Key Takeaways
- Syngenta has acquired the Novartis repository of natural compounds and genetic strains for agricultural use, enhancing its biologicals research and development capabilities.
- The Novartis Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team will transition to Syngenta, strengthening its expertise in bioengineering, data science, fermentation, and analytics.
- As part of the agreement, Syngenta will lease the Novartis fermentation pilot plant and science laboratories in Basel, Switzerland.
- The acquisition builds on a successful research collaboration since 2019 and supports Syngenta’s growing focus on biologicals innovation.
- This move follows Syngenta’s launch of a world-scale biologicals production facility in the US and multiple strategic collaborations in the biologicals sector.
Strengthening Syngenta’s Leadership in Agricultural Biologicals
Expanding R&D Capabilities with Novartis Acquisition
Syngenta, a global leader in biological solutions for agriculture, has acquired Novartis’ repository of natural compounds and genetic strains, expanding its pipeline for biologicals innovation. While Novartis will retain exclusive rights for pharmaceutical applications, Syngenta gains access to novel biological leads that will enhance its research and development efforts in crop protection and soil health.
The acquisition also includes:
- The transfer of Novartis’ Natural Products and Biomolecular Chemistry team to Syngenta.
- The lease of Novartis’ fermentation pilot plant and laboratories in Basel, Switzerland.
These additions provide Syngenta with advanced capabilities in bioengineering, fermentation, and data science, reinforcing its position as a leader in agricultural biologicals.
“We invest significantly to offer the industry’s most advanced pipeline of innovative agricultural solutions,” said Camilla Corsi, Global Head of Crop Protection Research and Development at Syngenta. “The integration of these world-class assets opens a new chapter in our ability to develop cutting-edge biological solutions for farmers and reflects our commitment to driving sustainable agriculture.”
Expanding Biologicals Infrastructure and Market Reach
Building on Syngenta’s Global Biologicals Strategy
This acquisition follows the recent launch of Syngenta’s biologicals production facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina—the company’s first world-scale production site for agricultural biologicals in the US. The facility will support increasing demand for novel biological solutions in North and Latin American markets.
“With the broadest and most comprehensive portfolio across all segments of biological products, we have established ourselves as a leader in the industry,” said Jonathan Brown, Global Head of Syngenta’s Seedcare and Biologicals business. “This acquisition ensures we maintain our capacity to innovate in a rapidly evolving market.”
Syngenta’s Expanding Network of Biologicals Partnerships
Collaborations to Drive Innovation
In addition to the Novartis acquisition, Syngenta has been actively forging strategic partnerships to accelerate the development of next-generation biological solutions. Recent collaborations include:
- Provivi – Developing pheromone-based pest control solutions for key crops in Asia.
- Ginkgo Bioworks – Advancing biologicals innovation using synthetic biology.
- Intrinsyx Bio – Enhancing nutrient use efficiency solutions for crop production.
- Lavie Bio – Discovering and developing novel bio-insecticides.
- Lithos Crop Protect – Creating sprayable pheromones to target Western Corn Rootworm.
- TraitSeq – Leveraging AI-driven genomics to accelerate biological product development.
These collaborations reflect Syngenta’s broader strategy to integrate biologicals into mainstream agriculture, providing alternatives and complements to conventional agricultural inputs.
The Role of Biologicals in Sustainable Agriculture
Enhancing Crop Protection, Nutrient Use, and Soil Health
Biologicals—including biocontrols, biostimulants, and nutrient use efficiency products—are playing an increasingly vital role in sustainable farming. These solutions help:
✅ Manage pests and diseases with reduced reliance on synthetic chemicals.
✅ Enhance plant resilience against abiotic stresses.
✅ Improve nutrient use efficiency for better crop productivity.
✅ Support regenerative agriculture and soil health improvements.
“In a constantly growing market, ensuring a strong pipeline of biological innovations is critical,” Brown stated. “This acquisition strengthens our ability to develop next-generation biological solutions that enhance both productivity and sustainability in agriculture.”
Since acquiring Valagro in 2020, Syngenta has steadily expanded its focus on biologicals, aligning with its Sustainability Priorities and the industry’s shift toward more environmentally friendly farming practices.
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