USA – GDM, a leading global plant genetics company, has recently completed the acquisition of KWS’ corn and sorghum business in South America.
This strategic move encompasses all of KWS’ South American corn breeding and sales operations across Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, along with all corn and sorghum production sites in Brazil and corn production sites in Argentina.
While the financial specifics of the transaction remain undisclosed, Ignacio Bartolomé, CEO of GDM, emphasized the synergistic benefits of combining KWS’ corn position with GDM’s expertise in plant genetics, particularly in soybean and wheat.
Bartolomé highlighted the shared commitment to advancing agricultural technology and providing farmers with cutting-edge plant genetics to enhance yields.
KWS, a prominent plant breeding company active in over 70 countries, expressed confidence in GDM’s ability to take the corn business in South America to new heights.
Nicolás Wielandt, a member of the KWS executive board overseeing the corn business, affirmed the decision to partner with GDM as an opportunity to align with a culturally compatible and strategically complementary entity.
“In South America, we have established a strong position in the corn market, something we are very proud of,” said Wielandt.
Wielandt reiterated KWS’ dedication to focusing on strategic objectives while entrusting the corn business’s growth to GDM.
“We are fully convinced that GDM is the right choice, both from a cultural perspective and in terms of its complementary business position. With GDM as the new owner, a strong player will emerge that is looking to grow further in the South American soybean and corn market,”
Importantly, KWS will retain its vegetable, sugar beet, and counter-season breeding programs of the European corn and sugar beet portfolio in Brazil, Chile, and Peru.
This decision underscores KWS’ commitment to maintaining its presence and strategic initiatives in the European corn market.
The transaction is pending approval from regulatory authorities, including the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) in Brazil and the National Commission for the Defense of Competition in Argentina.
Once finalized, the acquisition is poised to bolster GDM’s position in the South American soybean and corn market significantly.
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