Dow AgroSciences, KWS Enter Into Agreement for Research & Product Development

Dow AgroSciences LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW), announced today that it has entered into a long-term research and product development agreement, focused on the use of EXZACT(TM)Precision Technology, with KWS SAAT AG (KWS).

Under the terms of the agreement, Dow AgroSciences will provide KWS with a commercial license option for traits and products developed with EXZACT Precision Technology in sugar beets, as well as a research license for use in several row crops. EXZACT Precision Technology provides a versatile and comprehensive toolkit for targeted genome modification in plants. Its demonstrated ability to specifically and efficiently target plant genome sequences delivers an effective and robust means for precise genome engineering and gene stacking.

“KWS is a world market leader in sugar beet seed,” said Kay Kuenker, Dow AgroSciences Vice President for New Business. “By combining our EXZACTTM Precision Technology with KWS’ trait development and plant breeding activities, we have an opportunity to create significant value and bring innovation to the agricultural market. This agreement is another example of how Dow AgroSciences is delivering on its growth strategy through technological innovation and collaboration. Looking to the future, this agreement also lays the foundation for a long-term research relationship in which we can work together to use EXZACTTM in numerous crops of mutual interest.”

Together, Dow AgroSciences and KWS will use their combined ‘know-how,’ state-of the-art-technology and experience to deliver the next generation of sugar beet traits and crop products to the marketplace.

Other terms of the agreement were not disclosed.