In May (2023), OptiCept entered into an agreement with Guangxi Shichen Group (“GSG”). In cooperation with the Chinese state research institute Guangxhi Academy of Forestry, the parties decided to enter into a pilot project to treat Camellia and Eucalyptus cuttings.

The collaboration now expands as the research institute sees that the OptiBoost method can be beneficial for treating tree species such as Bamboo, Acacia, and several other commonly occurring trees and plants in China. With the new tripartite agreement, the Guangxhi Academy of Forestry becomes a formal partner in the collaboration.

“A clear sign that there is a demand for the OptiBoost technology in China. The fact that we are expanding and deepening our collaboration also shows the potential to expand the market for the application. We are excited to start work with new varieties of cuttings”. Says Thomas Lundqvist, CEO OptiCept Technologies.

Guangxi is the center of the forestry industry in China, which has an annual turnover of EUR 120 billion. It is also the largest area in terms of Eucalyptus plantation, with a total area of 30.34 million hectares and an estimated 2 billion Eucalyptus trees planted annually.

Bamboo is also widespread and has significant cultural, economic, and environmental importance in the country. An estimated 200 million cuttings are planted annually.

In addition to this, Camellia is also grown in the area, a bush from which a valuable oil (Camelia oil) is extracted that is used in cooking, skincare, etc. The planting of Camellia bushes is an initiative by the Chinese state to secure the supply of oil and to create work for farmers in the hilly landscape. 200,000 hectares have initially been dedicated to the planting of Camellia bushes over a 3-year period. An estimated 300 million Camellia cuttings are planted annually.