In The Spotlight
Global antimicrobial usage peaked dramatically at 118,600 tonnes in 2013 before dropping to 84,000 tonnes by 2020.
A groundbreaking UCL study reveals a paradox at the heart of global agriculture: whilst antimicrobial use in livestock has plummeted by nearly a third since 2013, wealthy nations are quietly shifting the burden overseas through strategic imports.
The research, published in Nature Sustainability, tracked antimicrobial consumption patterns across a decade, painting the most comprehensive picture yet of how these critical medicines flow through our interconnected food systems. The findings tell two contrasting stories about progress and persistent problems.
Global antimicrobial usage peaked dramatically at 118,600 tonnes in 2013 before dropping to 84,000 tonnes by 2020. This remarkable decline accelerated following the landmark 2016 UN meeting on antimicrobial resistance, which catalysed stricter regulations across numerous countries. Per capita consumption fell from 15.6 grams to 10.6 grams during this period.
China and the United States, commanding roughly 60% of worldwide usage, drove this positive shift with reductions of 29% and 28% respectively. These numbers represent genuine progress in combating a threat that currently claims 700,000 lives annually through drug resistant bacteria.
However, beneath these encouraging statistics lies a troubling pattern. Developed nations have effectively exported their antimicrobial footprint by importing products from emerging economies where livestock farming practices remain antimicrobial intensive. Between 2010 and 2020, internationally traded goods' share of antimicrobial use climbed from 16% to 20%.
Perhaps most surprising: half this footprint stems from non food products like clothing, chemicals, and electronics containing animal derived materials. Meanwhile, nations like India and Indonesia face rising antimicrobial consumption, partly fuelled by export demands. India's footprint expanded by 16% across the decade.
"The overuse of antimicrobials in livestock is a serious health concern, posing a potential global health threat. The decline in use in recent years is promising, and shows that government regulation and intervention can be effective. Our research can help inform future guidance for their usage," said Heran Zheng (UCL Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction).
This study underscores a critical reality: reducing antimicrobial resistance requires coordinated global action, not just shifting production to countries with looser regulations. True progress means addressing consumption patterns and supporting sustainable farming practices worldwide.
Baya Solara's first commercial strawberry variety. (Image credit: Bayer)
Bayer has officially entered the premium strawberry market with a breakthrough variety that promises to transform how European growers approach soft fruit production.
Baya Solara, launched through the company's renowned De Ruiter brand, represents years of scientific innovation following Bayer's strategic acquisition of NIAB's strawberry breeding programme in 2023.
This June bearing cultivar arrives at a crucial moment for the industry. Global strawberry demand continues outpacing supply throughout the year, whilst growers face mounting pressure from disease threats, labour shortages, and quality expectations from increasingly discerning consumers.
"Our new variety Baya Solara is an exciting June-bearing cultivar and delivers impressive productivity and strong resistance to diseases like Phytophthora cactorum without compromising fruit quality. With this launch, we are targeting Northern Europe's rapidly growing protected cropping sector and offer growers new opportunities," said Swanny Chouteau, Portfolio Lead for the Europe Middle East and Africa region at Bayer's Crop Science division.
The variety tackles one of soft fruit production's most persistent challenges: crown rot caused by Phytophthora cactorum. This fungal disease has devastated countless harvests across Europe, making genetic resistance a genuine breakthrough for sustainable cultivation practices.
Beyond disease protection, Baya Solara delivers remarkable consistency. The fruits maintain impressive uniformity in size whilst resisting post harvest darkening, a critical factor for retail presentation. The flavour profile balances natural sweetness with optimal acidity, creating an eating experience that resonates with modern consumer preferences.
"Baya Solara is a strawberry that offers many benefits. For growers, it means a more productive and reliable harvest. For retailers, it delivers consistent, large, firm fruits with excellent shelf life, reducing waste and ensuring dependable quality. For families, it offers delicious strawberries that stay fresh longer, helping them reduce waste and enjoy every berry," said VK Kishore, Head of Global Product Innovation for Vegetables at Bayer's Crop Science division.
Initial availability covers the UK, Germany, and Benelux markets, targeting the region's expanding protected cropping infrastructure. The variety joins Bayer's growing strawberry portfolio, which includes the popular Malling Ace everbearing variety and the premium Malling Centenary June bearer.
This launch signals Bayer's serious commitment to soft fruit innovation, backed by extensive breeding resources spanning over 20 vegetable crops and thousands of seed selections worldwide.
Sustainable foods 2026 is shaping the future of food system.
Sustainable Foods 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment, bringing together industry decision makers at the Business Design Centre on 28th and 29th January to tackle the biggest challenges facing our food system today.
This landmark gathering focuses on four transformative pillars: Health and Nutrition, Food Security, Net Zero targets, and Regenerative Agriculture. It represents a rare opportunity where both animal and plant based sectors collaborate to build solutions that benefit everyone.
Emma Pinchbeck, Chief Executive of the Climate Change Committee, said, "Rapid progress on reducing agricultural emissions and being thoughtful about how we use our land is needed for the UK to meet its climate targets. The good news is that the solutions are already in front of us, from supporting our farmers to making it easier and more affordable for people to access nutritious and tasty food."
The health crisis demands urgent action. With obesity rates climbing and diet related diseases on the rise, ultra processed foods now face unprecedented scrutiny. Major retailers recognise their responsibility in this transformation.
Ken Murphy, CEO of Tesco, said, "We recognise the vital role supermarkets can play in securing a sustainable food system. Our customers are telling us they want food that is affordable, healthier and better for the planet, and they expect us to lead the way."
Climate extremes, political tensions, and supply chain vulnerabilities dominate boardroom discussions. The event tackles these realities head on.
Henry Dimbleby, Co-founder of Bramble Partners, LEON, and author of the National Food Strategy added,"We are entering a decade of unprecedented disruption in the food system. Health, nature and climate are no longer abstract ESG concerns, they are hard commercial realities. Appetite suppressants are booming, ultra processed food is under fire, and climate change is straining supply chains. Money is moving, and leaders who don't act now will be left behind."
Over 700 delegates from 45 countries will converge, featuring 100 speakers and 50 exhibitors. BBC Radio 4's Dan Saladino will broadcast a special Food Programme episode on 6th February, capturing insights from this crucial gathering where commitment transforms into action.
Understanding the shifting landscape of global agriculture.
Global agriculture continues to expand, yet the agricultural machinery market is navigating a period of turbulence.
Economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies are reshaping where and how farm equipment is bought and sold. This evolving landscape was outlined during the press conference launching the 47th edition of EIMA International, the world’s leading exhibition for agricultural technologies, set to take place in Bologna from 10 to 14 November.
Mariateresa Maschio, FederUnacoma President, said, “Protectionist policies in some countries, economic sanctions, interference with trade routes, and tariff wars have led to market fragmentation and a sharp slowdown in trade which is weighing on the performance of the agromechanical sector.”
Traditional markets are feeling the strain. The United States recorded a 10 percent fall in tractor sales in 2025, while Germany, France and the United Kingdom also posted double digit declines. In contrast, southern Europe is showing renewed momentum. Italy and Spain both closed the year with strong growth, signalling cautious optimism within the European agricultural machinery industry.
India remains the standout performer. With tractor sales exceeding 1.1 million units, the country continues to dominate the global market. According to Maschio, this growth reflects deeper structural demand rather than a short term spike. “Over the past fifteen years, output in the primary sector has grown significantly,” said Mariateresa Maschio, “but to meet the needs of the world’s population it will have to grow by a further 14% by 2034, especially in India and in those countries of North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East that are experiencing the highest demographic growth.”
A new geography of agricultural production is emerging, driven by mechanisation, digital farming solutions and expanding demand in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Chinese manufacturers are rapidly increasing their presence across these regions and even gaining ground in Europe.
“In the coming years we will have a highly segmented agromechanical sector, with low-cost basic technologies alongside highly advanced technologies for complex operations,” added Mariateresa Maschio, underlining the importance of innovation, policy support and international cooperation as the sector looks ahead.
Rwanda is laying the foundation for a more productive, resilient, and competitive livestock sector.
Rwanda is taking a significant step in modernising its livestock sector with the arrival of the first batch of 10 high-genetic-potential Holstein-Friesian dairy bulls imported from Germany.
This initiative is designed to strengthen breeding programmes and accelerate improvements in both dairy and beef herds. A second shipment of 20 bulls is expected by April 2026, featuring additional dairy breeds including Holstein-Friesian, Jersey, and Brown Swiss, alongside top beef breeds such as Angus and Charolais.
These elite bulls will be central to Rwanda’s national bovine artificial insemination (AI) programme, producing high-quality semen distributed nationwide to enhance cattle genetics. By providing farmers with superior semen rather than requiring the purchase of costly breeding animals, the initiative aims to increase productivity, improve herd health, and raise milk yields significantly above those of many local breeds.
The project forms part of Phase II of the Rwanda Dairy Development Project (RDDP-2), a US $100 million programme funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and running from 2024 to 2029. RDDP-2 aims to modernise Rwanda’s dairy value chain, raise milk quality standards, and boost overall sector productivity.
Rwanda’s efforts to improve livestock genetics trace back to the “One Cow per Poor Family” (Girinka) programme launched in 2006, which introduced improved dairy breeds to rural households. Since then, structured crossbreeding, artificial insemination, and veterinary support initiatives have led to notable gains in national milk and meat production, though authorities emphasise that expansion remains crucial to meet targets outlined in the country’s Strategic Plan for Agricultural Transformation.
By integrating high-genetic bulls and modern AI techniques, Rwanda is laying the foundation for a more productive, resilient, and competitive livestock sector, supporting farmers while contributing to the country’s broader agricultural development goals.
Cameroon expands cocoa and coffee subsidies.
Cameroon is stepping up its commitment to the cocoa and coffee sectors as the Cocoa and Coffee Development Fund announced plans to roll out CFA 4 billion (approx US$7.2 million) in farmer subsidies in 2026.
The announcement was made during the official launch of the 2025 2026 coffee season in Baditoum, located in the country’s East region, underscoring the government’s focus on revitalising two of its most important export commodities.
The funding will be delivered through the “Producer Window,” a subsidy mechanism introduced in 2021 to give farmers direct access to financial support regardless of their production zone. To participate, producers are required to register with Fodecc and contribute 60 % of their investment cost through an approved financial institution. In return, eligible farmers receive a subsidy covering 30 % to 40 % of that investment in the form of purchase vouchers. These vouchers allow farmers to obtain essential inputs including seedlings, fertilisers, crop protection products, equipment, machinery, and infrastructure, helping to modernise on farm operations and improve yields.
Fodecc administrator Samuel Donatien Nengue explained that the 2026 subsidy package is designed to address pressing challenges such as pest pressures and shortages of planting materials, which frequently disrupt production at the start of the season. He also confirmed that the balance of the 2025 subsidies will be disbursed soon, with new payments expected to commence around April 2026.
So far, nearly 60,000 producers have benefited from the scheme out of 360,000 registered farmers. Authorities aim to increase participation to 500,000 by the end of 2026, building on recent gains in marketed coffee production and improved farm gate prices for both arabica and robusta coffee.
The Producer Window forms part of a wider strategy to inject CFA 50 billion into the cocoa and coffee sectors over five years, with the goal to double production by 2030 and strengthen Cameroon’s position in global agricultural markets.
Natural Mineral Solutions elevate turf and horticulture performance. (Image credit: Pratley)
Across the turf management and horticulture sector, professionals are increasingly turning to natural solutions to overcome long standing soil related challenges.
Maintaining healthy turf and productive landscapes has become more complex as soil conditions directly affect plant performance, water efficiency and maintenance costs. Two of the most common problem soils remain sandy soils, which lose nutrients rapidly through leaching after rainfall or irrigation, and clay soils, known for poor drainage and restricted root development. These limitations often result in stressed plants, increased water use and higher ongoing management expenses, particularly in water scarce regions such as parts of South Africa.
In response, the industry is embracing naturally occurring minerals that enhance soil structure while improving nutrient availability. A growing focus has been placed on zeolite minerals, which are valued for their ability to support sustainable turf and horticultural practices. One notable example is Vulture Creek Clino, a solution derived from clinoptilolite, a naturally occurring zeolite. Zeolites are recognised for their strong ion exchange properties, allowing them to capture essential nutrients such as potassium and ammonium and release them gradually within the root zone. This process ensures plants receive nutrients when they need them most, reducing losses and improving fertiliser efficiency.
By integrating mineral based amendments into turf and landscape fertiliser programmes, professionals are seeing measurable benefits. These include better water retention at root level, lower reliance on frequent fertiliser applications, reduced irrigation needs and stronger, healthier turf. Developers and landscape managers report visible improvements in lawn quality alongside reduced maintenance demands.
As sustainability continues to shape modern horticulture, natural mineral based products are emerging as practical, environmentally responsible tools that support long term soil health while delivering consistent performance in demanding conditions.
Manila, Philippines
The fifth edition of the exhibition delivered strong participation, high-level networking and tangible outcomes for food security and agribusiness innovation across the MENA region.(Image Credit: VIV MEA)
VIV MEA 2025 has concluded on a high note, reinforcing its status as the leading feed-to-food B2B trade platform for the Middle East and Africa.
The fifth edition of the exhibition delivered strong participation, high-level networking and tangible outcomes for food security and agribusiness innovation across the MENA region.
Held from November 25–27, 2025 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, the event welcomed 10,830 professional visitors and 144 industry leaders from more than 110 countries. A total of 505 exhibitors from 49 countries showcased cutting-edge technologies and solutions spanning animal protein production, animal health, breeding and hatching, croptech, feedtech, food engineering, feed ingredients and additives, aquaculture and allied sectors.
Over three intensive days, VIV MEA 2025 served as a dynamic marketplace for knowledge exchange, business development and strategic partnerships. Industry stakeholders explored emerging trends shaping the future of livestock, poultry, dairy and aquaculture, while decision-makers connected with innovators driving efficiency, sustainability and resilience across the feed-to-food value chain.
A key strength of the event was its strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), underscoring a shared commitment to food safety, sustainable agriculture and regional food security. Majed Musabah Almemari, Hay Supply and Storage Section Head at ADAFSA, said, “Supporting VIV MEA 2025 gave ADAFSA valuable opportunities to strengthen its role across the feed-to-food value chain. The event enabled our teams to engage directly with international experts, learn about the latest technologies, and exchange knowledge on food safety, animal health, and sustainable farming.”
He added, “It also enhanced collaboration with global and regional industry partners, opening doors for joint initiatives and innovation projects. Overall, participating in VIV MEA helped us benchmark our practices, adopt new ideas, and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s leadership in applying advanced and sustainable agricultural solutions.”
VIV MEA 2025 also stood out as a world-class hub for regional food security, covering the full spectrum of animal husbandry, including poultry, dairy, fish, shrimp, eggs, cattle, goats and camels. International participation increased significantly, with major pavilions from the United States, Korea and France, which hosted the largest national pavilion. The exhibition floor was fully sold out, highlighting the event’s growing relevance.
Anne-Marie Brault, Business France - French pavilion for agriculture said,“The French Pavilion at VIV MEA 2025 embodies France’s strategic ambition to strengthen economic ties and foster trade partnerships across the MENA region. By showcasing the excellence of French agrifood companies, we aim to create synergies that accelerate growth, open new markets, and deliver sustainable solutions for global food security. This event is a cornerstone for building long-term collaborations that reinforce France’s leadership in animal production and innovation worldwide.”
HortiFlora Expo also serves as a strategic showcase for sustainable agriculture, innovation and export competitiveness. (Image credit: HortiFlora)
EIMA International promotes knowledge sharing and networking.(Image credit: eima.it)
Fishmeal plant strengthens west coast fisheries.
The South African government has welcomed a major R170 million investment by the African Pioneer Group into a new fishmeal plant at Sandy Point Harbour in St Helena Bay, Western Cape.
The facility is set to boost local and export supply chains by producing a range of fish products and strengthening the small pelagic sector’s value chain.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp,said, “This facility is so much more than an expansion of processing capacity. It is a strategic intervention in the small pelagic value chain that strengthens domestic beneficiation, enhances operational efficiency, and positions South Africa to extract greater economic value from each tonne of fish harvested,” he said. He added that the project “strengthens local opportunities without increasing pressure on the resource base” and represents investment in communities and the future of South Africa’s fishing industry.
Aucamp emphasised and added, “The more than R170 million investment represented by this facility contributes directly to sustainable industrial growth in a priority coastal node,” he said, highlighting the partnership between government, science and the fishing industry as central to sustainable marine resource management.
The small pelagic sector plays a crucial role in coastal employment, food security, animal feed supply chains, and export earnings, especially along the West Coast. However, it is also highly vulnerable to environmental variability and climate-driven shifts. The Minister pointed to recent scientific assessments showing major fluctuations in biomass and recruitment, particularly the record-low anchovy recruitment in 2025 and persistently low sardine populations.
In response, the sector has been urged to diversify fishing efforts towards more abundant species such as round herring, which has shown strong biomass performance. “This species now plays a critical buffering role in maintaining throughput in the pelagic sector during periods when sardine and anchovy are constrained,” the Minister said. He explained that investments like the Sandy Point fishmeal plant support resilience by enabling efficient processing of a wider species mix, reducing waste, improving turnaround times, and stabilising supply to downstream industries.
Overall, the plant is seen as a strategic move towards sustainable industrialisation and strengthened marine beneficiation, aligning with the Oceans Economy Master Plan and the government’s industrial policy framework.
Global antimicrobial usage peaked dramatically at 118,600 tonnes in 2013 before dropping to 84,000 tonnes by 2020.
Rwanda is laying the foundation for a more productive, resilient, and competitive livestock sector.
Cameroon expands cocoa and coffee subsidies.
Cameroon is stepping up its commitment to the cocoa and coffee sectors as the Cocoa and Coffee Development Fund announced plans to roll out CFA 4 billion (approx US$7.2 million) in farmer subsidies in 2026.
The announcement was made during the official launch of the 2025 2026 coffee season in Baditoum, located in the country’s East region, underscoring the government’s focus on revitalising two of its most important export commodities.
The funding will be delivered through the “Producer Window,” a subsidy mechanism introduced in 2021 to give farmers direct access to financial support regardless of their production zone. To participate, producers are required to register with Fodecc and contribute 60 % of their investment cost through an approved financial institution. In return, eligible farmers receive a subsidy covering 30 % to 40 % of that investment in the form of purchase vouchers. These vouchers allow farmers to obtain essential inputs including seedlings, fertilisers, crop protection products, equipment, machinery, and infrastructure, helping to modernise on farm operations and improve yields.
Fodecc administrator Samuel Donatien Nengue explained that the 2026 subsidy package is designed to address pressing challenges such as pest pressures and shortages of planting materials, which frequently disrupt production at the start of the season. He also confirmed that the balance of the 2025 subsidies will be disbursed soon, with new payments expected to commence around April 2026.
So far, nearly 60,000 producers have benefited from the scheme out of 360,000 registered farmers. Authorities aim to increase participation to 500,000 by the end of 2026, building on recent gains in marketed coffee production and improved farm gate prices for both arabica and robusta coffee.
The Producer Window forms part of a wider strategy to inject CFA 50 billion into the cocoa and coffee sectors over five years, with the goal to double production by 2030 and strengthen Cameroon’s position in global agricultural markets.
Baya Solara's first commercial strawberry variety. (Image credit: Bayer)
Sustainable foods 2026 is shaping the future of food system.
These wireless temperature and humidity sensors are ideal for a wide range of uses. (Image credit: MultiTech )
MultiTech Wireless Air Temperature and Humidity Sensors are advanced, long-range IoT devices designed for precision environmental monitoring using the LoRaWAN wireless standard.
These innovative sensors use airflow to accurately measure temperature and humidity levels, and they automatically send alerts over the network when readings rise above or fall below preset thresholds, ensuring timely action for critical applications.
Features & Durability:
Equipped with a fully integrated internal antenna and two types of tamper detection enclosure tamper (detects if the sensor housing is opened) and wall mount tamper (detects removal from mounting) these sensors provide robust security. They support over 200,000 transmissions on a single battery, with an expected lifespan of 5 to 10 years depending on usage. Over-the-air configuration allows flexible in-field setup, while automatic low battery reporting and supervisory messages keep users informed.
Applications:
These wireless temperature and humidity sensors are ideal for a wide range of uses, including industrial temperature monitoring, detecting freezing temperatures to protect plumbing, monitoring cooling system failures, ensuring restaurant food safety, and monitoring heat conditions in second homes or remote buildings. Their open architecture allows seamless integration into existing IoT platforms, making them a cost-effective and scalable solution for businesses, smart buildings, and industrial environments.
Key Benefits:
Long-range wireless connectivity, low maintenance, customisable design, and reliable performance make MultiTech sensors essential tools for proactive environmental management. They empower users to monitor conditions in real time, reduce operational risks, and ensure safety and efficiency across multiple settings.
Understanding the shifting landscape of global agriculture.
GrainMate stands out as an affordable and user-friendly solution with a measurable impact on food systems.(Image credit: Sesi Technologies)
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Global antimicrobial usage peaked dramatically at 118,600 tonnes in 2013 before dropping to 84,000 tonnes by 2020.
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Baya Solara's first commercial strawberry variety. (Image credit: Bayer)
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Sustainable foods 2026 is shaping the future of food system.
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Understanding the shifting landscape of global agriculture.
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Rwanda is laying the foundation for a more productive, resilient, and competitive livestock sector.
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Cameroon expands cocoa and coffee subsidies.
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