Syngenta Expands Biologicals R&D with Key Acquisition and New Production Facility in the U.S.

Syngenta Expands Biologicals R&D with Key Acquisition and New Production Facility in the U.S.

(IN BRIEF) Syngenta has acquired Novartis’ natural products and genetic strains assets to enhance its biologicals research capabilities and support the agricultural sector’s transition to sustainability. This acquisition complements the opening of a state-of-the-art biologicals production facility in South Carolina and follows Syngenta’s ongoing partnerships to foster innovation in biologicals solutions.

(PRESS RELEASE) BASEL, 26-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Syngenta, a global leader in biologicals research and development for agriculture, is significantly expanding its capabilities to support sustainable farming practices. In a strategic move, Syngenta has acquired the Novartis repository of natural compounds and genetic strains for agricultural use, while Novartis retains exclusive rights to the repository for pharmaceutical applications. Alongside this acquisition, Syngenta is also bringing the Novartis Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team on board, further strengthening its expertise in biologicals.

This acquisition grants Syngenta access to an important collection of novel biological leads that will enhance its agricultural research. It also strengthens Syngenta’s integrated capabilities across bioengineering, data science, fermentation, downstream processing, and analytics. Additionally, as part of the agreement, Syngenta will lease Novartis’ fermentation pilot plant and scientific laboratories in Basel, Switzerland, to continue advancing its biological solutions. The deal builds on a successful partnership between Syngenta and Novartis that began in 2019.

Syngenta’s expansion into biologicals comes alongside the opening of its cutting-edge production facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina, the company’s first large-scale production site for agricultural biologicals in the United States. This facility will cater to the growing demand for novel biological solutions across both North and Latin American markets.

These recent moves are part of Syngenta’s broader strategy to foster innovation through collaborations with leading organizations in the biologicals space. Notable partnerships include those with Provivi for pheromone solutions targeting pests, Ginkgo Bioworks to accelerate new biologicals, Intrinsyx Bio for nutrient use efficiency, Lavie Bio for novel bio-insecticides, Lithos Crop Protect for pheromone solutions, and TraitSeq to leverage AI for advancing biologicals development.

Camilla Corsi, Syngenta’s Global Head of Crop Protection Research and Development, remarked, “Our investments are geared towards providing the most advanced agricultural solutions. This acquisition and integration of world-class assets enhances our ability to create cutting-edge biological solutions that support the sustainable evolution of agriculture.”

Jonathan Brown, Syngenta’s Global Head of Seedcare and Biologicals, stated, “With the broadest portfolio in the biological products sector, we’ve established ourselves as an industry leader. This acquisition ensures that we can continue innovating and meeting the needs of a constantly evolving market.”

Biologicals play a vital role in regenerative agriculture, offering farmers a flexible approach to pest management, abiotic stress, and soil health. These products, which include biocontrols, biostimulants, and nutrient efficiency solutions, complement conventional agricultural methods and are critical for sustainable farming. Syngenta’s commitment to biologicals is underscored by its strategic acquisition of Italy’s Valagro in 2020 and its ongoing efforts to support more sustainable farming practices through its Sustainability Priorities.

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About Syngenta

Syngenta is a global leader in agricultural innovation with a presence in more than 100 countries. Syngenta is focused on developing technologies and farming practices that empower farmers, so they can make the transformation required to feed the world’s population while preserving our planet. Its bold scientific discoveries deliver better benefits for farmers and society on a bigger scale than ever before. Guided by its Sustainability Priorities, Syngenta is developing new technologies and solutions that support farmers to grow healthier plants in healthier soil with a higher yield. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland; Syngenta Seeds is headquartered in the United States. Read our stories and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & X.

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SOURCE: SYNGENTA