New Holland, a global manufacturer and seller of agricultural equipment, part of the Fiat Group, presented its full line of agricultural machinery at the third edition of Siam -- le Salon International de l'Agriculture au Maroc -- in Morocco.
The exhibition, held in Meknes, is the most important agricultural show in North Africa, which witnessed over 600 exhibitors from more than 25 countries showcasing their products befor over 350,000 visitors.
Held at the beginning of spring, the show reflects the process of modernisation and change in Morocco.
"As stated by Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, the country is striving toward a more mechanised agriculture. As such, the show represents a privileged meeting point for the agricultural businesses operators, where it is possible to share and be informed of the latest agricultural technological innovations," said the organisers.
With one of the largest stands (600 sq m) at the fair, and one of the most appreciated ones for its innovation and specialised product offering, New Holland, through its 30 years long partnership with Somma Auto - Hall, won the award for the best stall at the fair.
King Mohammed VI presented the award to Abdellatif Guerraoui, president of Auto - Hall and the New Holland representatives.
The award, presented for the first time to New Holland and Somma, represents the synergies between Somma and CNH, the Fiat Group agriculture and construction equipment subsidiary, which, through its worldwide resources, was directly involved in the preparation of the stand through its CNH International Network Development & Advertising department.
Among the many visitors at the stand was Umberto Lucchesi Palli, the Italian ambassador in Morocco.
New Holland Agriculture presented 15 machines, including some of its best TD and TDD tractor offering: with cab or ROPS (Roll Over Protection System) versions, orchard and crawler tractors from 55 to 95 horsepower.
The TT Series tractors are rated at 55 and 75 horsepower and built to satisfy many differing demands.
They feature reliable time-proven engines, axles and transmissions with controls easy to handle and with an affordable price. The two TT models have outstanding power, lift capacity and pulling strength, far exceeding expectations while maintaining high fuel efficiency.
The TS and TM 165 tractors were also on display together with, for the first time in Morocco, the TK tractor. This all-purpose tracked unit, featuring a horsepower rating 95, provides maximum productivity, comfort and safety in extreme terrain.
New Holland Agriculture also showed the combine TC and the grape harvester VX680 designed to increase productivity in the ever-expanding olive and wine market, in which New Holland is world leader.
"The agricultural industry is growing in Morocco, accounting today for 20 per cent of the gross domestic product," said Stefano Pampalone, New Holland Business Director for Africa & Middle East.
"Today New Holland is the leader in the market, and we are planning to further increase our sales during 2008," he added.