Agdia presents advanced diagnostic solutions in Agadir

During the fifth Morocco Tomato Conference held in Agadir, Salima Berkani, representative of Agdia Inc., brought a crucial focus to the often-overlooked cornerstone of sustainable tomato cultivation: the early detection of plant pathogens. In a region where agriculture is both a vocation and a matter of national resilience, Berkani’s intervention offered not only scientific precision but a strategic roadmap to protect yields and secure exports.

Agdia’s expertise and the stakes of diagnostics

Founded in 1981, Agdia is today one of the world’s most reliable providers of plant pathogen detection tools. With over 500,000 tests carried out annually and a catalog of more than 250 diagnostic kits, the company is both ISO 9001 and 17025 certified. Berkani reminded the audience of the essential role early diagnosis plays in preventing disease spread, protecting neighboring crops, and ultimately ensuring food security. “Testing is not just about identifying problems,” she emphasized, “it is about preserving livelihoods and honouring the effort of those who feed nations.”

Why testing is non-negotiable in the tomato sector

The tomato, a cornerstone of Moroccan agri-exports, is also highly susceptible to viral, bacterial, and fungal threats. Global losses due to tomato diseases are estimated to surpass 20% of potential yields, costing billions. In some cases, such as with the ToBRFV virus, yield losses can skyrocket to 70% in affected greenhouses. Detection becomes a vital act of stewardship, particularly in a high-stakes export context.

ToBRFV and ToFBV: the invisible foes in the greenhouse

The ToBRFV virus, first identified in the Middle East in 2014, has since become a major global concern. Transmitted through tools, surfaces, soil, water, and even seeds, it causes mosaic patterns, chlorosis, and fruit deformation. Even more recent is the emergence of ToFBV, the Tomato Fruit Blotch Virus, first reported in Italy in 2018 and now detected across Europe and as far as Australia. This new virus leaves no foliar symptoms but wreaks havoc on fruit quality, making it a silent threat in the production chain.

The Moroccan context: high vigilance and rapid response

A detailed case study shared by Berkani illustrated how Moroccan producers in export regions are already applying integrated strategies. In one instance, a greenhouse showing mosaic symptoms used rapid strip tests, confirmed ToBRFV by PCR, and applied immediate containment measures. Thanks to this fast diagnostic cascade, contamination was limited to a single unit.

Multiple technologies, one goal: secure production

From classic ELISA to modern isothermal amplification (LAMP/RPA) and field-ready strip tests, each tool has its place depending on the stage: seed certification, nursery, greenhouse, or export. “There is no single perfect method,” Berkani insisted. “It’s the intelligent combination that gives producers the edge.”

Diagnostic is competitive advantage

Beyond risk prevention, timely diagnostics open doors to international markets. With tightening phytosanitary rules, especially under EU Green Deal measures, exporters need certified products to stay compliant and competitive. Preventive testing also aligns with the values of environmental preservation, a principle that resonates deeply with Moroccan producers and communities.

A call for sanitary vigilance, responsibility, and innovation

At a time when water scarcity, climate stress, and market volatility are already weighing heavily on growers, pathogen outbreaks could tip the balance. Berkani’s message was clear: “Innovation in plant health must walk hand-in-hand with sustainability. Together they protect both our crops and our future.”

"May our hands grow what is pure, and may our intentions honour the Earth."

These words echoed a spirit of responsibility and resilience that was felt strongly throughout the Agadir auditorium. As Morocco continues to rise as a global supplier of quality tomatoes, diagnostics will no longer be just a technical tool, but a key pillar of responsible agriculture.  As Morocco continues to rise as a global supplier of quality tomatoes, diagnostics will no longer be just a technical tool, but a key pillar of responsible agriculture.

Time to strengthen plant health protocols at every stage

Agdia's proven testing technologies, from rapid field strips to PCR and ELISA solutions, are already trusted by leading producers across Europe, Africa, and the Americas. “Whether you're certifying seeds, securing greenhouse production, or ensuring export compliance, Agdia offers diagnostic tools that combine scientific rigor with operational simplicity”.

Are you interested in improving your detection strategy or training your technical staff? You can send a message here to explore tailored solutions. At Fructidor, we are proud to support the growers, labs, and exporters shaping the next chapter of tomato production. Let’s work together — for healthier crops, stronger trade, and sustainable growth from Agadir to the world.