Syngenta, Bayer to co-develop new tool to combat weed resistance

BASEL, Switzerland — Syngenta and Bayer CropScience announced recently a co-development agreement on an HPPD herbicide tolerance trait for soybeans.

The trait is in early development with launch in North America expected in the second half of this decade.

Outcome

By incorporating tolerance to HPPD herbicides, and thereby enabling the use of leading weed control products, the new trait will provide a powerful mode of action for weed control and the management of weed resistance, particularly to glyphosate.

Potential

The trait will have significant potential for out-licensing as well as in the companies’ respective branded seeds businesses.

“The HPPD trait will be an important new tool for soybean growers faced with increasing pressure from resistant weeds,” said Davor Pisk, Syngenta chief operating officer.

“It will broaden the trait options available to growers and expand the market opportunity for our leading herbicide mesotrione, branded CALLISTO. The introduction of this technology will substantially improve soybean productivity.”