This week Sunoko, a member of MK Group, organized the traditional “Sugar Beet Field Days” at two locations – in Bečej and Ljukovo near Inđija. The events brought together a large number of farmers, partners and agricultural experts and provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge, experience and modern approaches to sugar beet production.
New sugar beet varieties were presented, along with improved approaches to plant protection against diseases and pests and innovative weed control concepts. Special attention was paid to preserving soil moisture and developing the root system as key factors in plant drought resilience. Participants discussed current market trends and the adoption of new technological solutions in production. Emphasis was placed on the impact of climate change, which increasingly shapes agricultural practice and requires adaptation at all stages of production.
According to this season’s data, sugar beet was sown on approximately 31,000 hectares in Serbia. Due to unfavorable weather conditions, sowing was extended and took place from early March until the end of April. Although producers faced challenges such as lower temperatures, wind and soil crusting, crops are in satisfactory condition, providing a basis for optimistic yield expectations this year.
“In modern production conditions, efficiency and timely application of agronomic measures have a decisive impact on yield outcomes. Our goal is to provide farmers with concrete, applicable solutions that will help them achieve stable and quality yields despite increasingly pronounced climate challenges,” said Slobodan Košutić, CEO of Sunoko.
Sunoko emphasizes that continuous investment in research and development is crucial for the sustainability and competitiveness of production. Through its Research and Development Center, the company actively develops and recommends solutions adapted to new conditions – from variety selection to modern crop protection approaches.
The “Sugar Beet Field Days” serve as an important meeting place linking science and practice, enabling producers to apply the latest knowledge directly on their farms. Thanks to the strong infrastructure and capacities of its sugar mills, Sunoko continues to ensure stable market supply and maintains a leading position in Serbia’s sugar industry – the only net-exporting country in the region.