The 11th edition of the Global Talks Series features Ms. Anne Meis, Chair of the Soy Excellence Center (SEC), a U.S. soybean grower from Nebraska and a member of the Nebraska Soybean Board. Representing the farming community at the foundation of the U.S. soy value chain, she brings a valuable perspective that connects agricultural production with the evolving needs of the global food, feed and protein industries. This edition explores the important role of the Soy Excellence Center, a strategic initiative of the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), in developing the next generation of protein professionals. Ms. Meis shares her insights on continuous education, practical training, workforce development and international knowledge exchange across the poultry, livestock, aquaculture, feed and food-processing sectors. Grounded in practical farming experience and industry leadership, Ms. Meis strongly advocates investing in people as the key to building productive, innovative and sustainable food systems. Her vision highlights how skilled professionals, empowered through knowledge and global collaboration, can strengthen businesses, advance protein security and support the future growth of the global agriculture industry.

As global protein demand rises, the food and agriculture sectors face the challenge of providing nutritious, safe and affordable food to a growing population. Human capital development and continuous professional education have therefore become increasingly important. The Soy Excellence Center (SEC), an initiative of the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), addresses this challenge by developing skilled professionals across the poultry, livestock, aquaculture, feed and food industries.

In this edition of the Global Talks Series, I interacted with Ms. Anne Meis, Chair of the Soy Excellence Center, a Nebraska soybean grower and member of the Nebraska Soybean Board. Representing the farming community at the foundation of the U.S. soy value chain, she brings a valuable producer’s perspective to the initiative.

Soy: A Key Pillar of the Global Protein Value Chain – With global protein demand projected to increase significantly over the coming years and the world population approaching 10 billion, ensuring adequate nutrition for a growing population is one of the defining challenges facing the global food system.

During my interaction with Ms. Anne Meis in Chicago, USA during Soy Connext 2026 conference she said U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) works to expand market access and promote the use of U.S. soy for human consumption, aquaculture and livestock feed in more than 90 countries. Its membership represents the complete soy value chain, including farmers, processors, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses and agricultural organisations. The organisation is supported through the U.S. soybean checkoff, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service matching funds and industry contributions.

Soy Excellence Center: Investing in People – Since its launch in 2019, the Soy Excellence Center has expanded its reach across different regions of the world, developing programs designed around local workforce and industry needs.

Ms. Anne Meis added the fundamental philosophy behind SEC is simple but powerful: strengthen people so they can strengthen the food and agriculture sector. The centres focus on building the capacity and market potential of businesses throughout the food and agriculture value chain.

SEC programmes provide professionals with opportunities to enhance their knowledge through specialised courses covering areas such as poultry, feed milling, aquaculture and soy food and beverage processing. USSEC currently operates SEC regional hubs covering the Americas, Asia, India, the Middle East and North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Through expert-led training, practical learning and interaction with professionals from around the world, SEC participants gain knowledge in areas including feed formulation, feed manufacturing, aquaculture technologies, production practices and soy-based food innovation.

Ms. Anne Meis said The protein industry is changing rapidly. Customer expectations are evolving, food regulations are becoming more stringent, production technologies are advancing, digitalisation is transforming businesses, and our understanding of nutrition, genetics and animal health continues to develop. In this environment, professional education cannot be viewed as a one-time activity. Continuous learning has become essential for remaining competitive and relevant. Training enables professionals to acquire new skills, strengthen existing competencies and remain aligned with changing industry standards. For companies, investing in workforce development can translate into improved productivity, innovation, employee engagement and long-term competitiveness.

Building Confidence and Employee Engagement – Workforce development also has an important human dimension – When organisations invest in the professional growth of their employees, they demonstrate that people are valued as an important strategic asset. Training can enhance employee confidence, motivation and job satisfaction while creating a stronger sense of commitment to the organisation. Leadership development, technical education, soft skills and professional certification can help employees prepare for greater responsibilities and create opportunities for career progression. For the rapidly evolving protein industry, this is particularly important because the sector requires professionals who can combine technical expertise with adaptability and leadership.

Training as a Driver of Innovation – Innovation and adaptability are essential in today’s food and protein value chains – Digital technologies are increasingly being integrated into poultry production, feed manufacturing, farm management and other areas of agribusiness. Automation, data analytics, precision management and digital decision-support systems are changing the way businesses operate. Training enables professionals to understand and adopt these technologies more effectively. A workforce that continuously learns is better prepared to respond to changing markets, new technologies and evolving customer expectations. It also creates an environment in which innovation and continuous improvement become part of the organisational culture.

From Training to Higher Productivity – Training has a direct relationship with operational performance – Professionals who understand processes, equipment, quality standards and preventive practices are better positioned to reduce errors, improve efficiency and minimise downtime. For example, in a feed mill, training employees in proactive maintenance practices can help identify potential problems before they develop into major production failures. Similarly, better understanding of feed formulation, ingredient quality and manufacturing practices can contribute to improved feed efficiency and consistency. Across the protein value chain, small improvements in knowledge and execution can create significant economic benefits.

Supporting Career Development – Another important contribution of SEC is its focus on career development – Professional education provides employees with the knowledge and qualifications needed to move into more responsible positions.

Mentorship, specialised courses and continuing education can help companies develop talent internally rather than relying exclusively on external recruitment. This creates a win-win situation: employees gain opportunities for professional growth, while organisations develop a stronger pipeline of skilled talent.

Ms. Anne Meis said SEC India: Addressing the Needs of a Growing Protein Sector – Recognising India’s rapidly growing food and agriculture sector, USSEC launched the Soy Excellence Center India in February 2024, with a focus on early- to mid-career professionals associated with livestock and food industries. The initiative also aligns with India’s broader emphasis on skill development and preparing the country’s young workforce for emerging opportunities. SEC India offers free online programs covering poultry, feed milling, aquaculture, and soy food and beverage processing. The objective is to bridge the gap between conventional education and the practical skills required by a rapidly modernising food and agriculture industry. For India, this is particularly relevant. The country has a large and young workforce, while its poultry, dairy, aquaculture, feed and food-processing sectors continue to evolve. Developing skilled professionals will be essential to support this growth.

Contributing to National Protein Security – Workforce development has implications that extend beyond individual companies. Protein is fundamental to human growth, development and health. Ensuring a reliable supply of safe, nutritious and affordable protein is therefore an important component of national food security. A skilled workforce can contribute to protein security by improving production efficiency, feed utilisation, food safety, quality management, processing, preservation and distribution. Training can also encourage professionals to adopt more sustainable approaches, reduce waste and explore innovative technologies capable of meeting future demand. In this context, capacity building should be viewed as a strategic investment in national protein secure.
Mr. Kevin Roepke, Executive Director for Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA), USSEC, has emphasised the importance of investing in people and human capital development. According to Mr. Roepke, human capital development is a critical driver of organisational growth. Companies that prioritise workforce development are better positioned to achieve higher performance and stronger employee retention. He also highlighted the opportunity presented by India’s young and dynamic workforce. The establishment of SEC India reflects USSEC’s commitment to supporting the development of India’s agriculture and food sectors while creating opportunities for the next generation of professionals.

Dr. Vijay Anand, Center Lead – India, Soy Excellence Center, described SEC India as a reflection of USSEC’s commitment to its mission of “feeding the minds of those who will feed the world.” The program is designed to develop the next generation of agricultural professionals by providing access to technical knowledge, global expertise and continuing education. The SEC model also creates an international community in which professionals can learn from experts and from one another, helping to facilitate knowledge exchange across borders. Dr. Vijay highlighted SEC India as more than simply a training programme. It is a transformative digital continuing-education platform designed to encourage lifelong learning. Participants can engage with educational content, peers and experts from around the world, creating a global exchange of knowledge and experience. This global community is particularly valuable for

professionals in emerging markets, where access to specialised international expertise can help accelerate industry development. Dr. Vijay Anand said today India is number one in dairy, number 2 in aqua, number 2 in egg production, number 4 in broiler production and number 5 in global feed milling worldwide. So to cater this growing industry, SEC-India is playing an important role. India is a great consumer market and shall open doors for International Trade. SEC-India is preparing the workforce to support the market which is ready for the transformation.

A Global Community of Protein Professionals
One of the most valuable aspects of the Soy Excellence Center concept is that it goes beyond individual courses. It is creating a global community of protein professionals connected through education, knowledge sharing and common industry objectives. By strengthening workforce capabilities, SEC is helping businesses improve their technical expertise while contributing to the development of stronger and more resilient food supply chains. For emerging markets such as India, these initiatives can help bridge knowledge gaps and accelerate the adoption of global best practices.

The Road Ahead
The future of the global protein industry will depend not only on access to raw materials, technology and investment, but also on the availability of skilled people who can effectively utilise these resources. The challenges facing the protein sector—from rising demand and sustainability to food safety, digitalisation and resource efficiency—require professionals who are continuously learning and adapting. The Soy Excellence Center represents a forward-looking approach to this challenge. By investing in knowledge, skills and people, USSEC is supporting the development of professionals who can contribute to more efficient, innovative and sustainable food and protein systems.

As Anne Meis, Chair of the Soy Excellence Center, represents the farming community at the foundation of the U.S. soy value chain, her involvement also reflects an important connection between farmers and the professionals who ultimately use soy across the global food, feed and protein industries. The message is clear: the future of protein security depends not only on what we produce, but also on what we know and how effectively we apply that knowledge. In a rapidly changing world, investing in people is perhaps one of the most important investments the food and agriculture industry can make.

Ricky Thaper: Let’s begin with the operating context. What makes broiler production in Saudi Arabia different from other markets?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Commercial broiler production in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia operates under demanding climatic and economic conditions. You have high ambient temperatures, a real need for precise environmental control and intense pressure on both feed efficiency and carcass quality. In that environment, consistent house management stops being a housekeeping issue and becomes a direct determinant of flock performance and farm profitability.

Ricky Thaper: And that is what prompted the comparison you ran?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Yes. We conducted a multi-farm comparison between houses equipped with Poulta’s real-time environmental monitoring platform and comparable non-monitored houses operating under the same production system. The purpose was to quantify the difference in key performance indicators when continuous visibility and rapid response capability were available to farm teams. Everything we published from that exercise is the actual recorded cumulative outcome. No projected, estimated, or generalized industry figures were included.

Ricky Thaper: What exactly was deployed on the monitored houses?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Poulta’s platform provided continuous monitoring of critical environmental parameters together with real-time alerts and performance dashboards. Farm teams received ongoing visibility into house conditions, which let them identify deviations earlier and take corrective action more promptly than is typically possible with conventional, less frequent observation methods.

Ricky Thaper: Was anything else changed on those farms?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Nothing. The system did not alter genetics, feed formulation, or housing infrastructure. The primary operational difference between the two groups was the presence of continuous data visibility and the ability to respond to environmental and performance signals in near real time. That is an important point, because it isolates what the comparison is actually measuring.

Ricky Thaper : Let’s go to the numbers. What did the monitored houses record?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Across the recorded cumulative results, total loss on a farm basis was 3.569% with Poulta against 4.040% without, a reduction of 0.471 percentage points. On a PPL basis, loss was 5.189% against 5.42%, a reduction of 0.231 percentage points. FCR came in at 1.331 against 1.353, an improvement of 0.022 points. Average live weight was 1,356 g against 1,343 g, a gain of 13 g. And B grades fell from 21.71% to 18.165%, a reduction of 3.55 percentage points.

Ricky Thaper: Take the livability figure first. How much does 0.471 percentage points actually matter to a producer?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Lower mortality and culling percentages increase the number of birds that reach market age. On a single house it looks small. Over large placements it compounds into a meaningful increase in total saleable output per cycle, and it does so without any increase in placement density or any change in genetic stock. You are simply losing fewer of the birds you already placed.

Ricky Thaper: The feed conversion result?Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: FCR improved from 1.353 to 1.331. In commercial broiler production, feed is the largest single cost item, so an improvement of this magnitude directly reduces the quantity of feed required to produce each kilogram of live weight. What makes the result credible is that FCR improved while average live weight also increased. The gain was not achieved by harvesting lighter birds. The monitored houses converted feed more efficiently while still delivering higher final weights.

Ricky Thaper: Thirteen grams per bird sounds marginal. Is it?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: On a per-bird basis, yes, it is modest. But weight has to be read alongside loss. Higher weight combined with a lower loss percentage increases the total kilograms of live weight produced per house. Multiply that across multiple houses and repeated cycles and the cumulative effect on farm output becomes commercially relevant.

Ricky Thaper: The grading improvement is the largest single movement in the set. Why does that matter so much?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: The proportion of B-grade birds fell from 21.71% to 18.165%, a reduction of 3.55 percentage points. A lower B-grade percentage improves the overall product mix delivered to the processing plant and supports better average realization per bird. That is particularly valuable in markets where grade differentials affect pricing and customer specifications, which is very much the case here.

Ricky Thaper: Was there any indicator that moved against you?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: No. All four primary indicators moved in a favorable direction simultaneously. The monitored houses recorded lower total loss, more efficient feed conversion, higher average live weight, and an improved grading profile. That pattern of better survival, better conversion, higher weight, and better quality is consistent with tighter environmental control and earlier intervention on emerging issues throughout the production cycle.

Ricky Thaper: How would you summarize the commercial effect for a producer reading this?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: Four things. More saleable birds per placement because of reduced total loss. Lower feed cost per kilogram of live weight because of improved FCR. Additional live weight per bird reaching market. And a higher-value product mix through the reduced B-grade percentage. All of it achieved under commercial operating conditions without changes to genetics, feed formulation, or major housing infrastructure.

Ricky Thaper: Does that make the approach easy to scale?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: It does, and that is the practical argument. Because the improvements are driven by better information and faster response rather than capital-intensive upgrades, the approach scales across existing commercial complexes. You are not asking a producer to rebuild houses. You are asking them to see what is happening inside the ones they already have.

Ricky Thaper: Your closing thought?
Joseph Biju Kuruvilla: In commercial Saudi broiler operations, the presence of real-time monitoring and the capacity for rapid corrective action were associated with simultaneous improvements in livability, feed efficiency, growth, and carcass quality. The data supports the conclusion that consistent environmental control, enabled by continuous visibility, remains a high-leverage intervention for producers seeking more predictable performance and stronger economic outcomes.

For businesses operating in thermally demanding environments and under tight cost and quality pressure, the ability to see house conditions continuously and act before small deviations become performance losses is a practical route to structural improvement in farm results (Results based on monitored operations. Actual performance may vary).

The 10th edition of the Global Talks Series features an insightful conversation with Mr. Franck Vaillant, Commercial Director at IDENA, a renowned French company specializing in animal nutrition and feed additive solutions. With more than 30 years of experience in the animal production industry, Franck Vaillant has been actively involved in international business development across global markets. Throughout his professional journey, he has focused on advancing science-based nutritional solutions that support animal health, performance, and sustainable livestock production. In this edition, he shares his perspectives on the evolving global poultry industry, including key challenges such as antibiotic reduction, gut health management, feed efficiency, and sustainability. He also discusses how IDENA is helping poultry producers through innovative nutritional strategies designed to improve bird resilience and production performance under modern commercial farming conditions. The discussion further highlights the growing potential of the Indian poultry industry and the increasing demand for natural and functional feed additive solutions in the years ahead.

Career Journey in Animal Nutrition
Franck Vaillant is currently Commercial Director at IDENA, a position he has held since 2023. Prior to this, he served for 12 years as Managing Director of a French animal nutrition company specialized in feed supplements. He began his career in the animal production sector in 1994. Throughout his professional journey, he has focused on driving international business development across all continents.

IDENA’s Vision for Poultry Nutrition
IDENA’s core vision is to support animal production through science-based nutrition while actively contributing to demedication in livestock. Our main focus is to provide natural and functional alternatives to traditional medicinal approaches, helping producers maintain performance through nutrition rather than treatment. In poultry, we focus on gut health, mineral balance, feed efficiency, and resilience of birds under commercial conditions. Our solutions combine R&D, field validation, and practical formulation expertise to ensure both technical efficiency and economic viability.

Global Poultry Industry Trends and Challenges
According to Franck Vaillant, the poultry industry is currently shaped by strong pressure on antibiotic reduction, feed cost volatility, and increasing genetic potential of birds. One of the major challenges is maintaining gut stability and performance in a context of reduced medication use. This drives a global shift toward preventive nutrition, functional additives, and precision feeding strategies that improve nutrient efficiency and animal robustness.

Supporting Sustainability and Antibiotic Reduction
Sustainability, gut health, and reduced antibiotic use are central pillars of IDENA’s nutritional approach.
The company develops feed additive solutions that support intestinal health, microbial balance, digestion efficiency, and oxidative stress management, helping poultry producers reduce their reliance on antibiotics while maintaining productivity.

IDENA’s solutions are backed by extensive R&D, laboratory studies, in vivo trials, and field validations conducted under different farming conditions worldwide. In addition, the company works on optimizing mineral and nutrient utilization to reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability at the farm level.

“The future of poultry production will
depend on our ability to combine
performance, sustainability,
and reduced medication use through
science-based nutrition and
innovative feed solutions.”

— Franck Vaillant, IDENA

Perspective on the Indian Poultry Industry
Franck Vaillant views India as one of the world’s fastest-growing poultry markets, driven by rising demand for affordable animal protein and rapid industry modernization. At the same time, he recognizes that the Indian market remains highly competitive and price-sensitive, requiring nutritional solutions that deliver both technical performance and strong economic returns.

He believes there are significant future opportunities for IDENA in India, particularly in supporting poultry producers with natural feed additive solutions focused on gut health improvement, feed efficiency optimization, and reduced medication use under local production conditions.

The 9th edition of the Global Talks Series features Dr. Bernhard Eckel, Vice President and Co-Founder of Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition, Germany, a globally recognized leader in feed additive innovation and sustainable animal nutrition. This edition explores Dr. Eckel’s journey from his roots in practical farming to becoming one of the industry’s most respected voices in animal nutrition. With more than three decades of experience, he has played a pivotal role in advancing phytogenic feed additives, feed hygiene, gut health solutions, and nutritional technologies that support animal welfare, production efficiency, and sustainable livestock farming worldwide. A trained farmer and agricultural scientist with a doctorate in Animal Nutrition from the Technical University of Munich-Weihenstephan, Dr. Eckel continues to inspire the global feed and livestock industries through scientific innovation, practical expertise, and a strong commitment to sustainable protein production.

A Lifelong Passion for Animal Nutrition
Dr. Bernhard Eckel’s journey into animal nutrition began on a family farm, where he developed a deep understanding of agriculture from an early age. His practical training as a farmer revealed the close relationship between feed quality, animal health, productivity, and farm profitability. This realization inspired him to pursue agricultural science and specialize in animal nutrition.

Throughout his career, he has remained motivated by the opportunity to bridge scientific knowledge and practical application. For Dr. Eckel, animal nutrition represents a unique intersection of biology, economics, and sustainability, offering opportunities to improve production efficiency while simultaneously supporting animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and global food security.

Three Decades of Transformation in Feed Additives
Reflecting on more than thirty years of industry experience, Dr. Eckel identifies the transition away from antibiotic growth promoters as one of the most significant developments in animal nutrition. This shift fundamentally changed livestock production and accelerated innovation in scientifically validated alternatives, particularly phytogenic feed additives.

The industry’s growing emphasis on preventive health approaches has strengthened efforts to improve animal resilience, gut health, and overall performance. At the same time, the understanding that animal welfare and production efficiency can coexist has become increasingly accepted. Modern livestock systems now recognize that sustainable productivity depends on maintaining high welfare standards.

Consumer expectations have also evolved considerably. Today’s feed solutions must not only deliver performance but also meet demands for sustainability, safety, transparency, and economic viability.

The Growing Importance of Phytogenic Feed Additives
According to Dr. Eckel, the market for advanced feed additives will continue to expand in response to regulatory pressures, sustainability targets, and the need for efficient animal protein production.

Phytogenic feed additives are gaining increasing attention due to their broad range of functional benefits. Their antimicrobial properties, support for digestive health, and contribution to production stability make them valuable tools for modern livestock producers. As global markets become more volatile and producers seek greater resilience within production systems, plant-based nutritional solutions are expected to play an increasingly important role.


While regional differences will continue to influence adoption patterns, significant growth opportunities are anticipated across Asia and Latin America, where livestock production systems are undergoing rapid modernization and intensification.

Future Focus Areas: Gut Health, Feed Hygiene, and Endotoxin Management
Looking ahead, Dr. Eckel believes that future innovation will increasingly focus on supporting gut health and improving the resilience of production systems under challenging conditions. The next generation of feed additives will likely combine multiple functional benefits within a single solution, delivering antimicrobial support, microbiota stabilization, and improved digestion simultaneously.

Producers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that address several production challenges while remaining practical and cost-effective.

Feed hygiene remains another critical area of focus. During the Dr. Eckel World Tour seminar in Bangkok, discussions highlighted the role of improved feed hygiene in reducing the risk of African Swine Fever transmission through contaminated feed. This continues to be an important issue in many regions worldwide and emphasizes the need for stronger biosecurity throughout the feed chain.

Equally important is the growing awareness of endotoxin management. Once viewed primarily as a livestock concern, endotoxins are now receiving increasing attention within the aquaculture sector. Discussions during the Aquatic Conference at VIV Health & Nutrition Asia demonstrated the industry’s growing recognition of the impact endotoxins can have on animal health and production performance.

“The future of livestock production lies in combining science, innovation, and sustainability. By strengthening gut health, feed hygiene, and animal welfare, we can create more resilient and efficient food systems for generations to come.”

— Dr. Bernhard Eckel

Shaping the Future of Animal Nutrition
Dr. Eckel believes the future of animal nutrition will be driven by the need to balance efficiency, resilience, and sustainability while ensuring reliable protein production in an increasingly uncertain world.

Several key trends are expected to define the industry’s future. Greater emphasis on gut health, wider adoption of multifunctional feed additives, and continued efforts to reduce antibiotic use will remain central priorities. Transparency and traceability across the livestock value chain will become increasingly important as consumers seek greater confidence in food production systems.

At the same time, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are expected to transform decision-making processes. Data-driven management tools will enable producers to optimize nutrition strategies, improve efficiency, and manage production complexity with greater precision.

For Dr. Bernhard Eckel, the future of animal nutrition lies in combining scientific innovation with practical solutions that strengthen animal health, support sustainable livestock production, and contribute to global food security.

The 8th edition of the Global Talks Series presents an inspiring dialogue with Mr. Yiannis Christodoulou, a globally respected agribusiness executive and visionary leader. This edition delves into the dynamic intersection of technology, people, and modern poultry production, showcasing how Mr. Christodoulou’s pioneering initiatives are driving advancements in feed manufacturing, precision farming, and professional education across Asia Pacific. With nearly three decades of experience in feed technology, agribusiness leadership, and industry development, he offers a practical perspective that bridges innovation with real world industry needs. As Managing Director of Progressus and Agentis Innovations, and a board member of Innotuc, Mr. Christodoulou continues to champion technology driven growth, continuous professional development, and smarter poultry production systems—supporting the industry’s journey toward greater efficiency, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

Introduction
With nearly three decades of experience across Asia‑Pacific, Mr. Yiannis has worked closely with the animal production industry to address practical challenges, introduce modern technologies that drive industry modernization, and, most importantly, support people in advancing their careers and improving their quality of life. His commitment has always been to combine innovation with human development, ensuring that progress benefits both businesses and individuals.

In a recent conversation with Mr. Yiannis, I gained a deeper appreciation for the impact of the companies he has founded and continues to lead. It was inspiring to hear how Agentis Innovations has spearheaded the introduction of feed mill automation, highlighting its importance to Asia’s feed manufacturers.
Equally impressive is how Progressus has developed AgriSchools short courses, meeting the industry’s critical need for continuous learning and professional development. Mr. Yiannis also shared insights into his newest venture, Innotuc, a company he co‑founded to harness farm data and transform it into real‑time insights—empowering smarter decisions, stronger performance, and more efficient operations across poultry production.

Ricky Thaper: Can you explain how the business you are involved in are contributing and benefiting the Indian poultry industry
Yiannis : Collectively, Progressus Co., Ltd., Agentis Innovations Limited, and our newest venture, Innotuc Co., Ltd., serve as vital resource hubs for businesses pursuing expansion, success, and global competitiveness. Together, they provide the essential tools and expertise needed to drive industry advancement.

More specifically, these companies empower people with opportunities for continuous professional development while equipping organizations with the technologies required to embrace the new era of digitalization and automation. In doing so, they help strengthen both individual careers and corporate capabilities, ensuring the industry is well‑positioned for sustainable growth and modernization.

Progressus brings to India a wealth of global expertise in poultry innovation, strategic collaboration, and training tailored to Asia’s production conditions. Through structured technical courses for experienced professionals (AgriSchools), awareness‑raising forums, and specialized workshops on feed formulation, biosecurity, and sustainability, Progressus empowers farmers, integrators, and industry specialists to adopt modern practices that enhance efficiency and resilience. Training programs on precision nutrition, effective utilization of feed ingredients, modern feeding and management techniques, and closed‑house farming are among the topics directly requested by India’s poultry industry. Get a closer look at what Progressus has to offer at www.progressus.asia

At Agentis Innovations, the focus is on converting feed formulas into high‑quality physical feeds in the most effective, efficient, and sustainable manner—consistently and reliably. The poultry nutrition and feed formulation industry has long been at the cutting edge, often advancing faster than the operational capabilities of feed mill plants. Agentis Innovations bridges this gap by providing advanced automatic process control systems (SCADA), a vital technology for ensuring precision, consistency, and efficiency across every stage of production.

Founded in 2011, Agentis Innovations specializes in automation and process optimization for feed mills, premix plants, and grain processing and storage facilities. Its core expertise lies in feed milling, integrating advanced sensors, real‑time monitoring, and programming to develop automation systems tailored to the realities of Asian feed production. This focus ensures that customers consistently meet nutritional standards while reducing waste and variability, making Agentis Innovations a trusted partner for producers seeking to modernize and future‑proof their feed mills and premix operations. See more on this systems at
www.agentisinnovations.com

“Embracing technology is a must not a choice. Automation doesn’t replace people; it empowers them to make faster, smarter decisions with confidence.”
– Yiannis Christodoulou

Last but not least, our work has the potential to help Indian poultry farms become more profitable, modern, and appealing to the younger generation of farmers, while also providing the data needed to support the transparency that today’s buyers and consumer’s demand. At Innotuc, a Bangkok‑based agritech company, we are developing digital solutions that enable producers to monitor bird growth, feed consumption, and environmental conditions in real time.

For example, instead of relying on periodic manual weighing, Innotuc’s automatic weighing system continuously tracks flock growth and uploads accurate data to a dedicated cloud analytics engine and dashboard. This gives farmers real‑time visibility into bird performance, allowing them to quickly adjust feed, health, and management strategies. Similarly, our silo monitoring technology ensures feed inventory is always under control—reducing waste, preventing shortages, and improving cost forecasting.

Innotuc’s flagship cloud-based engine, InnoFarmPro, transforms farm data collected from our sensors into actionable insights, empowering farmers to make smarter, faster decisions. Automated data collection reduces labour needs, minimizes human error, and improves consistency across flocks. In short, Innotuc’s technology enables poultry farms to operate with precision, resilience, and competitiveness in an industry where margins are tight and efficiency is critical. At the same time, it makes poultry farming more attractive to younger generations, who are drawn to technology‑driven solutions over traditional manual operations. Get a closer look at what INNOTUC can do for you at www.innotuc.com

“The future of poultry is not just about producing more—it’s about producing smarter, with technology guiding every step.”

– Yiannis Christodoulou

Ricky Thaper: How do you see your connection to the Indian poultry industry in particular?
Yiannis : I will always have a soft spot in my heart for the people of India’s poultry industry. Since the beginning of my involvement there, I have been fortunate to meet, connect with, and build strong relationships with many talented, visionary, and passionate professionals from whom I have learned a great deal. I deeply value and nurture these connections, as they have enriched both my personal and professional journey.

A bit on who is Mr. Yiannis Christodoulou.
Born in Cyprus into a family of poultry farmers, Mr. Yiannis began his career in the poultry industry at a very young age. Today, he is a senior agribusiness executive and entrepreneur with deep expertise in animal nutrition, feed technology, and strategic leadership across Asia‑Pacific. He serves as the Managing Director of Agentis Innovations and Progressus, companies he founded and developed in order to advance innovation in feed milling, animal nutrition, and professional education for the livestock and aquaculture industries. His work consistently emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer, positioning him as a key figure in shaping the future of the animal protein production industries in Asia.

Ricky Thaper : Message to the Indian poultry industry
Yiannis : India’s poultry industry has emerged as a global powerhouse, ranking second in egg production and among the top four broiler producers worldwide. It has achieved rapid growth while contributing significantly to nutrition security and rural employment. This success is a testament to the resilience, vision, and commitment of its professionals and their companies.

Looking ahead, the industry must balance its impressive growth with priorities such as food quality, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare, while remaining vigilant against challenges including shifting market dynamics, disease risks, and resource volatility in land, water, and raw material supply. In summary, India’s poultry sector has transformed into a mega‑industry and is positioning itself as a global leader.

In this exclusive interaction with Mr. Ricky Thaper discusses the critical issues shaping India’s poultry sector, including feed security, ethanol mandates, regulatory reforms, import policies, and sustainable strategies for future growth and competitiveness.

Poultry Creations: With the rapid modernization of India’s poultry sector, how do you foresee domestic feed-grain demand evolving in direct competition with ethanol mandates?

Ricky Thaper: At present, the Indian poultry industry, which has seen 7% to 8% annual growth in the last decade is valued at over $ 30 billion. The industry has transformed itself from following conventional farming practices to a modern commercial production system. However sustained supply of feed ingredients remains a key challenge. Poultry feed mostly consist of Maize (corn) 50-55% and Soybean Meal 20-25% and rest other feed ingredients and feed additives & nutrients.

Stating that there has been increasing diversion of maize towards industrial use and ethanol production, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in the vision document for poultry sector in 2047 had also stated “the current growth level of maize and soybean production in the country will be insufficient to meet the demand of the poultry industry.” The CII has urged the government to allow imports of genetically modified (GM) maize and soybean because of ‘unprecedented increase’ in feed prices.

The demand supply situation has entered a new phase especially maize, a key ingredient, has become India’s single-largest feedstock for ethanol. With growing demand for maize following the government’s future plans to expand ethanol blending program, may result in lesser supplies for poultry, dairy and aqua feed.

Poultry Creations: What regulatory alignments are most critical right now to ensure stable, cost-effective grain supplies for the growing poultry and livestock industry?

Ricky Thaper: To meet the growing needs of the livestock feed, the government needs to have an open import policy for sourcing maize and soybean meal from the various countries, irrespective of whether the crops are GM variants or not. With the competing demand from ethanol, starch and other sectors, feed ingredients imports should be open without any restrictions. In August, 2021, the government had relaxed import rules to allow the first shipment of 1.2 million ton of genetically modified (GM) soybean meal to support the domestic poultry industry after a record spike in feed prices. Poultry industry has urged the Government repeatedly to allow both import and cultivation of GM maize and soybeans to fulfil the requirement of these two major feed ingredients in the coming years. The sustainable supplies of feed in coming years would be crucial for the growth of the poultry industry.
Currently annual animal feed production is estimated close to 56 million tons which includes dairy feed 16.5 million tons, aqua feed 2.5 million tons and poultry feed 37 million tons. The feed ingredients are mostly maize and soybean meal About 60-65% of the output of maize is used as poultry and livestock feed while rest is used for industrial use.

In the 2025-26 crop year (July-June), the agriculture ministry has estimated maize production at 52 million tons while output estimate by trade is around 48 million tons. As per industry estimate, poultry industry used around 26 million tons of maize in feed while around 5.5 million tons used for dairy feed while around 6 million tons was used by starch industry and only 1.5 MT is used for human consumption. 1 million tons in alcohol and about 1 million tons in seed and wastage. Balance 8-10 MT of maize was diverted for ethanol production.

Poultry Creations: How can corporate agribusiness interests and national trade policies better synchronize to protect poultry margins during periods of commodity price spikes?

Ricky Thaper: The poultry sector is a vital sector of the livestock industry which provides employment to over 6 million people. While industry is witnessing a steady pace, sustainable feed supplies at reasonable prices would be crucial for the growth of the sector as feed prices constitute over 65% to 70% of the cost of production. Any increase in feed prices hit the margins of poultry farmers. The government has been focussing on growth of agriculture and allied sectors. There are several industries which require maize at their key raw material so the government should focus on. The current growth level of maize production in the country will be insufficient to meet the demand of the poultry industry in coming years.
The soybean production cycle in India for the year 2025–26 has seen a notable downturn compared to the 2024–25 season. As per the data from the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA & FW) or the Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA), the consensus is clear: production fell sharply due to a combination of lower acreage, extreme weather and falling yields.

Government Estimate is 12.60 Million Tons and the Industry Estimate (SOPA Ground Survey) | is11.03 Million Tons The Government numbers track total theoretical agricultural output, while SOPA’s numbers heavily filter for commercial availability, market arrivals and clean seed weight available to crushing mills.

Three main factors compressed the 2025–26 harvest compared to the previous year:
1. Reduced Cultivation Acreage – Farmers actively shifted some of their land away from soy due to weaker market-yard prices observed mid-2025, from 118.31 Lakh Hectares (2024–25 Acreage) to 112.14 Lakh Hectares (2025–26 Acreage), a decline of roughly 5.2%

2. Depressed Yields per Hectare – Climate abnormalities took a heavy toll on the plants during critical growth phases. The national average crop yield dropped from 1,089 kg per hectare in 2024–25 down to 983 kg per hectare in 2025–26.

3. Weather Anomalies and Crop Disease – Excessive & Uneven Rains: The monsoon brought flash water-logging in low-lying areas during the initial phase, causing localized washouts that required re-sowing. Later, prolonged heavy rains during the critical harvesting time damaged crop quality, yielding smaller grain sizes and higher moisture content. Pest Pressures: Key growing belts saw infestations of Yellow Mosaic Virus and aerial blight, which severely stunted pod development.

Because total commercial availability for crushing fell dramatically to10.40 Million Tons (compared to over 12.32 Million Tons in 2024–25), the domestic crushing industry has faced severe supply shortages. This raw material deficit is the primary driver behind the rocketing local meal prices and the collapse of the export trade.

Another major challenging area is the dried distillers’ grains with soluble (DDGS) from maize, a key by-product of ethanol production, are not of desired quality for feed and the toxins levels are high. The challenge is that this toxin affected DDGS when used in feed will set into food chain.

Poultry Creations: What sustainable growth models are proving successful in insulating the Indian poultry sector from global supply chain shocks?

Ricky Thaper: The poultry industry, like other agriculture sectors, is subject to the supply and demand scenario, market structures and Government policies. An open import policy on animal feed ingredient would go a long way meeting the demand of livestock and poultry feed. Several south Asian countries including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka have allowed imports of GM Maize and GM soybean / soymeal. The GM soybean / soybean meal and Maize imports should be allowed with a fixed quota during off or non-harvesting season here so that it does not adversely impact the farmers’ price realisation. Reduction in import duties on these feed ingredients in the poultry feed should be announced soon.

As the demand and supply gap between consumption and production of feed grows, liberalised imports of soybean meal and maize would mitigate the problems and keep the prices under check. With the competing sector demanding maize supplies, liberalising policy on import is of paramount importance for sustainable growth of the poultry sector which is growing at a steady pace with the rising demand of protein enriched food.

The 7th edition of the Global Talks Series presents an inspiring conversation with Ms. Tori Sorensen, a globally respected advocate for sustainable agriculture, soybean processing, and animal nutrition education. This edition explores Tori Sorensen’s journey from her farm roots in Iowa to becoming a global voice in soy innovation and protein security. Through her leadership at Insta-Pro International and contributions with U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), she has helped advance feed processing technologies, sustainable animal nutrition, and global education initiatives across more than 100 countries. As former Chair of the Soy Excellence Center (SEC) Committee, Tori played a leading role in strengthening global training programs for feed manufacturing and agribusiness professionals, including the establishment of SEC India. Her work continues to inspire the poultry and livestock industries through innovation, education, and a strong commitment to global protein security.

Career Summary:
In a world where global food systems face sustainability and production challenges, Tori Sorensen has built a career focused on advancing global agriculture through education and communication in soybean processing and animal nutrition. As Marketing Director for Insta-Pro International, she has helped expand the company’s global presence by promoting sustainable feed processing solutions across international markets. Outside her position at Insta-Pro, Tori has become a thought leader and a staunch advocate for sustainable agriculture practices and education on soybean processing.

Early Career/Background:
Raised on a farm in southeast Iowa, agriculture and the value of hard work played a defining role in shaping Tori’s life and career. She experienced the realities of farm life first hand by detasseling corn, walking beans, helping with the family grain bin business, and learning to drive a tractor before she even learned to drive a car.
Like many farm families impacted by the 1980s farm crisis in the United States, her family faced significant hardship, including losing their farm and home at auction. Those experiences left a lasting impact and helped shape her perspective on resilience, opportunity, and education. Inspired by her father’s belief that “they can take everything from you, but they can’t take away your education.” Sorensen developed a deep passion for agricultural education and leadership development, which continues to influence her work in her global agriculture outreach today.

Marketing Director at Insta-Pro International:
As current Marketing Director for Insta-Pro International, Tori Sorensen has helped build global partnerships focused on soybean processing, feed efficiency, and animal nutrition education. Working with customers and distributors in more than 100 countries, for the last 12 years, she has supported international outreach efforts that promote high-shear dry extrusion technology and sustainable soy processing solutions for poultry, livestock, and feed production. Her role often combines technical education with relationship-building, helping connect feed producers and processors around the world with U.S. soy innovation and processing expertise.

Global Partnerships and Outreach:
Through her leadership at Insta-Pro International and former volunteer positions at USSEC, Tori has leveraged her expertise and resources to lead workshops, presentations, technical trainings, and international outreach programs focused on soybean processing and animal nutrition education. By combining Insta-Pro’s expertise in high-shear dry extrusion and feed processing with USSEC’s global education initiatives, she has helped connect producers, nutritionists, feed mills, and agribusiness leaders from across the globe with practical knowledge on feed efficiency, soybean meal quality, and sustainable protein production. Her work centers on creating collaborative learning opportunities that strengthen industry partnerships while advancing the understanding of U.S. soy technologies in global markets.

USSEC Leadership:

In addition to her role at Insta-Pro International, Tori has also served in several leadership positions with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), including Board of Directors (2019-2025) founding Chair of the SEC (Soy Excellence Center) Committee (2019-2025) and Co-Chair of the Animal and Aquaculture Utilization Team from 2017 to 2019. As Chair of the SEC she led the establishment and growth of the educational programs designed to train emerging leaders in feed manufacturing and agribusiness across the globe. The centers focus on advancing animal nutrition, supporting sustainable protein production, and strengthening international trust in U.S. soybean quality and processing technologies.

Spotlight on India & USSEC SEC
As Chairwoman, Tori led the SEC global presence, in four regions – Americas, Asia, MENA, and Sub-Saharan Africa with focused Centers in Thailand, Egypt, Nigeria, and established in 2024, India.

With 1.4 billion people strong and a rapidly growing economy, India is one of the worlds largest and most diversified food producers with agriculture contributing to over 20% of the economy. Challenged with a young workforce and unique market needs, the SEC program aligned with the Indian government’s focus on skills development for youth, making them ready for jobs under the ‘Skills India’ initiative.

In 2024; Tori, along with 14 Industry Leaders from India and the SEC Global Advisory Panel, held its inaugural meeting in Mumbai. This meeting provided guidance and direction on tailoring SEC offerings to solve key training challenges and operational hurdles in India’s food and agribusiness operations.

During her tenure as Chairwoman of the SEC, Tori led this transformative training program, preparing over 20,000 participants globally with the skills needed to be future-ready. Making her a strong advocate for global protein security through soy innovation and animal nutrition. A fitting legacy to her father’s belief in the importance, permanence and impact of education.

“Education is the most sustainable investment we can make for the future of global agriculture. When we empower people with knowledge, innovation, and opportunity, we strengthen food security and create a better future for generations to come.” 

— Tori Sorensen

The 5th Edition of the Global Talks series presents an in-depth conversation with Dr. Nasir Mukhtar, a globally recognized leader and influential voice shaping the poultry industry across the GCC and Asian regions. The discussion explores the rapidly evolving landscape of poultry science, industry leadership, and knowledge-driven innovation that is redefining the future of global poultry production. With decades of experience spanning academia, industry, and international poultry organizations, Dr. Mukhtar has played a transformative role in advancing poultry science while strengthening industry–academia collaboration. Currently serving as the General Secretary of the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA), UAE Branch, he actively champions the integration of scientific research with practical industry solutions, the development of young professionals, and the resolution of emerging challenges through global cooperation and informed leadership.

Dr. Mukhtar began his research career in the breeding of native chickens, successfully combining scientific rigor with real-world industry applications.

While reflecting on his research journey during the discussion, Dr. Mukhtar shared his dual role as a Professor and poultry entrepreneur, enabled him pioneered groundbreaking research on standardized ileal digestible (SID) amino acid values in sex-based broilers, establishing a globally relevant model for precision poultry nutrition.

He has led and completed several landmark collaborative projects with prestigious international institutions and organizations. Responding during the interaction, Dr. Mukhtar recalled earning his Ph.D. from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, and completed his post-doctoral research at the Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Scotland (UK).

Throughout his academic career, Dr. Mukhtar has supervised ten Ph.D. and twenty M.Phil. students, making a lasting contribution to human capacity development in the poultry sector. He is the author of six books and sixty-three peer-reviewed national and international research articles, widely cited across scientific and industry platforms.
Beyond research, Dr. Mukhtar’s global leadership extends to key strategic roles. During the interaction Dr. Mukhtar detailed his responsibilities as General Secretary of the WPSA UAE Branch, Vice President of the Asian Pacific Federation of WPSA (Thailand), and Global Chair of the WPSA Working Group on Small-Scale Family Poultry Farming.
He is also a member of the Editorial Board of the World’s Poultry Science Journal and serves as a Guest Editor for Poultry Science.

A frequent and respected speaker at international scientific and industry forums, Dr. Nasir Mukhtar continues to influence global poultry policy, innovation, and sustainability—bridging science with industry and shaping the next generation of poultry leaders.

With over a decade of experience in the poultry industry, Ms. Radha Radhika has played an important role in the growth and global recognition of the Indian poultry sector. As the Senior Operations Head at Poultry India, she plays a key role in coordinating and managing large-scale industry initiatives, particularly the internationally renowned Poultry India Expo, one of the world’s largest poultry exhibitions.

Over the past 12 years with IPEMA (Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association), Ms. Radhika has been actively involved in strengthening global collaborations, managing international partnerships, and facilitating knowledge exchange between industry leaders, researchers, and businesses from around the world. Through her dedication, strong organizational abilities, and commitment to excellence, she continues to contribute significantly to the success and expansion of Poultry India as a global platform for the poultry industry.

As part of Poultry Creations’ “Pioneering Women in the Poultry Industry” feature, we are pleased to present Ms. Radha Radhika in conversation with Poultry Creations, where she shares her journey, leadership experiences, and vision for the future of the poultry sector.

Poultry Creations: How has your 12-year journey with IPEMA / Poultry India shaped your perspective on leadership in the poultry industry?
Radhika: My 12-year journey with IPEMA / Poultry India has taught me that leadership is about dedication, collaboration, and continuous learning. Managing large-scale international events like the Poultry India Expo, coordinating with global associations, exhibitors, and policymakers has helped me understand the importance of teamwork and strategic planning.

I feel deeply grateful to have worked under the guidance of respected leaders such as Shri Chakradhar Rao Potluri, Shri Anil Dhumal, Shri Harish Garware, Shri Shirish Dhopeshwar (Past Secretary), Shri Srikanth Manchala (Treasurer), and our present President Shri Uday Singh Bayas.
Their mentorship, advice, and trust have inspired me to take on responsibilities and grow professionally. These experiences have shaped my leadership approach and strengthened my ability to manage complex operations within the organization.

Poultry Creations: What motivates you to continue contributing to the growth of the poultry industry through your role at Poultry India?
Radhika: What motivates me most is the opportunity to contribute to an industry that plays a vital role in food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Through Poultry India, we bring together global industry leaders, researchers, technology providers, and farmers on one platform.

Seeing the Poultry India Expo grow into one of the world’s largest poultry exhibitions, with participation from over 80 countries and a target of 80,000+ visitors for the upcoming 18th edition, is extremely rewarding. Being part of this journey and helping create opportunities for exhibitors, visitors, and industry stakeholders motivates me to continue contributing to the growth of the poultry sector.

Poultry Creations: What leadership qualities do you believe are essential for women to succeed in industries traditionally dominated by men?
Radhika: I believe the most important qualities are confidence, resilience, strong communication skills, and a willingness to continuously learn. Women should believe in their abilities and not hesitate to take on responsibilities or leadership roles.

Equally important is maintaining professionalism, building strong relationships, and staying focused on delivering results. With determination and the right mindset, women can successfully lead and make meaningful contributions in any industry.

Poultry Creations: You have been instrumental in expanding international engagement for Poultry India. Why is global collaboration important for the poultry sector?
Radhika: Global collaboration is extremely important for the growth and modernization of the poultry sector. By engaging with international associations, researchers, and industry leaders, we gain access to new technologies, innovative practices, and global market insights.

Through collaborations and international participation at Poultry India, we create opportunities for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and trade. This helps the Indian poultry industry stay competitive and aligned with global standards.

Poultry Creations: Poultry India Expo attracts participants from across the world. How does this global participation benefit the Indian poultry industry?
Radhika: Global participation brings knowledge, technology, and new business opportunities to the Indian poultry sector. International exhibitors and delegates share advanced innovations in poultry equipment, feed technology, health management, and sustainability.

For Indian companies and farmers, this exposure helps them learn about global best practices, build international partnerships, and explore export opportunities. It also strengthens India’s position as an important player in the global poultry ecosystem.

Poultry Creations: What are some of the key trends or developments shaping the future of the poultry industry?
Radhika: Several trends are shaping the future of the poultry industry, including automation and advanced poultry technologies, improved biosecurity practices, sustainable farming methods, and innovations in feed and nutrition.

There is also increasing focus on animal health, food safety, and environmentally responsible production. As the industry continues to grow, technology and knowledge-sharing platforms like Poultry India Expo and industry seminars will play a vital role in driving these advancements.

Poultry Creations: What message would you like to share with young professionals, especially women, who aspire to build a career in the poultry industry?
Radhika: The poultry industry offers tremendous opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. My advice to young professionals, especially women, is to believe in your abilities, stay curious, and continue learning.

Do not hesitate to step into challenging roles or explore new opportunities. With dedication, confidence, and the right guidance, women can make a meaningful impact and build successful careers in the poultry sector.

Poultry Creations: Your role often involves coordinating international events and interacting with global delegates. How do you manage the balance between professional commitments, travel, and family life?
Radhika: Balancing professional responsibilities and family life requires strong planning, time management, and a supportive environment. My role involves coordinating international events and engaging with global stakeholders, which can be demanding.

I am fortunate to have the support of my family as well as my dedicated team at IPEMA, where around 25 members work together with strong commitment towards the success of Poultry India. Their cooperation and teamwork make it possible to successfully manage large international events while maintaining a balance between professional and personal life.

Poultry Creations: What message would you like to share with the readers of Poultry Creations Magazine?
Radhika: I would like to congratulate Poultry Creations Magazine for its contribution in sharing knowledge, industry updates, and insights with the poultry community. My message to readers is to continue embracing innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. The poultry industry is evolving rapidly, and by working together and learning from global best practices, we can continue to strengthen and grow this important sector.

In the fourth edition of Global Talks, I had the opportunity to engage in in-depth and thought-provoking discussions with Mr. Xavier Cadiou, Founder and Managing Director of Agri Réseaux International (ARI). The discussions offered valuable insights into global agribusiness development, international market intelligence, and strategic expansion opportunities for companies operating across the poultry and allied livestock sectors. Mr. Cadiou shared his extensive experience in supporting French and international agribusiness firms through detailed market studies, on-ground intelligence, and tailored business development strategies across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. He also spoke about his role as the French agent for VIV trade shows, highlighting how these global platforms are shaping international collaboration, technology exchange, and market access. The conversation further explored emerging opportunities in high-growth regions such as India and Africa, as well as the evolving challenges companies face in transitioning from traditional export models to localized production and long-term market presence.

Ricky Thaper: You are the founder of Agri Réseaux International. Could you introduce your organization and its main activities?
Xavier Cadiou: After studying at the École Supérieure d’Agriculture in Angers and spending nearly twenty years advising and supporting companies in international markets, I decided in 2016 to create a private structure based on a unique model. Agri Réseaux International (ARI) is dedicated to supporting and developing French and international companies in the agricultural sector—particularly those involved in animal nutrition across global markets. To achieve this, I produce in-depth market studies by geographical area for the animal nutrition, animal health, hygiene, equipment, and genetics sectors. I travel extensively, across all continents, to meet local stakeholders, and I also rely on a network of around fifty local experts who are well integrated into professional ecosystems (veterinarians, nutritionists, agronomists, etc.). I began working in East Africa ten years ago.

Since then, I have completed 50 market studies covering 36 countries in Africa, 11 in the Middle East, and three in Asia. These studies are regularly updated, and new countries are added each year. I am currently finalizing a first study on India. The objective of these documents is to provide concrete, actionable data to support market development abroad: mapping of key stakeholders (local associations, distributors, producers, feed manufacturers, integrators, importers) along with their contact details; key market indicators (types of livestock systems, feed volumes, raw material prices, etc.); and comprehensive market analyses enriched by field insights and feedback. In addition, I offer tailor-made services such as action plans, partner searches, commercial representation, and B2B roadshows.

Ricky Thaper: These market studies are now available online?
Xavier Cadiou: Yes, indeed. In early March 2025, I launched ARI Online, a platform providing online access to all 50 market studies. It is available through three subscription options:
– a one-year subscription with unlimited access to all existing studies;
– a two-year subscription including access to studies and their regular updates;
– and a three-year subscription that also includes new country studies and, most importantly, personalized alerts on business opportunities based on sectors of interest (equipment, animal health, animal nutrition, etc.). Today, my priority is to grow subscriptions in order to strengthen the visibility and long-term sustainability of the project. This development is supported by the recruitment of my daughter, Ms. Noémie, who is now in charge of communication and event management (trade fairs, conferences, and seminars in France and abroad). According to Mr. Cadiou, these ARI Online market studies are perfect for Indian companies involved in Animal Health and Nutrition and wanting to enter African markets.

Ricky Thaper: Since May 2023, you have also been the French agent for VIV trade shows. What does this role involve?
Xavier Cadiou: It is a role that combines commercial, strategic, and advisory dimensions and is highly complementary to ARI’s activities. In practical terms, it involves promoting VIV trade shows (Asia, China, Africa, Europe) to French companies.Today, these exhibitions are fully booked well in advance—there are no more last-minute opportunities. The rebooking process can even begin within two months after an event, which can be challenging for some companies. My role is to support and advise them: what benefits they can expect from participating, what market realities they will encounter, and whether the investment makes sense.

I rely on my in-depth knowledge of countries (via ARI Online) and local stakeholders (through our network) to provide targeted guidance. The goal is not to sell dreams, but to offer concrete, realistic perspectives. I work closely with various partners to enhance the visibility of French companies at these strategic events. In 2023, 70 French companies participated in VIV Asia in Bangkok. Next year, VIV Europe in Utrecht will celebrate its 40th anniversary. There will also be a major new development: VIV Select India trade show will be organized in India for the first time, in April 2026. Around ten French companies have already confirmed their participation.

Agri Réseaux International (ARI) is dedicated to supporting and developing French and international companies in the agricultural sector—particularly those involved in animal nutrition across global markets. 

– Xavier Cadiou

Ricky Thaper: Which regions of the world are currently the most dynamic?
Xavier Cadiou: The international context— political instability in Africa, uncertainty in Russia, customs duties in the United States encourages companies to look for new opportunities. In this context, India appears particularly attractive today. India is a continental-scale country and the most populous in the world, with 1.43 billion inhabitants. It will continue to grow, move upmarket, and inevitably generate opportunities, especially as animal protein consumption is increasing rapidly. I recently visited India to tour feed mills and hatcheries and better understand local trends. European equipment is already present in Indian factories.

The country has changed tremendously and raises many questions. Agricultural systems are highly efficient: not a single square meter is wasted. Two major questions arise: will India eventually close its borders to ensure food security while continuing to increase animal protein production? And will the country be able to produce enough without opening its agriculture to GMOs, which are currently banned from local production?

The other key region is Africa. We are witnessing modern development in the poultry sector. A fundamental question remains: how will Africa produce its animal protein tomorrow? And who will drive this development—local African companies expanding into neighbouring countries (such as Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, Mauritius, South Africa), or foreign groups (from the USA, India, the Netherlands), or even sovereign wealth funds?

Events such as VIV Africa demonstrate that there are companies on the continent with real expertise. This makes the outlook particularly promising. Significant investment will take place in this region, and commercial projects are already emerging in Madagascar, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Rwanda, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and of course Senegal. This is a region of great interest and one that deserves close attention.

India will continue to grow, move upmarket, and inevitably generate opportunities, especially as animal protein consumption is increasing rapidly. I recently visited India to tour feed mills and hatcheries and better understand local trends.

– Xavier Cadiou

Ricky Thaper: In your opinion, what are the main obstacles to export for French companies?
Xavier Cadiou: French companies often talk about exporting, but not necessarily about local establishment. It is not a priority; most remain within a traditional export model. Yet, to succeed in increasingly mature markets, companies will need to become true local production players. It is now essential to consider a physical and industrial presence on the ground in the near future. Markets will develop with either independent local private players or foreign actors who acquire production assets. In Africa, for example, American companies have acquired major milling groups. They now control commodity transport and port-based factories. There are real opportunities ahead, but companies must not remain on the side lines.