Fungicide innovation Adapzo^® Active receives new mode of action classification

• Adapzo Active is the sole representative of the newly established Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC) Group Code 56
• New, much-needed tool for farmers in South America to control Asian soybean rust and maximize yield potential
• A showcase of BASF Agricultural Solutions’ strong innovation pipeline, turning sustained R&D investment into high-value innovations for farmers

Adapzo^® Active, BASF Agricultural Solutions’ latest fungicide innovation, was designated a new and distinct mode of action by the Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC). Chemically known as flufenoxadiazam, the active ingredient is the industry’s first histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and the sole representative of the newly established “FRAC Group Code 56”.

Adapzo Active is one example of BASF Agricultural Solutions’ strong innovation pipeline, which supports its leading position in crop protection. The pipeline includes major upcoming launches of fungicides and insecticides, as well as an industry-leading herbicide pipeline linked to traits. “With Adapzo, we are once again turning breakthrough science into tangible value for farmers by introducing an entirely new class of chemistry from our R&D pipeline,” said Christine Habicher, Vice President Fungicides Research, BASF Agricultural Solutions. “We are excited that our efforts result in a new FRAC Code and are proud to equip farmers with essential tools to manage resistance and maximize their yield potential.”

Asian soybean rust (ASR) is the number one disease threat to soybean in South America, causing yield losses of up to ninety percent if left uncontrolled and significantly impacting farmers’ profitability. The rapid emergence of mutated fungal strains has made it increasingly difficult for farmers to protect their crops, leading to unpredictable production outcomes and financial instability.

Adapzo Active addresses these challenges by offering a novel solution specifically designed to control ASR. Its unique mode of action provides robust control of mutated fungal strains while delivering a clear economic advantage for farmers. Products based on Adapzo Active have demonstrated yield gains of approximately six bags per hectare compared to the current market standard. By integrating Adapzo Active-based products into their toolbox, farmers enhance their resistance management approach, while experiencing a step-change in ASR control efficacy. These yield increases translate directly into higher profitability for soybean growers.

As the first active ingredient inhibiting fungal class II HDACs, Adapzo Active is postulated to disrupt a highly coordinated gene-expression program critical for the formation of early infection structures. By preventing the initiation of ASR’s infection machinery, Adapzo Active acts at an early stage of disease development, designed to stop it before it can infect the crop. The new fungicide demonstrates no cross-resistance to known ASR solutions and works harmoniously with non-target species and beneficials when applied following label instructions.

FRAC is an international organization to facilitate communication and education on fungicide resistance. Its mission is to promote the development of resistance management strategies to maintain fungicide efficacy and support sustainable agriculture.
 

About BASF Agricultural Solutions

Everything we do, we do for the love of farming. Farming is fundamental to provide sufficient and affordable food for a rapidly growing population, while reducing environmental impacts. That’s why we are working with partners and experts to integrate sustainability criteria into all business decisions. With €990 million in 2025, we invest in a strong R&D pipeline, and our solutions are purpose-designed for different crop systems. Connecting seeds and traits, crop protection products, digital tools and sustainability approaches, to help deliver the best possible outcomes for farmers, growers and stakeholders along the value chain. In 2025, our business generated sales of €9.6 billion. For more information, please visit www.agriculture.basf.com or our social media channels.
 

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 108,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of around €60 billion in 2025. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.

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