GreenLight will invest US $100M to produce first-of-its-kind RNA biofungicide in Mexico
The enterprise, founded by Mexican scientist Andrey Zarur, will not only provide Mexico with a more environmentally friendly method of pest control, but will also contribute to an emerging Mexican biotechnology industry. The post GreenLight will invest US $100M to produce first-of-its-kind RNA biofungicide in Mexico appeared first on Mexico News Daily
GreenLight Biosciences, a biotechnology firm founded by Mexican scientist Andrey Zarur, has announced plans to invest US $100 million in Mexico to build the world's first facility to produce an RNA biofungicide. This innovative product will harness ribonucleic acid (RNA) technology to target specific genes in pests and fungi, ensuring minimal impact on other organisms and no toxic residues in soil, water, or crops.
Zarur stated that the establishment of this project aims to position Mexico as a global leader in biotechnology. He emphasized this investment as a pivotal step towards replacing traditional chemicals and pesticides, many of which are petroleum-based. Over 10 years of research and trials in Mexico, as well as 20 other countries, led to the development of these products, which were approved by national authorities within a record nine months.
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard highlighted the potential of this investment to foster a new value chain in Mexico, driven by knowledge and innovation, thus generating economic wealth for the nation. The inaugural product from GreenLight is an acaricide targeting spider mites, responsible for causing approximately 20 billion pesos ($1.17 billion) in damage annually to crops like avocados, strawberries, and tangerines.
The second product focuses on a fungus affecting grapes, strawberries, and cucumbers, responsible for an estimated 10 billion pesos ($587 million) in annual losses; it is currently being used in Mexico's renowned wine region of Baja California.
The company intends to develop products for non-food crops, including cotton. By creating 500 direct, specialized jobs, the project will also provide new employment opportunities for Mexico City's growing number of life sciences graduates, with around 11,000 completing their studies each year. Mexico City's existing pharmaceutical sector and the Tlalpan Innovation District, a $125-million science and entrepreneurship hub, further underscore Mexico's commitment to advancing its biotechnology industry.
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