Today, Syngenta announced that it has acquired the Novartis repository of natural compounds and genetic strains for agricultural use, while Novartis maintains exclusive rights to repository for pharmaceutical use. The transaction also includes transfer of the Novartis Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team to Syngenta.
"The move gives Syngenta access to an important source of novel leads for agricultural research, and offers Syngenta integrated capabilities in bioengineering, data science, fermentation, downstream processing, as well as analytics", the team says. As part of the agreement, which is expected to close on June 1st, Syngenta will also lease the Novartis fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories located in Basel, Switzerland. The acquisition builds upon a successful research collaboration between Syngenta and Novartis since 2019.
This acquisition follows the start-up of Syngenta's new biologicals production facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina, US. The facility is Syngenta's first world-scale production facility for agricultural biologicals in the US and will support growing demand for science-based and novel biological solutions in both the North and Latin American markets.
Camilla Corsi, Syngenta's Global Head of Crop Protection Research and Development, said: "We invest significantly to offer the industry's most advanced pipeline of innovative agricultural solutions. The integration of these world-class assets opens a new chapter on our ability to develop cutting-edge biological solutions for farmers and reflects our commitment to drive solutions that continue to elevate the sustainability of agriculture."
Jonathan Brown, Global Head of Syngenta's Seedcare and Biologicals business, said: "With the broadest and most comprehensive portfolio across all segments of biological products, we have established ourselves as a leader in the industry. In a constantly growing market, it is important to ensure a pipeline capable of supporting continuous evolutions. I am convinced that this acquisition will allow us to maintain our capacity to innovate."
For more information:
Syngenta
www.syngenta.com