May-June 2016 edition of Gulf Agriculture

M AY

ISSN 1751-8407

JUNE

2016 TM

YOUR GATEWAY TO THE MIDDLE EAST AGRIBUSINESS

VISIT US AT

STAND 10.504

AIR CIRCULATION IN HOT CLIMATE

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NEW INNOVATIONS IN URBAN FARMING

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MAKING THE CASE FOR WANGARA HORTICULTURAL: BIOSTIMULANTS AN INDUSTRY LEADER

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BEST ALTERNATIVE OF PLOUGHING

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A G R I C U L T U R E

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L A N D S C A P E

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2016 Irrigation n Show onference & Education Conference ention Center Las Vegas Convention ada Las Vegas, Nevada

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CONTENTS

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NEWS UPDATE

PAGE 04

AGRAME 2016: A GREAT SUCCESS WITH EXCLUSIVE LAUNCHES

PAGE 14

GLOBAL FOOD INDUSTRY GATHERING SEES OVER 5,000 COMPANIES

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GREENTECH 2016: A UNIQUE BLEND OF EXHIBITION, TRIALS AND NETWORKING WITH THE FOCUS ON INNOVATION AND KNOWLEDGE

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GLOBAL STRENGTH, LOCAL EXPERTISE

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NEW 92-102HP MASSEY FERGUSON 5700 COMPLETES GLOBAL SERIES FAMILY

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NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN SHEEP FARMING

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36 Editor in Chief Mohammed Nasser | Editor Marie Matthew | Associate Editor Andrew Thomas Assistant Editor Megha Mary Matt | Graphic Designer Elizabeth John | Production Manager Abdul Shareef Contributors Neville J. Chandler, Douglas Bott, Shakeeb Kolakadan, Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas Head Office Matt Media International Ltd, Woodgreen, London N22 5AR, UK. E-mail: gulfag@emirates.net.ae, Web site: www.gulfagriculture.com Middle East Office Al Saad Advertising & Publishing L.L.C., P O Box 25694, Sharjah, UAE, Tel:+971 6 5639494, Fax:+971 6 5639449.

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

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

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NEWS UPDATE

Phanes Group Launches Domestic Solar Specialist Green Energy Tomorrow Phanes Group, the international solar developer, asset manager and investment manager headquartered in Dubai, has launched a full service solar entity. Green Energy Tomorrow, will specialize in rooftop solar (distributed) and smaller-scale ground mounted solar systems in the United Arab Emirates and the GCC region. Green Energy Tomorrow is wholly owned by Phanes Group and its shareholders General Energy Solutions (GES) and Neo Solar Power (NSP) both from Taiwan - combining the extensive deployment, investment and financing expertise of Phanes Group, with the technology of its partners GES and NSP to scale up solar GCC. “Solar is gaining enormous traction in the GCC because it continues to represent clear value as a cost competitive, zero carbon, sustainable solution to rapidly growing energy demands and a smart way to mitigate the potential of rising power costs,” said Martin Haupts, CEO of Phanes Group.

“To realize the solar potential of the GCC, what's

important is that solar developers are engineered specifically to this market, offering full service solutions from consultation to design, deployment and investment, that de-risk solar and simplify the development process,” continued Haupts.

Phanes Group recently announced that it expected to install 500 megawatts of solar PV by 2018 around the world, from its base in Dubai. Among its growth plans are a number of projects in the UAE and GCC, as well a focus on international markets where regulations make it attractive to deploy solar technology, such as South Africa and Chile.

AIPH Forum hears how International Horticultural Expos benefit city development Over 100 delegates from cities and horticultural trade organisations from China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, UK, Netherlands, Germany and Sweden attended the first AIPH (International Association of Horticultural Producers) International

Horticultural Exhibition Forum held in China.

Taking place on 30 April, just after the opening ceremony of the 2016 Tangshan International Horticultural Exposition, the forum, organised by AIPH in association with the China Flower Association (CFA) and Tangshan Municipal Government, introduced the benefits of hosting such exhibitions and brought together those that have run such Expos in the past, those already preparing Expos for the future and those considering the potential for their own cities and countries.

Forum chairman and Secretary General of AIPH, Tim Briercliffe, told delegates, “When planned and implemented correctly then International Horticultural Exhibitions are able to bring many benefits to the host city and country and the horticultural industry. They are tools for city development, environmental improvement, improving quality of life, understanding cultural diversity, international communication and developing the horticulture industry.”

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NEWS UPDATE

Opening speeches from Mr. Ding Xiufeng, Mayor of Tangshan, Ms. Liu Hong, Secretary General of CFA and Bernard Oosterom, President of AIPH emphasised the benefits that have been gained by cities in China, and around the world, from hosting an International Horticultural Exhibition. Mr. Xie Guilin, Deputy Secretary General of Tangshan Municipal Government and Secretary General of the Executive Committee of Expo 2016

Tangshan, showed the importance that the government and citizens of Tangshan have attached to their AIPH-approved A2/B1 category Expo which is open until 16 October 2016.

The forum also heard from Mr. Li Fengli, the former Secretary General of the Organising Committee of the 2014 International Horticultural Exposition in Qingdao, China and Mr. Kevin Chung, Chairman of the AIPH Marketing & Exhibitions

Nutriad CEO Erik Visser with cows.

Nutriad launches multilingual website Europe head quartered Nutriad, producer of feed additives, recently launched a Portuguese; Chinese and Spanish version of its corporate website.

“This next step in our corporate communication will allow a broader group of customers to access information, about species and market trends in general and feed additives in particular, in their own language” stated Nutriad CEO Erik Visser. “This is important for us, as we want to be close to our customers around the world.”

“At Nutriad, we combine the knowledge and network of a global player with the flexibility and personal service of a small family company. On our website we invite visitors to contact our dedicated product specialists and local sales staff directly”, added Visser.

Nutriad delivers products and services to over 80 countries through a network of own sales offices and distributors. Supported by 4 application laboratories and 5 manufacturing facilities on 3 continents. Find out more at http://nutriad.com/

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Committee about the Taipei 2010 Expo in Chinese Taipei.

AIPH Expo Consultant, Mr. Sven Stimac, outlined to delegates the success criteria for Expos and how to avoid mistakes and Mr. Li Yangqiu of Doppelmayr Cable Cars outlined the options for utilising cable cars at Expos.

Seed industry calls for global coalition to strengthen food security Nations must unite in order to ensure crop diversity and safeguard global food supplies for a growing global population.

That was the message from the International Seed Federation (ISF) to representatives of governments, multilateral institutions, gene banks and foundations at the Crop Trust Pledging Conference in Washington DC on 15 April.

ISF Secretary General Michael Keller warned that without their support, we are in danger of losing crop diversity and limiting food supplies for future generations. “Central to this endeavor is the work of our plant breeders who depend on plant genetic resources to create new varieties,” said Mr Keller.

Mr Keller highlighted the need for a specialized global system to collect and store plant genetic resources to maintain crop diversity and strengthen global food security.

“The Crop Trust and the Access and Benefit Sharing Fund of the International Treaty are equally important and equally necessary in the global management and exchange of plant genetic resources from international gene banks,” said Mr Keller.

MAY JUNE 2016

NEWS UPDATE

Calling on stakeholders and Parties to support the conservation of genetic resources, ISF led the way with a symbolic financial contribution to be split between both funds, and emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation.

“The seed industry continues to strive for improved and accessible seed with increased resistance to disease and pests, and an increased ability to withstand environmental extremes, in order to strengthen food security in the future,” Mr Keller concluded. The Crop Trust, an international organization working to safeguard crop diversity, is an essential funding element of the United Nation's International Treaty on Plant

MAY JUNE 2016

Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), an agreement that includes 135 countries.

Mitas earns recognition as a John Deere “Partner-level Supplier” Mitas has earned recognition as a Partner level supplier for 2015 in the John Deere Achieving Excellence Program.

The Partner-level status is Deere & Company's highest supplier rating. The Prague based company was selected for the honor in recognition of its dedication to providing products and service of outstanding quality as well as its commitment to continuous improvement. Company employees accepted the recognition during formal ceremonies held on 13 April

2016 in Zweibrücken, Germany. Mitas is a supplier of radial agricultural tyres to John Deere's operation in Europe, Russia, United States and Mexico.

“Mitas has received the Partner-level award five times since 2004,” said Jaroslav Cechura, Mitas' CEO. Mitas supplies radial agricultural tyres to John Deere factories in Mannheim and Zweibrücken in Germany, Domodedovo in Russia, Waterloo and Augusta in the United States and Saltillo in Mexico.

“The Partner-level award from John Deere is an important acknowledgment of the quality of Mitas tyres and moreover the service beyond the product provided by the Mitas team,” added Lutz Rose, Mitas' key account manager for John Deere.

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NEWS UPDATE

Biocontrol in strawberry: bring a swirskii army at fighting strength In May and June growers may have to deal with a thrips peak. Preventative release of the predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii in combination with Nutrimite™ is an effective answer.

Growers of everbearing strawberry varieties better bear in mind that the end of spring and the beginning of summer is an ideal period for thrips to invade berry fields. The peak is usually observed around late May/early June.” Depending on areas says Julien Mourrut-Salesse, Manager of the Sustainable Crop Management Specialists at Biobest.

A rapid and massive pest attack requires an effective answer. In strawberry, the predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii is a trustworthy beneficial.

When thrips is already present on the plants and fruits, A. swirskii actively looks for thrips on flowers, leaves and fruits. But also in absence of thrips, the swirskii mite is extremely useful. Thanks to the application of Nutrimite™, Biobest's 100% natural food supplement made from a special selection of pollen, growers can bring their swirskii army at fighting strength before the pest arrives.

“Nutrimite™ contributes significantly to a successful preventative installation of swirskii in strawberry. We saw twice the population level compared to a situation without alternative food source.” says Julien. “This strategy is very effective especially against thrips that appear on the fruits. Moreover, a good population of swirskii also helps to control spider mites and whitefly, other important pests in strawberry.”

Practically, Julien typically recommends one swirskii sachet per two (linear) meters of strawberry.

Application of Nutrimite™ every 15 days will ensure a good installation of the mites. In some cases, a second introduction of swirskii may be useful.

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Suppliers who participate in the Achieving Excellence program are evaluated annually in several key performance categories, including quality, cost management, delivery, technical support and wavelength, which is a measure of responsiveness.

John Deere Supply Management created the program in 1991 to provide a supplier evaluation and feedback process that promotes continuous improvement.

Moeschle.de - MSD website newly launched As a result of the strong growth and development of international business activities in particular, MSD GmbH, Durbach, has recently completely revised its internet presence.

The main application area for steaming is in horticulture for weed control and the sanitisation of soil and substrate, but is also successfully used in agriculture, wine growing/wineries and in the superheated steam industry.

With the new website, moeschle.de, the steam procedures for sheet steaming, deep steaming, hood steaming, sandwich-type, substrate and compost steaming as well as steaming using fully automated machines are presented in detail with tips and tricks as well as statements of costs.

Furthermore, useful downloads on areas of application, steam systems and a brochure for horticulture will be provided.

Even an innovative, responsible design was considered for mobile users with Smartphones. All content and functions are also perfectly

presented on small devices.

The new website will be continually developed.

EIMA International: 2016 edition all sold out The entire Bologna trade fair center has already been allocated for the 42nd edition of the international exposition of agricultural mechanical engineering more than six months ahead of the opening. In spite of the addition of seven prefabricated pavilions to permanent facilities, it will no longer be possible to meet the requests for exhibition space still coming in from industries in the sector. Other than the Italian industries, manufacturers are arriving from Germany, France, the United States, Spain, Turkey and China for an event featuring exhibitors from 43 countries and expectations of visitors from 140 countries.

The first phase of the organization of EIMA International dealing with the demand for participation has been completed and the second phase has started, assigning the stands and optimizing exhibition areas in the trade fair quarters. The 42nd edition of the EIMA review - one of the world's most prestigious events in agricultural mechanical engineering, grounds keeping and the associated components sector scheduled for November 9th to 13th in Bologna - has raced through requests for participation arriving from national and international manufacturing industries to virtually commit the entire exposition area available. Six months ahead of the start, 95% of the 150,000 m 2 net, and 375,000 m 2 overall, have already been MAY JUNE 2016

NEWS UPDATE

assigned and for some sectors a waiting list has been opened. Beginning now is laying out the plans in the pavilions for the exhibiting companies and work on furnishings to ensure the most rational utilization of the areas.

To make room for some 1,900 companies taking part, seven temporary pavilions will be added to the 18 permanent pavilions and outdoor areas will be equipped for demonstration trials. With this level of participation, and considering that the most recent edition in November 2014 drew record crowds of 235,000 business people, this year's agricultural machinery exposition is certain to carry a

highly significant impact on Bologna, economically as well as for logistics, requiring city authorities, agencies and transport infrastructure to come up with plans for strengthening services for visitors. The logistics and system for welcoming all those arriving to the trade fair for the upcoming edition will take on greater importance in light of the event's increasing internationalization. Among the exhibiting companies taking part, 460 industries are coming from 140 countries.

Berlin, all fired up for fruit and vegetables The barbecue business is booming. It's becoming a lifestyle choice - more lavish,

more varied, and healthier! This trend will be reflected at Fruit Logistica 2017. Exhibitors can register for the world's leading international fresh produce trade fair until 31 July 2016.

Along with sausages, steaks and chops, vegetables and even fruit are becoming popular on the grill. As a side dish or entrée, this healthy barbecue choice is rapidly gaining popularity - not only for vegetarians!

This new trend offers enormous potential for the fresh produce industry, which will be coming together at Fruit Logistica on 8-10 February 2017 in Berlin. The world's leading trade fair for the fresh produce trade is the main

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NEWS UPDATE

international hub where new trends are set and innovative ideas introduced. The barbecue theme is nothing new at the trade fair. One example mentioned by Fruit

Logistica Global Brand Manager Wilfried Wollbold is the BBQ Grill-Mix produced by Eisberg. This company was honoured with the Fruit Logistica

Innovation Award 2014. "We look forward to seeing what innovations our exhibitors will showcase next year", says Wollbold.

Setting another new attendance record, Fruit Logistica 2016 attracted more than 70,000 trade visitors from over 130 countries. Companies are invited to register at http://www.fruitlogistica.de/en/ Exhibitors/Registration/ The closing date for registrations is 31 July 2016.

Actively involved in shaping the innovation process of the horticultural sector

FIAAP, VICTAM & GRAPAS asia 2016 becomes the international showcase for asia Once again FIAAP, VICTAM & GRAPAS Asia proved that quality counts! This was the early verdict of visitors, conference delegates and exhibitors alike. The exhibitions and series of accompanying conferences were again held in the magnificent BITEC venue in Bangkok.

The visitors were pleased at the number of exhibitors, the wide range of products on display, especially the newly launched products and also the high quality of the exhibition stands and the professionalism of the show staff. There were 223 exhibitors and co-exhibitors, from 28 countries. The show was sold out again and even 11% larger than the 2014 show.

Likewise the exhibitors were very satisfied with the visitors. Exhibitors were able to have serious discussions and negotiations with their clients and new potential clients that they had met at the show. The exhibitors also commented on the very high quality of the visitors and the wide range of countries from which they came.

In all there were 6,374 visitors, an all-time high for this show. An increase of 5% from the 2014 show. A very high proportion of the visitors were from outside Thailand, in fact 40%. These figures clearly demonstrate that the event is now Asia's international showcase for the feed and grain industries. A full post show report is expected in the next few months.

The conference delegates also confirmed the quality of the papers presented at the numerous conferences. The conferences had extensive programmes which were well received.

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How can the horticultural sector benefit from social trends? That is the central question addressed intensively at hortivation by IPM ESSEN. This new trade fair focuses on point-of-sale concepts and thinking outside the box. The event defines itself as a source of inspiration, match-maker and platform actively involved in shaping the process of innovation in the horticultural sector. The BGI workshop presentations play a major role, covering the topics “Garden Living” and “Urban Gardening”. Leading companies have agreed to take part.

From 13th to 15th June, everyone involved in the sale of plants will come together on the exhibition site in Kalkar. The horticultural sector is unanimous: sales of horticultural products must be increased. New ideas, new approaches and new channels are required. Hortivation by IPM ESSEN has reacted to the desire by growers, gardeners and retailers for MAY JUNE 2016

NEWS UPDATE

just such a platform. It creates the ideal framework for changing the “How?” into “Yes!”. The concept of the exhibition is not only that we think about the process of innovation jointly, but are actively involved in shaping it.

Alongside the exhibits, there is a plan to set up a “Speakers' Corner” with special presentations for the trade at which exhibiting companies can present their innovative sales concepts. This forum should also spark discussions and promote an exchange of ideas amongst everyone involved. Slots can also be filled by experts who are not exhibiting. If you are interested, please contact the

hortivation exhibition team on: phone: +49 (0)201-7244-226, email: hortivation@messeessen.de.

IFT-AGRO 2016 a success; survey shows wide-spread satisfaction IFT-AGRO '16 began on a high note when Chilean president Michelle Bachelet cut the ceremonial ribbon and welcomed an overflow crowd of agricultural industry leaders and officials including the Minister of Agriculture and the Ambassador of the United States, and concluded its fourday run with enthusiastic reports of customer interest and positive sales prospects.

After a five-year hiatus, during which no exhibition

devoted to agricultural equipment and food production was mounted in this fruit and vegetable powerhouse, IFTAGRO met the expectations of its organizers and the needs of the nearly 5,000 visitors who thronged the 8,000 square meter fair grounds in the heart of Chile's agricultural “bread-basket”.

According to Ricardo Ortega, CEO of Kallman Worldwide-Latam, organizer of the four-day conference and exhibition program, a survey of exhibitors and visitors reflected widespread satisfaction with the broad spectrum of products on display and the information conveyed in the series of conferences and panel

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NEWS UPDATE

Over 100 salespeople take part in Case IH Training Camp in South Africa Case IH recently hosted a Commercial Training Camp for over 100 salespeople from the African and Middle East regions. The two-week training session, which took place from the 5th to 14th of April, was held in Parys, South Africa.

The first week was dedicated to salespeople from South Africa and the second to salespeople from the rest of Africa and the Middle East.

The Commercial training camp provided extensive first-hand information on the Case IH product range and its advantages and included competitive comparisons. The training focused on products and sales features specific to the respective markets and their customers.

Highlighted products were, among others, the Axial-Flow 140 and 240 series, the Magnum and Magnum Rowtrac, Puma, Ecolo Tiger and True Tandem Turbo.

During the practical training, the participants had the opportunity to get behind the wheel and test drive Case IH tractors and combines. Participants were accompanied and assisted by Case IH Commercial Training experts. They were shown the latest product advancements and enhancements and encouraged to ask sales related questions.

“The training offered our dealers and

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their salespeople an excellent opportunity to experience in depth the Case IH product range and the power of the brand in the field,” explains Gavin Enright, Commercial Training Manager for Europe, Middle East & Africa.

The two-week Training Camp was rounded off with a Customer Day event with more than 400 visitors from Africa and the Middle East attending.

The practical training took place on the 13,000 hectare Cairo farm, belonging to a Case IH subdealer of Northmec (South Africa's dealer) who is also an important customer in the region.

Jaap Van der Westhuizen, dealer principal of Cairo Group, commented on the quality of the event and the high profile of its organization: “I would like to highlight the excellent job made by the training staff. They are all experts in their field. The passion and the knowledge they have for the products are of worldclass standard.”

“This kind of training gives salesmen and all the people involved a very good and fresh look at the newest improvements on the products, as well as their advantages. We also appreciated the hands on comparison between Case IH and other products on the market,” says Jaap.

discussions that ran concurrently. Ortega noted the invaluable support of the leading agricultural association, Agricola Central as well as the Chilean Ministry of Agriculture in organizing the event.

The three-day program of conferences and technical presentations consisted of 42 papers and panel discussions and drew standing-room only audiences, with a total of 2,100 farm managers and food producers in attendance.

The survey disclosed that firms such as Massey Ferguson, John Deere, New Holland and ConAgra met or exceeded their goals for the show. Many firms reported selling equipment from their exhibits at the conclusion of the show.

Europe and Central Asia set sights on better nutrition, sustainable agriculture Having made major strides in reducing the prevalence of hunger, many countries in Europe and Central Asia are now looking to improve the quality of people's diets and transform their food systems in order to adapt to climate change, optimize the use of natural resources, and cut waste.

The absolute number of hungry people in the region measured in terms of their caloric energy intake - dropped by at least 40 percent since 1990, FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva noted in a policy speech made at the start of the biennial FAO Regional Conference for Europe.

"But despite overall positive trends regarding food security, others forms of malnutrition still persist and continue to be a problem, affecting all the nations in this diverse region," MAY JUNE 2016

NEWS UPDATE

Graziano da Silva added.

For example, in 48 of 53 countries in the wider Europe and Central Asia region, the combined overweight and obesity prevalence in the adult population exceeds 55 percent, while relatively high rates of stunting continue to be seen among children in the Caucasus and Central Asia.

The good news, Graziano da Silva said, is that many governments in the region have already started taken steps that move beyond just producing more food and seek to transform food systems to improve food quality and people's nutrition.

Pointing out that a substantial number of the region's poor and malnourished people live in the countryside, the Director-General said that fostering dynamic rural

economies must remain at the heart of development efforts.

New pesticide guidelines seek faster phase-out of risky toxins FAO and WHO have released new guidelines aimed at reducing the damage done by pesticides that pose especially high toxic risks to human health and the environment.

Products with high acute toxicity account for high numbers of immediate poisoning cases, particularly in developing countries, while products with chronic toxicity effects may cause cancer or developmental disorders among growing children.

In industrialized countries, such so-called "highly hazardous pesticides" may be no longer permitted or subject

to strict use limitations, yet they often remain widely available in developing countries. Even hazardous products that still are permitted in industrialised countries can cause severe problems in the developing world, where use circumstances can be very different.

Small-scale farmers in developing countries in particular often do not have, or use, the necessary protective gear and mostly use back-pack sprayers that pose high risk of exposure.

Restriction on the use of such highly hazardous products often prove hard to enforce, leading to widespread use by untrained persons. High numbers of poisoning cases, contaminated food and environmental damage can be the result.

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AGRAME REVIEW

AGRAME 2016: A GREAT SUCCESS WITH EXCLUSIVE LAUNCHES

H

.E. Abdelrahim Al Hammadi, Undersecretary for Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, officially inaugurated AgraME, the region's leading agribusiness trade event.

This year's exhibition saw visitors witness over 1000 innovative products from over 280 local and international companies, with many of them conducting exclusive launches at AgraME! We look forward to making AgraME 2017 even bigger and better than ever before.

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The organising team would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our exhibitors, visitors, media partners, training partners, supporters and sponsors for your contributions and efforts, making AgraME 2016 the best to date.

This year's Agribusiness Outlook Forum featured keynotes by food safety regional experts, providing attendees the opportunity to gain experts' advice on the economics of agriculture in this region.

This year's Poultry Outlook

Forum invited animal health experts, poultry farmers, suppliers, entrepreneurs, and new business developers to see new scientific research presented and the industry growth analysis during the past 12 months.

AquaME 2016, in partnership with the World Aquaculture Society, and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, conducted the only conference in the region to represent the local and international aquaculture MAY JUNE 2016

AGRAME REVIEW

industry to discuss the business of aquaculture and its returns for investors.

This conference covered several important topics, such as: J Sustainable Desert Aquaculture J Hatchery Capacity Building J Microalgae J Proteoletic Enzymes Activity J Advanced Shrimp Farming J Controlling White Spot Syndrome J Bio-Marine Economy J Water-based Antifouling Konduko AgraME 2016 is delighted to be able to claim that it is the first exhibition in the region to introduce this groundbreaking technology.

The technology provided organisers, sponsors and exhibitors a 360 degree platform to deliver compelling content to their attendees, while collecting qualified data on visitor behavior and preferences at events. The crux of the solution was the Konduko Reader: a sensor placed in various locations around the venue for the visitors to collect information from with their smart badge. The readers, which were pre-loaded with relevant industry content, sent an email to the user while MAY JUNE 2016

engaged in exchange of the visitor's contact details. This digital handshake initiated a meaningful relationship, and also made AgraME 2016 more environmentally friendly with considerable savings on printing cost.

Global Partner Solutions Having listened to our 2015 exhibitors, we recognised an interest in seeing more visitors from countries, such as Nigeria and Kenya. AgraME 2016 then teamed up with one of Africa's best lead generation and exhibition analysis companies.

Expert analysis and input from GPS allowed us here at AgraME to fine tune our marketing campaigns, target the correct visitors, increase visitor numbers and qualityâ&#x20AC;Śall contributing to achieving the end goal of making AgraME 2016 a bigger, busier, and better show than ever.

AgraME | AquaME 2016 Awards AgraME-AquaME Awards celebrated the outstanding achievements of individuals, departments, teams and company success, rewarded achievements and recognised outstanding contributions at the prestigious AgraMEAquaME Awards.

GULF AGRICULTURE

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GULFOOD REVIEW

GLOBAL FOOD INDUSTRY GATHERING SEES OVER 5,000 COMPANIES

H

is Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance and Industry, formally opened Gulfood 2016- the 21st edition of the world's largest annual food and hospitality trade show - at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing and the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, Minister Alexander

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Tkachev of the Russian Federation's Ministry of Agriculture and a host of ministers, ambassadors and dignitaries from the UAE, GCC and around the world attended the show.

Gulfood drew a record trade attendance of more than 85,000 visitors from over 170 countries, including international heads of state, ministers, government officials and national trade associations from five continents.

The show featured over 5,000 companies from 120

countries, 117 trade and industry pavilions and spans in excess of 1.29 million square feet of exhibition space including three new DWTC halls - Za'abeel 4, 5 and 6 - and two purpose-built, temporary structures. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a strategic investment platform, Gulfood connects the world's leading food and hospitality industry companies and brands, national policymakers and innovative thoughtleaders,â&#x20AC;? said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, DWTC, organiser of MAY JUNE 2016

GULFOOD REVIEW

GULFOOD DREW A RECORD TRADE ATTENDANCE OF MORE THAN 85,000 VISITORS FROM OVER 170 COUNTRIES, INCLUDING INTERNATIONAL HEADS OF STATE, MINISTERS, GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND NATIONAL TRADE ASSOCIATIONS FROM FIVE CONTINENTS

Gulfood. “The show facilitates multi-million dollar transactions as the global food industry meets, networks, sources new products and trades out of Dubai - now one of the world's most prominent international trading hubs.

Gulfood is where the big deals are made, company to company and country to country.”

With GCC food imports currently worth $53.1 billion according to the Economist Intelligence Unit, Gulfood's global trading status has attracted the show's biggest tally of national and food export industry groups which, at 117, is five more than last year. These pavilions include first-time representation from Russia, Costa Rica, Belarus, Mauritius and New Zealand returning after a six-year break.

This year's expanded exhibitor line-up - participating via national and trade association pavilions or on dedicated company stands includes finished food producers, bulk commodity wholesalers, distributors and exporters, as well as the show's MAY JUNE 2016

largest-ever collection of hospitality equipment suppliers.

Gulfood 2016 also featured the Halal World Food showwithin-a-show and the globe's biggest, annual Halal food sourcing trade event. This year Halal World Food featured over 800 Halal food suppliers - 15% up on last year - vying for trade in a sector predicted to be worth US$2.537 trillion by 2019 according to the latest Global Islamic Economy Report.

“For the retail, foodservice, catering and hospitality industries, Gulfood presents an incredible opportunity to source thousands of new products, innovations in health and special diet, and an even wider range of ethnic and speciality foods - we anticipate tremendous interest in Halal food products this year as Dubai advances its status as an

Islamic economy hub,” added LohMirmand.

Gulfood 2017 will run at DWTC from 26th February to 2nd March 2017.

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19

GREENTECH PREVIEW

G GREENTECH FOCUSES ON THE EARLY STAGES OF THE HORTICULTURE CHAIN AND PRODUCTION ISSUES RELEVANT TO GROWERS OF FLOWERS AND VEGETABLES

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reenTech is the global meeting place for all professionals involved in horticulture technology in RAI Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

With over 350 international exhibitors including all market leaders and innovators, GreenTech focuses on the early stages of the horticulture chain and production issues relevant to growers of flowers and vegetables.

An unmissable event Knowledge is power they say, and ensuring that knowledge and best practice is shared, is one of the driving forces behind the show. By visiting Amsterdam, you join horticulture industry professionals from around the world zooming in on all the technologies required for producing crops throughout the horticulture chain.

GreenTech turns the spotlight

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GREENTECH 2016: A UNIQUE BLEND OF EXHIBITION, TRIALS AND NETWORKING WITH THE FOCUS ON INNOVATION AND KNOWLEDGE on innovations as well as proven-in-practice products, applications and solutions. All the technologies related to modern plant production will be on display, from seed to tomato or rose, ensuring professional flower and vegetable growers as well as manufacturers and

suppliers from around the world gather in Amsterdam!

Themes that matter Based upon close consultation with the horticulture and floriculture sectors, the organisers of GreenTech Amsterdam have established MAY JUNE 2016

GREENTECH PREVIEW

four connected themes for the event: Crops, Water, Energy and Biobased. Next to that the show includes a Vertical Farming Pavilion, a startup lane and Demo area for heavy equipment and machinery.

GreenTech Amsterdam 2016 launches the Crops Theatre, a 80 seat session theatre with a full focus on crops optimization. In close cooperation with eight market leaders and innovators, GreenTech 2016 will offer growers state of the art tools, products and solutions to optimize their crop. Next to these innovations, the knowledge programme in the theatre is aimed at offering practical solutions to optimize

any crop under any condition and circumstance.

Innovation is key Innovation and excellence will be rewarded at GreenTech. All exhibitors are invited to enter their most innovative concepts, products and technologies to be judged by an independent, international jury.

The nominees and winners will be presented in the InnovationLAB, especially designed to be an inspiring environment where pioneering products and other revolutionary ideas are presented and discussed by exhibitors and visitors alike, and where knowledge and experiences in the field of horticulture

innovation are shared freely. In the futuristic setting of the InnovationLAB, attendees will be able to browse the details of all Innovation Awards shortlisted submissions and winners on iPad tablets and evaluate the features and performance data that make them ground-breaking.

Secure free entrance now Register now to secure a free entrance ticket to GreenTech 2016 which will be held from June 14-16 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Please use code GRT720001 to ensure free registration.

For more information and registration, please visit www.greentech.nl/amsterdam

Metazet/FormFlex, your worldwide specialist in: • Harvesting Systems

• Tube Rail Systems

• Cultivation Systems

• Chain Track Systems

• Internal Transport Systems • Hanging Basket Systems • Hoisting Systems • Profiles www.metazet.com

MAY JUNE 2016

De Lierseweg 6 • 2291 PD • Wateringen • The Netherlands

Booth # 11.107 www.formflex.nl

GULF AGRICULTURE

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GREENHOUSE VENTILATION

THE ADVANTAGES OF AIR CIRCULATION IN HOT CLIMATE

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lants health under shelter depends on a complex set of microclimate conditions.

Ventilation systems in greenhouses play a key-role in this mechanism with various derived benefits.

The main purpose of a ventilation system in a greenhouse during summer or in hot climate in general- is to prevent the air temperature inside the greenhouse from rising too high above the outside temperature (it is commonly known as “greenhouse effect”). It may be caused by the large influence of the solar radiation through the glazing material.

A ventilation system can effectively move the air directly through the crop and over the soil to prevent excessive temperature buildups around the plant and remove the exceeding heat.

Let's have a look together at the common problems in a

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A VENTILATION SYSTEM CAN EFFECTIVELY MOVE THE AIR DIRECTLY THROUGH THE CROP AND OVER THE SOIL TO PREVENT EXCESSIVE TEMPERATURE BUILDUPS AROUND THE PLANT AND REMOVE THE EXCEEDING HEAT MAY JUNE 2016

GREENHOUSE VENTILATION

greenhouse without a proper air circulation: The main factor is definitely the air stratification inside the greenhouse. Everybody knows that hot air rises upwards, but with an efficient air displacement there should be no more than 2°F difference in the whole environment with a resulting large and positive impact on the morphology, physiology and reproduction of the plants.

Humidity levels in greenhouses is as important as temperature levels and the problem linked with high humidity rate are well-known: fungal problems, high incidence of Botrytis and water dripping off the roof and the wall. The air circulation removes moisture from the plant canopy, resulting in a drier microclimate.

Condensation is another ideal environment for disease organisms. Radiant cooling on clear nights will cool plants leaves several degrees below the air temperature but thanks to ventilation this difference will be reduced.

Otherwise, in daylight hours, the photosynthesis depletes the carbon dioxide that is in the boundary layer of air next to the leaf. Moving air will replace this depleted air with fresh one having higher carbon dioxide content.

To overcome all these problems, Pericoli Group proposes its air circulator ACF on the market: small size (available in 18, 21 or 26'') but outstanding performances.

Produced with highly resistant materials, it has been designed in order to ensure high energy efficiency and MAY JUNE 2016

excellent versatility.

Its narrow outlet cone is specifically designed to refresh the crops without affecting the plants or the thermal screen. Furthermore, air circulation is important to provide a healthy and safe environment also for the people working inside the

greenhouse. For this reason, ACF ensures low noise levels to grant productive labor condition for the workers.

Certified by Besslab, ACF is the ideal product to face the hot season in total security and get the best production output.

GULF AGRICULTURE

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GREENHOUSE LIGHTING

DEVELOPMENT OF NEW INNOVATIONS IN URBAN FARMING

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THE LED MODULES, WHICH CREATE LESS CONCENTRATED HEAT LOADS THAN HPS LAMPS, EVEN WITHOUT WATER COOLING, CAN BE PLACED CLOSER TO THE PLANTS RESULTING IN UNIFORM LIGHT DISTRIBUTION THROUGHOUT THE GREENHOUSE

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hilips Lighting, a Royal Philips company and global leader in lighting, has collaborated with The University of Arizona Controlled Environment Agriculture Center (CEAC) to test energy efficient ways to grow food that will help feed astronauts on missions to the moon, Mars and beyond. A recent study, conducted over a nine week period, found that replacing water-cooled highpressure sodium (HPS) systems with energy efficient LED lighting from Philips in a prototype lunar greenhouse resulted in an increased amount of high-quality edible lettuce while dramatically improving operational efficiency and use of resources. Lettuce grown under Philips LED modules achieved up to 54 grams/kWh of fresh weight, edible lettuce compared to lettuce grown under a high pressure sodium system which achieved only 24 grams/kWh of fresh weight, edible lettuce. This represents an energy savings of 56%.

“The lunar greenhouses equipped with Philips LED modules provided the light needed to produce the same amount of indoor crops that the specialized water-cooled sodium systems provide while significantly decreasing the amount of electrical energy

GULF AGRICULTURE

used,” said Gene Giacomelli, Ph.D and CEAC Director.

“Findings from this study are critical in that not only can it be applied to growing food in space but can be applied to farming techniques in places where there is a shortage of water and good agricultural land right here on this planet.”

Philips GreenPower LED toplighting was installed and programmed with a customized “light recipe” developed by plant specialists at Philips to optimize the results. Light recipes are formulated by taking into account a variety of factors including light spectrum, intensity, uniformity and relative position of the lamp to plant canopy. These are combined to develop specific plant characteristics such as compactness, color intensity and branch development.

In addition, the LED modules, which create less concentrated heat loads than HPS lamps, even without water cooling, can be placed closer to the plants resulting in uniform light distribution throughout the greenhouse. This ensures all plants receive the same level and quality of light resulting in better, more uniform plant quality and a more predictable yield. The Philips LED solutions also cool independently, which means no

additional investment is required in cooling water distribution.

“Dr. Giacomelli and his team at CEAC have been on the cutting edge of pioneering research that is uncovering new ways to grow crops in closed and controlled environments.

Results from this study will not only impact growing crops in space but will provide tangible sustainability benefits for indoor farming on our own planet,” commented Blake MAY JUNE 2016

GREENHOUSE LIGHTING

Lange, Business Development Manager of the Philips City Farming Division. “We know that it is becoming more difficult for traditional farming practices to keep up with the demand for high-quality, locally grown food, particularly in areas of high population density and with local water shortages.

The work we are doing is focused on driving innovation of new farming technologies that allow food crops to grow MAY JUNE 2016

in indoor environments, absent of natural light and in close proximity of cities and major population centers.”

“NASA has been working with universities for over 25 years to discover how the use of LEDs can support plant growth in closed environments.

Over that time we have used patented LED technology as part of the Astroculture plant growth chambers for the Space Shuttle and the International

Space Station (ISS), NASA's ground based Habitat Demonstration Unit, as well as NASA's VEGGIE plant unit on the ISS,” said Ray Wheeler, a NASA plant physiologist. “It is fascinating to see how LED plant lighting has expanded so rapidly around the world and continues to further develop as we have seen most recently with the Mars-Lunar Greenhouse Project at the University of Arizona.”

GULF AGRICULTURE

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GREENHOUSES

GLOBAL STRENGTH, LOCAL EXPERTISE

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ore and more international growers and investors find their way to the greenhouse construction companies in the Netherlands.

Knowledge and resources, to achieve the highest quality and production, are the main reasons for this. Frequently Dutch greenhouse companies complete greenhouse projects globally. The greenhouse construction company Debets Schalke was active in 2015 in 51 countries.

Last year Debets Schalke completed a turnkey greenhouse project of five hectares in Abkhazia. Besides the fact that

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this is the first modern largescale greenhouse construction project in Abkhazia, it is also unique that the greenhouse is heated using electricity.

In the "heat vision" of LTO Glaskracht Netherland the possibilities of (sustainable) electric heating in greenhouses are also discussed. In some parts of the world's sustainable energy is cheaper than energy from fossil fuels, but the reliability of the electricity network is too often insufficient. In the long term this could mean that there will come a point that sustainable (electrical) energy is an economical choice, because

fossil fuel is simply more expensive, even with the current low prices of fossil fuels. Greenhouse construction companies must adapt to the long and short term trend and realize greenhouses that are future-proof!

The completed greenhouse project of Debets Schalke is located in the western region of the Caucasus. An area with a mild climate with short and mild winters. The white coated greenhouse has a post height of 6.5 meters. A lighting system is installed, allowing the greenhouse to be suitable for year-round production for the Russian market.

MAY JUNE 2016

BIOSTIMULANTS

MAKING THE CASE FOR BIOSTIMULANTS B iostimulants, one of the fastest growing segments in the crop protection arena, have the potential to help growers deal with some of their most difficult challenges. Because biostimulants are relatively new, and in some circles misunderstood, the European Biostimulant Industry Council's (EBIC) stated role is to “promote the contribution of plant biostimulants to make agriculture more sustainable and resilient and in doing so promotes the growth and development of the European Biostimulant Industry.”

In Europe, the term “plant health” is historically used to refer to plant protection rather than to general plant well-being related to nutrition. EBIC advocates for these relationships to be reconsidered. In addition, plant biostimulants provide other important benefits that aren't reflected by this term.

Biostimulants can also enhance quality traits that increase farmer profitability. They also help address key challenges facing agriculture today, such as extreme weather conditions and water stress. That makes them an important tool in the drive to produce more, high quality food for a growing population with fewer negative impacts and on limited arable land.

Returning to the relationship between the term “plant health”

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same efforts to be made in the area of plant science. In the meantime, using the term “plant health product” is problematic for producers of biostimulants and similar products.

Giuseppe Natale, president of the European Biostimulants Industry Council and CEO of Valagro SpA.

IN EUROPE, THE TERM “PLANT HEALTH” IS HISTORICALLY USED TO REFER TO PLANT PROTECTION RATHER THAN TO GENERAL PLANT WELL-BEING RELATED TO NUTRITION and the operating context, the EU has already modernized the regulatory framework relating to human health and nutrition to reflect the interactions between them, and to recognize that medicine is just one aspect of the health spectrum. We argue for the

Challenges Ahead This type of regulatory legacy is one of the greatest challenges to innovation for our industry.

Regulations currently differ significantly from one European country to another, and there is no recognition in existing EU regulations of biostimulants as a distinct category. The uncertainty created by this situation stifles innovation and investment in the sector. We are at a key turning point where the situation needs to be resolved or the sector will suffer, with negative consequences for farmers, consumers and sustainability objectives.

EBIC has been working to secure European-level recognition and regulation of our products, thus opening up a truly European market for the first time. But there are a number of legacy issues that need to be addressed to make the framework fit for adapting to continuing innovation. One example is the existing definitions of fertilizers (which is too narrow) and crop protection products (which is too broad). Another crosscutting issue that affects the possibility for innovation is how national and EU MAY JUNE 2016

BIOSTIMULANTS

regulators treat substances or micro-organisms that can have more than one type of effect on crops.

Changing Outlook Today, grower knowledge about biostimulants is variable.

Because the value of biostimulants is dependent on such a large variety of contextual factors, their successful deployment depends on the capacity of producers and our distributor partners to help growers understand the relevance of specific products in local conditions.

Given the fragmentation of the European market today and the different major crops from one place to another, the demand for types of biostimulants varies. Research programs are oriented to improving the reliability of deployed products and answering the requirements of key markets, but market value is related to claims more than to the make-up of the product.

Research to improve reliability doesn't necessarily mean product development. It might consider how the products are used within an integrated crop management framework and therefore requires partnerships.

Current trends include the diversification of product portfolios to include a range of different technologies and the integration of biostimulants into more integrated thinking about crop production. This second trend is reflected by the recent enlargement of EBIC's membership to include well-established plant science companies like BASF, Bayer, FMC and Monsanto, who have all moved into this space recently, usually following an acquisition.

MAY JUNE 2016

RESEARCH TO IMPROVE RELIABILITY DOESN'T NECESSARILY MEAN PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT. IT MIGHT CONSIDER HOW THE PRODUCTS ARE USED WITHIN AN INTEGRATED CROP MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK AND THEREFORE REQUIRES PARTNERSHIPS GULF AGRICULTURE

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PLANTER BAGS

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL: AN INDUSTRY LEADER EASY-FILL™ — HELPING NURSERIES AND TREE FARMS EVOLVE A Horticultural Evolution: Nurseries and tree farms have been growing trees using traditional methods, in ground or in containers for centuries.

With the invention of plastic, the traditional clay pots were replaced with black plastic containers. While the plastic containers were easier to transport and lighter in weight they also brought about problems of root spiralling and poor root growth.

Eventually replanting these trees caused a significant

number to die, creating a loss for everyone.

WHS Australia was looking at this problem almost 20 years ago and started testing HDPE woven planter bags as a possible replacement for the traditional plastic pots. Remarkable results were obtained within just a few months, with the main benefit being a far superior root system that eliminated root circling.

This was the innovation that fuelled the beginning of WHS Australia. Two years later, after perfecting the design of the bags to maximise its many benefits the EASY-FILL ™ bag was produced.

Helping Change the Way You Grow: Today, the market is changing.

The demand for green cities and urban areas is insatiable, thus trees and plants are being transported around the world in numbers that have never been seen. Water has become a commodity that is more expensive per litre than fuel.

Add to this, the consumers concerns over soil quality and soil health and it seems that the nurseries and tree growers are up against unsurmountable odds. Luckily, the foresight of WHS Australia with its EASYFILL ™ planter bags can provide the solution.

Transport of trees is simplified with Easy-Fill's heavy duty handles, able to be lifted with forklifts or by crane.

Handling of the trees is

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minimised as the trees are grown in the bag and there is no need to uproot, or use tree spades that can damage the root system.

Trees in the bags can be loaded onto truck beds or shipping containers to reach their final destination without damage, stress or water loss to the roots.

Growing in the Easy-Fill planter bag ensures that the amount of water that is delivered to each tree is controlled by the nursery and not lost in the ground. In the same way, nutrients can be delivered individually. Contaminants in the ground are kept away from trees and their food by products. The soil health is controlled by the nursery and is kept clean and free from contaminants in the ground.

Manufacturer Guarantee: WHS Australia remains committed to its customers through expert advice and product development. Of course, the market has capitalised on our findings and there are other inferior producers of woven planter bags. Nevertheless, EasyFill planter bags are recognised around the world for their dependability and manufacturer's guarantee. The company believes in manufacturing a superior product with personal customer service that includes adapting the design for different environments and individual needs. WHS Australia has played a role in the evolution of the Horticultural industry and is most definitely an industry leader in its field.

MAY JUNE 2016

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL: AN INDUSTRY LEADER

EASY-FILL™

WHS AUSTRALIA

Helping nurseries and tree farms evolve

W H

S

AUSTRALIA

• Promotes superior root growth and air pruning, prevents root circling • Extra strength handles can be lifted by forklift or crane • High quality UV additives for strength and durability • Manufacturer Guarantee •Innovative Customised and Patented Designs Available

WHS Australia

Postal Address

General Enquiries

Suite 16 350 Cambridge Street, Wembley Western Australia 6014

PO Box 70 Wembley 6913 Western Australia

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

whsaustralia.com.au

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AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

THE WINNER SOLUTIONS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BEST ALTERNATIVE OF PLOUGHING

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he company ma/ag starts its activity in 1976, 40 years ago, from the idea of the founder, cav. Angelo Ruggeri, that from always is convinced that the winner solutions were to find the alternative of ploughing.

Starting from 1990's, he has understood the importance of machines that, by combining together different type of tools (discs, anchors, springs, rollersâ&#x20AC;Ś), can grant the higher productivity, reducing the costs.

This is the starting of our constant growing in sales and production: the numbers of machines grow year by year, passing from 100 pieces to 800 pieces per year and the turnover has increased more and more, with an annual growth rate, stating in 10/15%.

Also the number of employers has growth: from 5 people, now we have 2 buildings, 48 employers, divided in designers and planners, using computer

system (FEM), drawing (CAD) and three-dimensional design, as well as specialized workers and commercial and administrative staff.

In these last years, the business activity has grown, developing cooperation in all Italy and increasing the presence in different community countries

(Great Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia) and extracommunity ones (Morocco, Russia, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Mexico, Cameroun, Sudan, U.A.E.) where we imposed ourselves with success for the seriousness and the reliability of our machines.

QUALITY & TECHNOLOGY At the service of an increasingly demanding agriculture Specialists from 40 years in innovative equipment for minimum tillage and conservation agriculture and from 10 years also specialists in seeding

26011 Casalbuttano (Cremona) - ITALY Via Giovanni Paolo II, 12 Tel. +39 0374 362680 Fax +39 0374 362280

www.ma-ag.com - info@ma-ag.com

MAY JUNE 2016

GULF AGRICULTURE

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AGRICULTURE MACHINERIES

NEW 92-102HP MASSEY FERGUSON 5700 COMPLETES GLOBAL SERIES FAMILY

M ON LARGER FARMS AND SUGAR ESTATES THE MF 5700 WILL FORM AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE FLEET AS A PRIME MOVER AND HAULAGE TRACTOR

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assey Ferguson is proud to announce the full introduction of the new Massey Ferguson 5700 Series, completing the family of non-cab Global Series tractors.

The introduction of the MF 5700 Series platform tractor is an important step providing models with engine power outputs from 92 to 102hp, resulting in the Massey Ferguson Global Series providing a full range of tractors from 62kW/82hp to 98kW/132hp.

The MF 5700 Series offers a strong workhorse across a full range of applications, providing greater performance in a modern straight forward design, low cost of ownership and enhanced reliability, attributes already proven with the MF 4700 Series and flagship MF 6700 Series.

The MF 5700 Series

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provides the dependable power to be the primary cultivations tractor for crop growing enterprise, while offering the versatile transmission and operator comfort for haulage operations such as transporting sugar cane.

On larger farms and sugar estates the MF 5700 will form an important part of the fleet as a prime mover and haulage tractor.

Mike Brown, Market Manager, Massey Ferguson for Africa & Middle East comments: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Following the path set out by the MF 4700 Series for a reliable workhorse which can perform a range of tasks for farming businesses, the MF 5700 Series combines greater performance with low cost of ownership and enhanced reliability. It features Massey Ferguson's latest engineering technology while remaining totally straightforward to operate and maintain.

Massey Ferguson has been benefiting from the reliability, high performance and low fuel consumption of AGCO Power engines for over 25 years. For the MF 5700 Series, AGCO Power has developed a completely new four-cylinder turbocharged engine to meet the requirements of this power sector while complying with Tier 2 emissions levels.

The basic engine shares many similar features to the power unit used in the MF 4708, but is designed for the greater output required for this power sector.

With high torque for good pulling power, these low revving engines provide high performance with low noise and enhanced fuel economy.

Fuel is supplied from a 170 litre fuel tank located under the left hand footstep allowing easy filling from ground level, and is protected with a steel under-shield.

MAY JUNE 2016

ŽĖį ěēijĔʼnŨ ĚĹĸČŨ ĺżĐij ŽĖį ŽŘ ŽŬİũŤē ūēĴżʼnŤē Ěđżű ĺżĐij ŧŵĝšŨ ţć İżőĸ ŮĖ İũĨĉ ĮżĽŤē ŵũĸ ĚŻĔŐij ĞĩĜ Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports

I PM D U BAI International Plants Expo Middle East ŊƸĸŴǜē śĴƸĽƸŤē ŽŘ ěĔĜĔėŭŤē Ŵ ijŵűĶťŤ ŽŤŴİŤē źijĔĥĝŤē ŃĴőũŤē

13-15 | NOVEMBER

DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

SOWING IDEAS, REAPING SUCCESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST TS PLAN AND N E D GAR CAPING S LAND

STICS I G O L

LOGY O N H TEC T PLAN ENANCE T MAIN TRY S I R FLO EN GARD RES U FEAT Media partner:

EXCLUSIVE

ANIMAL NUTRITION

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN SHEEP FARMING T

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

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he success of any type of livestock farming is determined by the yield produced, meat quality and the maintenance of excellent herd health conditions. Therefore, adequate and proper nutrition is key to the welfare, health and productivity of all animals.

Apart from nutrition, other factors like temperature, humidity, solar radiation and wind also have direct effects on animals as well, especially in tropical climates such as the Middle East.

In this article, we will try to discuss the basic nutritional aspects involved in sheep farming, especially in the

Middle East.

Feeding should never be considered as the act of merely providing for the animals immediate needs, because it has a great impact on future production, yield and meat quality. Inadequate feeding regimes during key periods of embryonic, foetal and early postnatal growth leads to poor herd health, low yield and poor meat quality. A well-planned diet with the correct levels of nutrients can reduce overall feed costs.

Sheep are ruminant animals.

The bacteria, protozoa and fungi in the rumen of the sheep is responsible for helping them MAY JUNE 2016

ANIMAL NUTRITION

digest the fibrous foods, such as forages, that they consume.

Hence, feeding the microorganism-filled rumen should be the most important consideration while formulating diets for sheep.

In tropic and subtropic environments such as the Middle East, natural pasture has both lower nutritional value and lower tiller density than in temperate regions. Hence, most of the animals (sheep) in this region are largely impacted by nutritional stress.

A good diet for optimum growth should consist of adequate quantities of water, carbohydrates and fats (energy), MAY JUNE 2016

proteins, vitamins and Minerals. In regions where there is environmental stress, additional nutrients may have to be added to their regular diet.

Water Requirements: The usual recommendations for sheep in moderate climates are approximately 3.8 litres of water/day for ewes on dry feed, 5.7 litres/day for ewes nursing lambs, and 1.9 litres/day for finishing lambs.

However, animals in hotter climates (like ours) use more water for evaporative cooling.

Sheep adjust to the excessive heat stress by increasing evaporative cooling through

panting. Even with the provision of good quality water and shade for the sheep, water consumption can be higher by about 40 percent than in winter.

In extreme conditions, the water consumption can be 70 percent above that in winter.

For optimum productivity, it is absolutely essential that the water availability to the sheep is monitored daily during all weather conditions.

Energy Requirements: It's not the quantity of forage but the quality of forage that determines whether energy for maintenance and production are met. Higher the forage quality, GULF AGRICULTURE

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ANIMAL NUTRITION

higher the feed intake. For Ewes, the greatest requirement for energy is during the first 810 weeks of lactation. This is because milk production gradually starts declining after that, as the lambs start foraging on their own.

A body scoring system is usually employed to assess energy adequacy in sheep using an objective 1-5 scoring system, with 1 being extremely thin and 5 being extremely obese. This is determined by palpating the amount of fat covering on the spinous processes and transverse processes in the lumbar region of the sheep.

Most healthy productive ewes will have a score ranging between 2 to 3.5. Sheep with a score lesser than 2 should be examined thoroughly and fed up to attain a higher score, and ewes with a score of less than 1 should not be considered for immediate breeding. Those sheep with a score that is greater than 3.5 should be fed less. Changes in diet should always be done gradually, and drastic reduction in total energy intake should be avoided, especially if an ewe is in middle to late gestation. Adequate feed space ranging from 300mm to 450 mm must be allocated for the ewes in order to ensure all animals are fed well.

Rams should have a target body condition score of 3.5 before tupping. Testes size and sperm production are highly responsive to nutrition. It is recommended that there must be an increase in the ram's nutrition at least 7 weeks prior to tupping, inorder to achieve good sperm quality and quantity.

As supplementation with concentrates increases, the intake of forage is likely to decrease.

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Protein Requirements: Usually good-quality pasture and forage provide sufficient protein for mature sheep. However, it is recommended to add a protein supplement along with the forage. The stage of the ewe must be taken into consideration while supplementing protein.

While 7% dietary crude protein is needed for maintenance in most sheep, this quantity will vary during periods of growth, gestation and lactation etc.

Alternatively, protein supplements, such as oilseed meals, cottonseed meal, soybean meal or commercially blended supplements can be fed to meet the necessary protein requirement.

Mineral Requirements: The major minerals required in the diet of a sheep include Sodium, Chlorine, Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Sulphur and Potassium. The

trace minerals required in the diet are Cobalt, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Mangnese, Molybdenum, Zinc and Selenium.

Sodium and Chlorine (as salt): Sheep need salt especially during stages of reproduction and lactation. Adult sheep will consume approximately 9 g of salt daily, and lambs will consume 4.5g of salt.

Calcium and Phosphorus: In plants, generally the leafy parts are relatively high in calcium and low in phosphorus, whereas the reverse is true of the seeds.

Legumes, in general, have a higher calcium content than grasses. As grasses mature, phosphorus is transferred to the seed. Deflourinated rock phosphate and ground limestone are used in cases where there is a low phosphorus and calcium content in the diet.

Iodine : A deficiency of iodine is usually manifested as goiter in the adult and as lack of wool MAY JUNE 2016

ANIMAL NUTRITION

and/or goiter in lambs. This can be prevented by feeding iodized salt to pregnant ewes.

Cobalt & Copper: Adult sheep require ~0.1 ppm of cobalt in their diet, whereas pregnant ewes require approximately 5mg of copper daily. Sheep are more susceptible to copper toxicity, hence care must be taken to avoid excessive copper intake.

Selenium: This element is effective in at least partially controlling nutritional muscular dystrophy. The dietary requirement is ~0.3 ppm. It also plays an important role in sperm quality of the ram.

Zinc: Lambs usually require ~30 ppm of zinc in the diet on a drymatter basis. Zinc is also an essential trace mineral requirement in rams for testicular development and for sperm quantity and quality.

MAY JUNE 2016

Vitamin Requirements: Sheep diets usually contain adequate supply of Vitamins A, D and E. When fed diets rich in carotenes, sheep can store large quantities of Vitamin A in the liver to meet their requirements for as long as 6 months.

Vitamin E is poorly stored in the body; hence a daily intake

is essential. Green feeds and germ of seeds are excellent sources of Vitamin E. Its deficiency coupled with low intake of Selenium can lead to nutritional muscular dystrophy.

The rumen microorganisms usually synthesize Vitamin B and Vitamin K and hence, these supplements are not necessary always.

The tissues of the sheep synthesize Vitamin C, however, a steady supply of the same can also be added in the diet to improve conditions of the sheep. Vitamin D2 is derived from sun-cured forage, and vitamin D3 from exposure of the skin to ultraviolet light.

Finally, in order to ensure greater productivity, it is important to know the exact constituents in the feed and ascertain the level of protein, energy, vitamin and mineral enrichment it is providing to the sheep. This can be achieved by conducting regular feed analysis of samples sent to local food testing laboratories.

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

GULF AGRICULTURE

39

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