ABIM CEO on the Future of Biocontrols, Industry Trends, and What’s Ahead for ABIM 2026
12 August 2026 With biological crop protection continuing its evolution from a niche segment to a cornerstone of modern agriculture, the Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting (ABIM) is becoming even more relevant.
Ahead of ABIM 2026 in Basel, Switzerland, AgriBusiness Global spoke with ABIM AG CEO Jan Scherrer about the trends shaping the biologicals market, this year’s conference priorities, and his vision for the future of the industry.
ABIM AG CEO Jan Scherrer
AgriBusiness Global: What changes within the industry have you seen over the last few years?
Jan Scherrer: The biggest shift has been biocontrol’s transition from a niche market to a mainstream agricultural technology. We’re seeing rapid innovation in microbial solutions, greater integration with digital agriculture, increased investment, and a broader move toward biological crop management systems that support both productivity and sustainability. The conversation has evolved from asking whether biologicals work to determining how they can be scaled effectively and consistently deliver value for farmers.
ABG: What’s trending for 2026 ahead of ABIM?
JS: The industry is increasingly focused on integrated systems that combine crop protection, plant health, soil health, and digital decision-support tools. At the same time, companies are navigating evolving regulatory requirements while working to accelerate farmer adoption. Regulatory modernization remains one of the sector’s most closely watched issues. The International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association (IBMA) continues advocating for faster approval pathways for biocontrol products, arguing that Europe’s current regulatory process lags behind markets such as the United States and Brazil.
ABG: What’s planned for ABIM this year?
JS: After celebrating ABIM’s 20th anniversary last year, we’re building on that momentum with a program focused on the latest advances in biocontrol and the strategies needed to scale them successfully. The conference will bring together experts from across the global value chain to share technical insights, market perspectives, and practical approaches that can help advance adoption worldwide. I’m excited to join an experienced team that has developed a strong program for this year’s event.
ABG: What do you expect attendees to gain from this year’s conference?
JS: Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how biocontrol is delivering measurable results in the field and what it will take to scale those successes globally. This year’s program is organized around three themes: innovation in biocontrol; what that innovation means across the value chain; and the policy frameworks needed to support broader adoption. We want participants to leave with new insights, valuable connections, and practical ideas they can apply within their own organizations.
ABG: Is there anything we should be on the lookout for next year?
JS: The biocontrol market continues to evolve rapidly, and ABIM will continue evolving alongside it. As CEO, one of my priorities is developing a long-term strategy that reflects changes across the industry while continuing to meet the needs of exhibitors, attendees, and other stakeholders. Looking ahead, ABIM will remain a global platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation, while continuing to support improved market access and greater confidence in biocontrol solutions.
Get The Newsletter Today!
