Crystal Crop Protection Acquires Ethoxysulfuron Assets from Bayer AG

Agricultural innovation pioneer Crystal Crop Protection Limited announces the acquisition of the active ingredient Ethoxysulfuron from Bayer AG for sale in certain Asian countries. The acquisition is Crystal’s 13th strategic transaction and second from Bayer following the acquisition of the Indian cotton, pearl millet and mustard seed portfolio in 2021.

Crystal Crop is an R&D-based crop solutions company backed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) with a 40-year track record of delivering advanced, farmer-centric solutions. This is one of Crystal’s largest acquisitions and will boost its EBITDA by 20% while strengthening its leadership in the rice herbicide market.

The transaction brings the trusted Sunrice trademark and blends containing Ethoxysulfuron with all registrations. Ethoxysulfuron is known for its effective control of broadleaf weeds and sedges in rice and cereal crops, making it a great addition to Crystal’s portfolio. The acquisition is in line with Crystal’s mission to provide cost-effective and sustainable solutions by manufacturing products locally, thereby bringing greater cost synergies and accessibility to farmers in India, South Asia and Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Bangladesh, Thailand and Pakistan.

Commenting on the acquisition, Ankur Aggarwal, Managing Director, Crystal Crop Protection Limited said, “This acquisition is a testament to our focus on strengthening our portfolio with solutions that truly make a difference in farmers’ lives. With this transaction, we are taking a step further in providing farmers with advanced weed management solutions. By leveraging our strong distribution network and manufacturing capabilities, we will ensure that these solutions are effectively accessible to farmers in India, South Asia and Southeast Asia.”

Crystal’s understanding of the rice ecosystem made this acquisition a natural choice, strengthening its ability to provide farmers with comprehensive solutions from sowing to harvesting. The company’s growing presence in South Asia and Southeast Asia through partnerships and acquisitions has solidified its leading position in the agricultural solutions market.

Crystal Crop Protection has a strong reputation for driving inorganic growth through strategic acquisitions. The transaction follows the acquisition of I&B Seeds in early 2024 and marks the company's continued efforts to diversify and expand its product range in the fields of crop protection, seeds and agricultural mechanization. Over the years, Crystal has acquired brands from global leaders such as Syngenta, FMC, Bayer, BASF and Dow-Corteva, continuously strengthening its industry-leading position.