Eden Research signs Andermatt Kenya as biopesticide distributor

Eden Research has appointed Andermatt Kenya as the exclusive distributor for Mevalone, the company’s primary biopesticide product, in a move to expand its commercial footprint in East Africa.

The decision follows regulatory approval of Mevalone in Kenya and reflects the U.K.-based agricultural technology firm’s strategy to grow sales in markets with high-value crop production. Kenya’s agricultural exports—dominated by fresh produce and cut flowers—generated approximately $2.7 billion in 2022, with cut flowers alone accounting for 8% of the country’s total exports in 2023.

Mevalone is a terpene-based biofungicide developed to treat fungal infections, particularly Botrytis cinerea, which commonly affects crops during heavy rainfall. The product uses Eden’s Sustaine microencapsulation platform, designed to deliver pesticide agents through a biodegradable, plastic-free carrier derived from yeast.

Andermatt Kenya, a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Andermatt Group, will distribute Mevalone across its network of growers in Kenya. The company specializes in biological crop protection and works directly with farmers on integrated pest management practices.

“Strengthening our commercial performance in key territories such as Kenya is a fundamental driver of growth,” Eden Chief Executive Sean Smith said in a statement. He added that the partnership is expected to help the company gain market share in Kenya’s roughly six million hectares of arable land.

Hamish Ker, CEO of Andermatt Kenya, said the product adds to its biocontrol portfolio and offers residue limit flexibility that can help Kenyan growers meet European Union import standards.

Eden said it plans to pursue additional regulatory clearances to expand the approved uses of Mevalone in Kenya. The company is listed on London’s AIM and received the London Stock Exchange’s Green Economy Mark in 2021.