The small Mexican state of Querétaro has become the focus of much international investment in recent years. To what is this owed?

Querétaro is the national model for diversification in investment and productive projects. The state has seen initiatives ranging from the aerospace industry, automotive, chemical and food industries, even including agricultural projects like Agropark; a comprehensive centre dedicated to producing plants and vegetables that began in 2006. Its geographic advantages make it attractive for logistics and freight, as well as its stability in terms of labour and social order.

The development of the state has been strengthened by the attraction and training of specialists from each sector. For agriculture we have Universidad Ceickor, an innovative educational centre catering to youth and professionals who what to specialise in or keep up to date with protected agriculture.

How would you describe the current situation in the country’s agricultural sector?

The situation in the sector is diverse and it faces many geopolitical, social and technological variables in terms of the market and in terms of competitiveness. The sector has provided a lot of prosperity for some players, but also a lot of inequality for others. There has been a big push from the government and private sector to improve the internal variables within the industry, such as working conditions, staff training, corporate knowledge management, the development and implementation of adequate and accessible technology for all farmers, from small scale producers to large businesses with high quality infrastructure. At Koppert we make large investments in technological, human and financial resources, as well as disseminating information and training farmers. Nowadays, the most uncertain geopolitical variable is without doubt the renegotiation of NAFTA, which has been put in doubt by the presidential elections in the United States. Nevertheless, we trust that the agricultural industry will come out stronger with a strong interdependence among North American countries.

What opportunities does the sector present to foreign investment?

The sector is prosperous and many areas represent opportunities not only for foreign investment but for initiatives from local enterprises. The success in positioning crops such as Mexican berries means that producers are trying to acquire the technology, knowledge and qualified personnel to meet international standards.

Is climate change beginning to affect the agricultural sector?

Yes, climate change is palpable. The changes in temperature have resulted in the arrival and establishment of exotic infestations in places where before they would have been unimaginable. This is without mentioning cold snaps and droughts, which also represent a danger for agricultural production.

Could you give us a brief introduction to Koppert Biological Systems?

Koppert produces sustainable solutions for both plant and food crops all over the world. We work with farmers and in unity with nature for agriculture that is healthier, safer, more productive and more resistant. To this end, we use natural agents to fight against infestations, bumblebees for natural pollonisation and biostimulants that support and strengthen crops above and beneath the ground. The restoration and protection of ecosystems in a natural way is the base of healthy crops and a balanced environment.

What do you do differently from your competitors?

Koppert is above all a knowledge-based business. Discovering and taking advantage of natural principles represents the backbone of Koppert’s activities. Our principal differentiator is in using expertise to work always with nature, using its principles to find effective solutions for the control of infestations, pollonisation, growth, and protecting crops from diseases.

Our 50 professional consultants in Mexico guarantee help for farmers and distributors in facing their daily challenges. Koppert also offers diverse courses and works closely with universities all over the world to put this knowledge at the disposal of an ever-wider range of people.