Syngenta to invest in new U.S. genetics research facility

5/20/2011

Syngenta announced today that it plans to construct a new state-of-the-art biotechnology research facility adjacent to its existing research campus in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. The $71 million investment, which is scheduled to begin in June 2011, will focus on discovering and developing new agronomic traits to bring innovative solutions to growers across the world.

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to R&D and to remain at the forefront of plant genetics research,” said Sandro Aruffo, Syngenta Head of Research and Development. “The advanced technologies that will be implemented at this new site will accelerate our R&D efforts to develop agronomic traits that will enable crops to better withstand complex environmental challenges.”

Building on the recent successful launches of Agrisure Viptera™, Agrisure Artesian™ and Enogen™, research at the site will focus on traits that can better tolerate climate variability, combat plant stresses such as drought, and enhance crop productivity and plant performance. In addition to the current focus on corn and soybean, research will be expanded to incorporate other crops such as sugar cane, cereals, rice and vegetables.

The facility will feature research laboratories and sophisticated growth environments including climate-controlled greenhouses and precision growth chambers. It is expected to be fully operational in the second half of 2012.

About Syngenta

Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies with more than 26,000 employees in over 90 countries dedicated to our purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Through world-class science, global reach and commitment to our customers we help to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life. For more information about us please go to www.syngenta.com.

About The Research Triangle Park

The Research Triangle Park is the leading and largest high technology research and science park in North America, covering 7,000 total acres.  Founded in 1959, The Research Triangle Park is developed and managed by the non-profit Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina. The Foundation is responsible for building and maintaining the physical aspects of the Park; attracting and retaining Park companies; and enhancing the competitive position of the Park and the Triangle region.  To learn more about The Research Triangle Park, visit http://www.rtp.org.

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Contact:

Paul Minehart, Syngenta, 202-737-8913

Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina, 919.549.8181 / communications@rtp.org