Recently, Westland Seeds traveled through Southeast Asia to visit partners, growers, and trial locations across the region. "This journey not only deepened our understanding of local growing conditions, but also confirmed the exceptional performance of our varieties in tropical climates", shares Iwan van Vliet.
© Westland Seeds
Iwan van Vliet during his trip to Southeast Asia
Despite being active in this region for just 1.5 years, the results have been outstanding, he states in his travel report. "Several of our blocky pepper varieties have continued to produce AAA-grade fruits even after 11 months, demonstrating their vigor, resilience, and consistency. This has led to a rapid increase in market share in a remarkably short time."
Among various commercial growers, the varieties of Westland Seeds have consistently delivered up to 1 kg more yield per plant, which translates to an impressive 25% increase in total yield compared to their previously used standard varieties. "While this additional yield is significant, the real game changer is the extended production cycle — with plants still producing AAA-quality fruits after nearly a year, right up to the top wire. This enables growers to maximize returns through longer harvesting periods of top-grade produce."
Top performing varieties in the tropics are for Westland Seeds Jagger, Kurt and Tool as red blocky peppers and Vedder and Opeth as yellow blocky peppers.
Performance under pressure in the tropics
The Westland Seeds varieties are not only productive, but also resilient to tropical growing conditions, according to Michiel. "High humidity, strong sun, and viral pressures often present major challenges — but our varieties have shown consistent performance under these conditions. Their climate tolerance and disease resistance give growers peace of mind and reliable outcomes season after season."
© Westland Seeds
WLS Jagger end of season in Indonesia, 2025
Regional expansion: Philippines & Vietnam
The same strong results observed with commercial growers in Indonesia have now been confirmed in trials in the Philippines and Vietnam, where plant vitality, fruit quality, and yields remained consistently high. As a result, Westland Seeds will launch full commercial activities in both countries in the upcoming season.
To ensure the best results for growers, the Dutch breeders work closely with regional partners who provide local knowledge, trial support, and hands-on crop guidance. "Their expertise is essential for unlocking the full potential of our varieties in Southeast Asia." In Indonesia PT Indogreen Seed Indonesia is technical partner & distributor. In the Philippines the local partner for Westland Seeds is Netaphils for local trials and the first commercial launch in 2025 season. In Vietnam the Dutch company also found a new partner.
Broadening capsicum portfolio
While Westlands Seeds continues to improve their blocky pepper varieties, they are also expanding into hot peppers — another key segment in Southeast Asia. "With strong adaptability and excellent fruit setting under heat stress, our hot pepper lines are now being introduced in several countries, and we expect them to deliver the same high level of added value for growers."
© Westland Seeds
For more information:
Westland Seeds
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www.westlandseeds.nl
