Bayer CropScience settles Serenade™-related litigation with Bion Tech Inc

Bayer CropScience and Bion Tech, Taiwan, Republic of China, a producer of biological crop protection agents, have settled a patent infringement case in Korea. Under the settlement, Bayer CropScience granted Bion Tech a royalty-bearing license to sell lipopeptide-containing products based on Bion Tech’s proprietary Bacillus subtilis Y1336 strain. Bion Tech´s strain Y1336 produces agrastatin, which is covered by claims related to lipopeptides in Bayer CropScience’s patent portfolio. These lipopeptides contribute to the unique properties of Bayer’s Serenade™ products. The license extends to various countries, with a focus on Asia. Financial terms of the settlement were not disclosed.

Mike Miille, Head of Business Management Biologics at Bayer CropScience, commented: “Biologicals play a significant role in shaping farming´s future because they help to increase yield and optimize grower´s flexibility.” Bayer CropScience remains committed to investing in research and development to offer farmers worldwide integrated crop protection solutions combining seeds, chemical and biological crop protection products, as well as services and product stewardship measures. “Strong patent protection is the basis for this innovation,” Miille added.