AI-assisted international press reviewPress review

M2i Group and Pherobio Forge Partnership to Develop Biocontrol Solutions

M2i Group and Pherobio announce a long-term partnership to develop pheromone-based biocontrol solutions. This agreement, signed during a meeting in China, aims to enhance technical and commercial cooperation by pooling active ingredients and accelerating innovation. Both companies are committed to addressing the growing regulatory challenges in pest management, focusing on key crops such as corn and rice.

SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "M2i Group And Pherobio Sign Long-Term Cooperation Agreement" - 13 January 2026

Investors

Cultura Technologies Strengthens Its Business Intelligence with BIG Consulting Acquisition

Cultura Technologies announces the acquisition of BIG Consulting, LLC, a provider of business intelligence and data analytics solutions for the agribusiness sector. This acquisition aims to transform agricultural data into actionable insights, thereby enhancing the performance and operational efficiency of agricultural enterprises. BIG Consulting will continue to operate under its current brand, ensuring continuity for its clients while leveraging the capabilities and expertise of Cultura.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Cultura acquires BIG Consulting, LLC from ALCIVIA and New Vi..." - 13 January 2026

Soils, Inputs & Water

Switzerland Develops Strategy for Enhanced Crop Protection

The Federal Office of Agriculture has presented a crop protection strategy aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the agricultural sector, improving food security, and reducing pesticide-related risks. Set to be implemented by 2030, it relies on collaboration with farmers and the development of innovative solutions.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Switzerland draws up strategy for better crop protection" - 13 January 2026

Mechanization & Robotics

Innovation and Automation in Agritech: Focus on the Middle East

In the Middle East, the demand for automation in horticulture is rapidly increasing, driven by quality and hygiene concerns. Saudi Arabia stands out as a booming market, while the United Arab Emirates maintains a stable position. Recent developments in controlled agriculture and biofuels reflect a growing commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions.

SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "Weekly AgTech Brief: Product Innovation, Automation in MENA,..." - 13 January 2026

AgrifoodAfrica

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Joins Biotechnology Initiative in Rwanda

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center partners with a $15 million project in Rwanda to establish a Center of Excellence in crop biotechnology. Supported by the Gates Foundation, this initiative focuses on developing disease-resistant varieties of cassava, potatoes, and bananas while enhancing the country's research and regulatory capacities. The initiative aims to improve food security and position Rwanda as a regional leader in agricultural biotechnology.

SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Joins International Cro..." - 13 January 2026

Thiess Secures Six-Year Contract for Mount Pleasant Operation in Australia

Thiess, a global mining services provider, has secured a six-year contract with MACH Energy for the expansion of the Mount Pleasant Operation in New South Wales. This contract, extending until the end of 2031, includes comprehensive mining services and emphasizes technological innovation and sustainability, while maintaining existing operations and aiming for productivity gains.

Source: Grupoacs, published under the title "Thiess secures six-year contract to expand operations at Mou..." - 12 January 2026

Engineers Inspire Youth to Consider Careers in STEM

Engineers from UGL recently visited schools in Sydney to encourage students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through personal stories and interactive activities, they highlighted the importance of diversity and representation, especially for young girls. This program aims to connect education with industry and show students the tangible opportunities offered by STEM careers.

Source: Cimic - 12 January 2026

Hong Kong Team Awarded the Gold Abacus Award

At the Spanish Chamber of Commerce gala, the Hong Kong team was honored with the Gold Abacus Award, celebrating half a century of leadership in the infrastructure sector. This event brought together leaders from the Spanish and local business communities, highlighting the importance of the ties between these two entities. The company is looking towards a sustainable future, reinforcing its commitment to the communities it serves.

Source: Cimic - 12 January 2026

Thiess Wins Six-Year Contract with MACH Energy in Australia

Thiess, a global mining services provider, has announced the signing of a six-year contract with MACH Energy for the operation of the Mount Pleasant mine in New South Wales. This new agreement, extending until the end of 2031, will allow Thiess to continue providing comprehensive mining services while expanding its scope of work. The company will focus on technological innovation and sustainability, supporting the local economy and maintaining high standards of safety and productivity.

Source: Cimic - 12 January 2026

Flavors & Fragrances

Kerry: Global Leader in Sustainability According to CDP

Kerry, recognized by the CDP for its environmental commitments, has received leadership scores in climate change, forest management, and water security. With ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality, the company demonstrates its commitment to sustainable and responsible nutrition, aiming to reach over two billion people by 2030.

Source: Kerry, published under the title "Kerry Recognised by CDP as a Global Leader in Transparency a..." - 12 January 2026

Biotech & GeneticsStudies & Reports

Ineffective Viral Tools for Modifying Rice Genes

A joint study between the UK and Brazil reveals that two widely used viral vectors for studying gene function, which have proven effective in other crops like wheat, produce no observable changes in rice.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Rice resists change: Study reveals viral tools fall short" - 12 January 2026

Soils, Inputs & WaterAsia

Vietnam Initiates Harmonization of Organic Pesticide Regulations in Southeast Asia

Vietnam has launched a regional initiative aimed at harmonizing the regulation of organic pesticides, in a context where Southeast Asian countries are seeking to reduce their dependence on synthetic chemicals. This initiative aims to establish a common regulatory framework while taking into account national specificities.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "Việt Nam convenes ASEAN talks on regulating biological pesti..." - 12 January 2026

Innovative Materials

Priva and Blue Radix: Partnership for Autonomous Greenhouse Cultivation Solutions

Priva and Blue Radix announce a strategic partnership to integrate artificial intelligence solutions into greenhouse cultivation operations. This collaboration aims to address the growing demand for automation in light of the shortage of skilled growers, while enabling producers to maximize their operational efficiency and adapt to market fluctuations. Approximately 100 greenhouses in 17 countries are already adopting this technology, which allows for autonomous climate and irrigation management.

SEPEHR ACHARD, Source: Igronews, published under the title "Priva and Blue Radix Partner to Enhance AI-Driven Growing So..." - 12 January 2026

Studies & ReportsEnergy & Construction

Co-Gasification of Rice Husks and Cashew Shells: A Step Towards Cleaner Energy

The journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research (ESPR) publishes a study on the synergistic effect of co-gasification of rice husks and cashew shells in a fixed bed reactor, highlighting the benefits of this method for syngas production. Using mixtures at different ratios, the results show a significant improvement in energy yields and a reduction in waste, underscoring the potential of biomass as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

Source: Springer, published under the title "Investigation of the synergistic effect of co-gasification o..." - 12 January 2026

AI & Data

Drones Redefining Smart Agriculture

A new review highlights the evolution of drones, which have transitioned from imaging tools to integrated multifunctional platforms that enable crop health monitoring, yield forecasting, and disease detection through advanced sensors. However, despite these advancements, drone adoption remains uneven, facing economic barriers and gaps in digital training.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "From crop monitoring to AI analytics, drones redefine smart ..." - 12 January 2026

Soils, Inputs & Water

Moa Technology and Certis Belchim Join Forces to Enhance Herbicides

Moa Technology and Certis Belchim announce a strategic collaboration to develop herbicide amplification solutions aimed at reducing herbicide use while maintaining their effectiveness. This initiative combines Moa Technology's discovery platforms with Certis Belchim's expertise in product development and regulatory approval, addressing the growing challenges in the crop protection industry.

MADISON HONG, Source: Igronews, published under the title "Moa Technology and Certis Belchim Announce Strategic Collabo..." - 12 January 2026

Biotech & GeneticsNorth America

A New Spring Wheat Line to Reduce Economic Losses from Fusarium Head Blight

UNITED STATES. Researchers have developed a spring wheat line, WGC002, incorporating a gene for resistance to Fusarium head blight, a fungal disease responsible for significant economic losses in cereal production. This advancement could transform the fight against this disease, which caused estimated losses of $2.7 billion between 1998 and 2000, while posing health risks to consumers. The Fhb7 gene, derived from wild grasses, could provide a sustainable solution for farmers and wheat breeding programs.

Source: Agropages, published under the title "A new spring wheat germplasm promises to reduce economic los..." - 12 January 2026

ACS Group and GIP Launch Global Data Center Platform

ACS Group and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) announce the creation of a global data center platform aimed at meeting the growing demand for digital infrastructure. With an initial portfolio of 1.7 GW and a project pipeline exceeding 11 GW, this initiative emphasizes sustainable and scalable solutions, integrating advanced energy strategies and modular designs. Discussions with technology leaders highlight the platform's importance in supporting the growth of AI and cloud.

Source: Grupoacs, published under the title "ACS Group and Global Infrastructure Partners Complete the Cr..." - 10 January 2026

ExxonMobil and Trump: Towards an Energy Future for Venezuela

During a meeting with President Donald Trump, ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods and other industry leaders discussed the prospects of the oil and gas industry in Venezuela. This meeting comes as ExxonMobil announces financial results for 2025, while emphasizing initiatives for carbon capture and storage, as well as a transformation aimed at enhancing its economic performance.

Source: Exxonmobil, published under the title "Our perspective regarding the situation in Venezuela as shar..." - 9 January 2026

Energy & Construction

Enel Announces Share Buyback Program for Its 2025 Incentive Plan

Enel S.p.A. has announced the launch of a share buyback program for 3.2 million shares, representing approximately 0.0315% of its capital, to support its Long-Term Incentive Plan 2025. This program, which will run from January 12 to February 27, 2026, could cost around €29.7 million, depending on the share price. Transactions will be conducted on the Euronext Milan market, in compliance with current regulations on market abuse, ensuring fair treatment of shareholders.

Source: Enel, published under the title "Enel launches a share buyback Program serving its Long-Term ..." - 9 January 2026