News

From training courses on the EU Organic Regulation to the Organic Advanced School in Shkodra: the Agricultural Policy Dialogue Germany – South East Europe, implemented by SWG and IAK, promotes knowledge exchange, practice-oriented learning, and regional cooperation in the field of organic farming in the Western Balkans and the Republic of Moldova.

With FarmAxis, IAK is introducing a new software solution that supports agricultural businesses on their path to greater efficiency and sustainability. The cloud-based platform combines benchmarking, operational analysis, and management functions in a single system – simple, clear, and practical. The FarmAxis Dairy module is available at launch, with additional modules in development.

The countries of South East Europe have reaffirmed their joint commitment to a sustainable agricultural sector. As part of the APD Germany – Southeast Europe, implemented by SWG and IAK, important priorities for regional cooperation and EU integration were agreed upon at the 63rd SWG Assembly in Prizren, Kosovo, and the 19th Ministerial Meeting in Pristina, Kosovo.

The Uruguayan-German Dialogue on Agriculture, implemented by the IAK, took part in the international conference “SoilCarbon4Climate” in Berlin from Sep 11-13, 2025, and subsequently visited innovative farms and leading research institutions. The focus was on soil health, carbon farming, and digital agricultural technologies, with the aim of further deepening cooperation between science, politics, and practice in Germany and Uruguay.

From Sep 8-12, 2025, a high-ranking delegation of Ukrainian parliamentarians, representatives of state institutions, scientists, and forestry experts visited Germany. The focus was on political, scientific, and practical approaches in the German forestry and timber industry. The study trip was organized as part of the “Sustainable Forestry Implementation (SFI)” project carried out by the IAK.

Three days dedicated to dialogue, innovation, and cooperation: This year's Sino-German Agricultural Week (SGAW) – an event organized by the Sino-German Agricultural Center (DCZ) which is implemented by the IAK – brought together politicians, scientists, and business leaders in Chengdu, China. Together, they discussed ways to achieve sustainable agricultural and food systems – from expert forums and excursions to direct B2B matchmaking.

Dr. Martin Schneider, Managing Director of IAK Agrar Consulting GmbH, was invited to speak at the Leipzig Economic Society's theme day on Jun 24, 2025. In his statement, he explained why digitization in agriculture has stalled from a consulting perspective – and what solutions could remedy the situation.

Germany's forests are increasingly suffering from the consequences of climate change, as the recently published Forest Condition Report confirms. Forest managers from the countries of the Western Balkans are also addressing the associated challenges as part of the Agricultural Policy Dialogue Germany – South East Europe. In addition to sustainable management of raw material supply, modern forestry also plays a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and promoting climate protection. These aspects were examined in more detail in a specialist information trip organized by the IAK together with HessenForst – from politics and research to practical implementation in the forest.

Last week, an exposure visit and a thematic session at the IAMO Forum 2025 in Halle (Saale) took place as part of the Agricultural Policy Dialogue Germany – South East Europe (APD). Both were organized by IAK and SWG. The focus was on the challenges and opportunities for young people and women in agriculture, intending to foster sustainable prospects for rural regions in the Western Balkans. A diverse supporting program complemented the week, offering practical insights into innovative approaches to regional development.