Boise, Idaho
September 4, 2008

Syngenta announced today it has finalized agreements with R&D Ag, Inc., of Gilroy, California, to support development of heat-tolerant broccoli varieties. The agreements give Syngenta a license for R&D Ag’s patent on heat-tolerant broccoli. In addition, they provide Syngenta with research rights as well as exclusive, global marketing rights for joint broccoli hybrids that combine R&D Ag’s heat tolerant germplasm with Syngenta-developed germplasm and technology.

Broccoli is among the top five vegetable crops in the US in terms of acreage and value. In 2006, approximately 140,000 acres of fresh market broccoli was harvested with an estimated value of $615 million dollars. Broccoli is a cool weather crop and traditionally its commercial production has been limited to specific geographical regions and planting seasons. The development of new varieties with demonstrated heat tolerance should allow for expansion of the broccoli acreage, increasing options for growers.

“This initiative supports Syngenta’s vision to develop the highest quality vegetable seeds and extend the growing season for the benefit of consumers who want locally grown produce on a more reliable basis,” said Dan Burdett, Head, Syngenta NAFTA vegetables. “These agreements represent new opportunities for Syngenta to provide flexibility and quality to broccoli growers and shippers.”

Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Syngenta anticipates the first sales of these new broccoli hybrids to commence in May, 2011.

Syngenta is the second largest vegetable seeds producer in North America. The company develops and produces a broad range of premier vegetable seeds including tomatoes, melons, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower spinach and sweet corn.

Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology. The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2007 were approximately $9.2 billion. Syngenta employs over 21,000 people in more than 90 countries. Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York (SYT).

Website: http://www.syngenta-us.com/seeds/vegetables/

Published: September 4, 2008