Rizobacter: A Global Biologicals Powerhouse 45 Years in the Making

Rizobacter was founded 45 years ago and has since deployed an aggressive international expansion strategy. Much of its growth is based on strong links it has cultivated with technical-scientific institutions, distributors and manufacturers in the agriculture industry. These connections have supported their development of targeted technologies matched to the needs of widely varied growing environments while complying with strict international ISO quality standards. This strategy has led to its position as a leading innovator in biological inputs at a global level.

Growers and seed companies in more than 40 countries are now using Rizobacter products. With an eye to continuing its path of development, Rizobacter has committed substantial resources to building the roots for a strong presence in the North American and European markets. Its market strength has been reinforced under the ownership of Bioceres Crop Solutions Corp. which, just last year, began trading on NASDAQ under the BIOX symbol.

Growth with a solid base

Growers’ demand for biologicals has grown rapidly in recent years, at an average rate of 14% annually, according to the latest reports by Dunham Trimmer. This shift in agricultural production toward sustainable technologies finds Rizobacter more than ready with its four decades of research in biological formulations technologies. The firm consistently invests 30% of the yearly profits in R&D. Focused on improving performance of biological inputs already familiar to growers and seed companies, Rizobacter has achieved significant strides in bacterial survival. New formulations now offer rhizobia inoculants that can be applied to seed up to 220 days before planting. Success with new processes designed to strengthen bacteria and promote metabolic performance have resulted in a range of crop-specific products with TOP, Osmo Protection Technology. Expanding its lineup, one of the latest advances is Rizoderma, a bio-fungicide. Based on a Trichoderma strain specially selected based on its proven effectiveness in suppressing seed and soil-borne diseases in crops like wheat, barley, rice, and soybean.

Increased biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) continues to attract Rizobacter’s research initiatives

BNF can naturally provide up to 70% of the nitrogen that soybean plants need during their growth cycle. Inoculation maximizes the contribution of BNF to the nutrition of the legume crops. As a result, the need for chemical fertilization is reduced, which represents significant savings in input costs for the producer, while reducing fossil fuels consumption and carbon emissions into the atmosphere derived from fertilizer use. These combine to achieve a more sustainable balance and an agricultural sector that produces in greater harmony with the environment.

Rizobacter foresees a promising future with the high adoption of its technologies throughout South America, Europe, Southern Africa, and North America. Wide acceptance of Rizobacter innovations is fueling the expansion of its portfolio of biological products to include biofungicides, bioinsecticides, biostimulants, and new inoculants. The future of biologicals in the agricultural industry is bright and the company is determined to be a relevant player by leveraging its innovative portfolio, unmatched customer service, and long-term collaborations with key partners.

This article was initially published in AgroPages' '2022 Seed Treatment Special' magazine.