New nematode-resistant soybeans to arrive in Brazil by the end of the decade

BASF, Corteva Agriscience, and MS Technologies announced a licensing agreement to incorporate nematode resistance traits into the Enlist E3 and Conkesta E3 soybean varieties. The new trait is intended for the Brazilian market. According to the companies, the technology offers the first biotechnological solution against root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus brachyurus) and soybean cyst (Heterodera glycines).

The new feature was developed by BASF. The company recorded over 90% effectiveness in controlling P. brachyurus in more than 160 field trials conducted over the past seven years. The combination of this innovation with Enlist E3 and Conkesta E3 technologies promises to expand the protection and productive potential of Brazilian crops.

The Enlist E3 system is used by farmers in the United States and is expanding in Latin America. The seeds are tolerant to three herbicides: 2,4-D hill salt, glyphosate and glufosinate, allowing greater flexibility in managing resistant weeds. The Conkesta E3 variety also adds two Bt proteins (Cry1F and Cry1Ac), intended for controlling caterpillars.

The transgenic technologies used in the Enlist E3 and Conkesta E3 varieties are jointly owned by Corteva and MS Technologies. Incorporating BASF's trait into the genetic base of these varieties aims to increase the level of nematode protection for South American growers.

The companies expect seeds with the new trait to reach the Brazilian market by the end of this decade or early next. Release is subject to regulatory approvals and the completion of field trials. Commercialization in other countries is also under consideration.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.