AgricultureCompanies enhance photosynthesis, use pineapple leaves in synthetic leatherFarmworkers carry rice saplings for planting in India. Agriculture accounts for a substantial share of economic activity in India and Southeast Asia. © ReutersKOJI NOZAWAMay 20, 2026 00:10 JSTTOKYO -- Agriculture startups in Southeast Asia and India are using locally available materials to reduce fertilizer consumption and produce alternatives to plastic, partly in response to the supply chain disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran conflict.