Key Takeaways
- Bayer has filed for EU regulatory approval of Icafolin, a new post-emergent herbicide.
- Icafolin represents the first new mode of action for broadacre crops in over 30 years.
- The product is aimed at improving weed resistance management and supporting regenerative farming.
- Bayer anticipates initial commercial launch in Brazil from 2028, followed by other markets.
- Developed using Bayer’s CropKey platform, Icafolin emphasizes safety, efficacy, and sustainability.
Bayer Moves Forward with Global Regulatory Submissions
Bayer has submitted registration applications for its herbicide candidate Icafolin-methyl in the European Union, following earlier filings in Brazil, the United States, and Canada. The submission supports Bayer’s broader crop protection strategy and reflects its continued investment in innovation for broadacre agriculture. The company estimates peak sales potential for Icafolin to reach approximately €750 million, with initial market launch expected in 2028 in Brazil.
Mike Graham, Head of Research & Development for Bayer’s Crop Science division, commented, “Weeds threaten food security and farmer livelihoods, which is why investing in game-changing innovations like Icafolin is so vitally important.” He emphasized that Icafolin complements existing herbicides and strengthens the weed control toolkit for farmers globally.
Bayer’s Icafolin Targets Weed Resistance with New Mode of Action
Icafolin is the first new post-emergent herbicide mode of action introduced for broadacre crops in over three decades. It is designed to help address the increasing challenge of herbicide-resistant weeds, which affect yields and input efficiency across major crop systems. Bayer reports that Icafolin is complementary to existing herbicides, such as glyphosate, and supports integrated weed management programs.
The product is suited for use in soybeans, cereals, pulses, oilseeds, and permanent crops such as grapes, citrus, and tree nuts. Treated weeds lose competitiveness in the field while maintaining structure, creating a mulch-like effect that helps retain soil moisture and reduce erosion.
Bayer Develops Icafolin Using Data-Driven R&D Platform
Icafolin is the first crop protection product developed using Bayer’s CropKey platform, a research framework that leverages data and artificial intelligence to accelerate molecule discovery. CropKey evaluates compounds for agronomic performance, environmental impact, and application efficiency.
According to Bayer, the technology behind CropKey enables more targeted development of products that meet specific farmer needs while adhering to regulatory and sustainability standards. Icafolin’s low-dose, targeted spray characteristics allowed it to be submitted under reduced-risk regulatory classifications.
Timeline and Market Expansion Plans
Bayer intends to roll out Icafolin in phases, beginning with Brazil in 2028 and expanding to the U.S., Canada, the EU, and other markets in the years following. The herbicide’s profile aligns with practices such as reduced tillage and soil health improvement, which are increasingly prioritized in regenerative agricultural systems.
The company plans to continue integrating agronomic data with financial and digital tools to enhance adoption of new crop protection products across global markets. Icafolin will serve as a foundation for future developments from Bayer’s Crop Science division.
Bayer AG
Bayer AG is a German multinational company specializing in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Recognized as one of the largest global players in the sector, Bayer operates across healthcare, agriculture, and life sciences.
With a broad international footprint, the company is involved in the development of innovative products and solutions for medical and agricultural challenges, contributing to human, plant, and environmental health worldwide.
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