André Martins
General Manager in Koppert Andina
Since the beginning of this year, Koppert Brazil has gone through an expansion phase, taking over the management of Koppert Andina, which covers Chile, Colombia, Peru and Ecuador. In this exclusive interview, we had the privilege of speaking with André Martins, General Manager of Koppert Andina, to explore the details of this significant transition and better understand the impact and opportunities that come with this new leadership.
BioJournal What is Koppert’s strategy to expand the use of biological products among producers and to increase production and productivity?
André Martins: Peru is notable for its fruticulture, being the largest producer of blueberries and one of the main exporters of fruits, making it our target market. Besides this, there is also a significant presence of sugarcane, although on a smaller scale than in Brazil. Chile also has a strong presence in fruticulture, horticulture and tomato cultivation. In Colombia we are involved in the production of roses and ornamental flowers, with future plans to expand into crops such as coffee, avocados and other fruits. In Ecuador, organic bananas, cocoa and sugarcane dominate and
represent a growing market. In addition, the seed market with production in Chile and Peru is a big opportunity for Koppert.
Speaking of team, how is the expansion process going?
We are currently using the existing team while we restructure the work. We aim to start growing our workforce from 2025 as part of our change in operational approach. We are focused not only on strengthening our sales and market development team, but also on improving our distribution strategy to reach even more manufacturers.
What does Koppert Global expect in terms of leadership in Brazil?
Thanks to the logistical proximity we now enjoy, we are planning to introduce
INTERVIEW
4
some Brazilian products in the Andean countries. By converging our logistics, we aim to ensure more competitive prices and faster deliveries. Our intention is to successfully apply the experience we have gained in Brazil and in the Andean countries.
What are the expectations for market expansion?
Over the next three years, we aim to achieve approximately 10% of Koppert Brazil’s revenue in the Andean countries. With the introduction of new products, we want to exceed this goal.
What have you felt so far living in Chile?
Brazil is the world leader in the use of biological products, with an adoption rate of around 30%. In the Andean countries, this percentage is significantly lower and ranges from 7 to 8%. However, we are seeing an increasing acceptance of biological products in this region, indicating a positive trend for their future adoption.
What challenges have you faced?
We are currently faced with the challenge of working with producers who are still skeptical about biological products.
Do any of the four countries stand out?
Fruticulture in Chile is a highlight field. Large companies in the sector, which are important exporters of agricultural produce, have shown excellent receptivity to biological products. I can see a greater ingress of these products in the Chilean market.
Are producers really aware of the rapid growth of biological products in Brazil or are they surprised?
Most people are not aware of the rapid growth that Brazil is experiencing in this
field. They acknowledge that Brazil is well advanced in the field of biologics, but are unaware of the numbers behind this progress. When I present this data, they are impressed by the growth potential. In fact, everyone shares the desire for this progress as the market now prefers sustainable products. Previously, wine production in Chile was not often associated with sustainability, but today this way of thinking is becoming more prevalent.
I guess other cultures have this tendency too, right?
Absolutely. Major agricultural exporters are following the trend towards biological products, seeking to expand and commercialize a more sustainable production for their customers. The move towards biological products is irreversible.
And what is your daily life and your work like?
I’m currently living in Santiago, Chile. For the first few months I focused my efforts on Chile, although I was interested in all countries in the region. I have now also turned my attention to Peru, gradually deepening my strategy in each country.
How is the Koppert integrated System discussed in Chile?
Initially, they think it is full biological management, but it’s actually not. Today we have adopted integrated management, which combines chemical and biological approaches, and this helps to clear up misconceptions. By explaining to a company previously unfamiliar with biological products the potential to reduce the use of chemical products as well as the benefits to the crop, such as disease and pest reduction, the acceptance of biological products increases.
Have more traditional companies focused their efforts on the issue of bio-inputs in the Andean countries?
These companies are making efforts in this direction, although not with the same intensity as in Brazil. While Brazil is more advanced in this regard, other countries are progressing more slowly but following a similar trajectory.
How do you feel about agriculture?
Last year the situation for fruit production in Chile was unfavorable due to excessive rainfall in the Andean countries. This has led to a decline in productivity and prices. Currently, with the transition from El Niño to La Niña, a year with less rain is expected, indicating an expectation of excellent production and stable prices. This perspective also applies to Peru.
What message does this expansion send, the opportunity that Brazil is seeking in relation to the Andean countries?
I believe that Koppert will be able to share its expertise and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable agriculture in all Andean countries. This will result in better quality products that have less impact on the environment. It is extremely rewarding to be a part of this process and to witness its realization.
5 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
Koppert Brazil takes over the company’s operations in the Andean countries and now manages Koppert South America
In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in South America, Koppert Brasil took control of the company’s divisions in Andean countries including Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. This business expansion marks a new chapter in Koppert’s history, consolidating its position as a leader in biological control solutions in the region.
The Brazilian subsidiary, already responsible for operations in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, is now in charge of Koppert South America. Under the leadership of Commercial Director Gustavo Herman and Industrial Director Danilo Pedrazzoli, Koppert Brazil is ready to lead and drive the company’s growth throughout the region.
Previously, unit management in the Andean countries was supervised by Boards of Directors in the Netherlands and the United States. However, the centralization of management at Koppert Brazil aims to facilitate the implementation of biological control
and increase the company’s presence in South America. “The strategy is to centralize management so that with physical proximity we can accelerate the introduction of biological control and expand the company’s presence in these countries”, explains André Martins, General Manager of Koppert Andina.
With the integration of the bio-inputs produced in Brazil into the portfolio commercialized in South America, Koppert expects to achieve a 10% increase in its local revenue. Currently, the team working in the Andean countries consists of about 30 staff, but their number is expected to increase significantly from 2026 onwards.
The agricultural market in the Andean countries has its own peculiarities, with an emphasis on the production of fruit, ornamental plants, protected vegetables, coffee and sugar cane. However, Koppert will continue to offer a wide range of products, including around 30 bio-inputs imported from the
Netherlands. In addition, three Brazilian biological products - Trichodermil (Trichoderma harzianum), Boveril Evo (Beauveria bassiana) and Octane (Isaria fumosorosea) - will be introduced to the Andean market, demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing innovative and sustainable solutions for farmers in the region.
This business expansion marks a new chapter in Koppert’s history, consolidating its position as a leader in biological control solutions in the region.
COVER
6
Danilo Pedrazolli, industrial director alongside Gustavo Herrmann, commercial director of Koppert Brazil
7 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
INVESTMENT
Koppert receives strategic investment from HAL Investments to expand its global operations
Koppert, a leading provider of sustainable solutions for horticulture and agriculture, recently announced a strategic investment from HAL Investments worth €140 million in preferred share capital. This capital injection is intended to drive the company’s growth and strengthen its position as a leader in the agricultural biological solutions sector.
With an international network of subsidiaries and several production sites around the world, Koppert aims to promote healthier, safer and more productive agricultural practices. Through an integrated system of specialized knowledge and natural solutions, the company seeks to improve crop health and production.
HAL Investments’ investment will be primarily focused on expanding Koppert’s production capacity and working capital to support the company’s global growth. Furthermore, this strategic partnership opens doors for future investments and
strengthens Koppert’s position in the licensing and M&A market.
René Koppert, CEO of Koppert, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership: “We are pleased to welcome HAL Investments as a strategic partner and long-term investor. Together, Koppert and HAL share the vision of promoting positive change. This collaboration will accelerate our research and development initiatives, stimulating the creation of cutting-edge solutions for biological and sustainable agriculture.”
With the support of HAL Investments, Koppert hopes to accelerate its growth and make an even greater impact on global agriculture by providing innovative and sustainable solutions to challenges in the sector.
This collaboration will accelerate our research and development initiatives, stimulating the creation of cuttingedge solutions for biological and sustainable agriculture.
René Koppert CEO at Koppert
8
Koppert headquarters in the Netherlands
RECOGNITION
Technological Innovation Award: Koppert is Recognized at Fruit Logistica
Koppert received international recognition for its excellence in innovation at Fruit Logistica, the world’s most important event for the fresh produce and fruit industry. The company received the Technology Innovation Award for its advanced Mirical (Macrolophus pygmaeus) product release system developed by Dutch Koppert.
The new system not only improves the precision of the predatory insect’s application, but also demonstrates a firm commitment to sustainability by reducing the use of plastic by 99%. This achievement represents an important milestone in the agricultural sector and
underlines Koppert’s leading role in technology and innovation.
Since its foundation in 1967, Koppert has been a pioneer in research and development, tirelessly dedicating itself to creating solutions that make agriculture more sustainable, profitable and productive. Recognition of this award reinforces the company’s ongoing commitment to promoting environmentally responsible and efficient agricultural practices.
Koppert reaffirms its motto: “Biological is Koppert!” and continues to lead the way to a more sustainable and prosperous
agricultural future. With a proven track record of innovation and excellence, the company is committed to driving the agriculture industry to new frontiers of success and sustainability.
This achievement represents an important milestone in the agricultural sector and underlines Koppert’s leading role in technology and innovation.
9 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
Koppert representatives receive the “Technological Innovation” award during the event
Biological: the key to effective corn leafhopper management
The corn leafhopper is a very difficult pest for growers to deal with, causing significant yield losses and directly affecting the economic returns of crops. Spread from the south to the north of the country, this pest is a chronic problem that affects almost all corn growing regions, including Paraguay.
Controlling the corn leafhopper requires efficient and sustainable strategies.
It is in this context that integrated management with biological products, such as Koppert’s entomopathogenic Octane fungus (Isaria fumosorosea 1296), plays a key role.
As well as contributing to more balanced and sustainable management, Octane breaks down the pest resistance by helping to control its populations. “Today, Koppert has a tool that has made a very good revolution in the market so as to
contribute to the management of this pest by growers”, says Marcelino Brito, Market Development Manager at Koppert Brazil, regarding the bioinsecticide for the control of corn leafhopper. This strategy, combined with other measures such as appropriate seed treatment, selection of tolerant hybrids and planning of the planting period, helps to minimize the damage caused by the pest.
It is worth noting that Octane, applied depending on the presence of the pest, offers an effective solution not only for controlling leafhoppers, but also other pests such as thrips, spider beetles, rosette mite, cochineals and psyllids, making it versatile in a variety of crops where these pests occur.
According to Mauricio Passini, consultant and researcher, through integrated
Each bag of management invested results in an economic return of 5 to 10 bags of liquidity (...)
Maurício Pasini Advisor and Researcher
CHALLENGE X SOLUTION
10
The entomopathogenic fungus Octane (Isaria fumosorosea 1296) from Koppert
management with Octane growers can significantly improve the productivity and profitability of their crops. “Each management bag invested results in an economic return of 5 to 10 bags of liquidity and this is mainly related to maintaining a low pest population during crop development”, adds Passini.
Given this scenario, it is clear that biological products are an essential tool for integrated pest management, offering an effective and sustainable alternative to the challenges growers face in controlling corn leafhopper.
Visit Koppert’s YouTube channel and check out all the solutions and content aimed at managing
and other
Illustrative pictures. All rights reserved. 11 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
corn
crops!
Koppert
Biotalks: Recap of the first season and preparation for the next one
Koppert Biotalks journey is a rich journey into the world of sustainable agriculture, highlighting innovative practices, challenges and solutions for a more promising agricultural future. The first season, featuring diverse guests and trending topics, brought valuable insights and inspiring perspectives to producers and industry enthusiasts. How about a quick look back?
The first episode of the first season of Koppert Biotalks, which launched on 5 January, features Eduardo Leão de Sousa, CEO of CropLife Brazil. Sustainable agricultural practices and the impact of biotechnology on agriculture were discussed. On January 10th, Marcelino Borges de Brito and Glauber Renato Sturmer presented the challenges and opportunities of biological control in Brazilian agriculture. The
third episode featured Renata Potenza of Imaflora, who shared her thoughts on developing sustainable production systems and reducing carbon emissions.
Rodrigo Lima from Agroicone took part in Biotalks on January 17th and highlighted the vision for the future of Brazilian agriculture and the implementation of sustainable actions. On January 29th, Marcelino Borges de Brito and Mariana Ferreira Rabelo Fernandez examined the benefits of bio-activators for crop sustainability. At the end of the first season on February 21st, the guest was Dr. José Roberto Postali Parra of Sparcbio, who spoke about the role of research in expanding access to biological control.
We now invite you to join us for the next season of Koppert Biotalks which has started! The first episode is now available
and this time the focus is on planting high-quality sugar cane, with Dr. Marcos Landell and Leonardo Pereira.
New guests, relevant topics and stimulating discussions await you. Join us as we continue to strive for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.
com Renata Maron
NEW SEASON
Scan the QRCode and watch the new season of Koppert BioTalks.
12
Host Renata Maron on the set of season 2 of Koppert Biotalks
International Women’s Day: Recognition of the fundamental role of women in agribusiness
On International Women’s Day, Koppert promoted a series of actions to honor and recognize the importance of women in the agricultural sector. In a special initiative, several women from Koppert’s South American units were selected to represent the entire class of agriculture professionals.
Through the eyes of these women and the many others who contribute to more sustainable agriculture every day, Koppert celebrates their talent, dedication and hard work. International Women’s Day is an occasion not only to recognize the achievements of women, but also to reflect on the challenges they still face in the countryside.
In this context, it is important to highlight the strength of women who nurture agriculture. With their remarkable presence and tireless determination,
Koppert Experience as a symbolic gesture of appreciation and recognition of women’s contribution to the development of agribusiness. This action not only marked International Women’s Day, but also highlighted the importance of promoting an inclusive and diverse work environment.
Koppert reaffirms its commitment to continue to support and value women in all spheres of agribusiness, recognizing their invaluable contribution to sustainable and productive agriculture.
HOMAGE
13 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
Metarril (Metarhizium anisopliae E9): Efficient control of the leafhopper Mahanarva fimbriolata
Metarril (Metarhizium anisopliae E9) has stood out as a highly effective microbiological bioinsecticide for controlling the leafhopper mahanarva fimbriolata(Mahanarva fimbriolata), a pest that affects many crops. With its innovative and effective formulation, Metarril offers just the right dose to control this pest, providing a safe and sustainable solution for farmers.
This bioinsecticide acts at different stages of the leafhopper mahanarva fimbriolata life cycle, ensuring complete and long-lasting crop protection. In addition, Metarril can be used on all crops where leafhopper mahanarva fimbriolata occurs, offering a versatile solution that can adapt to growers’ needs.
The product’s main benefits include:
1) Ideal for Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Metarril is an essential integrated pest management tool that enables effective control of leafhopper mahanarva fimbriolata while maintaining the balance of the agricultural ecosystem.
2) Suitable for dealing with pest insect resistance to chemical insecticides
Continuous use of chemical insecticides can lead to the development of resistance by pests. Metarril offers an effective alternative for tackling this resistance, helping farmers to diversify their pest management strategies.
3) Preserves natural enemies of pests
Unlike chemical insecticides, which often have harmful side effects on pests’ natural enemies, Metarril preserves the biodiversity of the agricultural environment, contributing to a more balanced and healthy ecosystem.
CHALLENGE X SOLUTION
14
With Metarril, farmers can rely on an effective and sustainable solution to control leafhopper Mahanarva fimbriolata, ensuring the health and productivity of their crops.
Illustrative pictures. All rights reserved.
The pest (Mahanarva fimbriolata) colonized by Metarril® when growing sugarcane in the interior of São Paulo. Photo: Koppert Brazil collection.
15 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
SUSTAINABILITY
Strategic partnership for sustainable agriculture signed between Koppert and IBRAHORT
Koppert and the Brazilian Institute of Horticulture (IBRAHORT) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at promoting sustainable practices in agriculture. This alliance aims to deepen the understanding of the horticulture sector and align strategies to contribute more effectively to farmers, especially in terms of the conscious use of biological resources.
According to Fernando Giglioli, Regional Marketing Manager of Koppert, “through this initiative with IBRAHORT we are putting Koppert at the forefront of the main manufacturers in the Brazilian horticulture chain”. Giglioli also points out that this partnership will give Koppert direct access to the horticulture value chain, while helping the sector to better understand and use biological produce, responding to growing consumer demands for more sustainable practices.
The first joint action is already scheduled for April 19th, during the second IBRAHORT National Meeting in Holambra (Sao Paulo). On this occasion, Koppert will deliver a lecture titled “Bioinputs - An Innovative Direction in Plant Protection” in which he will discuss the importance and benefits of bio-inputs in horticulture.
To formalize the partnership, Manoel Oliveira, Director of IBRAHORT, visited Koppert’s headquarters in Piracicaba (SP) where they discussed mutual commitments and planned joint actions for the year.
This partnership reinforces Koppert and IBRAHORT’s commitment to more sustainable, efficient and productive agriculture that benefits both producers and the environment.
16
Felipe Ichihara, Innovation Manager, Alexandre Mistrello, Market Intelligence Coordinator, and Fernando Giglioli, Regional Marketing Manager, received Manoel Oliveira, IBRAHORT Director in Piracicaba
KOPPERT’S RECEPTIONS
Check out the visits we received last quarter
Our reception welcomed partners, customers and experts who visited Koppert’s production units in Piracicaba (SP) and Charqueada (SP). The project aims to present the structure and quality of Koppert to visitors who have the opportunity to visit the R&D laboratories and the microbiology, macrobiology and formulation factories.
We would like to thank the representatives of Coplacana and Usina da Pedra (01/30), Suprema Agro, Soma Agropecuária (02/21), the Government of Quebec, Agroazul (02/21), Grupo Viterra (02/02), Valor Agrícola, Fazendas HP, FC Consultoria, Apoio Agrícola and Fazenda Invernadinha (03/05) for their presence.
30/Jan 29/Feb 05/Mar 21/Feb 21/Feb 17 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
TRADESHOWS AND EVENTS
Koppert’s presence stands out at events in Brazil’s main manufacturing regions
January 10 to 12
Dinetec (Canarana/MT)
Koppert attends the biggest events, tradeshows and congresses in Brazilian agribusiness. Together with partners, consultants and researchers, he brings the benefits of biological control to all regions of Brazil. See below:
January 11 and 12
Open Sky Soja (Sorriso/MT)
18
January 17 and 18
Safratec Londrina/PR
January 23 to 25
Dia de Campo Lar (Medianera/PR)
January 31st to February 02nd
Agrotec Integrada (Assaí/PR)
19 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
TRADESHOWS AND EVENTS
January 30 to February 02nd
Belasafra (Cambé/PR)
February 17
Dia de Campo PA Consultoria (Tangará da Serra/MT)
February 19 to 23
Congresso Brasileiro de Micologia (Belo Horizonte – MG)
20
February 21 and 22
Show Tecnológico de Verão
(Ponta Grossa/PR)
February 27 to 29
Show Tecnológico
Copercampos
(Campos Novos/SC)
March 06 and 07
Datagro - harvest opening
(Ribeirão Preto/SP)
February 26 to March 01st
Coplacampo
(Piracicaba/SP)
21 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
TRADESHOWS AND EVENTS
March 7 to 09
Koppert Experience (Rio Quente/GO)
22
March 7 to 09
AgroRosário (Correntina/ BA)
March 18 to 22
Showsafra (Lucas do Rio Verde/ MT)
March 12 to 15
FarmShow (Primavera do Leste/ MT)
March 14 and 15
RAV Adubos Real (Itapeva/MG)
23 BioJournal | Year 11 | Edition 01 | QUARTERLY 2024
PARAGUAY
Koppert launches
Trichodermil
1306 (Trichoderma harzianum) during Somax Agro’s Field Night in Paraguay
A world leader in biological solutions for agriculture, Koppert took part in Somax Agro’s Field Night event held on 13 March in San Alberto, Paraguay. The event brought together renowned speakers and enthusiasts from the agricultural sector for a day dedicated to innovation in the field, providing an excellent opportunity to highlight the benefits of biological resources.
During the event, the Dutch multinational revealed to the public and partners the launch of Trichodermil 1306 (Trichoderma harzianum) with its innovative suspension formula for concentrated seed treatment. The product is registered with SENAVE under number 7539.
Trichodermil 1306 is already a recognized brand in Paraguay, but has been improved with a new version
specifically developed for Seed Treatment (TS) and Industrial Seed Treatment (TSI) incorporating innovative technology in the FS formulation. This formula provides dual seed protection against fungi and phytopathogenic soil nematodes: Fusarium solani, Rizoctonia solani and Pratyenchus zeae
Operational advantages of Trichodermil 1306 include the FS formula, which allows low dosage and rapid drying, as well as high compatibility with other formulations and the ability to store treated seed for up to 20 days for seed treatments and up to 60 days for industrial seed treatments prior to sowing.
For agricultural crops, Trichodermil 1306 offers a number of benefits including better root protection against nematodes
and phytopathogenic fungi, improved crop health, enhanced root development, higher plant productivity and therefore greater profitability.
Koppert reaffirms its commitment to sustainable agriculture and plant health by providing innovative solutions that contribute to the success and profitability of farmers in Paraguay and around the world.
24
