Seizing the opportunity in SA's seed market

Despite South Africa's economy and infrastructure being under severe stress, global agtech company Syngenta is investing in the country's seed market. Gaël Hili, Syngenta's regional director for Europe, Africa and Middle East Seeds, spoke to Susan Marais about the potential that South African agriculture holds.

- Susan Marais

All farmers, be they smallholders or large commercial producers, need to protect their crops against pests and disease, and minimize competition, says Syngenta's Gaël Hili.

When and why did Syngenta purchase South African seed company Sensako?

The purchase of Sensako was completed in August 2020. Sensako is a very strong brand, and through its acquisition, Syngenta Seeds can enter the South African wheat market as a market leader.

With Syngenta's leading global germ plasm pool, and Sensako's existing breeding programmes and experienced research and development leadership in Africa, we also have a significant growth opportunity in other core crops, specifically maize, sunflower and soya bean.

Why does Syngenta see South Africa and Southern Africa as worthy of investment?

Syngenta has been doing business in South and Southern Africa for many years, and although the business had a greater focus on crop protection, it's now broadening its offering by expanding into the seeds market.

South Africa is recognized as a major player in the field crop industry in Africa, and the contribution the country is making towards food security on the continent is acknowledged worldwide.

By entering the seed market, we feel that we can also add value to the efforts of South African farmers, who are considered among the best in the world.

Isn't Syngenta concerned about political instability in South Africa and its neighbouring countries?

We believe we can contribute towards the well-being of many farmers in South Africa, and the continent as a whole, through our products and by sharing our experience and knowledge with all farmers, big and small.