Business

Netafim , the global leader in smart irrigation solutions for a sustainable future , recently inaugurated its first production plant in China . Israel ’ s Ambassador to China Matan Vilnai , Ningxia Vice Governor Zeng Yichun , and Director of the Ningxia Water Bureau Wu Hongxiang were among those attending the inauguration ceremony .

Located in Yinchuan , capital of the northwest Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region ( Ningxia ), the facility will leverage Netafim ’ s latest patented technology to produce the world ’ s most advanced drip lines along with full irrigation solutions . Underscoring Netafim ’ s greater commitment to China , the new plant will serve the country ’ s fastgrowing water-saving irrigation industry ; more and more farmers are investing in high-quality systems that enhance crop yield and quality , while reducing water , fertilizer and labour costs .

The Chinese market offers huge potential , says Netafim , given that government policies favour agricultural and water-saving irrigation technologies – which are at the core of Netafim ’ s expertise – that aim to meet the population ’ s increasing demand for high-quality food .

In wine area

With low annual rainfall of 200mm on the one hand , and easy access to the Yellow River on the other , Ningxia is a key target for government investments in watersaving technologies . Reflecting this policy , Ningxia officials visited Netafim in 2014 to discuss its agricultural vision for the region . Based on these discussions and subsequent studies of the region , Netafim built the cutting-edge manufacturing plant in Ningxia , which will serve as the company ’ s initial base for investments in the region and in North West China . Ningxia is home to a promising wine industry that is rapidly gaining an international reputation , and has received massive investments in an effort to create a solid base for producing high-quality wines . Given the importance of firstrate and well-managed irrigation and fertigation technology in producing quality wines , together with Netafim ’ s exceedingly high share of the global wine irrigation market , the company ’ s decision to invest in Ningxia is a natural step . Netafim has already collaborated with the US winery Domaine Chandon in building a high-end vineyard in Ningxia , and is partnering with a regional wine producer that serves Chinese embassies worldwide .

“ The opening of this top-ofthe-line facility is testimony to Netafim ’ s commitment to investing in China , one of our strategically important markets with significant growth potential ,” said Netafim CEO Ran Maidan . “ We greatly appreciate the support given by the Ningxia government , and hope to contribute to its efforts in carrying out its ambitious agricultural development plans .”

Solid foundation

“ Our new plant provides a solid foundation for Netafim ’ s current and future activities in China ,” said Netafim Head of APAC

Netafim CEO Ran Maidan . Photographer David Garb

Division and China Chairman Stephan Titze . “ Now we can supply high-quality , industry-standard full irrigation solutions that deliver significant water savings to farmers and governmental customers throughout Ningxia and North West China .”

“ The launching of Netafim ’ s plant provides us with superior technological support in dry farming , water-saving irrigation and related equipment ,” said Li Jianhua , Ningxia Party Secretary , at an official government meeting with Ambassador Vilnai . “ We hope to enhance our cooperation with Netafim by importing new technology , offering education and training , and strengthening our skills as we continue to expand in this field .”

“ Israel and Ningxia have created a solid foundation for scientific and technical cooperation in agriculture ,” Ambassador Vilnai said . “ Netafim ’ s new plant is yet another milestone in this partnership . We look forward to continue supporting one another , and focusing on projects that will bring Israeli irrigation technology to other areas throughout China .”

The Elsumo team , co-sponsors with Rain Bird of the Western Cape branch meeting

Elsumo products on show at SABI meeting

Welcome ! New SABI members at the Western Cape branch meeting .

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SABI | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2016