SYNGENTA'S PARAQUAT EXIT EXPOSES RISK TO AUSTRALIAN GROWERS

Syngenta’s withdrawal from the Australian paraquat market has exposed the vulnerability of local growers when global commercial decisions reduce access to essential crop protection products.

Grain Producers Australia (GPA) Research, Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann the decision is particularly concerning because Syngenta is the original paraquat registrant and has been a long-term foundation of the Australian market.

Syngenta's announcement today closely follows the APVMA’s extensive regulatory review, which confirmed paraquat could remain available in Australia under revised conditions.

Mr Weidemann said the decision created uncertainty despite generic paraquat products currently remaining available.

“Syngenta has been the stable foundation of this market for decades," he said.

"Its withdrawal leaves some important questions about what happens next.

“Paraquat has been proven safe for continued use under the revised conditions and remains critical to weed control, herbicide resistance management and minimum and no-till farming.”

Mr Weidemann and GPA Western Region Director Duncan Young are directly involved in engagement on behalf of industry to ensure ongoing access to chemicals that help grain producers control various pests, weeds and diseases safely and effectively.

This includes formal roles to the national chemical regulator, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) and relationships with chemical manufacturers and suppliers.

Mr Young said GPA would be seeking clarity about any implications for existing registrations and the continued supply of paraquat products.

He said Syngenta’s decision was deeply disappointing for growers, particularly following extensive work to contribute evidence and practical experience throughout the APVMA review.

“After everything growers and industry have put into securing a workable, science-based outcome, this feels like a slap in the face,” Mr Young said.

“It shows how vulnerable Australian growers can be when our market is viewed against larger markets overseas.”

Mr Young said the withdrawal also raised broader questions about whether Australia’s market and regulatory settings encouraged companies to maintain established products and invest in bringing new chemistry to Australian growers.

Mr Weidemann said this was especially important as herbicide resistance continued to reduce the effectiveness of available weed-control options.

“Australia is a relatively small market, and decisions like this call future investment into question,” he said.

“If companies cannot see sufficient value in maintaining products here, growers risk being left with fewer choices at the same time we urgently need more tools to manage herbicide resistance.”

ENDS

Further Information:

GPA Research Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann: 0428 504 544

GPA Western Region Director Duncan Young: 0418 938 824

GPA Executive Officer Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193