UPL Ltd., a global provider of sustainable agriculture solutions, has entered into a license agreement with Japanese company, Meiji Seika Pharma Co., Ltd. for exclusive access to Flupyrimin for rice in Southeast Asia.

Under the license agreement, UPL will obtain exclusive rights to develop, register and commercialize formulations of Flupyrimin for foliar applications in rice in Southeast Asia.

Flupyrimin, discovered by Meiji, is a patented active ingredient and the only AI in the new mode of action subgroup, Pyridylidenes, defined by IRAC in 2021. It is a novel insecticide with unique biological properties that, among other benefits, is effective against major rice pests, such as brown plant hopper and rice stem borer, including those populations resistant to existing insecticides.

"We are pleased to expand our relationship with Meiji regarding Flupyrimin in this mutually beneficial collaboration to provide growers in Southeast Asia access to this important AI. Our OpenAg Purpose opens the door to developing and expanding key relationships that create sustainable growth for all and ensure farmer resilience," said Jai Shroff, CEO, UPL.

"The UPL agreement is a significant step forward towards providing growers with differentiated solutions that address their challenges in the field. We are excited to continue to strengthen our relationship with UPL to deliver this innovative and effective AI to farmers in Southeast Asia," said Daikichiro Kobayashi, President and Representative Director.