Mexico welcomes 'SAORI': A revolutionary fungicide uplifting agricultural productivity

By María Alejandra Trujillo

Imagine a world where farmers no longer fret over the devastating effects of fungal diseases like late blight or downy mildew on their crops. This vision is coming closer to reality in Mexico with the introduction of SAORI, a groundbreaking fungicide that promises not only to protect crops but also to usher in a new era of sustainable farming. The recent approval of SAORI by COFEPRIS marks a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural sector, offering a beacon of hope for growers and a potential game-changer in the global fight against crop diseases.

A Leap Forward in Fungicide Technology

SAORI stands out in the realm of plant health care for its innovative approach to combating key plant diseases. Developed by Plant Health Care, this novel fungicide introduces a new mode of action, targeting diseases that have long plagued crops within the solanaceous and cucurbitaceous families, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and berries. With Mexico being the world's largest exporter of cucumbers, the launch of SAORI is especially timely. Its broad-spectrum efficacy and safety for both growers and farm workers align with the rising demand for sustainable agricultural practices. The product's exemption from maximum residue limit restrictions further enhances its appeal, opening doors to high-value export markets.

Bridging the Gap to High-Value Export Markets

The significance of SAORI's registration in Mexico extends beyond its immediate benefits for crop protection. As a biological fungicide, SAORI represents a pivotal shift towards more eco-friendly agricultural solutions, reducing the reliance on conventional synthetic agrochemicals. This shift is not just about protecting the environment; it's about securing the future of farming in Mexico and beyond. By offering a solution that is safe and effective, SAORI could play a crucial role in helping farmers access lucrative export markets, where stringent regulations on pesticide residues often pose barriers to entry.

Setting the Stage for Sustainable Growth

The approval and upcoming commercial launch of SAORI in Mexico signify a promising development in the quest for sustainable agriculture. With an estimated market value of $200m in 2022 and a compound annual growth rate of 14.3%, the plant-applied biopesticides sector in Mexico is on a rapid ascent. Jeff Tweedy, CEO of Plant Health Care, expressed optimism about SAORI's role in this growth trajectory, emphasizing its potential to lead the provision of alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals. As SAORI prepares for its market debut at the end of the third quarter, the anticipation among farmers and industry stakeholders is palpable, heralding a new chapter in the story of agricultural innovation.

The journey of SAORI from development to registration in Mexico is a testament to the power of science and innovation in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture. As we stand on the brink of a new agricultural revolution, SAORI offers more than just protection against fungal diseases; it offers hope for a future where farming is not only productive but also sustainable and safe for everyone involved. The success of SAORI in Mexico could well pave the way for similar advancements across the globe, marking a significant step forward in our collective quest for food security and environmental preservation.