Crop Protection

BASF Introduces Valexio Insecticide and Mibelya Fungicide for Indian Rice Farmers

31 May 2025, New Delhi: BASF India has announced the launch of two advanced crop protection solutions — Valexio Insecticide and Mibelya Fungicide — to support India’s rice farmers. These globally developed innovations are tailored for one of the country’s most critical crops and aim to enhance productivity while addressing key pest and disease challenges. The launch aligns with India’s national food security goals and promises to boost yields through effective management of rice hoppers and diseases such as sheath blight.

Supporting a Critical Crop Amid Climate Stress

India is the second-largest rice producer in the world, with annual production exceeding 100 million metric tons and accounting for nearly 40 percent of global rice trade. However, rice farmers face increasing pressure from the effects of climate change, including erratic weather patterns, droughts, and a rise in pest infestations. The prevalence of rice hoppers in particular has led to significant yield losses and a decline in crop quality.

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BASF’s new solutions are expected to play a vital role in helping farmers manage these evolving threats. Valexio Insecticide offers robust pest control, while Mibelya Fungicide addresses key fungal diseases, supporting healthier plants and more consistent harvests.

Valexio: Advanced Insect Control with Residual Protection

Valexio (Technical: Fenmezoditiaz 200 g/I SC) represents BASF’s latest insecticide innovation and is a significant milestone for rice growers in the Asia Pacific region. According to Marko Grozdanovic, Senior Vice President, Global Strategic Marketing & Sustainability at BASF Agricultural Solutions, the introduction of Valexio in India marks a key moment in the company’s long-term commitment to rice farming systems in the region.

The insecticide offers exceptional efficacy against all damaging life stages of rice hoppers and has no known cross-resistance to existing market standards. Trials have shown that Valexio not only controls pests effectively but also improves overall plant health. Treated rice fields display stronger stems, denser canopies, enhanced root development, and wider flag leaves, all of which contribute to better yield potential.

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Mibelya: Dual-Action Fungicide for Disease Management

As the monsoon season approaches, the risk of fungal diseases also increases for rice growers. BASF’s new fungicide Mibelya (Technical: Mefentrifluconazole200 g/l + Fluxapyroxad 200 g/I SC) is powered by two of its latest active ingredients — Revysol and Xemium — providing a dual mode of action for more effective disease control. Mibelya works faster, penetrates deeper, and offers extended protection against sheath blight and dirty panicle diseases, helping farmers safeguard their crops during the most critical stages of growth.

Simone Barg, Senior Vice President for BASF Agricultural Solutions in Asia-Pacific, highlighted the broader significance of the launch. “Rice is a key crop for millions of farmers across Asia. The introduction of Valexio and Mibelya is a major breakthrough in sustainable agriculture. These products offer farmers reliable tools for resistance management and are developed to meet rigorous global safety standards.”

Empowering Farmers with Innovation

Giridhar Ranuva, Business Director of Agricultural Solutions at BASF India, expressed his excitement about bringing these technologies to Indian farmers. “In my many interactions with growers across India, they often ask how we can help improve their yields. With Valexio Insecticide and Mibelya Fungicide, we now have concrete solutions that can make a real difference. My team is committed to ensuring that these innovations reach the hands of farmers.”

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He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts behind the launch. “We are grateful to the authorities, scientists, and agricultural partners who are working alongside us to support farmers in doing the most important job on Earth.”

Also Read: National Roundtable Calls for Urgent National Policy on Weed Management to Safeguard Food Security

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