28 October 2026, Switzerland: The 2026 Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting (ABIM) came back to Basel from 20-22 October for its 21st edition. Welcoming 2,000 delegates and over 180 exhibitors from 60 countries, the event provided a unique platform to share knowledge, showcase innovation, and foster international collaboration across the sustainable agriculture sector. The event was hosted by ABIM AG, jointly owned by FiBL and the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association (IBMA).
Recognised as the premier global event for the biocontrol industry, ABIM 2026 brought together leaders, innovators and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss the latest developments and future trends in sustainable agriculture.
Besides co-organising the event, FiBL was also represented with its own stand, which served as a meeting and networking hub to engage with participants from industry, academia, regulatory bodies and other stakeholders across the biocontrol value chain. FiBL staff also contributed actively to the conference programme:
Session 1, “How to Advance Innovation – Applied Research Perspective”, was chaired by Carlo Gamper Cardinali, Leader of the Group Inputs, and featured a contribution from Veronika Maurer, Senior Researcher, Animal Health. Session 2, “Showcasing Innovations”, was chaired by Stefano Torriani, Head of the Department of Crop Sciences.
Global perspectives on biocontrol adoption and innovation
A key highlight of ABIM 2026 was the wealth of insights shared from around the globe, particularly from Brazil and other Global South countries, alongside updates on the latest developments in Europe. The keynote “Strategic Environment for Biocontrol and Innovation Dynamics”, delivered by Christian Pereira of Bizup Strategy, Brazil, shared insights into Brazil’s biocontrol success story and what it takes to scale adoption. Discussions highlighted that while innovation is essential, successful implementation also depends on supportive regulation, effective commercialisation, farmer training and knowledge sharing. Speakers also emphasised the importance of culture as a driving force that connects and strengthens the global biocontrol community.
“Farmers need more biocontrol. At ABIM 2026, we saw that regulators worldwide are adapting regulations for biocontrol. The innovation is clearly there, and in order to scale, the industry must help farmers understand biocontrol and how it works on their farms,” said Jennifer Lewis, Executive Director of IBMA.
Countless opportunities for knowledge exchange, new connections and innovation
Through presentations, workshops, panel discussions, and a poster exhibition, participants explored a wide range of topics, including regulatory developments, market trends, and innovative biocontrol solutions.
The exhibition showcased cutting-edge products and technologies from 183 companies and organisations across two floors, including 15 young, innovative companies presenting solutions designed to address current biocontrol challenges at the Start-up Village.
More than 100 posters sparked lively discussions on topics ranging from science and regulation to business development and market opportunities.
Networking remained at the heart of the event. Attendees connected with industry peers, explored potential partnerships and exchanged ideas through more than 3,100 one-to-one meetings across dedicated networking areas and business meeting rooms.
Looking ahead
“ABIM 2026 was my first – what an inspiring and insightful event. These three days will serve as a renewed promise for the future: we will continue to work hard towards shaping an ABIM that addresses the key trends of biocontrol and the industry’s needs, in order to pave the way for more sustainable agriculture”, said Jan Scherrer, CEO of ABIM AG.
ABIM 2027 will take place from 19-21 October 2027 at the Congress Center Basel, Switzerland.
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