Syngenta is phasing out paraquat production at its Huddersfield, UK site, its sole global manufacturing facility for the ingredient.
Syngenta, a world leader in agricultural technology, today announced it will cease global production of the
herbicide paraquat by end-June. The decision reflects significant competition from generic producers
around the world, which has eroded Syngenta’s competitiveness in the production of this herbicide.
Following an asset review, a program has now been initiated to phase out the production of paraquat at
Syngenta’s Huddersfield, UK, site – its only manufacturing facility for this active ingredient globally. A small
scale, multi-product production unit at the site will also close.
Syngenta will continue to assess future investment opportunities at the site to enable the production of
advanced solutions. Syngenta has recently completed a GBP50 million investment to manufacture one of
its most advanced crop protection technologies, PLINAZOLIN® technology, at the site. The UK remains
an important location for Syngenta, which employs more than 2,000 people across 6 sites primarily focused
on R&D, production and supply.
Paraquat is highly effective in controlling weeds and enables conservation agricultural practices such as
no-till farming, remaining an essential component of the farming toolbox for many growers. First brought
to market by a Syngenta predecessor company more than sixty years ago, paraquat is today a generic
herbicide that is registered for sale by more than 750 companies. Syngenta sells this herbicide in just a
few markets around the world, and it accounts for less than 1 percent of Syngenta’s global sales.
Syngenta’s decision to cease paraquat production is in line with its focus on innovation, and its commitment
to bring new solutions that elevate the productivity and sustainability of agriculture. Syngenta offers
growers an extensive range of agricultural solutions ranging from quality seeds and seed treatments,
agricultural biologicals, advanced crop protection technologies and an expanding offer of AI-enabled digital
and precision agriculture solutions.
“This decision is about focusing our resources where they deliver the greatest value for our business and
our customers,” said Mike Hollands, President Syngenta UK and Head of Syngenta Global Production
and Supply.
Syngenta affirms that paraquat is safe when used in line with registered label instructions, and will work
with its partners, customers and employees in relevant markets to ensure a smooth transition
