Bird & Bird advises AgriZeroNZ in its investment in Agteria Biotech

AgriZeroNZ co-led a seed round of approximately EUR 6m in Agteria Biotech, a Swedish company pioneering methane reduction solutions for cattle.

Bird & Bird is pleased to have acted as legal advisor to AgriZeroNZ on its strategic investment in Agteria Biotech. The transaction underscores AgriZeroNZ’s commitment to accelerating the development of solutions that will be used by pasture-based farmers to reduce emissions.

AgriZeroNZ is a world-first public-private partnership established on 1 February 2023. Jointly owned by the New Zealand government and major agribusiness companies, AgriZeroNZ is dedicated to helping farmers cut emissions without compromising profitability and productivity.

The Bird & Bird team representing AgriZeroNZ was led by Partner Martin Folke, with the assistance of Counsel Erik Holmgren. Their deep expertise in corporate and cross-border transactions proved instrumental in navigating the complexities of this international investment, ensuring that AgriZeroNZ’s strategic objectives were achieved.

Martin Folke, Partner at Bird & Bird, comments:

“We are delighted to have played a key role in advising AgriZeroNZ on this landmark investment. Our team’s experience in structuring cross-border transactions within the agri-tech space enabled us to support a deal that drives innovation and sustainable practices across the agricultural sector.”

Wayne McNee, Chief Executive at AgriZeroNZ, adds:

“Bird & Bird’s expert guidance was invaluable in facilitating our investment in Agteria Biotech. We’re pleased to be investing in Agteria Biotech to accelerate the development of a practical, effective solution, suitable for grazing systems in New Zealand and around the world.”

Agteria Biotech has developed a patent-pending molecule proven to significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle, with multiple trials – including studies conducted by Penn State University – demonstrating robust reductions in dairy cows. This investment forms part of AgriZeroNZ’s diverse portfolio of cutting-edge technologies, which includes innovative solutions such as a methane-inhibiting bolus, vaccines, novel probiotics, and low-emissions pasture.

Bird & Bird remains committed to advising clients at the intersection of technology, innovation, and sustainability, helping to shape transactions that deliver real-world benefits and drive industry progress.