New mode of action confirmed for Initium^®, BASF’s fungicide for specialty crops

Limburgerhof, Germany – April 3, 2014 – BASF researchers have confirmed the discovery of a unique mode of action for Initium^® fungicide. The findings have shown that Initium^® inhibits fungal activity by binding to the stigmatellin subsite in the respiratory complex III of the fungus. This means that Initium^® is the first and currently the only fungicide in this classification and therefore not cross-resistant with other commercial fungicides, which makes Initium^® an ideal tool for managing fungal resistance in specialty crops. The classification has been shared with and accepted by the Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC).

“This discovery marks a significant scientific breakthrough for BASF’s research and development team. It is exciting for our team to have developed a molecule with such a novel mode of action,” said Philip Lane, Vice President Global Research Fungicides. “This will help specialty crop growers worldwide to better manage plant diseases. We remain committed to developing and delivering additional innovations in fungicides.”

Initium^® is a highly selective fungicide that reliably and flexibly controls a range of downy mildews and late blights. Its rainfastness and ability to redistribute on growing leaves keep crops protected and healthy for longer, allowing them to develop to their full potential. Initium^®-based products were first registered in 2010 and, most recently in December 2013, received approval for grapes in India. As part of BASF’s commitment to delivering solutions for specialty crop markets worldwide, Initium^®-based products are currently available for more than 30 specialty crops, including grapes, potatoes, tomatoes, lettuce and other vegetables, in more than 50 countries.

About BASF’s Crop Protection division
With sales of around € 4.7 billion in 2012, BASF’s Crop Protection division provides innovative solutions in crop protection, turf and ornamental plants, pest control and public health. Its portfolio also includes technologies for seed treatment and biological control as well as solutions to manage water, nutrients and plant stress. BASF’s Crop Protection division is a leading innovator that supports growers to optimize agricultural production, improve their business efficiency and enhance the quality of life for a growing world population. Further information can be found on the web or follow us on our social media channels.

BASF - The Chemical Company
BASF is the world’s leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Through science and innovation, we enable our customers in nearly every industry to meet the current and future needs of society. Our products and solutions contribute to conserving resources, ensuring nutrition and improving quality of life. We have summed up this contribution in our corporate purpose: We create chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF had sales of € 72.1 billion in 2012 and more than 110,000 employees as of the end of the year. Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

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