risking your investment and reputation of your plants.

All EASY-FILL™ planter bags are manufactured with additional side drainage

holes which assist in air pruning and provide superior plant and root growth.

EASY-FILL™ planter bags are fitted with extra strength woven belt handles that can be lifted by forklift or crane. These handles are designed with workers safety in mind.

They help reduce the risk of back injuries.

WHS Australia

Postal Address

General Enquiries

Suite 16 350 Cambridge Street, Wembley Western Australia 6014

PO Box 70 Wembley 6913 Western Australia

Ph: +61 8 9287 0500 Fax: +61 8 9387 5962 Email: info@whsaustralia.com.au

whsaustralia.com.au

RESEARCH

SPREAD OF PANAMA DISEASE IN BANANA CAUSED BY ONE SINGLE CLONE OF THE FUSARIUM FUNGUS SCIENTISTS AT WAGENINGEN UR (UNIVERSITY & RESEARCH CENTRE) HAVE DEMONSTRATED THAT THE SAME CLONE OF THE FUSARIUM FUNGUS IS INFECTING CAVENDISH BANANAS IN SEVERAL COUNTRIES DOTTED ACROSS THE GLOBE. THIS SHOWS THAT THIS FUSARIUM CLONE,ALSO KNOWN AS TROPICAL RACE 4, IS CONTINUING TO SPREAD DESPITE THE QUARANTINE MEASURES, WITH DISASTROUS RESULTS FOR BANANA GROWERS. THE RESULTS FROM THE RESEARCH APPEARED TODAY IN THE SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL PLOS PATHOGENS

P

anama disease is caused by the Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense fungus. One of the Fusarium strains is called 'Tropical Race 4' (TR4) and infects many local banana varieties as well as the widely exported Cavendish banana, which is very susceptible to this strain. The soil-borne fungus enters the banana plant through the root and eventually kills the entire plant. Banana-growing plots infested with the fungus remain contaminated for many years. It is then no longer possible to cultivate bananas on such a plot of land, as new banana plants become infected too. Large areas of banana plantations in countries such as Jordan, Mozambique, China, the Philippines, Pakistan and Australia are no longer suitable for banana farming, as they have become infested with the Panama disease fungus. There are currently no means of combating the disease; only quarantine measures can prevent banana plantations from becoming infested.

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JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

RESEARCH

information provided around the globe apparently have not had the desired effect.'

A tale of two clones Not only the TR4 fungus strain is a clone: all Cavendish bananas also share the same genes. Kema explains: 'The Cavendish banana is very susceptible to TR4. Therefore, the fungus can spread easily due to the worldwide monoculture of Cavendish bananas. That's why we have to intensify awareness campaigns to reach small and large-scale growers in order to help them with developing and implementing quarantine measures preventing the fungus from continued spreading.'

DNA investigation The researchers at Wageningen UR analysed the DNA of many fungus specimens from eight countries where the fungus has recently been identified, including Jordan, Lebanon and Pakistan, in order to trace how Panama disease has come to spread to different locations across the globe. The research highlighted that the strains of the fungus, which were collected are genetically identical. The strains are clones.

Gert Kema, banana expert at Wageningen UR, says: 'This research demonstrates that the quarantine measures and JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

THERE ARE CURRENTLY NO MEANS OF COMBATING THE DISEASE; ONLY QUARANTINE MEASURES CAN PREVENT BANANA PLANTATIONS FROM BECOMING INFESTED

Worldwide approach needed to stop further spreading To stop further spreading, Kema's team is working with a large number of partners in different locations across the globe to develop short-term solutions for Panama disease management. Kema continues: 'We are gaining more and more insight into the scope of the issue. The ability to quickly identify infected banana plants and infested soils is extremely important in this respect. However, eventually we have to come up with long-term solutions, particularly host resistance, which can only be developed in strong multidisciplinary alliances with various partners and industry.'

The research was carried out

by Wageningen UR in cooperation with the University of Queensland and Diversity Arrays Technology Pty Ltd in Australia and the University of Florida in the United States.

GULF AGRICULTURE

43

TRACTORS

50-85HP MF 300 SERIES TRACTORS SET FOR INTRODUCTION IN EARLY 2016

M

assey Ferguson a worldwide brand of AGCO (NYSE:AGCO), is introducing a new range of 50hp-85hp tractors for selected African and Middle East markets. This latest move will further strengthen its product offering in the lower horsepower tractor sector in these territories and offer a broader choice to farmers looking for a rugged and reliable multi-purpose machine. In addition, to complement these new MF 300 Series tractors, a new line of Massey Fergusonbranded implements is also being unveiled for the region.

“Simple, yet powerful, the MF 300 Series tractors are tried and tested, with a strong reputation for straightforward operation and robust dependability - they are ideally-equipped to meet the tough challenges of African and Middle East agriculture,” says Thierry Lhotte, Massey Ferguson Vice-President Marketing, Europe/Africa/Middle East.

“More than 1.5 million units

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based on this renowned design are already at work in the world.”

Affordable and economical to run, these entry-level 'do anything' tractors will have strong appeal as the main power source for smallholder farmers or local community groups looking to mechanise or upgrade their agricultural operations. The models can also be a valuable addition to a machinery fleet on larger farms or estates requiring a costeffective workhorse.

Initially, a choice of six Massey Ferguson matched implements, covering cultivation, planting and transport, will be available for the MF 300 Series. These include a 1.6m-width disc harrow, 0.5m-width fixed-disc plough, 2-tine subsoiler, 2-row planter, 3-tonne trailer and transport box. Plans are in place to develop and expand the implement range according to

market demand.

“As true multi-taskers, the MF 300 Series are equally adept at cultivation, planting, transport or yard duties, working across a wide range of farm sectors including arable, livestock and horticulture,” explains Mr Lhotte. “Low cost of ownership, easy servicing and maintenance plus expert support from the Massey Ferguson local Distributor ensure a fully-sustainable and inclusive farm mechanisation package.”

Consisting of six models in total, three MF 300 Series models are set for release in early 2016 - the 50hp MF 345

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

TRACTORS

two-wheel-drive (2WD), 75hp MF 375 (2WD) and 85hp MF 385 (2WD and 4WD). The longer wheelbase 50hp MF 350 (2WD), 60hp MF 355 (2WD) and 60hp MF 360 (2WD) will follow later in the year.

Fuel-efficient power comes from Perkins 3-cylinder AD 3.152 and 4-cylinder AD 4.41 diesel engines. The wellproven mechanical transmission offers four gears in two ranges to provide eight forward and two reverse speeds. Powerful hydraulics are based on the renowned Ferguson hydraulic 'Scotch Yoke' pump delivering full draft, position and response control. Fingertip hydraulic operation of implements above or below ground is by means of the familiar quadrant control. Lift capacities at the

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

rear linkage range from 14152145 kg. A dual-stage clutch ensures efficient drive- and PTO- engagement, while the oil-immersed multi-disc brakes allow safe and secure stopping. For reduced driver fatigue, the MF 350, MF 360, MF 375 and MF 385 models are fitted with power steering.

The MF 300 Series tractors boast a spacious operator's environment equipped with a spring-suspension deluxe seat.

All controls are well laid out and fall neatly to hand.

Depending on the model, the tractors are available in footstep or semi-platform configuration.

As part of Massey Ferguson's global manufacturing strategy, the MF 300 Series are being produced in Pakistan by Millat Tractors who are a long-term partner of Massey Ferguson with 50 years' experience building MF tractors as a licensee manufacturer.

Massey Ferguson engineers from the Beauvais tractor manufacturing facility in France are heavily involved in developing the MF 300 Series for the Africa and Middle East

regions. In a related initiative, work has also started on the potential localisation of Massey Ferguson sub-100hp tractor assembly in Russia.

“Massey Ferguson is committed to providing highquality machinery and appropriate technology to suit all types of farm operations all over the world,” adds Thierry Lhotte.

“The new MF 300 Series fits perfectly with our existing product offer in Africa and Middle East markets. The range represents a key element in our 'three-segment tractor strategy' in the region to provide farmers at varying stages of development with the right choice of machines across a spectrum of power and specification requirements. The MF 300 Series will now provide an entry-level product in addition to our superb, higher specification MF 400 series and brand-new MF 4700 Global Series.”

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TRACTORS

NEW HOLLAND T7.315 TRACTOR WINS MACHINE OF THE YEAR 2016 TITLE IN THE L CATEGORY AT AGRITECHNICA SHOW

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N

ew Holland reaps a prestigious award at Agritechnica 2015: the brand new T7.315 tractor was crowned with the coveted “Machine of the Year” 2016 in the L category, title bestowed by a jury of 19 journalists representing leading European agricultural publications.

The machine was rewarded for its technical innovation and the benefits it brings to customers, with selection criteria focusing on innovative features, performance, productivity, cost of operation, ease of use and operator comfort.

Carlo Lambro, New Holland Agriculture Brand President, stated: “This award represents an important recognition from the industry of New Holland's approach to product development that focuses innovation on meeting our customers' needs with technologies that enable them to run their farming

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TRACTORS

businesses efficiently, profitably and sustainably. The T7.315 rewarded is testament to our development teams' capacity to understand our customers' demands and provide effective solutions. We are particularly proud of receiving this awards this year, when we are celebrating New Holland's 120 years of innovation in agriculture.”

“We are very proud of this recognition,” commented Sean Lennon, Head of Tractor and Telehandler Product Management. “We devoted a lot of effort to developing this product: a tractor meeting the specific requests made by our customers. We asked them what they wanted from their 'ideal tractor'. They told us they would

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

like a top-of-the-range T7 with more power that would also be capable of high load jobs usually done by heavier tractors and of taking multitasking to a new level. The T7.315 delivers on every point. This award is a well deserved recognition of the hard work and dedication of all those involved in the development of the T7.315, from our engineering teams to the whole Basildon plant team, who set up a brand new dedicated assembly line and new processes to ensure consistently high quality on every unit leaving the line.”

The T7.315 is one of two new

heavy-duty models that extend the T7 Series to meet the needs of farming operations requiring the power of a large-frame tractor with the versatility and agility of a small frame machine.

The T7.315 delivers versatility without equal for performing a wide range of field and haulage jobs, from row crop work, baling hay or mowing to hauling manure and other big chores. It also features the revolutionary IntelliCruise™ tractor-baler automation that enables New Holland's BigBaler to control the tractor's speed to maximize productivity and bale consistency, making it the ultimate baling tractor.

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Under the Patronage of H. H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority

Global forum for innovations in agriculture

YOUR

SHOWCASE OF SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE I INNOVATIONS

Meet hundreds of solutions providers ready to increase your productivity Whether you want to increase yields, save water, improve soil health, produce your own renewable energy or simply increase your own personal food security, there are hundreds of solutions providers exhibiting at GFIA 2016, with working products to help agriculture professionals right along the value chain.

Crop production

Aquaculture

Animal production

Horticulture

Register for your complimentary entry pass today at www.InnovationsInAgriculture.com • Free entry into the Opening Ceremony on 16 February • Free entry into the international exhibition hosting 300+ suppliers of sustainable agriculture solutions • Free entry into the Open Technology Forum where exhibitors will be giving practical demonstrations of their new products • Free access to the online matchmaking centre where you can contact exhibitors and attendees to meet during your trip to Abu Dhabi • Free entry into VIV MEA - a new event running alongside GFIA 2016 specialising in solutions for poultry production

Opening times: Tues 16 February: 9:00am – 5:00pm | Wed 17 February: 9:00am – 5:00pm Strategic Partner

Sponsors

Supporters

Co-located with

VIV MEA 2016 15-17 February, ADNEC Abu Dhabi.