New collaboration seeks to promote the development of varieties of key crops for the Brazilian market
Seed specialists Agristar and Semillas Fitó have formed a new strategic alliance to foster innovation in the research and development of specific products for Brazilian agriculture. The venture will focus on key crops such as tomatoes, peppers, melons and watermelons.
The two companies have collaborated on seed distribution in Brazil for more than 20 years, establishing an essential link for the introduction and adaptation of Semillas Fitó’s catalogue of varieties.
Vasco Jorge Vital, head of sales and marketing America at Semillas Fitó, said: “We expect the collaboration between the two companies to exceed what either could achieve alone, maximising resources and generating sustainable growth. Based on trust and complementing our strengths, the sum of our strengths will make for an even stronger collaboration”.
Agristar CEO, Steven Udsen, added: “The aim of this alliance is to introduce improved varieties that will benefit the entire value chain. In the long term, these advances will not only increase efficiency, but also reduce costs throughout the chain, which will have a positive impact on all the players involved”.
The new collaboration prioritises research programmes for key crops such as tomatoes, peppers, melons and watermelons. Semillas Fitó will lead the genetic improvement programmes, ensuring that the varieties are adapted to local needs. Agristar will be responsible for the development of these genetics in Brazil, evaluating trials designed for the country’s agricultural context.
“This approach allows both companies to take advantage of their strengths: Semillas Fitó contributes its experience in genetic improvement, while Agristar offers in-depth knowledge of the Brazilian market. Such synergy can only lead to innovative results that will benefit the agricultural sector,” Vital said.
A key aspect of the agreement is that Semillas Fitó becomes Agristar’s exclusive supplier for several types of melon, including yellow, Piel de Sapo, Galia and Gaya. This exclusivity aims to strengthen the collaboration and optimise the commercialisation strategy of both partners, allowing Agristar to stand out in the market with high quality products backed by the innovation of Semillas Fitó.
Udsen explained: “To guarantee a successful collaboration between two companies on different continents, it is crucial to involve and engage all members of both parties. This is achieved through regular interactions such as on-site visits, joint evaluations and constant information exchange. This collaborative approach optimizes results and ensures that project goals are achieved with transparency.
“In addition, it contributes to the strengthening of a solid and lasting relationship, which promotes continuous improvement in the development of varieties and the efficiency of the value chain.”
“This partnership is a clear commitment by Agristar and Semillas Fitó towards innovation in the agricultural sector,” Vital concluded.
