Gulf agriculture magazine Jan-Feb 2016

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Y O U R G A T E W A Y T O T H E M I D D L E E A S T A G R I B U S I N E S S

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VIV MEAFEBRUARY 15 - 17, 2016, ABU DHABI, UAE

GFIAFEBRUARY 16 - 17, 2016, ABU DHABI, UAE

GULFOODFEBRUARY 21 - 25, 2016, DUBAI, UAE

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2 JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016GULF AGRICULTURE

Editor in Chief Mohammed Nasser Editor Marie Matthew Associate Editor Andrew Thomas Graphic Designer Elizabeth JohnMarketing Manager Megha Mary Matt Production Manager Abdul ShareefContributors 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: [email protected], Web site: www.gulfagriculture.comMiddle 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, horticulturalengineers, 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

CONTENTS

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 anyerror or omissions contained in this publication.

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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Ministry of Environmentissues new ministerialdecree on production,import and distribution offertilizers and soilconditionerH.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed BinFahad, Minister ofEnvironment and Water, hasissued Ministerial Decision No.784 for 2015 related to“Federals Laws' ExecutiveRegulations” no. 39 for 1992.This law covers the production,import and circulation offertilizers and soil conditioner.In addition, it aims to facilitate

and reinforce the country'sposition in the agriculturalsector leadership and raise thestandards of procedures forimporting, producing anddistributing fertilizers and soilconditioners according to theinternational standards.

The decision states that “Itis allowed only to import,produce, use and trade offertilizers and agricultural soilconditioners that are registeredat the Ministry and match thespecifications and standards setin this decision.” It states alsothat required licenses must be

obtained from the Ministryalong with the relevantgovernment authorities, and itidentifies standards andtechnical specificationsincluding health safety andenvironmental measures to befollowed for the use, produce,handle and storage offertilizers and soil conditionersto ensure that farmers achievethe best returns and to mitigateany negative or harmful impacton the environment.

The decree also stipulatesthat the fertilizer companiesare responsible for disposing ofthe waste products of fertilizersand soil conditioners accordingto the Environmental FederalLaw No. 24 for 1999 andaccording to the instructionsdefined by the local authorities.According to the decree, thefertilizer companies must keeprecords showing the trade offertilizers and in the meantimethe Ministry has the right tocancel the registration of anykind of fertilizer registration ifit has been registered usingincorrect information; or if itsusage can lead to serioushealth issues, or due to anyimpact on environment oranimals; or if its registration iscancelled in the country oforigin; or if it is banned byinternational organizations forpublic health reasons or anyother reasons.

The decree also includedpractices which are contrary tothe provisions of the decreesuch as the import or export ofany kind of fertilizer and soilconditioner does not meet thedecree standards andspecifications; or not obtainingthe necessary permits andlicenses from the Ministry andthe relevant authorities; ordistribution, manufacture andproduction of expired or

NEWS UPDATE

H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed BinFahad, UAE Minister ofEnvironment and Water and H.E.Dr. Sufian Sultan Al-Tamimi,Minister of Agriculture,Palestinian Authority, have signeda memorandum of understanding(MoU) in the field of agricultureand animal and fish farming. Thecollaboration is a major leap inthe distinguished relations sharedbetween the UAE and Palestine.

According to H.E. Bin Fahad, the UAE is keen to establish partnerships withcountries 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 outthat the MoU aims to strengthen and develop cooperation between the UAE and theState Palestine in agriculture and animal and fish farming in order to achievesustainable development goals.

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

The UAE and Palestine will also work together in veterinary services, such asveterinary quarantine, control of cross-border communicable diseases, and earlydiagnosis of animal diseases. Lastly, they will exchange experiences in agriculturalpesticides and seeds and integrated control of agricultural pests as well as encourageparticipation in agricultural fairs.

Partnership to supportbilateral relations &boost agriculture &animal and fish farming


NEWS UPDATE

banned fertilizer, as well as do not followprofessional environmental safety measuresdefined by the local authorities. In the event thata company imported a shipment violating thedecree provisions, the shipment will returned toits home country, or the Ministry will destroythe shipment; and in both cases the companywill bear the costs.

The Ministry along with special authoritieshave the right to implement the necessaryactions - including the closure of facilities thatviolate the provisions of the decree for amaximum period of three months. A decisionwill be taken to allow the facility to operate

again once the violation corrected within theclosure period, and in case the facility was notable to correct it within this period, a permanentclosure decision will be taken and its licensewill be withdrawn. The decree gives the facilitythe right to appeal against the permanent or thetemporary closure decision issued by theMinistry or the local authority but within 30days of receiving the decision, otherwise in thisrespect the decision will be final.

EIMA Agrimach, a winning projectThe fourth edition of the New Dehli exhibitionended with a remarkable increase of visitors.

Valagro, leader in theproduction and marketingof biostimulants andspecialty nutrients,announced that it hasstarted the construction ofits new plant inPirassununga, in the state ofSao Paulo, Brazil.

The project, announcedin 2014 with an investmentof 10 million euro, includesthe construction of a plantwith two production linesfor the processing andpackaging of solid water-soluble fertilizers andbiostimulants. The plantwill cover an area of about60,000 m2 and will ensure aproduction of about 8,000tons of product a year.

The transition to theoperational phase of theproject - which will end inJanuary 2017, with theopening of the plant - hasbeen achieved through theattainment of the nationaland regional environmentallicenses, attesting tocompliance with rigorouslocal standards ofenvironmental safety andsustainability, in line with

the Valagro's values basedon the full respect of humanhealth and the environment.

Thanks to the productionplant in Pirassununga,Valagro will be able torespond even moreeffectively to the needs ofthe Brazilian market - whereit is already active with itsown branch since 1998 -with special attention tosome of its major customersin this area, includingCoopercitrus.

"The construction of thePirassununga productionfacility greatly supports oursupply chain logisticsgetting us closer to our

customers in Brazil, andmore broadly will allow usto respond effectively todifferent needs," explainsthe CEO of the Group,Giuseppe Natale. "Secondly,this provides us the

flexibility by productionrealised at the local level.For Valagro, all of theabove, together, means fullyimplementing the Group'sprinciple of putting thecustomer in the centre."

Launch of construction at the Valagro production plant in Brazil

Giuseppe Natale

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2016

The audience exceeded 40,000units, confirming theexhibition as a landmark eventfor India and the countries ofAsia and the Far-East.Cooperation between Italy andIndia will go on in 2016 withdemonstration events in theregions of the subcontinentand the presence of manyItalian businesses anddelegations at the next EIMAInternational in November inBologna. Already scheduledfor December 2017, the fifthedition of the big Indian eventin New Dehli.

Success beyond allexpectations for the fourthedition of EIMA Agrimach,the international exhibition ofagricultural machinery whichended in December. In thethree days of the Indian tradefair, that put on display

machinery, equipment andcomponents in the standsinside the pavilions, in theoutdoor areas dedicated tobrands of agriculturalmachinery and in the vastcourtyard reserved for fieldtests, the visitors reached thenumber of 40,300 units, withan increase of 26% comparedto the previous edition ofDecember 2013.

A result that rewards thework of the organizing bodies- the Federation of IndianChambers of Commerce andIndustry FICCI and the ItalianFederation of AgriculturalMachinery ManufacturersFederUnacoma - that wantedto organize the event not as a“market” of machines foragriculture, but as anexposition of “business-to-business” technological

innovations, dedicatedprimarily to traders andprofessionals.

The choice itself of thelocation in which the eventtakes place, the campus of theIndian Agricultural ResearchInstitute IARI and the officialpartnership of the IndianMinistry of Agriculture andthe Indian Council forAgricultural Research ICAR,indicate the will to turn thisevent into an instrument ofstrategic orientation of theactivities of the primary sectorand of development ofagricultural business modelsbetter suited to the country.

Therefore, the results of theevent reinforce the Italian-Indian cooperation in the fieldof agricultural mechanization.It is a partnership involving,besides FederUnacoma as an

NEWS UPDATE

7GULF AGRICULTURE


organizer, the ICE Agency, theItalian Ministry of EconomicDevelopment (whichsupported the Agrimachproject since its first edition in2009) as well as the EmiliaRomagna Region, in theterritory of which are locatedsome of the major productionareas of the Italian agriculturalmachinery, with many brands

that in recent years havestarted business activities andproduction in India.

The Italian team, composedof the Confindustria Association(FederUnacoma), the Ministryand the Region, proves howsynergy and orderlinesstogether are the winningcombination to expand businessinto new markets. Cooperationbetween Italy and Indiaprovides other demonstrationevents for 2016, such as thefield tests carried out in Maythis year in the State ofMaharashtra and importantinitiatives at EIMAInternational.

At the world exhibition, tobe held in Bologna from 9 to 13November 2016, will in facttake part many Indiancompanies and a largedelegation of operators andinstitutional representatives ofthe country, with a view tointensify the possibility ofbusiness cooperation andpartnership between companiesand to identify, among theunlimited selection oftechnologies displayed at EIMAInternational, those that are bestsuited to the needs anddevelopment policies of theIndian Subcontinent. Theappointment with the nextedition of EIMA Agrimach isalready scheduled for December2017.

Quinoa labelled 'perfectcrop' for UAE climateconditionsScientists have identifiedquinoa as an optimal crop forcultivation in the marginalclimatic conditions of the UAEfollowing years of extensiveresearch.

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

Abu Dhabi's Ministry ofEnvironment and Water and theAbu Dhabi Farmer ServiceCentre in the UAE since 2010to test selected quinoa varietiesand learn about their potentialto be grown in salineenvironments.

Dr Nanduri K. Rao, PlantGenetic Resources Scientist atInternational Center forBiosaline Agriculture,confirmed that quinoa hasexceptional adaptation qualitiesfor marginal environmentssuch as the UAE.

Speaking ahead of hisparticipation in the upcomingGlobal Forum for Innovationsin Agriculture (GFIA), 16-17February at the Abu DhabiNational Exhibition Centre, hesaid: “Trials in the UAEresulted in the identification offour quinoa genotypes that aresuitable for sandy soils such asthose in the ArabianPeninsula.”

“They also matched highestyields reported from countrieswhere quinoa is cultivatedtraditionally such as Bolivia,the crop's homeland. Thismakes quinoa a crop of choicefor marginal environments andI encourage farmers to plant itin their fields.”

Tested quinoa varietiesproduced impressive results of10.5 tons/ha, even with highsalinity (EC) when planted inabandoned saline farms andwhere traditional crops couldnot grow properly.

Besides its stress tolerance,quinoa is one of the mostnutritious food crops currentlyknown. The grain has highnutritional quality, andaccording to Dr Rao, “It is farsuperior to the commonlygrown staple food crops, suchas wheat, rice, and corn.”

His presentation at the

NEWS UPDATE

Norbert Schlingmann appointed AEF General Manager

The AEF is pleased toannounce that the SteeringCommittee has agreed onthe appointment of the firstAEF General Manager.Norbert Schlingmann willtake on this responsibility.

Schlingmann iscurrently employed atClaas as head of anelectronics developmentdepartment and has beenworking in different AEF committees from thebeginning. To date he is leading the Project Team“Service and Diagnostics”. In this function he hasplayed the major role in the development of theAEF ISOBUS Database.

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

It was Schlingmann's profound knowledge ofthe AEF that eventually proved decisive for theSteering Committee in the selection process,making him stand out from a number of applicants.Reporting to the Chair Group and SteeringCommittee the General Manager is going to be incharge of the operative business and administrationof AEF as well as commercial aspects, such asbudget generation and supervision.

Schlingmann specifically plans to improveworking procedures within the AEF, includingcommunication between the Team Leaders, also tohelp reduce the workload of actively engagedmembers, as well as to ensure financial efficiency.Schlingmann: “I am looking forward to thischallenge! Based on the AEF's solid foundation I,together with the Steering Committee, will lead theorganisation into the future.”

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Global Forum for Innovationsin Agriculture on Wednesday17 February in the event'sInnovations Theatre willdiscuss quinoa as a future-proof crop for climate smartagriculture. Dr Rao isconfident that the crop's eco-versatility combined with itshigh nutritional value makesquinoa a prominentopportunity to address thefuture global food demand.

“I strongly believe thatpublic-private sectorpartnerships are essential tofinding innovative solutions towater scarcity in agriculturalsector and to ensure thatscientific innovations becomevaluable tools for farmers.”

According to Dr Rao'sreport there are more than15,000 accessions of quinoaconserved in the genebanks,most of them in the Andesregion and whose potential andnutritional value has not beeninvestigated outside SouthAmerica.

The GFIA exhibition andconference, held under thepatronage of H.H. SheikhMansour Bin Zayed AlNahyan, Deputy PrimeMinister of the UAE, Ministerof Presidential Affairs andChairman of Abu Dhabi FoodControl Authority, and instrategic partnership withADFCA, will feature morethan 300 next-generationagricultural solutions thatcould shape the future ofsustainable farming around theworld.

Co-located alongside VIVMEA, the two events areexpected to host more than 500exhibitors of innovativetechnology, making Abu Dhabihome to the largest agriculturalevent in the region. Theorganisers also expect to build

upon last year's 4,550 visitorsfrom 85 countries.

GFIA is sponsored by theUAE Ministry of PresidentialAffairs, Khalifa InternationalAward for Date Palm &Agricultural Innovation, AbuDhabi Farmers ServicesCentre, Emirates FoodIndustries, Koppert BiologicalSystems, AGCO, GODAN andCoolFarm and staged with thesupport of Masdar Institute,University of Arizona,Kingdom of The Netherlands,Clinton Climate Initiative,CTA, Global G.A.P, CGIAR,SAI Platform, Wageningen URand the Abu DhabiConvention Bureau.

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Climate Smart Agriculture:Key to Africa's DevelopmentCollaboration by variousstakeholders includinggovernments, NGOs andresearch bodies is needed nowto rapidly scale-up the Africanagricultural sector to improvefood security and resilience toclimate change,” said MrsEstherine Fotabong, NEPADProgrammes Director, at theNEPAD Climate SmartAgriculture (CSA) event heldon the sidelines of COP21 inParis, on December 7.

Research by NEPAD(www.Nepad.org) through theComprehensive AfricaAgriculture DevelopmentProgramme shows that climatechange effects are becomingmore frequent and moresevere, threatening thereliability and productivity ofagriculture, exacerbating thealready extreme levels ofpoverty, and reinforcingpersistent inequity and chronicunder-nutrition.

The African Union's NewPartnership for Africa'sDevelopment (NEPAD) issupporting the implementationof CSA in Africa through theAgriculture Climate ChangeProgramme and other relatedinitiatives. These efforts willsustainably increaseproductivity, resilience andadaptation, as well as buildcapacity at all levels,especially for smallholderfarmers and institutions inorder to attain the goal of 25

NEWS UPDATE


million African farmerspracticing Climate-SmartAgriculture by 2025.

“The African agriculturalsector employs 65 per centof the continent's population,50 per cent of them arewomen and climate change ispredicted to have significantimpact on agriculture,therefore, constituting amajor hurdle for Africa,” saidMr Miti Chikakula,COMESA AgricultureOfficer. “By adopting CSApractices, smallholderfarmers can reduce the risksthey face due to climatechange, while enhancingfood security andlivelihoods,” he added.

As negotiations for COP21draw to a close, participantsraised concerns about theneed to include climate smartand gender appropriatepolicies in the COP21agreements because womenare the majority of Africansmallholder farmers.Participants also commendedthe NEPAD Agency's efforts inmaking Climate SmartAgriculture a reality formillions of smallholderfarmers and forestalling thenegative impacts of globalclimate change.

The side event discussedthe continent's approach toclimate change andagriculture, showcasedprogress, experiences, andlessons from recent work tosupport the scaling up of CSAin Africa and the way forwardbeyond COP21. Discussionsalso centered on what effortsare required by both Africansand development partners tobring about practical andgrassroot-based actions onagriculture and climatechange; and opening up new

opportunities for Africanfarmers.

In closing, Mr MartinBwalya, NEPAD Coordinatorof Programme Implementationreaffirmed NEPAD'scommitment to fighting climatechange in Africa and toenhancing resilience andlivelihoods through smartcollaboration across all

disciplines and sectors;evidence based processes;expanding the cadre ofnegotiators in terms of numbersand fields; strengtheningcapacities of smallholderfarmers and institutions;embracing local knowledge andinvolving women who areactive participants and playersin agriculture.

NEWS UPDATE

1 1GULF AGRICULTURE

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With the latest WorldFood Programmestatics showing that

795 million people areundernourished and the globalpopulation is projected to reachalmost 10 billion by 2050, foodsecurity and productionsustainability have becomemajor challenges requiringurgent action.

It is against this backgroundthat the Global Forum forInnovations in Agriculture(GFIA) takes on an extradimension when it convenes fora third year at Abu DhabiNational Exhibition Centrefrom February 16-17.

In a joint effort to lead a globaldialogue on food security andclimate resilience, GFIA will runalongside VIV MEA, a newregional version of the highlysuccessful livestock production

events held in Europe and Asiawhich are helping to bring about arethinking on global food security.

The co-hosting of the twoevents in the UAE capital is builton the belief of the organisersthat, in order to solve the world'smajor food issues, cooperationbetween many public and privatesectors is crucial. Combined,these events will deliver thelargest agricultural exhibition inthe Middle East.

The forum will welcomeinnovators, entrepreneurs,politicians, academics and otherexperts to debate and bringabout game-changing solutionsfor global agriculture and foodproduction sector.

With the participation of 300exhibitors, Mark Beaumont,Project Director of thecombined GFIA exhibition andconference, is confident that thepartnership with VIV MEA willposition the forum as a globalforerunner in catalyzinginnovative agriculture solutions.

“This is now the world's mostinfluential event for sustainableagriculture,” said Beaumont. “Itis establishing Abu Dhabi as aninternational centre of scienceexcellence in sustainableagriculture, giving localstudents, farmers and foodproducers the opportunity tocollaborate with the internationalscientific community.”

“The key is to bring togetherpublic decision-makers, privatesector champions and civil

society leaders who develop andcatalyze innovations forsustainable agriculture. Throughcross-sector collaboration, we canbring about a food-secure future,and the prominent role the UAEhas taken on this issue makesAbu Dhabi a perfect stage.”

The partnership with VIVMEA brings an additional 3,000agriculture experts to network,collaborate, and take part inworkshops showcasing latesttechnology developments aimedat providing solutions not onlyto food production sustainability,but also to tackle watershortages; an issue of paramountimportance in the Middle East.

“The co-hosting of theseimportant international eventsin Abu Dhabi underlines thecommitment of the UAE todrive a global dialogue on foodsecurity and climate resilience,”said Ali Yousef Al Saad, ActingDirector of Communication andCommunity Service at AbuDhabi Food Control Authority.

“We live in a water-


GFIA PREVIEW

GFIA CALLS ATTENTION TOGLOBAL HUNGER ISSUE THIRD EDITION OF GLOBAL FORUM FOR INNOVATIONS INAGRICULTURE JOINS HANDS WITH VIV MEA TO DEBATESUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION AND SECURITY

constrained region and mustuse these forums to enhanceour contribution to thedevelopment andimplementation of smartsolutions for increased foodproduction.”

Al Saad added: “GFIA isquite unique in that it attractsstakeholders right across theagricultural value chain. Thismeans Abu Dhabi becomes thestage for the whole mix ofpeople needed to change systemsat large - scientists, inventors,farmers, investors, foodproducers, NGOs, supply chainand government. This makes itsuch an important event.”

Key discussions will revolvearound innovative approaches toagribusiness, animal production,crop protection, nutrition,renewable energy, saltwateragriculture, soil health, urbanagriculture, and watertechnology, as well as next-generation solutions for regionsaffected by water scarcity.

Ruwan Berculo, VIV

Worldwide Project Manager,believes the partnership of thetwo events combined with theworld's leading academics inthe field and governmentexperts will be key drivers forthe development of innovative

solutions for sustainable foodproduction, especially in theareas experiencing rapidpopulation growth.

“The timing is absolutelyright to bring VIV to theMiddle East,” Berculo insists.“Growing urbanisation, rapidgrowth in the tourism sectorand increasingly globalizeddiets are seeing a significantincrease in the demand forlivestock products in the region.These countries want toproduce food and not justimport it, so investments in thefood production sector areincreasing all the time.”

Held under the patronage ofH.H. Sheikh Mansour BinZayed Al Nahyan, Deputy PrimeMinister of the UAE, Ministerof Presidential Affairs andChairman of Abu Dhabi FoodControl Authority (ADCFA),GFIA provides the perfect forumfor development and assessmentof innovations crucial forsustainable agriculture and afood-secure future.


GFIA PREVIEW

1 3GULF AGRICULTURE

HELD UNDER THEPATRONAGE OF H.H.SHEIKH MANSOUR BINZAYED AL NAHYAN,DEPUTY PRIME MINISTEROF THE UAE, MINISTER OFPRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRSAND CHAIRMAN OF ABUDHABI FOOD CONTROLAUTHORITY (ADCFA), GFIAPROVIDES THE PERFECTFORUM FOR DEVELOPMENTAND ASSESSMENT OFINNOVATIONS CRUCIALFOR SUSTAINABLEAGRICULTURE AND AFOOD-SECURE FUTURE


Bluelab develops,manufactures and sellsmonitoring and control

instruments widely used inhydroponic, aquaponic,aquaculture, horticulture andgeneral agriculture applications.The Bluelab product rangeimproves the growingexperience and outcomes fornovices through to commercialgrowers, making life as agrower easier.

At the start of Bluelab'srange are the simple digitalPens that make routine spotchecking of solutions easy. Thenext step up is Bluelab's rangeof portable handheld meters,followed by continuous easy-to-read monitors, such as theBluelab Guardian, which offersa visible-across-the roomindicator of key growingparameters; pH, temperatureand EC.

Remote monitoring is easyvia Bluelab's Connect Softwarewhich enables multiplemonitoring points in thegrowing facility that report backwirelessly to a centralcomputer, from there allowingremote checking from anydevice that can access the web,including smart devices.Connect enabled products datalog to a computer forinterrogation of measurementsover time, key to efficiency andmore profitable returns. “Werealize that more and morepeople these days, are

becoming accustomed towaking up and checking theirnearest web-enabled gadget, beit a smartphone or tablet; nowwith our connect suite growerscan be checking their crops atthe same time,” says GregJarvis, company owner andCEO. Near the top of theproduct range is the pHController Connect whichmonitors and corrects pH inreservoirs accurately andsimply, reporting back via theConnect software as well. Thisautomation offering reducesoperational costs in the growspace as well as the benefit ofadvanced pH stability.

Launching in 2016 isBluelab's next generationnutrient dosing system. Drivenby the Pro Controller, thePeripod system doses liquidnutrients into hydroponicreservoirs at variable ratesfollowing a programmable feedschedule. The advanced controloptimizes crop health whilemaintaining a stable reservoir.

As a dynamic, growingorganization, Bluelab continuesto learn by focusing oncontinual improvement andinnovation. The company'sphilosophy is honesty, integrityand simplicity. “Success bysimplicity,” is their motto.Bluelab products are distributedworldwide through retailoutlets. A list of certified storesand distributors is availableonline at bluelab.com

GFIA PREVIEW

GETTING TO KNOWBLUELAB PRODUCTS

WE REALIZE THAT MORE ANDMORE PEOPLE THESE DAYS, AREBECOMING ACCUSTOMED TOWAKING UP AND CHECKINGTHEIR NEAREST WEB-ENABLEDGADGET, BE IT A SMARTPHONEOR TABLET; NOW WITH OURCONNECT SUITE GROWERS CANBE CHECKING THEIR CROPS ATTHE SAME TIME.”

Greg Jarvis, company owner and CEO

‘‘

VIV MEA 2016 will berich in valuablebusiness information

for animal protein producerswhen it opens in February inAbu Dhabi, the capital of theUnited Arab Emirates. Thenew show takes place 15th-17th February 2016 and isdedicated to serving animalprotein providers from theMiddle East and Africa toTurkey, Iran and the countriesof the Indian sub-continent.

Already sure to be theMiddle East region's largest

trade fair on modern poultryproduction and processing, theevent will also give significantattention to the dairy milksector and to aquaculture.What is more, the schedulefeatures a highly informativeprogramme of seminars andconferences on differentanimal proteins, prepared inassociation with mediapartners and technical leaders.

On Sunday 14th February,International PoultryProduction/InternationalHatchery Practice presents a

full-day knowledge session forpoultry managers on topicsincluding how to give chicks ahealthy start. A parallelpresentation on the same dayby Perendale's InternationalAquafeed will provide a shortcourse on manufacturingaquaculture feeds.

The morning of Monday15th February brings a GlobalMilling conference frommagazine Milling & Grainalongside a Watt GlobalMedia poultry seminar thatcovers broiler production and


VIV MEA PREVIEW

FULL VIV MEA PROGRAMME FEATURESCONTENT-RICH SEMINARS

trade issues in the MiddleEast/Africa region. Theafternoon sessions include aseminar sponsored by theDutch Poultry Centre to lookat some egg quality issuesand Middle East AgrifoodPublishers MEAP teaming upwith the World's PoultryScience Association todiscuss commercial andscientific trends in poultryproduction.

For the morning sessions ofthe conference programme onTuesday 16th February thereis a Reed BusinessInternational focus on poultryhealth and an InternationalDairy Topics seminar that asks“Upsizing --- Is it the wayforward?”. Vertical integration

in the dairy supply chain isthe theme for a Global DairyFarmers afternoon sessionwhile International MeatTopics runs a discussion onhow to meet the meat safetychallenge.

Exhibition space for VIVMEA 2016 was fully bookedin just eight months, with theleading global suppliers to theanimal protein sectorsshowing their support. In totalthere will about 270exhibitors with stands in threehalls of the Abu Dhabinational exhibition centre(ADNEC).

The strong worldwideinterest in this first-ever VIVMEA has been demonstratedfurther by the number ofpeople registering in advanceto attend the event. Apreliminary count at the startof 2016 found individual pre-registrations from 84countries. Almost 70% ofapplications had come fromcountries in the Middle Eastwith Asia and another 9-10%were from Africa. The otherlarge segment involvedapplications from Europe andRussia, but South America,North America and Oceaniawere also represented.

“The early indication isthat we will have most pre-registrations from Pakistan,the United Arab Emirates,Bangladesh, Nigeria and

Saudi Arabia,” says VIVshows manager RuwanBerculo. “The other countriesin the Top Ten are Egypt,India, Iran, Sudan and Jordan.I think it shows that we havesucceeded in promoting theappeal of the inaugural VIVMEA as being for anextended region of the world,so that it is well on course tobecome the third internationalhub in our portfolio ofbusiness events for the animalprotein sectors, alongsideVIV Asia and VIV Europe.”

As well as the pre-registeredindividual participants, Berculocontinues, the show is set toreceive special VIP delegationsfrom over a dozen countries.Those confirmed so far willtravel not only from theMiddle East area (UAE, Iran,Turkey), but also from Indiaand Pakistan, from further intoAsia (China, Indonesia,Philippines, Thailand) andfrom Africa (Egypt, Ethiopia,Nigeria, Sudan).

Preliminary estimatessuggest that there will beapproximately 4,000 visitorsover the three days of thetrade fair. The organizersexpect that the largestnumber will come from thecountries bordering thePersian Gulf along with Iranand Turkey. Another 25% orso are likely to be fromAfrican countries and around


VIV MEA PREVIEW

1 7GULF AGRICULTURE

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATES SUGGEST THAT THERE WILL BEAPPROXIMATELY 4,000 VISITORS OVER THE THREE DAYS OF THETRADE FAIR. THE ORGANIZERS EXPECT THAT THE LARGESTNUMBER WILL COME FROM THE COUNTRIES BORDERING THEPERSIAN GULF ALONG WITH IRAN AND TURKEY. ANOTHER 25%OR SO ARE LIKELY TO BE FROM AFRICAN COUNTRIES ANDAROUND 10% FROM INDIA, PAKISTAN AND BANGLADESH


10% from India, Pakistanand Bangladesh.

VIV MEA 2016 in AbuDhabi has the addedadvantage that it will be co-located at the ADNECexhibitions complex with aworld event which works withorganisations including theUnited Nations and the WorldBank in offering a showcasefor innovative and sustainabletechnologies relating to foodproduction. Known as theGlobal Forum for Innovationsin Agriculture or GFIA, in2016 this returns to AbuDhabi for the thirdconsecutive year.

Moreover, across at theDubai World Trade Centrebetween 21st-25th Februarythere is the opportunity to

visit the world's largest annualshow on food and relatedhospitality products. Gulfoodin its 2016 edition will havemore than 110 internationalpavilions in addition toseveral hundred stands

featuring individualcompanies, providing valuableinsights into food productdevelopments for all MiddleEast businesses involved inanimal protein production andprocessing.

VIV MEA PREVIEW

Zinpro Corporation, the globalleader in animal trace mineralnutrition, recently announced

its participation in VIV MEA 2016,February 15-17, 2016. The inauguralVIV MEA tradeshow will convene atthe Abu Dhabi National ExhibitionCenter (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi,United Arab Emirates, in cooperationwith GFIA 2016.

“VIV events are always among themost professional and well-organizedtradeshows for the animal health andnutrition industry - wherever they areheld,” says Khaled Qasem, D.V.M.,area manager - Middle East/NorthAfrica (MENA), Zinpro Corporation.“As Zinpro continues to grow itsbusiness in the MENA region, thisevent will serve as a hub forconnecting with many of ourcustomers and partners as well asfostering future connections.”

Abu Dhabi offers easy access totravelers and is one of the most securecities in the region, adds Dr. Qasem.

“It's also a very specific meeting thattargets poultry, dairy and aquacultureproducers,” he says. “These are allsectors where Zinpro PerformanceMinerals® can play a beneficial rolein helping to improve animalperformance.”

Zinpro Performance Mineralsdeliver proven performance, whichis backed by extensive peer-reviewed research. Earlier last year,the company reached a significantmilestone in dairy research,becoming the first trace mineralcompany to record 50 peer-revieweddairy publications. The quality ofZinpro research is well-knownwithin the industry anddemonstrates the company'scommitment to consistently findways to improve animal well-beingand overall productivity.

“In the MENA region, where viraldisease pressure, animal immunestatus and a variety of stressors,namely heat stress, are major

challenges, many livestock andpoultry producers are already usingZinpro Performance Minerals,” saysDr. Qasem. “Not only are theyseeing performance improvements intheir breeding animals, but they arealso seeing performance benefits totheir young stock, by feedingproducts like Availa®4, Availa®Zn,Availa®Z/M, Availa®Se andAvaila®Cr.”

Zinpro Corporation offers leadingbusiness and product solutions toimprove animal performance andwell-being. “We see the VIV MEAevent as a wonderful opportunity tohelp strengthen our alreadyexcellent relationships with currentclients and partners and to expandour animal nutrition business intonew countries in the Middle Eastand North Africa regions,” says Dr.Qasem. “We look forward towelcoming both familiar and newfaces to the Zinpro booth, which canbe found in Hall 6, Stand C085.”

ZINPRO CORPORATION ANNOUNCES PARTICIPATION IN VIV MEA 2016

FRENCH PAVILION

VIV MIDDLE EAST AFRICA 2016

ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTER

15-17 FEBRUARY 2016 HALL 6

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

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Formulation software,quality control software

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premixture of additives

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Natural, nutrition, environment

Medicator, poultry health, dosing pump

Animal nutrition

Feed-additives, animal nutrition, premix

Nutrition, feed, supplement

Separators, deboners, desinewers 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

For more information, please contact: Sophia SALMI, Head of Agribusiness [email protected] Or Miryem OUKAS, Head of Communications [email protected]


The Middle East offers theprospect of fruitful dialogfor the livestock industry,

and particularly for poultryfarming. This first edition ofVIV MEA, expected to bestrong, to be held from February15 to 17 2016 in Abu Dhabi,will host almost 20 Frenchcompanies specializing inanimal feed/nutrition andlivestock equipment.

The VIV Middle East Africaexhibition provides Francewith an opportunity for allcompanies exhibiting in theFrench pavilion to showcasetheir innovations in thefollowing areas:� Animal feed, nutrition and

health,� Specialist equipment for

poultry and cattle rearing:handling and slaughtering

equipment, feed preparationand distribution,

� Products and services foranimal reproduction andpoultry genetics.The event brings together

the whole of the poultry andcattle industries fromupstream (genetics,insemination, nutrition andhealth) to downstream(slaughtering and meat

processing), not forgettingbreeding equipment andmaterials. Being one of thefastest-growing economies inthe Middle East, the UnitedArab Emirates have a statedgoal of attaining food self-sufficiency. Governmentshave decided to investmassively in equipment andthe development of newtechnologies with the aim offocusing on local production,particularly in the agri-food,agriculture and livestocksectors. This policy iscombined and backed by astrong consumer demand forlocal quality products.

Livestock now represents asignificant part of agriculture,though as yet insufficient tomeet the needs: breeding ofdairy cattle, sheep, goats,camels and chickens is

VIV MEA PREVIEW

FRANCE'S LIVESTOCK INDUSTRYANNOUNCES ITS PARTICIPATION

BUSINESS FRANCE, THENATIONAL AGENCY SUPPORTINGTHE INTERNATIONALDEVELOPMENT OF THE FRENCHECONOMY WILL GATHER IN ANINNOVATIVE FRENCH PAVILIONTHE ENTIRE LIVESTOCK SECTOR,FROM FEED THROUGH TO MEATFOR THE FIRST EDITION OF VIVMEA (ADNEC - HALL 6).


integrated alongside imports ofall inputs - genetics, feeds andnutrition, veterinary medicine,equipment, etc.

Thanks to the genetic qualityof its livestock and the strengthof its livestock industry, Franceis a major breeder and a leaderin the European Union for itsproductivity, value-addedproducts and the globaldistribution of its exceptionallydiverse range of breeds. Franceis also one of the world'sleading producers of milk andmeat thanks to the vitality of itslivestock which contribute toname France as an internationalexcellence and reference in thisindustry.

France is Europe's leadingproducer of poultry, producinga combined total of just over1.8 million tonnes in 2014(13.5% of total production inthe European Union).

Broiler breeding is animportant source of revenuefor the French economy,accounting almost 60,000employees including: � Hatcheries: 120 companies,

1,200 breeders of breedingstock and 6,500 jobs,

� Breeders: 14,000 breedersincluding 4,000 labels,27,900 breeding premises,

� Feed manufacturers: 340production facilitiesproducing 7 million tonnes ofpoultry feed (33% of totallivestock feed production),including 3.8 tonnes ofcereal, and 4,000 jobs,

� Industrial slaughterhouses,cutters and preparers: 170companies, 415 slaughteringfacilities,As the world's number six

exporter, France still plays adominant role in theinternational stage.

Come and meet us on the

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

About Business France :Business France is the nationalagency supporting theinternational development ofthe French economy,

responsible for fosteringexport growth by Frenchbusinesses, as well aspromoting and facilitatinginternational investment inFrance. It promotes France'scompanies, business image andnationwide attractiveness as aninvestment location.

VIV MEA PREVIEW

2 1GULF AGRICULTURE


The 2016 edition ofGulfood, the world'slargest annual food and

hospitality trade show, willcement its standing as theworld's leading global foodtrading platform when morethan 5,000 internationalcompanies from 120 countriesgather at Dubai World TradeCentre (DWTC) from 21-25February.

Among the 85,000-plusvisitors from more than 170countries expected, Gulfood2016 will host internationalheads of state, ministers,

government officials andnational trade associations fromfive continents.

With event and year-roundlegacy trading expected to runinto billions of dollars,Gulfood 2016 will connectnations and suppliers, opendistribution channels forindustry-related business, andhighlight Dubai's strategic roleas a key global food industrytrading hub.

Having this year celebratedits landmark 20th outing,Gulfood 2016 is poised todeliver 'More Tastes, More

Trends and More Trade' as thespecialist event readies towelcome tens of thousands offinished food suppliers, bulkcommodity wholesalers andexporters, and the show'slargest-ever collection ofhospitality equipment suppliers.

Led by the nation's Ministryof Agriculture, Gulfood 2016will also welcome its firstRussian national pavilion - oneof 114 national pavilionsspanning in excess of120,000m2 of world-class,multi-functional indoorexhibition space and two

GULFOOD PREVIEW

GULFOOD 2016 TO DELIVER MORETASTES, TRENDS AND TRADE


purpose-built, temporarystructures spanning a 10,900m2

at DWTC. The expandedindoor exhibition spaceincludes three new DWTChalls - Za'abeel 4, 5 and 6.

“Gulfood is internationallyrenowned for providing atrusted and accessible platformfor the world's food industry tomeet, transact and trade out ofDubai - one of the world's mostdiverse, energetic and vibranttrading hubs,” said TrixieLohMirmand, Senior VicePresident, Exhibitions &Events Management, DWTC.

“As global food producersand traders establish newsupply routes to reachcustomers and monetiseopportunities in emergingmarkets, the heightened visitorexperience will enable industryheavyweights to make strategicpurchasing decisions withtrusted suppliers, all whileconsolidating the UAE's keyrole as a major transshipmentdestination for food productsand hospitality equipment,”added LohMirand.

Gulfood 2016 will host thethird Halal World Food, theworld's biggest annual Halalfood sourcing trade event. Thededicated show-within-a-showleverages Dubai's mountingcredentials as a global IslamicEconomy capital and increasethe emirate's share of year-round trading in halal foods.

“This is now an essentialprerequisite for any supplierlooking to establish a footholdin the world's fastest growingfood industry sectors with theglobal Halal market expectedto reach US$10 trillion by2030,” said LohMirand.

While facilitating globaltransactions for halal food andfoodstuff commodities such asmeat, cereals, grains, rice and

tea, Gulfood 2016 will shine aspotlight on coffee. In ahistoric first, Gulfood 2016will host the ninth WorldCezve / Ibrik Championship,the first time the competitionfor the centuries-old art ofbrewing coffee in a 'Cezve' or'Ibrik' - the small, long-handledpot - has been held in theArabian Gulf.

With an international fieldof 20 baristas bringing theirown style and cultural elementsto one of the world's oldest and

most traditional coffee-makingmethods, popularly known as'Turkish coffee', the WorldCezve / Ibrik Championshipwill see the UAE's very-ownKarthikeyan Rajendran square-off against reigning worldchampion Italy's Davide Berti.

Owned and organised by theSpeciality Coffee Associationof Europe (SCAE), the ninthWorld Cezve / IbrikChampionship will be overseenby an independent judgingpanel that will rate baristas'brewing skills on criteriaincluding taste, presentationand technique.

“To debut the World Cezve /

Ibrik Championship in a regionof the world where thetechnique was first createdfeels like something of ahomecoming,” said David Veal,Executive Director, SCAE.“Cezve coffee preparationremains hugely popular acrossthe Middle East, as evidencedby the standards shown duringthe National Championship inOctober. I'm sure our othercompetitors will be keeping akeen eye on KarthikeyanRajendran - he's definitely gota chance of giving the UAE itsfirst World Cezve title.”

The show-floor culinarydemonstrations will peak atthe annual Emirates CulinaryGuild International SalonCulinaire - a showcase of theregion's best culinary talentand expertise. One ofGulfood's undisputed drawsfor the regions' topprofessional chefs, pastrychefs, cooks and bakers, thisyear's Salon will see morethan 1,300 professional chefsevaluated by a panel of 25renowned experts, mandatedby the World Association ofChefs Societies (WACS) tojudge culinary events acrossthe globe.

With the number of F&Boutlets in the UAE expected todouble by 2020 when Dubaihopes to receive 20 milliontourists as the emirate hostsExpo Dubai 2020 - foodservice and hospitalityequipment is an expandedfocus at Gulfood 2016.

Every year, thousands off&b products and servicesdebut at Gulfood and theseventh Gulfood Awards willrecognise best-in-classexcellence of individuals andcompanies behind the region'sleadership and innovation inthe food and drink industry.

GULFOOD PREVIEW

2 3GULF AGRICULTURE

WITH THE NUMBER OF F&BOUTLETS IN THE UAEEXPECTED TO DOUBLE BY2020 WHEN DUBAI HOPES TORECEIVE 20 MILLIONTOURISTS AS THE EMIRATEHOSTS EXPO DUBAI 2020 -FOOD SERVICE ANDHOSPITALITY EQUIPMENT ISAN EXPANDED FOCUS ATGULFOOD 2016.


The major meeting of theagricultural industry,Growtech Eurasia 15th

International Greenhouse,Agricultural Equipment andTechnologies Fair took place inAntalya Expo Center betweenDecember 2nd - 5th, 2015 onan area of 40,000 sqm with theattendance of 683 companiesfrom 30 countries and 79,624visitors from 77 countries.

Growtech Eurasia 15thAntalya Agricultural Fairbrought together products and

services related to Greenhouseand Technologies, AgriculturalTechnologies and Equipment,Irrigation Systems, SeedGrowing, Seedling Cultivation,Plant Nutrition and Protection,Biological Control, AgriculturalMachinery and Equipment withnational and internationalachievements for 4 days andoffered the latest technologies,products and methods toexhibitors and visitors.

Mentioning that they broughttogether all the components

needed in the agriculturalindustry within the organizationof Growtech Eurasia, UBMEMEA (Istanbul) Fairs GroupDirector Engin Er said"Growtech Eurasia AntalyaAgricultural Fair received thelargest attention this time. Webroke the record of the previous15 years in the number ofvisitors and reached 79,624visitors from 77 countries. Weenlarged our fairgrounds by15% compared to thr previousyear for 683 exhibitors from 30

GROWTECH EURASIA REVIEW

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


countries. We also generatedover 550 million dollarsbusiness volume with theopportunities that we offered toour exhibitors and visitorsincluding a Buying Committeeof 40 persons from 10countries, which are Albania,Azerbaijan, Croatia,Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan,Kosovo, Egypt, Saudi Arabia,Tajikistan and Tunisia under theorganization of WestMediterranean Exporters Unionas coordinated by the Ministryof Economy."

As in every year, newproducts and methods have beenintroduced throughout the fair.Tomatoes containing 3 timesmore lycopene compared tonormal tomato and high rate ofaroma which is only observed infruits, companies that build andcommission turn-key vineyardsand orchards and giant tractorswith prices on par with Ferraricars and hay bale machine werethe highlights of the event.

Organized for the 8th time inGrowtech Eurasia Fair,Growtech Agricultural Awardswere also granted during theevent. As 19 projects weresubmitted for the awards, thewinners were AGROWELDGREENHOUSETECHNOLOGIES in theGreenhouse Technologiescategory, DOKTAR TARIM inAgricultural Informatics andConsultation category,GEOFLOW in IrrigationSystems and Equipmentcategory, GAPAGRICULTURALRESEARCH INSTITUTE inthe Agricultural Machinery andEquipment category andKOPPERT and YEDITEPESAGLIK HIZMETLERI inPlant Nutrition and Protectioncategories. The companiesreceived their awards

personally from the jury.The Main Sponsor for

Growtech Eurasia 2015Agricultural Fair was Bactogen,a company that producesorganic fertilizers with anInnovative Agricultureapproach, the CommunicationSponsor was Turkcell, acompany who also offered thefirst personal agriculturalconsultation service in theworld with Turkcell FarmerUnion, and the Co-sponsor wasFindeks, the new financialservice platform designed forindividuals and the real sector.

GROWTECH EURASIA REVIEW

2 5GULF AGRICULTURE

GROWTECH EURASIA ANTALYAAGRICULTURAL FAIR RECEIVED THELARGEST ATTENTION THIS TIME. WEBROKE THE RECORD OF THE PREVIOUS 15YEARS IN THE NUMBER OF VISITORS ANDREACHED 79,624 VISITORS FROM 77COUNTRIES. WE ENLARGED OURFAIRGROUNDS BY 15% COMPARED TOTHE PREVIOUS YEAR FOR 683EXHIBITORS FROM 30 COUNTRIES.

‘‘


Food security and stabilityhas become one of themajor concerns for

countries all over the world,especially in the recent era ofrising global tensions. This inturn has furthered theemergence of many livestockfarms to sustain the localdemand for dairy and meatproducts in the market.However, not all livestockfarms are totally successful ingenerating the necessary yieldand maintaining good herd

health. Outbreaks of diseases are

common on livestock farms andthey negatively impact theeconomic viability of theproject, but also adverselyaffect the welfare and health ofanimals. Hence, effectivebiosecurity measures are ofutmost importance inmaintaining herd health andgenerating revenues.

Biosecurity measures can bedefined as managementpractices that prevent spread of

pathogens (disease-causingorganisms) from infectedanimal to susceptible animals,thereby also aiding in theprevention of introducingpathogens into a herd, region orcountry.

In the recent years, thescientific discipline ofBiosecurity has become ofmajor importance in theveterinary sector, particularlydue to the outbreak of diseasesas well as intentionalintroduction of disease-causing

ANIMAL HEALTH

BIOSECURITY INLIVESTOCK FARMINGBy Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas, BVSc & AH, MS (Edin.)

EXCLUSIVE

pathogens in to sovereignterritories, which in otherwords, is also calledBioterrorism.

Some of the benefits ofemploying Biosecuritymeasures include:1. Optimization of Animal

Health and Welfare2. Improvement of Animal

Productivity3. Reduced production and

Input costs4. Enhanced value of Herd5. Guaranteed increase in total

revenueIt is highly recommended to

have a biosecurity plan in placewhile in the planning stages ofa livestock farm. IncorporatingBiosecurity protocols into analready existing facility is farmore costly and may not bepossible in many cases, due tothe existing infrastructure.Hence, it is recommended thatall plans for a new livestockfacility be drawn up in

conjunction with inputs fromveterinary consultants withknowledge in biosecurity.

Biosecurity management inany farm can be establishedat 2 levels:1. External Biosecurity:

These are protocolsestablished to preventintroduction of pathogens

into the farm from externalsources like introduction ofnew animals, entry of outsidevehicles, personnel into thefarm etc.

2. Internal Biosecurity:These are protocolsestablished to promoteeffective control ofpathogens that are alreadypresent in the farm.


ANIMAL HEALTH

2 7GULF AGRICULTURE


An effective biosecurityprogram identifies risks andaddresses those risks througheffective management tominimize potential threats toanimal health and welfare.

Some Basic BiosecurityMeasures that can be followedin any farm are as follows:1. Maintenance of a closed

herd:A closed herd is one in whichthere is no introduction ofnew animals from outside thefarm. As far as possible,maintaining a closed herd isone of the best ways toprevent outbreak of diseases.Disease causing micro-organisms enter herds

through addition of animalsfrom external sources. Closedherds effectively mitigatesthe possibility of pathogenintroduction.

2. Quarantine, Isolation andTesting of new animals: When a closed herd is notpossible, strict protocols mustbe ensured with purpose builtquarantine or isolationfacilities, away from the mainfarm to isolate, monitor andtest new animals for diseases.Necessary vaccinations andanti-microbial treatmentsmust also be conductedduring this period.

3. Restriction of farm personneland streamlining of workflow:Pathogens can be introducedand transmitted via clothing,inanimate objects andvehicles. Hence, It is ofabsolute importance tomonitor personal hygiene offarm personnel as well asrestrict their movementsbetween various regions ofthe farm. It is also equallyimportant to establish aworkflow pattern in such away that pathogens are nottransmitted via farmpersonnel to healthy animalson the farm.

4. Periodic analysis of feed andwater supply:Feed and watercontamination are one of theother major threats to farmbiosecurity. Therefore waterquality and contamination offeed must be monitoredregularly.

5. Regular VeterinaryMonitoring and Treatments:The health status of everyherd must be regularlymonitored and treated byqualified veterinarians.Veterinarians play a majorrole in both external and

internal biosecurity levels,thereby arresting theimmediate spread ofinfections. Regularexaminations of farm animalswill help in early detectionand preventing spread ofdiseases, thereby ultimatelypromoting animal health andgenerating increased farmrevenues.

6. Carcass Disposal: Incineration, burying,composting and rendering aresome of the options forcarcass disposal. Every farmmust employ a disposalmethod that is inline with thebiosecurity measures that areundertaken. For example: Inrendering, service vehiclesare to collect carcasses onlyat a designated point on theperiphery of the farm withoutentering the farm.

7. Cleaning and Disinfection:Cleaning animal housingfacilities with water andappropriate animal-friendlydisinfectants will helpprevent build of pathogens inthe farm environment.Removal of organic matterfrom surfaces with hot wateror a high-pressure sprayer isa highly recommended wayof cleaning. Disinfectants areusually selected based on themechanism of action,presence of organic matter,water quality, pathogens,dilution rates, corrosiveproperties and animal safety.Employment of accurate

biosecurity protocols willultimately ensure the bestresults for any sector oflivestock farming.

Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas is thedirector and founder of CharisVets. He is a licenced veterinarypractitioner in the kingdom ofBahrain.

ANIMAL HEALTH

Witness a 20% larger event than its predecessor in 2015

Meet over 220 exhibitors from all over the world

Witness products and services on display from more than 30 countries

See country pavilions by China, Spain, The Netherlands and Pakistan

See veterinary products at the co-located VET Middle East event

Attend seminars, conferences and business networking sessions

Secure an opportunity to see the leading names

in agribusiness and related industries under one roof.

For more information contact : [email protected] www.agramiddleeast.com

OFFICIALLY ENDORSED BY THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND WATER

13 - 15 March 2O16 Dubai International Convention

and Exhibition Centre

VISIT AGRAME TO:

• Fertilizers

• Hydroponics Equipment & Supplies

• Irrigation Systems & Equipment

• Pesticides & Chemicals

• Seeds & Seedlings

• Water Pumps and Technology

• Additives

• Breeding and Laboratory

Services

• Farm Systems

• Feed Supplements

• Hatchery Systems

• Veterinary Supplies

• Aquatic Pest Control

• Cages

• Fish Nets & Containment Equipment

• Hatcheries & Fingerling Supplies

• Processing & Packaging Machinery

• Seafood Cleaning

• Components, Spare Parts

and Accessories

• Machines & Equipment

• Mobile Loading Machines

• Multifunctional Machinery

• Tractors

CEL

EBRATING

Serving theagricultural industry

in the Middle East.

WHAT WILL YOU SEE

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

Entry is FREE for visitors – Register online now!

Officially Endorsed by Organised by Supported bySponsored by


The privately owned firm,DOMINANT CZ, offersa choice of coloured

layer hybrid DOMINANT CZprogrammes for egg productionand cockerels festive meal. Allof the parent stock programmesuse auto sexing for easysegregation of day old hen andcockerel chicks.

The strategy of the selectionprogramme is to support theadaptability, flexibility androbustness in the bird for avariety of productionconditions.

DOMINANT CZ'sprogrammes are more than 20years old and have been used inmore than 45 countries on fourcontinents.

DOMINANT CZ's birds areused as grandparents, parents

and final hybrids in differentproduction systems - forexample in large cage basedfarms in Nigeria, Uganda,Kazakhstan and Ukraine and inecologically sensitiveproduction systems inSwitzerland.

Our programmes guaranteeoptimal productivity in smallscale family farming systems inmany European countries aswell as in Africa and Asiacountries in different productionsystems.

The company aims toimprove and produce from itsown original layer programmesproducts that will perform indifferent management, feedingand environmental conditionsanywhere in the world. Thehigh flexibility and adaptability

of ourprogrammesprovides health,productive birds.Regular testing of DominantCZ's programmes under avariety conditions invariablyproduces positive results.

Although our birds differ intheir colour, key characteristicssuch as growth, feedconsumption and egg productionare similar. This is beneficial forcertain breeder customers whowish to offer a variety ofproducts to their customers.

DOMINANT OFFERS A CHOICE OF COLOURED LAYER

POULTRY


DOMINANT CZ provides a 'onestop genetic shop'.

Currently our selectionstrategy is focusing on birdtemperament, good feathercover throughout lay, high eggproduction of some 300 eggsper year, higher egg weight atthe start of laying period(important for parent stock),high numbers of hatching eggs,strong day old chicks at thecommercial product level.

Adaptability and flexibilityof our programmes gives manycustomers an economicaladvantage in the harshenvironmental conditions ofdeveloping countries and insmall scale egg productionoperations around the world.

The history and tradition oflayer selection inCzechoslovakia commenced in1928. The first closed lineswere produced in 1955 at theDobrenice Research Stationunder the DOMINANT name.Selection uses internationallyrecognised genetic principlesand latterly their geneticists

have applied biologicalprocesses to practical selection.

Since 1989, after the politicaland economic changes inCzechoslovakia, the results ofthis breeding programme havebeen internationally available viathe sales and export of day oldsto countries such as Switzerland,Germany, Italy, Poland,Slovenia, Lithuania, Ukraine,Bangladesh, Angola, Nigeria andEcuador.

DOMINANT CZ co-operateswith universities and animalresearch institutes to apply thelatest technologies to layerselection. In doing this everyeffort is put into keepingflexibility and robustness in thebreeding programmes so thatour birds will be suited fordifferent and suboptimal feedingand production practices.

Within this importance isplaced on maximalhomogeneity andstandardisation of all colouredDOMINANT CZ programmes.This results in similar growthparameters and final bodyweights because of the common

synthetic background of all ourpure lines. These were derivedfrom Rhode Island, Sussex,Plymouth Rock, NewHampshire and Leghorn lines.

Breeding strategy aims tomaximize yield from parentstocks by the production of largenumbers fertile hatching eggs.

Day old chicks are exportedupon the signing of the contractwith DOMINANT CZ fromLihen Studenec Ltd's hatchery.The minimum number of dayold chicks for an export is 500.Specialised trucks are used forshipments of less than 1500km. International shipments aredespatched by air from Prague,Munich, Frankfurt a/M,Amsterdam or Paris. Day oldchicks are vaccinated againstMarek's disease using abivalent vaccine.

For more information visitwww.dominant-cz.czDOMINANT CZRNDr. Milan TyllerTel.: +420 602 642 557Fax: +420 466 942 175Email: [email protected]

POULTRY

3 1GULF AGRICULTURE


Vencomatic introducesits renewed grouphousing system for

hatching egg production: theVeranda Breeder. This royalclass housing system offers 5star accommodation for broilerand layer breeders. Bycombining a high level ofautomation with the use ofvertical space, the system

offers the most efficientproduction of high qualityhatching eggs.

Meets the requirements ofmodern breedersThe new Veranda Breeder hasbeen designed to meet therequirements of modernbreeders, and fully complies toEuropean standards for animal

POULTRY

VERANDA BREEDER: ROYAL CLASS BREEDER HOUSING

THIS ROYAL CLASS HOUSING SYSTEMOFFERS 5 STAR ACCOMMODATION FOR

BROILER AND LAYER BREEDERS. BYCOMBINING A HIGH LEVEL OF

AUTOMATION WITH THE USE OFVERTICAL SPACE, THE SYSTEM OFFERSTHE MOST EFFICIENT PRODUCTION OF

HIGH QUALITY HATCHING EGGS


welfare. Birds are housed in ahealthy environment and havecontrolled access to ascratching area, where they areable to perform their naturaldust bathing behaviour.

First class eggsHigh numbers of first classeggs is the key to success inbreeder housing. Excellent eggquality is guaranteed with theintegrated nest box that closesat night, which preventscontamination by the birds.Possible out-of-nest eggs rollto the nest automatically, asthe slats are sloping.

The manure falls onto amanure belt and is transportedout of the house frequently.Ammonia and fine dust levels

are extremely low, improving ahealthy climate for both birdsand employees. Next to aperfect climate, the birds arehoused on hygienic slats. Thisreduces the contact of birdswith manure, thus improvingbio-security, and reducingexposure to pathogens.

Optimum working conditionsOn top of a royal classenvironment for the birds, theVeranda also ensures optimumworking conditions and requiresminimum labour. Employeesare no longer working among

the birds, and benefit from ahighly controlled workingenvironment. This all togethermakes the Veranda Breeder themost modern breeder housingsystem on the market.

Vencomatic Group is knownfor its innovative andsustainable systems for thepoultry industry. Combiningthree well-known brands -Vencomatic, Agro Supply andPrinzen - Vencomatic Groupoffers a full range ofinnovative systems for alltypes of poultry farmsworldwide.

POULTRY

3 3GULF AGRICULTURE

Come and see us on VIV MEA: Hall 5, stand E023.For more information please find the video on our YouTube-channel, visit www.vencomaticgroup.com

Grando Nest

Veranda Breeder

PSPC 7

For more information 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 fi eld 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

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


Farm animals and poultrycan carry a range ofdiseases, some of which

can be passed onto humans.These diseases are known as'zoonoses'. Transmission mayresult from direct contact withdiseased birds, contaminatedfeaces, or through consumptionof contaminated farm produce.Therefore, the consistent practiceof proper animal care, goodfarmer hygiene and sanitationwill minimize the occurrence oftransmission of diseases from theanimals to humans. Somediseases that might be transmittedfrom poultry to human are :

Avian influenza (AI)Avian influenza viruses are verycontagious among birds and

some of these viruses cansicken and even kill certaindomesticated bird speciesincluding chickens, ducks, andturkeys. Infected birds can shedavian influenza A viruses intheir saliva, nasal secretions,and faeces. The primary riskfactor for human infection hasbeen direct contact with live ordead infected poultry, but a fewcases have resulted fromconsumption of uncookedpoultry products. The signs andsymptoms in humans haveranged from conjunctivitis toinfluenza-like illness to lowerrespiratory disease.

A potential future threat topublic safety comes from theability of AI viruses toexchange genetic material with

human or other animalinfluenza viruses. This couldcreate a new virus that humanshave little or no immunity tothat can spread easily betweenpeople. Good farming practicesare essential to reduce the riskof illness and to prevent themspreading during an outbreak.

SalmonellaSalmonellae bacteria arecapable of causing enteritis andsepticaemia in birds. Infectedanimals may produce meat,milk or eggs containingSalmonella. Feed contaminationwith Salmonella is known to bea source of infection for poultry.Therefore, it is recommended tomonitor the Salmonella statusof poultry feed, and if found

POULTRY

By Dr. Rajani Rajesh,BVSc & AH

ZOONOSES ASSOCIATEDWITH POULTRY FARMING

EXCLUSIVE


positive to take correctivemeasures. The use of heat-treated feeds or feeds subjectedto other bacteriostatic orbactericidal treatment isrecommended (e.g. organicacids). Vaccination can be usedas part of an overall Salmonellacontrol programme.

Salmonellosis in humans iscaused by the ingestion of foodcontaminated with Salmonellatyphimurium in poultry meatand Salmonella enteitidis ineggs. It is one of the mostsignificant causes of foodpoisoning in humans. Propercooking kills Salmonellabacteria in meat and eggs.

CampylobacterCampylobacter bacteria tend tomultiply in large numbers in thehindgut of chickens, mainly inthe ceca. Insects and rodentspromote transfer of theCampylobacter infection fromthe general environment intothe poultry buildings. Theantibiotic treatment, phagetherapy, competitive exclusionand vaccination have beenadapted at the farm level toreduce colonization ofCampylobacter in poultry gut.It is a main cause of enteritis inhumans. Effective sanitation ofdrinking water, sourcing ofwater from high qualitysupplies, avoidance of contactwith pets and other species,good hygienic practices bypoultry handlers. All poultryshould be cooked to reach aminimum internal temperatureof 165°F to prevent infectionthrough infected meat.

Escherichia coliE-coli is present in a widerange of animals, from poultryto cattle. E. coli is anopportunistic pathogen that canproduce a variety of symptoms

in commercial poultry. E. coli ispresent in the birds and thepoultry house environment andinfects birds. However, ifgrowers provide birds withproper house environment,ensure that they have easyaccess to feed and water as wellas limit exposure to pathogens,E. coli infections can be limitedor eliminated. Infection tohumans is caused by eatingcontaminated food or contactwith faeces. Good personalhygiene is essential inprevention of the disease.

Mycobacterium avium It is closely related to the humanand bovine tuberculosis bacteria.In humans, M. avium infectionscan cause local woundinfections with swelling ofregional lymph nodes.Transmission occurs primarilythrough aerosolization andinhalation of the agent in driedbird droppings and contaminatedsoil. The infection is mostsevere in immunocompromisedindividuals. The generallyaccepted methods for controllingavian tuberculosis in poultryinclude identification anderadication of infected birdsusing intradermal tuberculintesting, replacement ofcontaminated housing andequipment, and isolation of newstock from the contaminatedenvironment by rearing andmaintaining new stock on wireor concrete floors. Avoidingovercrowding and otherstressors, and ensuring that thebirds are fed a nutritionallycomplete and balanced diet arealso important in minimisingthe incidence and impact ofthis disease.

Newcastle disease Caused by avianparamyxovirus. The best

protection against the disease inbirds is vaccination. Clinicalsigns in humans includeconjunctivitis and possibly mildflu like symptoms. Infectionsare usually self-limiting withsupportive care.

Here is a checklist to decreasehuman health risks:

� Wear respiratory protectionwhen appropriate.

� Wear gloves when handlingbirds, animal tissues, bodyfluids and waste and washhands after contact.

� Wear dedicated protectiveclothing such as a lab coat orcoveralls when handling birds.Launder the soiled clothingseparate from your personalclothes and preferably at theanimal facility.

� Keep animal areas clean anddisinfect equipment afterusing it on animals or inanimal areas.

POULTRY

3 5GULF AGRICULTURE

Nutriplus commodities FZCO isone of the leading internationalcommodities trading companies

in the feed ingredients and raw materialsupply in the Middle East.

Based in Dubai, Nutriplus isinvolved in trading, indenting andrepresenting for International exportersand reputed producers of feedcommodities in the USA, Europe etc.

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

“We are now adding new markets toSudan, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Egypt andIndia. Our recent participations at tradeshows of these countries made ourmarkets entry more viable”.

“Respecting our commitment anddedication, our buyers and sellersalways trust and keep confidence on uswhich make us regularity andconsistency in our business”. This isdue to our past performance which wehave achieved through our long termsupply chain relationship with oursuppliers in International Commoditymarkets and buyers in the Middle East.

“The major feed raw materials andingredients we supplying are Amino

Plus Soy by pass Protein, MegalacRumen Protected Fat, DDGS(Distiller's Dried Grains), Corn GlutenMeal, Whole cotton seed, Sugar beetpulp pellet, Soya bean Meal, Yellowcorn, Feed barley, Fish meal, AlfalfaHay, Amino Acids, MCP/DCP etc.

Nutriplus Commodities is growingyear by year and adding new innovationsto its business practice. The company isunder expansion and entering intodifferent sectors of markets related toDairy / Poultry and Feed industry.

The introduction of BCFTechnology, Ultra Sound and X-Ray

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

In the Poultry sector we successfullylaunched and the result is establishedby introduction of All Natural Fliescontrol barrier for repel and kill flies inthe barn and poultry house.

Entry as an Amino acid supplier at theend of 2014, we got remarkableopportunity to supply our newly launchedDL-Methionine and L-Lysine for thepoultry sector. Proven result has beenshowned for the growth and performanceof broiler farms in the poultry sector.

Our special program for comingyears is to introduce specializedadditives, supplements, vet accessoriesfor farm and feed industry. Some of theselective products we started alreadyand adding as our new innovation areBio-Chlor for Rumen Fermentation,Trace Mineral ingredients such asMagnesium Oxide, Sodium bicarbonate buffer etc.

Our goal as a total farm and feedsupporting service, we are in thediversification of value added productsuch as Milking Parlor, DairyProcessing Accessories and Tools forMobile Milking Machine and CriticalSpare parts and replacements.

Specialist inFeed Raw

Materials &Ingredients

Nutriplus Commodities FZCO

EXPANSION in innovativeadditives & Supplements, FarmEquipments & Tools and concept

of unique Dairy & PoultrySupply Chains

‘‘

ANIMAL FEEDS

Megafat 88MegalacCalf and Lamb MilkreplacerToxin Binder

Liquid VitaminsAcidifierOmega 3 Supplements


Royal Philips (NYSE:PHG, AEX: PHIA), theglobal leader in lighting,

is helping rose growers increaseyields and improve the qualityof the most romantic, yet light-intensive flower in the world.Philips GreenPower toplightingLED solution brings more lightfor the same amount of energy,optimized light spectrum and asignificant reduction in radiatedheat. Recently, Philipsannounced that three major cutrose producers from Belgiumand The Netherlands haveinstalled GreenPowertoplighting and are usingPhilips' light recipes to obtainsignificant improvements.

Philips GreenPower LEDtoplighting, introduced in July2015, enables higher yields,greater quality and lower coststhan other available solutions.LED toplighting is 50% moreefficient in convertingelectricity to light (up to2.7μmol/Joule) than highpressure sodium (HPS) systemsthat have been prevalent in themarket. The new solutionallows growers to give cropsthe optimum light levels,reducing radiated heat andincreasing yields. Plant qualityis improved because each plantgets the right light spectrum foroptimal growth anddevelopment. Growers can alsoreduce operational costs, seeing

up to 42% energy savingscompared to HPS lighting,lower installation costs andmaintenance costs.

“There is a growing amountof scientific evidence showingthe benefits of LED toplightingfor the floriculture business,”said Udo van Slooten, GeneralManager of Philips HorticultureLED Solutions. “Thistechnology is particularlyinteresting for rose growersbecause their crops requiresome of the highest levels oflight in the floriculture industry.It's not unusual for roses torequire 4,000 to 5,000 lighthours in a year. Growers canuse LED toplighting to saveenergy, steer their climatebetter, create more lightinghours in spring, summer andautumn and get more growthand/or quality.”

The floriculture industry hasembraced Philips GreenPowertoplighting LED since it wasintroduced earlier in 2015, withmany leading growers installingthe solution in theirgreenhouses. LED toplightinghas been particularly attractiveto cut rose producers becausethey require more light hoursper year than other less intenseflowers.

“With LED toplighting, I canswitch on my LED separatelyso less heat is produced,meaning we don't have to vent

off excess heat and can leavethe windows closed longer,”Wim Scheers, owner of ScheersNursery said. “Keeping air

HORTICULTURE

FLOWER POWER - ROSEGROWERS IN FULL BLOOMTHANKS TO PHILIPS LED LIGHTING


inside reduces my costs, andalso helps me maintain a betterbalance because I'm notconstantly having to add extra

CO2 to compensate for what'sgoing out the window. I will beable to light my plants for morehours without raising the crop

temperature and retain moreCO2 which will increase mycrop growth and therebyincrease my quality or yields.”

HORTICULTURE

3 9GULF AGRICULTURE

The Australian company that was the first inthe world to conceive the round bottomwoven planter bag with handles, has

recently expanded to include new investors Geoffand Lina Stowe. They will be joining SteveTurner, innovator of the Easy-Fill ™ highestquality High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) wovenplanter bags. Steve is well known and respected inthe Horticultural Trade for his industry knowledge,quality products and long term customerrelationships. Together, as WHS Australia, theyhave expanded their product range to provide evenmore high quality horticultural products.

After almost 20 years, the Easy-Fill™ Planter

Bag remains the undeniably highest quality andlongest lasting planter bag. Many cheap imitationbags have been marketed since, but none hasstood the test of time and climates as well as theEasy-Fill™ planter bag . With close to 18 millionbags sold in over 20 countries, their reliability andstrength is without fail.

This product continues to sell well and is beingadopted by new markets, such as blueberries forits superior root growth, reliability and ease oftransport compared to traditional growingmethods.

WHS Australia is involved from themanufacturing of the HDPE products to the finalsale. This advantage provides quality control atevery level of the process. Building on theirexperience and reputation, a number of productshave been added to the HDPE range: Theseinclude, HDPE UV stabilised, lock stitched knittedShade Cloth, which is available in all shade factorsand has a minimum 5 year warranty. The Easy-Grow™ Hedge Bag is also a new addition. These1m long rectangular bags are ideal for planting andshaping hedges. They are easily transported dueto their durable carry handles.

One of the most exciting new products in thisrange is the high performance HDPEGeomembrane that is 100% made in Australiafrom Chevron Phillips Marlex® K307 MDPEHexene Copolymer. Industry applications for thisGeomembrane include pond and water featureliners. More generally these geomembranes areused in gas and chemical tank containment linersas well as landfill liners.

Of particular interest to Nurseries and Growersis their very high quality Weed Control Mat. It isalso available in a variety of widths, to helpcontrol weeds without the use of chemicals, butstill allowing air and water to penetrate through tothe underlay. It is UV Stabilised and provideslong life.

Obtaining good quality hardwood stakes thatare sourced from environmentally sustainableareas has become a global priority. WHSAustralia provides Indonesian V-Legal hardwoodstakes to the Horticultural Industry as well as FirstCut Bamboo canes for a variety of uses inHorticulture.

WHS Australia remains committed toproviding the highest quality products that itscustomers have depended on for almost 20 years.

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES EXPANDS


PLANTER BAGS

EASY-FILL™

WOVEN PLANTER BAGSWITH ROUND BOTTOM ANDEXTRA STRENGTH HANDLES

W H SA U S T R A L I A

A U S T R A L I AW H S

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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 AustraliaSuite 16350 Cambridge Street, Wembley Western Australia 6014

Postal AddressPO Box 70Wembley 6913Western Australia

General EnquiriesPh: +61 8 9287 0500 Fax: +61 8 9387 5962Email: [email protected]

whsaustralia.com.au

Panama disease is causedby the Fusariumoxysporum f.sp.

cubense fungus. One of theFusarium strains is called'Tropical Race 4' (TR4) andinfects many local bananavarieties as well as the widelyexported Cavendish banana,which is very susceptible tothis strain. The soil-bornefungus enters the banana plantthrough the root andeventually kills the entireplant. Banana-growing plotsinfested with the fungusremain contaminated for manyyears. It is then no longerpossible to cultivate bananason such a plot of land, as newbanana plants become infectedtoo. Large areas of bananaplantations in countries suchas Jordan, Mozambique,China, the Philippines,Pakistan and Australia are nolonger suitable for bananafarming, as they have becomeinfested with the Panamadisease fungus. There arecurrently no means ofcombating the disease; onlyquarantine measures canprevent banana plantationsfrom becoming infested.


RESEARCH

SPREAD OF PANAMA DISEASE INBANANA CAUSED BY ONE SINGLECLONE OF THE FUSARIUM FUNGUS

SCIENTISTS AT WAGENINGEN UR (UNIVERSITY & RESEARCH CENTRE) HAVE DEMONSTRATED THATTHE SAME CLONE OF THE FUSARIUM FUNGUS IS INFECTING CAVENDISH BANANAS IN SEVERALCOUNTRIES DOTTED ACROSS THE GLOBE. THIS SHOWS THAT THIS FUSARIUM CLONE,ALSO KNOWNAS TROPICAL RACE 4, IS CONTINUING TO SPREAD DESPITE THE QUARANTINE MEASURES, WITHDISASTROUS RESULTS FOR BANANA GROWERS. THE RESULTS FROM THE RESEARCH APPEAREDTODAY IN THE SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL PLOS PATHOGENS


DNA investigationThe researchers at WageningenUR analysed the DNA of manyfungus specimens from eightcountries where the fungus hasrecently been identified,including Jordan, Lebanon andPakistan, in order to trace howPanama disease has come tospread to different locationsacross the globe. The researchhighlighted that the strains ofthe fungus, which werecollected are geneticallyidentical. The strains are clones.Gert Kema, banana expert atWageningen UR, says: 'Thisresearch demonstrates that thequarantine measures and

information provided aroundthe globe apparently have nothad the desired effect.'

A tale of two clonesNot only the TR4 fungus strainis a clone: all Cavendishbananas also share the samegenes. Kema explains: 'TheCavendish banana is verysusceptible to TR4. Therefore,the fungus can spread easilydue to the worldwidemonoculture of Cavendishbananas. That's why we have tointensify awareness campaignsto reach small and large-scalegrowers in order to help themwith developing andimplementing quarantinemeasures preventing the fungusfrom continued spreading.'

Worldwide approach neededto stop further spreadingTo stop further spreading,Kema's team is working with alarge number of partners indifferent locations across theglobe to develop short-termsolutions for Panama diseasemanagement. Kema continues:'We are gaining more andmore insight into the scope ofthe issue. The ability toquickly identify infectedbanana plants and infestedsoils is extremely important inthis respect. However,eventually we have to come upwith long-term solutions,particularly host resistance,which can only be developedin strong multidisciplinaryalliances with various partnersand industry.'

The research was carried outby Wageningen UR incooperation with the Universityof Queensland and DiversityArrays Technology Pty Ltd inAustralia and the University ofFlorida in the United States.

RESEARCH

4 3GULF AGRICULTURE

THERE ARE CURRENTLYNO MEANS OFCOMBATING THEDISEASE; ONLYQUARANTINE MEASURESCAN PREVENT BANANAPLANTATIONS FROMBECOMING INFESTED

Massey Ferguson aworldwide brand ofAGCO

(NYSE:AGCO), is introducing anew range of 50hp-85hp tractorsfor selected African and MiddleEast markets. This latest movewill further strengthen itsproduct offering in the lowerhorsepower tractor sector inthese territories and offer abroader choice to farmerslooking for a rugged and reliablemulti-purpose machine. Inaddition, to complement thesenew MF 300 Series tractors, anew line of Massey Ferguson-branded implements is alsobeing unveiled for the region.

“Simple, yet powerful, the MF300 Series tractors are tried andtested, with a strong reputation forstraightforward operation androbust dependability - they areideally-equipped to meet thetough challenges of African andMiddle East agriculture,” saysThierry Lhotte, Massey FergusonVice-President Marketing,Europe/Africa/Middle East.“More than 1.5 million units

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

Affordable and economicalto run, these entry-level 'doanything' tractors will havestrong appeal as the main powersource for smallholder farmersor local community groupslooking to mechanise orupgrade their agriculturaloperations. The models can alsobe a valuable addition to amachinery fleet on larger farmsor estates requiring a cost-effective workhorse.

Initially, a choice of sixMassey Ferguson matchedimplements, coveringcultivation, planting andtransport, will be available forthe MF 300 Series. Theseinclude a 1.6m-width discharrow, 0.5m-width fixed-discplough, 2-tine subsoiler, 2-rowplanter, 3-tonne trailer andtransport box. Plans are in placeto develop and expand theimplement range according to

market demand.“As true multi-taskers, the

MF 300 Series are equallyadept at cultivation, planting,transport or yard duties,working across a wide range offarm sectors including arable,livestock and horticulture,”explains Mr Lhotte. “Low costof ownership, easy servicingand maintenance plus expertsupport from the MasseyFerguson local Distributorensure a fully-sustainable andinclusive farm mechanisationpackage.”

Consisting of six models intotal, three MF 300 Seriesmodels are set for release inearly 2016 - the 50hp MF 345

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


TRACTORS

two-wheel-drive (2WD), 75hpMF 375 (2WD) and 85hp MF385 (2WD and 4WD). Thelonger wheelbase 50hp MF 350(2WD), 60hp MF 355 (2WD)and 60hp MF 360 (2WD) willfollow later in the year.

Fuel-efficient power comesfrom Perkins 3-cylinder AD3.152 and 4-cylinder AD 4.41diesel engines. The well-proven mechanicaltransmission offers four gearsin two ranges to provide eightforward and two reversespeeds. Powerful hydraulicsare based on the renownedFerguson hydraulic 'ScotchYoke' pump delivering fulldraft, position and responsecontrol. Fingertip hydraulicoperation of implements aboveor below ground is by meansof the familiar quadrantcontrol. Lift capacities at the

rear linkage range from 1415-2145 kg. A dual-stage clutchensures efficient drive- andPTO- engagement, while theoil-immersed multi-disc brakesallow safe and securestopping. For reduced driverfatigue, the MF 350, MF 360,MF 375 and MF 385 modelsare fitted with power steering.

The MF 300 Series tractorsboast a spacious operator'senvironment equipped with aspring-suspension deluxe seat.All controls are well laid outand fall neatly to hand.Depending on the model, thetractors are available in footstepor semi-platform configuration.

As part of MasseyFerguson's globalmanufacturing strategy, the MF300 Series are being producedin Pakistan by Millat Tractorswho are a long-term partner ofMassey Ferguson with 50 years'experience building MF tractorsas a licensee manufacturer.Massey Ferguson engineersfrom the Beauvais tractormanufacturing facility in Franceare heavily involved indeveloping the MF 300 Seriesfor the Africa and Middle East

regions. In a related initiative,work has also started on thepotential localisation of MasseyFerguson sub-100hp tractorassembly in Russia.

“Massey Ferguson iscommitted to providing high-quality machinery andappropriate technology to suit alltypes of farm operations all overthe world,” adds Thierry Lhotte.“The new MF 300 Series fitsperfectly with our existingproduct offer in Africa andMiddle East markets. The rangerepresents a key element in our'three-segment tractor strategy'in the region to provide farmersat varying stages of developmentwith the right choice ofmachines across a spectrum ofpower and specificationrequirements. The MF 300Series will now provide anentry-level product in addition toour superb, higher specificationMF 400 series and brand-newMF 4700 Global Series.”


TRACTORS

4 5GULF AGRICULTURE


New Holland reaps a prestigiousaward at Agritechnica 2015: thebrand new T7.315 tractor was

crowned with the coveted “Machine of theYear” 2016 in the L category, title bestowedby a jury of 19 journalists representingleading European agricultural publications.The machine was rewarded for its technicalinnovation and the benefits it brings tocustomers, with selection criteria focusing oninnovative features, performance,productivity, cost of operation, ease of useand operator comfort.

Carlo Lambro, New Holland AgricultureBrand President, stated: “This awardrepresents an important recognition from theindustry of New Holland'sapproach to productdevelopment that focusesinnovation on meetingour customers' needswith technologies thatenable them to runtheir farming

TRACTORS

NEW HOLLANDT7.315 TRACTORWINS MACHINE OF THE YEAR 2016TITLE IN THE LCATEGORY ATAGRITECHNICASHOW


businesses efficiently, profitably andsustainably. The T7.315 rewarded istestament to our development teams'capacity to understand our customers'demands and provide effectivesolutions. We are particularly proud ofreceiving this awards this year, whenwe are celebrating New Holland's 120years of innovation in agriculture.”

“We are very proud of thisrecognition,” commented Sean Lennon,Head of Tractor and TelehandlerProduct Management. “We devoted alot of effort to developing this product:a tractor meeting the specific requestsmade by our customers. We askedthem what they wanted from their'ideal tractor'. They told us they would

like a top-of-the-range T7 with morepower that would also be capable ofhigh load jobs usually done byheavier tractors and of taking multi-tasking to a new level. The T7.315delivers on every point. This award isa well deserved recognition of thehard work and dedication of all thoseinvolved in the development of theT7.315, from our engineering teamsto the whole Basildon plant team,who set up a brand new dedicatedassembly line and new processes toensure consistently high quality onevery unit leaving the line.”

The T7.315 is one of two new

heavy-duty models that extend the T7Series to meet the needs of farmingoperations requiring the power of alarge-frame tractor with the versatilityand agility of a small frame machine.The T7.315 delivers versatility withoutequal for performing a wide range offield and haulage jobs, from row cropwork, baling hay or mowing to haulingmanure and other big chores. It alsofeatures the revolutionaryIntelliCruise™ tractor-baler automationthat enables New Holland's BigBaler tocontrol the tractor's speed to maximizeproductivity and bale consistency,making it the ultimate baling tractor.

TRACTORS

4 7GULF AGRICULTURE

Register for your complimentary entry pass todayat 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

Meet hundreds of solutions providers ready to increase your productivityWhether 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.

Strategic Partner Co-located withSponsors

VIV MEA 201615-17 February,

ADNEC Abu Dhabi.

Supporters

OF SUSTAINABLEAGRICULTUREINNOVATIONSI

YOUR

SHOWCASE

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 forumfor innovationsin agriculture

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