BASF Makes Progress In Eastern Europe
3 June 2008 BASF Crop Protection’s business has grown faster than the Eastern European market due to strides primarily in South and Central Eastern Europe, according to The F.A.Z.-Institute. The company’s numerous proprietary product launches in the region, including seven slated for 2008 – have driven the improved business.
"BASF is one of three companies that invests heavily in crop protection research and development," said Michael Heinz, president of BASF’s Crop Protection division. “We are excited that our innovative products are helping an ever larger number of growers in Central and South Eastern Europe minimize risk and increase productivity."
After sales growth of 5% in 2007 in Central and South Eastern Europe, BASF Crop Protection targets yearly growth of between 7% and 8% in the coming years, despite the region’s annual growth of around 4% to 5% a year.
"This year and next, growers in Eastern Europe can expect an array of exciting new products from BASF’s research and development pipeline,"said Christoph Wegner, head of operations in Central and South Eastern Europe. "This includes solutions for both field crops as well as for the high-value fruit and vegetables segment."
In 2008, BASF introduced its pipeline fungicide metrafenone in Central and South Eastern Europe. Developed for field crops as well as the fruits and vegetables, the product was launched as Vivando in Hungary, Slovenia, and Turkey. It is one of two active ingredients in the new cereal fungicide Capalo.
Also from BASF’s in-launch pipeline is the new insecticide metaflumizone. Brand named Alverde, metaflumizone offers broad-spectrum control in many specialty crops, including potatoes and different fruiting and leafy vegetables. Alverde was launched in Romania this year, and registrations in other countries such as Hungary, Poland, and Turkey are expected next year.
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