If Insect Pheromones Work, Why Is Wider Adoption Still a Challenge?

Pherobio’s Reflections on ABIM 2026

From October 20–22, 2026, Pherobio Technology participated in ABIM 2026, the Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting, in Basel, Switzerland.

Beyond reconnecting with industry partners and meeting new contacts, the event provided an opportunity to reflect on the growth opportunities in biological crop protection and the practical challenges of bringing new technologies to market.

One key takeaway stood out:

a technology’s potential is only one part of commercial success. Customers also need to understand its value, apply it correctly, and have reliable access to products and technical support.

In its recent post-event analysis, Kline highlighted strong growth opportunities for biological crop protection products in emerging markets, particularly across Asia. As a company based in Asia and focused on insect pheromone solutions, Pherobio sees this broader market outlook as an encouraging signal.

However, growth across the biological crop protection sector does not necessarily translate into equal demand for every technology. For insect pheromones, we believe it is equally important to consider the practical factors that influence product adoption and market development.

Based on our industry observations, we see three key areas worth attention.

1. Can customers evaluate the relationship between investment and results?

When considering a new crop protection technology, customers need to understand its performance and whether the investment is worthwhile.

The performance of insect pheromone products may depend on factors such as the target pest, crop, application timing, deployment method, and local field conditions. Results from one application scenario may not necessarily apply to another.

At Pherobio, we believe that transparent technical information is essential to informed decision-making. Field-trial data, clear application instructions, and explanations of the relevant conditions help customers assess whether a product meets their pest management needs.

2. Do customers understand the application requirements and management practices?

Insect pheromone products work differently from conventional chemical insecticides. Depending on the product and its intended use, successful application may require specific timing, deployment methods, pest monitoring, and ongoing management.

Adopting pheromone technology may therefore involve more than simply replacing one product with another. Clear instructions and appropriate technical guidance can help customers understand how to use products correctly and reduce the risk of application errors that may affect performance.

3. Are regulatory requirements, supply, and technical support in place for the target market?

Having a promising technology does not automatically guarantee access to every market.

Regulatory requirements for insect pheromone products vary by country and may depend on the product’s intended use and classification. Where registration is required, data preparation, application costs, and approval timelines can affect commercialization.

Reliable supply and appropriate technical support are also important. In some markets, limited distribution channels or delayed replenishment may prevent customers from obtaining products according to their planned schedules, potentially affecting application and the overall customer experience.

Successful market expansion therefore requires more than identifying demand. It also depends on understanding local regulatory pathways, establishing suitable distribution arrangements, and ensuring access to products and technical support.

Moving Beyond Technology to Practical Adoption

ABIM 2026 reinforced our view that the development of biological crop protection requires more than technological innovation. It also requires solutions that respond to real agricultural needs.

For the insect pheromone industry, credible performance data, practical application guidance, and effective market access are all important to broader adoption.

Pherobio will continue to develop insect pheromone solutions and work toward connecting technical innovation with practical agricultural needs, supporting more effective and viable approaches to pest management.