Corteva Agriscience Leads Fight Against Above-Ground Maize Pests

Launches PowerCore™ technology, a new insect control solution for maize farmers in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 2, 2022/ -- Corteva Agriscience (www.Corteva.com) has officially introduced PowerCore™ technology to South Africa’s maize farmers. The solution is a new high-performing, herbicide-resistant seed trait that effectively helps protect crops from damaging above-ground insects, such as the maize stalk borer and spotted maize stem borer. The company’s leading seed brands, Pannar® and Pioneer® will be offering PowerCore™ technology as part of new, high-yielding genetics within their respective maize portfolios.

“South Africa’s agricultural, food and beverage exports hit a record high of $12.4bn (approximately R191.4bn) in 2021, with maize being a significant contributor, reaching its largest export volume since 1994/1995. What’s more, maize is a staple for many across the country and, as such, it is critical that local farmers are given the tools they need to help protect their yields,” says Tony Esmeraldo, Business Director, Corteva Agriscience, speaking at this year’s Grain SA (www.GrainSA.co.za) Congress, an annual gathering of the country’s leading grain producers and other industry players. “Not only have local trials demonstrated the efficacy of PowerCore™ technology, but the trait also has a proven track record in similar climates in both Brazil and Argentina, where it has been successfully used since 2012. We are extremely proud to share the latest advancement in Corteva Agriscience’s innovative pest control solutions with in-country farmers, to help them address one of the largest problems they face on a daily basis.”

PowerCore™ technology uses combined modes of action to combat primary and secondary pests that can cause significant crop damage and subsequent production losses. The trait comprises three different Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins, each targeting insects differently, while helping to prolong the durability of the technology.

According to Esmeraldo, Corteva Agriscience is committed to enriching lives by offering a diverse range of quality products to the market. “Farmers have another option in the fight against insect damage and can now decide which Bt trait technology best suits their farms, depending on field history and agronomic conditions. Our overall aim is to ensure that farmers have access to better technology to get the most of out of every hectare of maize.”

As a leader in agronomic innovation, Corteva Agriscience has a network of strategically placed research facilities and testing locations spanning the continent, focused on new product development across multiple crops, including soybean and maize trait portfolios in South Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Corteva Agriscience. 

Media Contact:Barbra MuzataCorteva Agriscience+27838092424barbra.muzata@corteva.comFollow Corteva on:Facebook: https://bit.ly/3hClalTInstagram: https://bit.ly/3IzSDJzLinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3pwL3IeTwitter: https://bit.ly/3KcYZiLYouTube: https://bit.ly/3vsvfu5

About Corteva:Corteva, Inc. (NYSE: CTVA) is a publicly traded, global pure-play agriculture company that combines industry-leading innovation, high-touch customer engagement and operational execution to profitably deliver solutions for the world’s most pressing agriculture challenges. Corteva generates advantaged market preference through its unique distribution strategy, together with its balanced and globally diverse mix of seed, crop protection, and digital products and services. With some of the most recognised brands in agriculture and a technology pipeline well positioned to drive growth, the company is committed to maximising productivity for farmers, while working with stakeholders throughout the food system as it fulfills its promise to enrich the lives of those who produce and those who consume, ensuring progress for generations to come. More information can be found at www.Corteva.com.

™ ® ℠ Trademarks and service marks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies.

PowerCore™ multi-event technology developed by Corteva Agriscience and Monsanto. PowerCore™ is a trademark of Monsanto Technology LLC. Roundup Ready® Maize 2 is a registered trademark of Monsanto LLC. 

SOURCE: Corteva Agriscience