Syngenta expresses interest in Dow AgroSciences

Is Syngenta, a crop-sciences company that is a direct rival of Dow Chemicals Indianapolis-based AgroSciences business, interested in buying the profitable division?

Syngenta told the Wall Street Journals Deal Journal: "We have no knowledge that Dow has put its AgroSciences division for sale. If they would, Syngenta would be interested to look at this opportunity as we are interested in any opportunity in the market."

The Wall Street Journal previously reported that Swiss firm Syngenta would be a likely bidder.

Dow AgroSciences, a wholly owned subsidiary of Michigan-based Dow Chemical Co., had sales of $4.5 billion, according to its most recent press release issued this week.

The company provides innovative technologies for crop protection, pest and vegetation management, seeds, traits, and agricultural biotechnology. Dow Agro was formed when Dow bought out Eli Lilly and Co., its partner in a joint venture called Dow Elanco.

The Web site Deal.com reported earlier this month on Dow Chemical CEO Andrew Liveris comments to analysts Feb. 3 that Dow has 12 assets its readying for possible sale, including the high-performing Dow AgroSciences unit.