Contending With Uncertainty: Why Ag Companies Must Balance Agility, Innovation, and Long-Term Focus
1 June 2026 These days, it seems as if the only thing that’s certain is uncertainty. With price fluctuations, geopolitical situations, supply chain disruptions, and an ever-evolving tariff situation, companies need to be prepared to adjust their strategy quickly.
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While these factors may present challenges, they may also bring about opportunity.
In the May issue of AgriBusiness Global, we interviewed our 2026 Visionary Award winners and asked their advice for contending with an evolving marketplace. These leaders were chosen based on their unique vision, ability to innovate in challenging times, and capacity to inspire others to make improvements for the crop protection, biologicals, plant health, and ag tech global markets.
For instance, in the face of market uncertainty, Dr. José Carvalho, Head of Regulatory affairs for EuroBiotrop, a subsidiary of the Biofirst group, suggests remaining calm and being flexible.
“Get the right people in place who are able to operate under highly uncertain conditions, replan fast, and operate quick U-turns around the business deliverables,” he said.
However, he also stresses the importance of not hyperfocusing on re-adjusting the company’s five-year business plan every time there is a major shift in the world as this can cause the team to lose sight of the overall vision.
“Such events happen every second week, and you will lose direction if you focus too much on them,” Carvalho said. “It’s a new relearning process, which we all have to go through.”
When so many outside factors are changing, the ability to consistently deliver high-quality products without overcomplicating it is also key, according to advice given by ABG’s other Visionary Award winners.
For example, Valentyna Bolokhovska, Director of R&D and Co-founder of BTU Biotech Company, recommended that companies stay the course by investing in science, not just marketing.
“The future belongs to products with proven effectiveness: field research, strain identification, and clear mechanisms of action,” she said. “Without this, you cannot build market trust.”
What about you? Has your company had to adjust its strategy recently? Are there any strategies you’re keeping the same in light of the changing market? How are you contending with challenges?
The AgriBusiness Global team and I would love to hear your thoughts. Email me at [email protected].
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