Bayer and Kimitec partner to develop and commercialize biological crop protection solutions

Bayer and Kimitec announced a new strategic alliance aimed at accelerating the development and commercialization of biological crop protection solutions and bio-stimulants. Both companies will become key partners in the advancement and establishment of biological solutions derived from natural sources as part of a global agreement: crop protection products that address pests, diseases, and weeds, as well as bio-stimulants to promote plant growth.

Kimitec operates Europe's largest biotechnological innovation hub, the MAAVi Innovation Center, with 15 years of experience in the research and discovery of natural molecules and compounds for agriculture and food sectors, to provide farmers and growers with all types of natural agricultural products.

Biological product development will be accelerated by combining Bayer's unrivalled product development expertise with Kimitec's proven discovery capabilities in order to build integrated crop management solutions that can scale and develop through Bayer's global infrastructure backbone. This includes product development, field testing, and commercialization.

“Bayer is committed to providing growers with the benefits of biological solutions as part of an integrated crop management system backed by our leading traits, crop protection products and digital tools,” said Dr. Robert Reiter, Head of R&D for Bayer’s Crop Science division.

“Every farmer can benefit from biologicals, from seed treatment to pest control, and Bayer will be bringing together systems of solutions to provide more value by providing farmers greater flexibility.”

With this agreement, Kimitec becomes a key partner in accelerating Bayer's Biologicals pipeline. Kimitec's MAAVi Innovation Center, as a world leader in biological R&D, will contribute its expertise and disruptive technology, including AI as a driver of faster time-to-results. This will strengthen Bayer's ability to commercialize the next generation of biological solutions.

“Our work with Kimitec offers a unique accelerated path to innovative biological solutions that will help us deliver on our shared vision for a new generation of effective, safe, and sustainable solutions derived from nature,” said Benoit Hartmann, Head of Biologics for Bayer’s Crop Science division.

“Being able to partner with Kimitec is exactly how Bayer is going to leverage the open innovation ecosystem to work with our different strategic partners and bring the next generation of biologicals to growers.”

The biologicals market is expected to reach nearly €25 billion by 20281, as consumer demand for low- and no-residue food products, as well as retailer food sourcing standards, drive growers to seek new crop protection innovations. Kimitec has been developing effective biologicals that provide effective alternatives and complementary options to synthetic crop protection since 2007, perfectly aligning with Bayer's strategy of providing best-in-class solutions for growers through the integration of future and existing technologies.

"15 years ago, Kimitec had a clear vision to change the way food was produced. Our agreement with Bayer will help us get closer than ever to materializing our vision as it allows us to expand our global footprint and bringing our technology to millions of growers for the first time,” said Félix García, Chief Executive Officer for Kimitec.

“As a world leader in biological solutions R&D and manufacturing, Kimitec delivers natural and sustainable solutions without a compromise in efficacy or productivity to the farmer. This agreement with Bayer is closely aligned with our 360 Open Innovation strategy, to partner with world leading innovation companies to bring meaningful and sustainable solutions for the farmer, the consumer, and the planet."