BASF to stop production of glufosinate-ammonium at Knapsack and Frankfurt sites in Germany by the end of 2024

For economic reasons, BASF plans to stop production of the active ingredient glufosinate-ammonium (GA) at its Knapsack and Frankfurt sites in Germany by the end of 2024. The GA formulation in Frankfurt will be discontinued in 2025. Subsequently, both production facilities will be closed. Glufosinate-ammonium remains an important component of BASF's global herbicide portfolio.

BASF's GA production is increasingly impacted by growing competition from generic manufacturers, alternative technologies and high energy and raw material costs. Despite cost reductions achieved at both production sites, BASF's volumes and profitability are underdeveloped. BASF is therefore restructuring its production network and will procure the active ingredient from third-party suppliers in the future. By doing so, the company is ensuring its long-term competitiveness and profitability in the GA market.

All jobs (around 300) will be retained until the end of 2025 and subsequently phased out in consultation with employee representatives. The company will work closely with its employees to assist in finding future job opportunities.

“Despite the tremendous contribution of our employees over the past few years, we deeply regret having to stop production at these two sites,” said Michael Heinz, member of the BASF Board of Executive Directors.

“We remain committed to providing our customers with the highest quality GA solutions. At the same time, we will continue to focus on developing next-generation GA solutions that will achieve the same results at significantly lower application rates, benefiting farmers in the Americas and Asia.”