Agribusiness
How we can help
Over the next decade, Australia’s agribusinesses will be under growing pressure to increase food production while improving environmental sustainability. With infrastructure and technology investment accelerating, new opportunities in productivity-enhancing automation and precision farming, resilient supply chains, agri-energy and growing demand for new products such as pesticides, locally produced fertiliser and cannabis, the agribusiness sector is poised for change.
We help agribusiness leaders and investors navigate these opportunities, guiding them through complex regulations and changing societal expectations. This includes M&A and investment opportunities, start-up capital and IP protection, as well as managing disputes, litigation and regulatory risks. Our comprehensive service draws on specialist knowledge of your needs, including foreign investment, regulatory matters, litigation, partnerships and agreements, capital projects, derivatives and divestments.
Agribusiness experience
Cargill
In a record judgment against Glencore-owned Viterra, involving misleading conduct and deceit claims in the purchase of its malting business.
GrainCorp
On its $2 billion demerger of United Malt Group to GrainCorp’s shareholders by way of scheme of arrangement and ASX listing.
A leading player in the agtech space
On interlinked agreements to fund, develop and commercialise genetically-modified seed technology.
United Malt Group
On its $1.5 billion acquisition by Malteries Soufflet, whose major shareholder is French agricultural cooperative group InVivo.
Nutrien Ag Solutions
On licensing obligations for stock and station agents, agricultural product customer and supplier contracts, and new climate reporting regulations.
Rubicon Water
On its initial public offering and ASX listing.
Bunge
On its $26.6 billion merger with Viterra, backed by Glencore. We advised Bunge in conjunction with Latham and Watkins.
Bega Cheese
In successfully defending a six-week trial in the Supreme Court brought by Fonterra Brands Australia regarding the use of Bega’s trademark.
Twynam Agricultural Group
On the sale of its cotton business to Queensland Cotton, various farm and property acquisitions and sales, and the trade of water entitlements.