Maria Imran 
Rice herbicide resistance is the target of a new partnership between agricultural technology companies Syngenta and Japan’s Kyoyu Agri. The collaboration will introduce herbicide solutions containing Cyclopyranil to selected rice-producing markets across Asia, to tackle growing weed resistance.
Rice Herbicide Resistance Prompts a New Partnership
Cyclopyranil, developed by Kyoyu Agri, works by inhibiting the PPO enzyme and belongs to Herbicide Group 14, and it is the first rice herbicide in the Syngenta portfolio to use this mode of action, and it can be applied before or after weeds emerge, which gives farmers flexibility in crop management.
Why Weed Resistance Matters for Rice Growers
Researchers have recorded more than 190 cases of herbicide resistance in rice production systems worldwide. Barnyard grass is among the major threats, since it competes with rice for nutrients and closely resembles the crop, making early detection difficult.
Cyclopyranil targets a broad range of grass and broadleaf weeds, including species resistant to other herbicide groups such as ACCase and ALS, and under the agreement, Syngenta will market the products through its distribution network in several Asian countries, giving farmers additional options to protect yields.
What It Could Mean for Pakistan’s Rice Sector
Rice is a major crop and export earner for Pakistan, so advances in weed management are of clear interest to growers and exporters. Healthier yields help farmers manage costs and support the quality standards that international buyers expect.
Agriculture sits at the centre of several recent partnerships. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to lift agricultural and food exports to $3 billion over two years, while Punjab and Oman are discussing cooperation in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and food security. Earlier, Saudi interest in Pakistan’s agriculture sector was also announced.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged US investors to explore agriculture, mining, IT and AI opportunities, and Oman’s housing minister has praised the Punjab housing scheme. Combined with modern crop protection tools, such momentum can help Pakistan’s farm sector raise productivity and grow its place in regional and global markets.
Stay Informed: More on Pakistan’s Agriculture and Investment
Can Punjab and Oman Cooperate?
Look into talks on agriculture, livestock, fisheries and food security.
Which Sectors Welcome US Investors?
Uncover opportunities in agriculture, mining, IT and AI.
Will Pakistan Export More Food?
Find the plan to reach $3 billion in exports to Saudi Arabia.
Is Saudi Investing in Pakistani Farms?
Check out the agriculture investment announced at the Saudi embassy.
Why Did Oman Praise Punjab Housing?
See the reaction to the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar scheme.
