Cibus Enters into a Latin America Collaboration Agreement with Interoc to deliver rice growers an innovative rice weed control system
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Insights
The collaboration between Cibus and Interoc represents a significant advancement in agricultural biotechnology, specifically in the area of gene editing for crop improvement. Cibus' expertise in developing herbicide tolerance traits through precise gene editing techniques offers a promising solution to the pervasive issue of weed resistance, which has been a growing concern for rice producers in Latin America.
Herbicide tolerance (HT) traits, such as HT1 and HT3, enable crops to withstand specific herbicides that would normally damage or kill them. This allows farmers to use these herbicides to control weeds without harming the crop. The integration of these traits into Interoc's elite rice germplasm could potentially lead to higher yields and more sustainable farming practices, as effective weed management is crucial for crop success.
Moreover, the commercialization of these traits in key Latin American markets could have a significant economic impact by improving the competitiveness of local rice production. The partnership's focus on combining advanced genetic traits with local elite germplasm is a strategic move that could lead to enhanced crop performance tailored to the specific challenges of the region.
From a market perspective, the alliance between Cibus and Interoc is poised to create a competitive advantage in the Latin American agricultural sector. The introduction of advanced herbicide tolerance traits into the market addresses a critical need for more efficient weed management solutions. This development is likely to resonate well with rice growers who are seeking to increase productivity and reduce crop losses due to resistant weeds.
The strategic partnership leverages Cibus' technological prowess in gene editing and Interoc's established market presence and germplasm bank. This synergy could result in rapid adoption and market penetration, as Interoc's existing relationships with farmers and understanding of local agronomic conditions can facilitate the introduction and acceptance of the new rice varieties.
It's important to note that the success of this collaboration will hinge on regulatory approvals, farmer education and the economic viability of the new rice varieties. However, if these hurdles are successfully navigated, Cibus and Interoc could capture significant market share and potentially transform the rice industry in Latin America.
The collaboration between Cibus and Interoc could have far-reaching implications for the agricultural economy in Latin America. By potentially increasing rice yields through improved weed management, this partnership could contribute to the overall economic development of the region. Higher crop yields translate to increased supply, which can lead to more stable rice prices and food security.
Furthermore, the adoption of herbicide tolerance traits can lead to cost savings for farmers through reduced herbicide applications and labor costs associated with weed control. This increased efficiency may contribute to the profitability of rice farming, encouraging investment in agricultural technology and potentially stimulating job creation within the sector.
Additionally, the focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship aligns with global trends towards more responsible agricultural practices. The success of this initiative could attract further investment in biotechnology research and development in Latin America, positioning the region as a leader in sustainable agriculture.
Cibus and Interoc announced today they have agreed to a Collaboration Agreement to introduce Cibus’ two herbicide tolerance traits for rice growers in Latin America
Cibus’ two rice herbicide tolerance traits will be added to Interoc’s elite germplasm, as part of the commitment to bring rice growers in Latin America a solution for weed management
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cibus, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBUS), a leading agricultural technology company that develops and licenses gene edited plant traits to seed companies for royalties, today announced that it has entered into a Collaboration Agreement with Interoc, a company with more than 25 years in Latin America, focused on the research and development of solutions for agriculture. Starting with Cibus’ rice herbicide tolerance traits, Cibus has agreed to partner with Interoc to provide traits for Interoc’s elite rice seed genetics.
Interoc will market high performing rice hybrids and varieties for the Latin American market developed with Cibus’ technology expertise. The program will encompass herbicide tolerance traits to support existing needs in terms of weed and resistance management that can contribute to improving yields in a region whose productivity has been increasingly affected by resistant weeds, including weedy rice.
"We are excited to leverage our rice technology platform to support Interoc's development efforts to bring the next generation of innovative products to farmers," said Martin Poveda, Senior Director Rice Business and Industry Affairs at Cibus. "As we tackle agriculture's greatest challenges, we're excited to partner with leaders like Interoc and work together to solve some of the most pressing challenges in rice production in Latin America today.”
Rice is one of Cibus’ lead crops and the first traits for rice are two separate herbicide tolerances – HT1 and HT3. The performance of both herbicide tolerance traits has been assessed by Cibus in multi-location field trials across multiple seasons in the United States and will allow quick advancement of the traits in Interoc rice germplasm. Interoc has a strong rice seed presence in Latin American countries and owns an extensive rice germplasm bank.
Interoc and Cibus intend to commercialize herbicide tolerance in rice with a focus on the key markets in Latin America.
Interoc is a company that, through a developed and highly motivated team, provides innovative solutions for agriculture and industry on the continent. Their clients derive satisfaction and trust from the effectiveness of their service, as well as the sustainability that they ensure for the environment and the value for shareholders. Together with Interoc, Cibus believes that they can help address some of the most pressing weed management challenges of Latin America rice growers.
“One of Interoc´s sustainable development goals is to improve productivity of farmers in Latin America with our novel elite genetics combined with latest rice technologies. The agreement with Cibus will bolster our strategy as it will allow us to expand our trait portfolio for rice,” commented Fernando de la Puente, Corporate Vice President of Interoc.
About Cibus
Cibus is a leader in gene edited productivity traits that address critical productivity and sustainability challenges for farmers such as diseases and pests which the United Nations estimates cost the global economy approximately
Forward-Looking Statements
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Cibus Contacts:
INVESTOR RELATIONS
Karen Troeber
ktroeber@cibus.com
858-450-2636
Jeff Sonnek – ICR
jeff.sonnek@icrinc.com
MEDIA RELATIONS
Colin Sanford
colin@bioscribe.com
203-918-4347
FAQ
What is the collaboration agreement between Cibus and Interoc?
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What are the key markets targeted for commercializing herbicide tolerance in rice?
