ICSCE 2026 Dubai: Indian Agrochemical Event Highlights Market Trends, Sourcing Opportunities
The 23rd edition of “International Crop Science Conference & Exhibition (ICSCE Dubai 2026)” organized by PMFAI Agribusiness Foundation took place in Dubai on 19th & 20th January 2026 at Le Meridien Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai, UAE.
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After successfully organising 22 international editions between 1997 and 2025 in India and various other countries under PMFAI, the ICSCE now enters a new era under the aegis of the PMFAI Agribusiness Foundation, established in the year 2023. This milestone reaffirms our unwavering commitment to empowering the global Agrochemical, Agri Biological, and allied chemical industries, and to fostering a future where science, sustainability, and partnership work hand in hand to nourish the world.
The two-day event commenced on a high note on the morning of January 19, 2026, with a welcome address by PMFAI President, Mr. Pradip Dave. In his opening remarks, Mr. Dave reflected on the event’s evolution since its 1997 debut in Mumbai. He addressed the challenges the global agri-inputs industry faced over the past two years, noting that a recent revival in demand and inventory normalization are now sustaining industry momentum. Furthermore, Mr. Dave highlighted the remarkable growth of the Indian Agrochemical sector, which has emerged as the world’s fourth-largest producer and second-largest exporter, supplying over 160 countries.
The event witnessed strong industry presence with 117 leading Agri-inputs and allied industries showcasing their product portfolios (combining crop protection chemicals, biologicals, biostimulants and digital tools) during the two days of ICSCE 2026 held in Dubai. With over 1200 plus registered delegates’ participation, ICSCE 2026 was highly successful event.
Delegates from over 43 countries from all over the world including – Africa, Argentina, Armenia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Oman, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Tanzania, Turkey, Turkmenistan, UAE, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA, Vietnam, West Africa and many other countries participated in the event.
Related:
- PMFAI’s ICSCE 2026 in Pictures: Global Agri-Inputs Leaders Unite in Dubai
- PMFAI’s ICSCE 2026 Brings Global Agri-Inputs Leaders Together in Dubai
- PMFAI Honors Agrochemical Visionary Mr. Pradip Dave with ‘The Guiding Legend Award’ at PMFAI-SML Agchem Awards 2026
Dr. Shaza Roshdy Omar, Plant Health Expert and Phytosanitary Specialist associated with the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) in Egypt, delivered the keynote address. Dr. Shaza highlighted the vital role of international plant health systems in advancing sustainable agriculture within developing nations. Her presentation identified prevention, early detection, and harmonized phytosanitary standards as the most cost-effective tools for protecting crops, biodiversity, and food security. She concluded by offering strategic insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders on using these systems as a foundation for regenerative agriculture.
The event also hosted renowned pesticide and biological product scientists and industry experts, who gave presentations on various important topics during the two days of the event, brief details of which are as given below:
- Choke Points in Global Agrochemicals: Strategic Risks and Opportunities: Dr. Shanni Kumar Srivastava, Vice President, International Business, SML Limited. The presentation discussed how emerging-market players, including Indian companies, can strengthen resilience and relevance by positioning themselves at critical nodes of the global agrochemical ecosystem and create a strategic choke points to win.
- Seed/Crop Nutrition and NUE technology: Mr. R.K. Goyal, Managing Director (Asia: APAC Regiona), Verdesia Life Sciences LLC. Mr. Goyal’s presentation highlighted about Nutrient Use Efficiency (NUE) and how well plants use the available mineral nutrients.
- Strategies to enhance India’s role in the global supply chain and way forward for Indian Agrochemical Industry: Mr. Rohit Nagaraj, Research Analyst, Batlivala & Karani Mr. Nagaraj in his presentation highlighted India’s emergence as the global #2 agrochemical exporter was accelerated by post-2013 regulatory shifts and a worldwide move toward supply chain diversification. Despite these strengths, the industry has navigated a volatile period since late 2022 that has highlighted structural weaknesses. As we look to the future, it is clear that a recalibration of growth strategies is essential for long-term sustainability. The following presentation provides a roadmap for Indian companies to navigate these challenges; let’s dive into the insights.
Round Table Discussion: Shaping the Future of Agrochemicals
Panelists:
- Mr. Divyansh Agarwal, Director – Retail and Agribusiness Strategy, Krishi Rasayan Exports Pvt. Ltd.
- Mr. Adhiraj Swarup Agarwal – Strategic Financial Advisor, Business Development – International Sales, India Pesticides Ltd.
- Mr. Sanskar Agarwal, Director (Marketing and Sales), Insecticides India Ltd.
- Moderator: Dr. Samir Dave, Director, AIMCO Pesticides Ltd. & Secretary, PMFAI.
The Roundtable discussion focused on shaping the future of the Agrochemical industry. Much like other sectors, the agrochemical industry is witnessing a generational shift, with Gen Z leaders taking the helm of established legacy in agrochemical companies. A panel of these ‘new-age’ leaders engaged in a dynamic dialogue on overcoming export competition, prioritizing R&D investments, and capitalizing on India’s role in the ‘China Plus One’ strategy.
Biopesticides and Biostimulants Marke and Opportunities/Challenges: Mr. Lawrence Middler, Senior Analyst, AgbioInvestor. The presentation provided an overview of the biopesticide and biostimulants market as well as the recent drivers that are shaping the industry, including regional performance, trends within regulation, innovation as well as competing technologies. It also presented AgbioInvestor’s outlook for these segments and the potential challenges and opportunities.
Enhancing Performance and Stability in Challenging Agrochemical Formulations with latest Surfactant Chemistry: Mr. Rahul Sonawane, Team Lead Technical Service, Agro, Agriculture and Food, South East Asia, Nouryon Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd. The presentation explored emerging agricultural trends in India and illustrated how Nouryon’s innovative solutions address these evolving demands.
Doing Business in UAE – Mr. Himanshu Kishnadwaala, Partner, CNK & Associates LLP. During his presentation, Mr. Himanshu outlined the key requirements for operating a business in the UAE.
European Plant Protection Market: Review of markets and registration constraints: Dr. Yves Coconnier, Global Business Development Manager, STAPHYT. In his presentation, Dr. Yves mentioned that European Market was historically the first largest market for Agrochemicals. Due to increasing environmental considerations, a switch of product uses and concepts appears from conventional agrochemicals to new generation of biocontrol, biostimulants, fertilisers, adjuvants. He mentioned, registration part is the most complicate challenge for foreign companies willing to penetrate EU market.
Advancing Agricultural applications with Momentive’s Innovative Silwet Adjuvant Solutions: Mr. Sushil Kumar Bahuguna, Commercial Leader – Agriculture & Process Industries (IMEA) at Momentive. The presentation explored how Momentive’s advanced adjuvant solutions ranging from Silwet and AgroSpred to the latest Silwet EcoPower helping growers around the world.
Novel biodegradable dispersant for water-based formulations in Agriculture: Mr. Sachin Vishwakarma, Manager – Technical Services & Applied Technology – Agriculture at Evonik. The presentation outlined how Evonik developed a novel non-ionic dispersant molecule based on polyetherester technology which significantly enhances the shelf life of suspension concentrates (SC) formulations. The dispersant is biodegradable due to the OECD 301 F method.
Fertilizer Fortification Boosting Nutrient Use efficiency through biosolutions: Mr. Shanmugham Sambanathan, Commercial Head – Agriculture, Novonesis. The presentation highlighted how Biosolutions are increasingly gaining acceptance among farmers, yet their adoption remains at a nascent stage. To unlock meaningful agronomic and environmental benefits, the industry needs to move towards at least 50% adoption of biosolutions across cultivable land.
Process Technologies for Agrochemicals – A Comprehensive Approach: Dr. A. Krishnaiah, Chief Scientist & Head, Fluoro-Agrochemicals Department, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT). The presentation highlighted Indian agrochemical industry’s dependency on import of key intermediates and even some of the active ingredients. Added to this, Government of India has recently come with a proposal to ban 27 molecules for use as crop care agents due to adverse environmental impact. This can lead to creation of a treatment gap in pest control. With this background, CSIR-IICT came out with a proposal which focuses on process development of next generation replacement molecules, which are off patent or going to be off patent in short period. The details on CSIR-IICT comprehensive approach for process development and contributions were discussed in detail.
Digitisation of Supply Chain: Mr. Nitin R. Sonar, COO, Biostadt India Limited. The presentation highlighted digitisation projects carried out by Biostadt to improve the supply chain.
Current China Manufacturing status and also their Export: Mr. David Li, Vice President of SPM BIO. The presentation revolved around China Agrochemical industry, current state of manufacturing and imports and exports with innovations in Crop Protection and brand awareness.
Transforming Agrochemical Solutions: From Silicone Excellence to Green Solutions in Agriculture – Dr. Manju Dharman, Head R&D PCD/CRTI, RESIL Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. The presentation highlighted Resil Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. development of next- generation “green” silicones – bio-based and biodegradable siloxanes and hybrid systems, that retain the performance benefits of traditional silicones while aligning with regulatory and sustainability goals.
From Strength to Sca.le: Tailor-made Surfactant Solutions Driving Agro Innovations: Mr. Nitin Khatik, General Manager, Sales, Rossari Biotech Limited. The presentation highlighted Rossari’s innovative product portfolio developed through intensive R&D and customer collaboration. New molecules, such as solvents, polymeric surfactants, adjuvants and advanced defoamers bring superior wetting, dispersing and antifoaming capabilities while supporting eco-friendly formulations.
Shifting Innovation in Agrochemicals: With New Molecule Discovery moving from Japan to China, how can Indian companies step up, overcome challenges and build their own Innovation Pipeline: Mr. Jitendra Mohan, COO, Willowood Chemcals Ltd. The presentation focused on ways on how Indian companies can bring innovation to overcome the challenges.
Intro / Crop Protection market overview and outlook: Mr. Derek Oliphant, Senior Analyst at AgrbioInvestor. The presentation provided an overview of the performance of the global crop protection market, looking at recent developments in the industry and their impact on market dynamics. The session also explored the key factors which are expected to influence the development of the industry over the next few years.
Enhanced Stabilization & Anti-crystalization Dispersant for Suspension Concentrates: Mr. Sandeep Thakur, Technical Leader, Syneco.
Production processes and intermediate requirements for newly off-patent active ingredients: Ms. Rachael Lowe, Analyst, AgbioInvestor. The presentation explored the role of intermediates in agrochemical manufacturing and how synthetic route complexity shapes production cost, supply requirements, and market competitiveness.
Building International Industry Cooperation by bringing together Regulators: Dr. Imme Gerke, Regulatory Consultants, Canada. The presentation was mainly on Building International Industry Cooperation by bringing together Regulators
Seventh edition of “PMFAI-SML ANNUAL AGCHEM AWARDS 2025”
The Seventh edition of PMFAI-SML Annual Agchem Awards 2026 took place on the evening of January 19, 2026, at the Le Meridien Hotel & Conference Centre in Dubai, UAE.
Instituted in 2018, the PMFAI-SML Agchem Awards were established to honour outstanding achievements within the Indian Agrochemical, Agri-Biological, and Allied industries. These awards celebrate the remarkable contributions that drive the sustainable growth of agriculture. “PMFAI – SML Annual Agchem Awards” which made remarkable beginning in 2018 with permanent sponsorship by M/s. SML Limited (formerly Sulphur Mills Limited), one of the globally known leading Indian Agrochemical Company.
The Awards Function was attended by about 900 persons. The Awards presented included in categories of – Export Excellence; Emerging Companies; Company of the year; Outstanding Innovations; Breakthrough Technology; Social Responsibility Excellence; Successful Company of the Era; and Global Company of the Year. Main Awards included as below.
Export Excellence Award – Large scale: Winner
Parijat Industries (India) Limited
Export Excellence Award – Medium scale: Winner
General Crop Science Pvt. Ltd.
Export Excellence Award – Medium scale: Runner Up
Crop Safe Pesticides India Pvt. Ltd.
Export Excellence Award – Small scale: Winner
Sunshiv Botanics Pvt. Ltd
Emerging Company of the year Award – Medium scale: Winner
Concreate Global Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Scimplify)
Emerging Company of the year Award – Small scale: Winner
Ubdetsurf Industries Pvt. Ltd.
Emerging Company of the year Award (Other than Agrochemicals)
Supreme Surfactants Pvt. Ltd.
Company of the Year – Large Scale: Winner
Krishi Rasayan Exports Pvt. Ltd.
Company of the Year – Large Scale: Runner Up
Best Agrolife Limited
Company of the Year – Ancillary Unit – Winner
Excel Industries Limited
Company of the Year – Medium scale: Winner
Mahamaya Lifesciences Ltd.
Company of the Year – Medium scale: Runner up
Thakar Chemicals Limited
Company of the Year – Small-scale Biological Segment: Winner
AgriLife India Pvt. Ltd.
Company of the Year – Small scale Agrochemicals: Winner
Betrust Industries Pvt. Ltd.
Award for Outstanding Innovation: Winner
Indofil Industries Limited
Award for Outstanding Innovation in other categories: Winner
Nouryon Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd.
Social Responsibility Excellence Award: Winner
Excel Industries Limited
Special Awards recognising the efforts in “Social Responsibility” to:
- Sandhya Organic Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.
- Parijat Industries (India) Limited
- Tagros Chemicals India P vt. Ltd.
Successful Company of the Era (having presence of more than 20 years)
Successful Company of the Era Award – Large Scale: Winner
Punjab Chemicals and Crop Protection Ltd.
Successful Company Globally– Large scale: Winner
Tagros Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd.
Successful Company Globally– Medium scale: Winner
Agrow Allied Ventures Pvt. Ltd.
Emerging Leader of the Year Award – Winner
Mr. Burjis Nadir Godrej, Managing Director, Astec Lifesciences Limited
Leader of the Year Award – Winner
Mr. Rajesh Kumar Agarwal, Joint Managing Director, Krishi Rasayan Exports Pvt. Ltd.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Winner
Mr. Dipesh K. Shroff, Chairman & Managing Director, Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd. & Solaris Chemtech
The Guiding Legend Award
Mr. Pradip Dave, Chairman, AIMCO Pesticides Ltd. and President, Pesticides Manufacturers & Formulators Association of India (PMFAI)
The Award Function was followed by cocktails and dinner reception.
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