Syngenta and Kyoyu Agri Partner on Innovative Rice Herbicide

Syngenta, a global leader in agricultural innovation, and Kyoyu Agri Co. Ltd, a prominent Japanese agrochemical manufacturer, have announced a strategic partnership to introduce innovative herbicide solutions in the rice markets of Asia. The new product, based on the active ingredient Cyclopyranil, a recently developed compound by Kyoyu Agri, is Syngenta's first herbicide for rice using the protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO)-inhibiting mechanism (Herbicide Group 14).

This herbicide effectively controls a broad spectrum of broadleaf and grass weeds, including those resistant to other herbicide types, such as ACCase and ALS herbicides. Cyclopyranil can be applied as a pre- or post-emergent herbicide, offering farmers increased flexibility. Ioana Tudor, Syngenta Crop Protection's Global Head of Marketing, emphasized the importance of expanding the toolbox of options available to rice farmers as herbicide resistance increases.

Tamakazu Yamada, President of Kyoyu Agri, stated that partnering with Syngenta will allow their proprietary technology to reach a global market through Syngenta's extensive distribution network. Herbicide-resistant weeds are becoming increasingly prevalent in rice fields worldwide, with over 190 cases documented globally. Barnyard grass (Echinocloa crus-galli) is considered one of the most problematic weeds due to its ability to outcompete rice for essential resources and its tendency to evade early detection.

The agreement will see Syngenta marketing products containing Cyclopyranil in various Asian countries.