Two chemical giants enter agreement to produce new fungicide

Sumitomo Chemical and BASF, two of the world’s leading chemical companies, have announced their entry into a collaboration agreement for the development of a new fungicide.

The two organisations said the agreement brings together 'innovation skills' to deliver a 'novel' fungicidal compound to farmers around the world.

This compound, discovered by Sumitomo Chemical, is thought to demonstrate high efficacy for the control of major plant diseases, including those that have developed resistance to other available fungicides.

Ray Nishimoto, Sumitomo Chemical’s Representative Director said: “Together with BASF, we will be able to provide more growers with the opportunity to experience the benefits of this new fungicide, which will play an important role in the resistance management of difficult to control plant diseases.

“Through this partnership, we show our commitment to sustainable agricultural production.”

Secure yields

The fungicide will be a new tool to help secure yields in crops where fungicide options are limited.

Markus Heldt, President of BASF’s Crop Protection division said: “Farmers want to grow healthy crops and sustainably supply the increasing demand for food and fiber. This strategic cooperation between BASF and Sumitomo Chemical demonstrates the two companies’ commitment in investing in solutions to help farmers manage their business.”

The companies plan to separately develop unique formulations with the new compound to complement their portfolios.

Commercialisation of the companies’ respective formulations is expected to begin following their registrations and regulatory approval from relevant authorities.

Registration submissions in major markets are planned from 2018 onwards. The companies intend to make their products available worldwide.