Syngenta Partnered with Kyoyu Agri on Rice Herbicide
The companies agreed to bring a new herbicide to rice-growing markets across Asia to combat resistant weed populations.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Agriculture
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Syngenta has signed a commercialization agreement with Japan-based Kyoyu Agri to distribute the herbicide Cyclopyranil. This partnership aims to combat the growing issue of herbicide-resistant weeds in rice production systems throughout Asia.
Why it matters
The deal addresses the critical spread of weeds that have become resistant to existing herbicide groups, threatening global rice yields. By leveraging Syngenta’s commercial network, the collaboration seeks to scale access to technology capable of controlling resistant grass and broadleaf weeds.
Researchers have documented 190 cases of herbicide-resistant weeds currently impacting global rice production. The new Cyclopyranil herbicide is designed to address these populations by acting as a Group 14, protoporphyrinogen oxidase-inhibiting agent.
The players
Syngenta
A major global agricultural science and technology company that provides crop protection and seed products.
Kyoyu Agri
A Japan-based agricultural chemical company that specializes in the development of proprietary herbicide technologies.
The details
Cyclopyranil is effective against weeds that have developed resistance to ACCase and ALS herbicides, functioning both before and after emergence. Syngenta will utilize its established regulatory expertise and commercial footprint to distribute the proprietary technology provided by Kyoyu Agri.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: Syngenta and Kyoyu Agri officially announced their partnership agreement.
Market Landscape
This partnership reflects a broader industry shift toward specialized chemical solutions as agricultural giants seek to overcome widespread herbicide resistance. It positions the companies to capture significant market share in Asia while Syngenta simultaneously navigates plans for a potential Hong Kong IPO.
The introduction of Cyclopyranil provides rice farmers with a new tool to protect crops from resistant weeds that currently bypass traditional controls. This availability could help stabilize production costs for rice by reducing the impact of yield-limiting infestations.
The takeaway
Farmers and industry stakeholders should monitor the rollout of Group 14 herbicides as a critical alternative to traditional ACCase and ALS chemical options. Implementing diverse weed control strategies remains essential for managing resistance and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving global crop protection strategies in the Agriculture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AgNavigator.
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