Crop protection leaders ADAMA and BASF have signed a co-development and commercialization agreement focused on ADAMA’s proprietary fungicide active ingredient, Gilboa® (flumetylsulforim). The partnership aims to fast-track innovative disease management solutions for European farmers grappling with rising resistance and diminishing chemical options.
Under the deal, BASF will develop and commercialize new formulations based on Gilboa, complementing ADAMA’s own Gilboa-based products. Both companies will retain independent control over product concepts, pricing, and go-to-market strategies.
Florian Wagner, executive vice president portfolio and innovation at ADAMA, said:“Farmers have been clear about their need for reliable, resilient protection against a broad range of diseases. Gilboa gives cereal growers a powerful new tool to better protect their crops. BASF shares our commitment to innovation and sustainability, making them the ideal partner to deliver this breakthrough to growers quickly.”
A novel mode of action for cereal crops
Gilboa introduces a new mode of action for cereals and is classified under FRAC Group 32 (nucleic acid metabolism) – a category recognized earlier this year. This innovation offers broad-spectrum, long-lasting disease control, helping growers secure both yield and quality at a time when regulatory pressure and active ingredient phase-outs are reshaping crop protection strategies.
Johannes Weimer, vice president global strategic marketing fungicides at BASF Agricultural Solutions, emphasized the urgency: “Increasing mutation of fungal pathogens in European cereal crops demands innovative, effective fungicide solutions. By adding Gilboa to BASF’s toolbox, growers will benefit sooner from much-needed new solutions to safeguard their yields.”
Launch timeline and market Impact
Pending regulatory approvals, Gilboa-based formulations are expected to debut for wheat in Great Britain in 2027, with broader European launches planned for 2029. Both companies see this collaboration as a milestone in delivering practical, science-driven solutions to farmers under mounting agronomic and economic pressure.
Marko Grozdanovic, senior vice president global strategic marketing at BASF Agricultural Solutions, noted: “This partnership combines BASF’s market expertise with ADAMA’s innovation in actives and mixtures. Together, we can accelerate access to cutting-edge solutions for growers across Europe.”
