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BASF: Acquisition of Liberty Link opens door to fight weed resistance

A BASF executive says the acquisition of some of Bayer’s crop science businesses, including Liberty Link technology, gives BASF a new mode of action in herbicides.  Senior Vice President Paul Rea says the well-established glufosinate chemistry puts BASF in a position to make a strong contribution to battling weed resistance.

“It’s well thought of, there’s no doubt about it, these are successful franchises,” said Rea, during a conference call with reporters Tuesday.  “I’ve already spoken to some customers that really do have high loyalty to those brands, and I think we intend to invest and to support the development of this franchise for the long term.”

The acquisition is BASF’s first entry in the seed market, adding soybeans, cotton and canola to the company’s portfolio.

BASF Vice President Scott Kay says the acquisition is an opportunity for BASF to push innovation in agriculture.

“These assets will enable us to develop a more attractive and comprehensive portfolio,” said Kay, also on Tuesday’s conference call.  “They’ll open new doors to our research, and with that we are confident we’ll be able to deliver more tools to support farmers.”

The BASF purchase of part of Bayer’s assets is contingent on Bayer’s acquisition of Monsanto being finalized.  Bayer is divesting much of its crop business in order to meet requirements for acquiring Monsanto.

AUDIO: BASF conference call (21 min. MP3)