Key Takeaways
- Silal and Limagrain Vegetable Seeds (LVS) have partnered to establish the Center of Excellence for Abiotic Resilience and Crop Genomics (ARC-GEN).
- The new center will be located at the Silal Innovation Oasis in Al Ain Region.
- ARC-GEN will focus on developing crops resilient to heat, drought, and salinity, while advancing research in crop genomics.
- Research will be conducted through two units: Plant Physiology and Gene Editing.
- The initiative supports the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051.
Silal and Limagrain Partnership
Silal, the UAE-based agri-food and technology company, and Limagrain Vegetable Seeds, a division of the international seed group Limagrain, have signed an agreement to establish the Center of Excellence for Abiotic Resilience and Crop Genomics (ARC-GEN) at the Silal Innovation Oasis in Al Ain.
The partnership was formalized by His Excellency Dhafer Al Qasimi, Group CEO of Silal, and Sébastien Chauffaut, Group CEO of Limagrain, followed by a groundbreaking ceremony for the planned facility.
Research Focus of ARC-GEN
The ARC-GEN center will concentrate on enhancing the resilience of crops against extreme environmental conditions such as heat, drought, and salinity. It will also advance the study of crop genomics to develop new vegetable varieties with higher productivity and sustainability.
The initiative will operate through two complementary research units:
- Plant Physiology Research Unit, which will study plant responses to stress and test seed adaptability.
- Gene Editing Research Unit, which will apply advanced techniques to refine plant traits and strengthen crop performance.
Perspectives from Silal and Limagrain
His Excellency Dhafer Al Qasimi, Group CEO of Silal, stated: “Through our partnership with Limagrain Vegetable Seeds, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing science and innovation to turn agricultural challenges in the UAE and other regions into opportunities for growth and resilience. The groundbreaking of ARC-GEN marks the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s agricultural research, strengthening our capacity to safeguard food production, empower farmers, and position the UAE as a global hub for innovation in arid and saline environments.”
Sébastien Vidal, Chairman of Limagrain, said: “This partnership underscores the strength of the ties between France and the UAE, and highlights the strong collaboration between our respective economies towards the progress of agriculture. The UAE’s infrastructures knowledge, combined with Limagrain’s expertise in seeds, creates a fertile environment for innovative and sustainable farming solutions.”
Sébastien Chauffaut, Group CEO of Limagrain, added: “Beyond the contractual long-term commitments on both side, what matters the most is the mutual trust, open dialogue, and shared vision that unite both Limagrain and Silal. Limagrain expresses its deepest gratitude for the warm and generous welcome received in Abu Dhabi, which illustrates the strong bonds already existing between the two partners. This partnership is not only a business venture, but also a human adventure that relies on the dedication and expertise of extraordinary teams towards the progress of agriculture.”
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