Key Takeaways
- BASF Agricultural Solutions has launched Efficon®, a new-generation insecticide powered by the novel active ingredient Axalion® Active, targeting sucking pests such as whiteflies and aphids in high-value crops in Egypt.
- Efficon® carries a unique mode of action classified under IRAC Group 36, offering Egyptian vegetable and potato growers a new tool for resistance management that rapidly stops insect feeding and reduces virus transmission.
- BASF's active ingredient Adapzo® Active (flufenoxadiazam) has been designated a new and distinct mode of action by the Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC), becoming the industry's first histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and the sole representative of newly established FRAC Group Code 56.
- Adapzo Active is designed to control Asian soybean rust (ASR), the number one disease threat to soybean in South America, delivering yield gains of approximately six bags per hectare compared to current market standards, with no cross-resistance to known ASR solutions.
- BASF invests approximately €2.1 billion annually in R&D globally, with nearly €1 billion dedicated to agricultural solutions, supporting a strong innovation pipeline spanning fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides linked to traits.
BASF Launches Efficon®, a New Insecticide for Egyptian Growers
BASF Agricultural Solutions has announced the launch of Efficon®, a new-generation insecticide powered by the novel active ingredient Axalion® Active, designed to control key sucking pests in high-value crops in Egypt. The product targets piercing-sucking insects, primarily whiteflies and aphids, which are among the most damaging pest types for vegetable and potato growers. Efficon® rapidly stops insect feeding, helping reduce virus transmission and protecting crop quality during the growing season.
Its mode of action is classified under IRAC Group 36, a novel classification offering farmers a tool not previously available in existing crop protection rotations. The product is fully compatible with integrated pest management (IPM) programs, maintaining high crop selectivity while delivering long-lasting efficacy.
“Efficon® represents a significant addition to our portfolio of innovative agricultural solutions and reflects our commitment to bringing the latest global technologies to Egypt and the region. With Efficon®, we aim to support growers of high-value crops with effective solutions that protect yields, enhance crop quality, and strengthen competitiveness in export markets,” said Youssef Babouih, Regional Director of BASF in Egypt and the Middle East.
Adapzo® Active Earns First-Ever FRAC Group 56 Designation
Separately, BASF's active ingredient Adapzo® Active (flufenoxadiazam) has received a new and distinct mode of action designation from the Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC), becoming the industry's first histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and the sole representative of the newly established FRAC Group Code 56. The designation marks the first time a new fungicide class of this type has been recognized by FRAC.
“With Adapzo, we are once again turning breakthrough science into tangible value for farmers by introducing an entirely new class of chemistry from our R&D pipeline. We are excited that our efforts result in a new FRAC Code and are proud to equip farmers with essential tools to manage resistance and maximize their yield potential,” said Christine Habicher, Vice President Fungicides Research, BASF Agricultural Solutions.
BASF's Adapzo Active Targets Asian Soybean Rust
Adapzo Active is designed to address Asian soybean rust (ASR), the leading disease threat to soybean in South America, which can cause yield losses of up to 90% if left uncontrolled and has become increasingly difficult to manage due to the rapid emergence of mutated fungal strains. Products based on Adapzo Active have demonstrated yield gains of approximately six bags per hectare compared to current market standards and show no cross-resistance to known ASR solutions.
As the first active ingredient inhibiting fungal class II HDACs, Adapzo Active acts at an early stage of disease development, preventing the initiation of ASR's infection machinery before it can establish itself in the crop. The product is also designed to work harmoniously with non-target species and beneficials when applied according to label instructions, supporting sustainable crop protection practices.
BASF's Innovation Pipeline and R&D Commitment
Both Efficon® and Adapzo® Active reflect BASF's broader innovation pipeline, which includes major upcoming launches of fungicides and insecticides, as well as an industry-leading herbicide pipeline linked to traits. BASF invests approximately €2.1 billion annually in R&D globally, with nearly €1 billion directed specifically toward agricultural solutions.
“The launch of Efficon® reflects our commitment to delivering sustainable agricultural solutions across markets. At BASF, we believe innovation is a key driver for the future of agriculture. That is why we invest approximately €2.1 billion annually in research and development worldwide, with nearly €1 billion dedicated to agricultural solutions. Through these investments and our global research network, we develop and transfer advanced technologies that enable farmers to improve sustainable productivity around the world,” said Dr. Murat Ayaz, Vice President of Agricultural Solutions for Southern Europe, Middle East, and Africa at BASF.
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