Sumitomo Chemical Secures U.S. Registration for Rapidicil Herbicide, Targets ¥100 Billion Revenue Opportunity
31 July 2026, Japan: Sumitomo Chemical has received U.S. registration for its proprietary herbicide Rapidicil™ (active ingredient: epyrifenacil) and crop protection products containing the active ingredient, marking a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion strategy. The United States becomes the fourth country to approve the herbicide, following registrations in Argentina in 2024 and other international markets.
U.S. Approval Strengthens Global Commercialization Strategy
Rapidicil is a next-generation herbicide discovered and developed by Sumitomo Chemical and is regarded as one of the company’s highest-potential crop protection innovations. It forms part of the company’s A2020 development pipeline, a portfolio of proprietary crop protection products introduced during the first half of the 2020s.
The herbicide belongs to the protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor class but has been designed to deliver faster activity and broader-spectrum weed control than conventional PPO inhibitors. According to the company, Rapidicil provides effective control of both broadleaf and grass weeds while requiring relatively low application rates.
Designed for Regenerative Agriculture
One of Rapidicil’s distinguishing characteristics is its compatibility with no-till farming systems, an agricultural practice increasingly adopted worldwide to improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
By enabling effective weed management without extensive tillage, the herbicide can support soil conservation efforts while contributing to lower carbon dioxide emissions associated with field operations. These attributes position Rapidicil within the growing market for crop protection technologies that support regenerative agriculture.
U.S. Launch Planned Through Valent U.S.A.
The United States represents the world’s second-largest crop protection market after Brazil, accounting for approximately 15% of global demand. Following federal registration, Sumitomo Chemical will proceed with state-level registrations before commercializing Rapidicil-based products through its U.S. subsidiary, Valent U.S.A., during the second half of fiscal 2026.
The company is simultaneously pursuing regulatory approvals in Brazil, the world’s largest crop protection market, as well as Canada, as part of its broader international commercialization strategy.
Collaboration with Bayer
Sumitomo Chemical is also advancing a global collaboration with Bayer to develop an integrated weed management system that combines Rapidicil with PPO inhibitor-tolerant crop technologies currently under development by Bayer. The partnership aims to offer growers additional tools for managing weeds while supporting sustainable production systems.
Long-Term Revenue Target
Sumitomo Chemical has identified Rapidicil as its most commercially promising proprietary herbicide developed in recent years and expects it to play a central role in its no-till herbicide portfolio.
The company has set a long-term goal of generating ¥100 billion (approximately US$680 million) in annual revenue from herbicides designed for no-till farming, including products based on Rapidicil. This target reflects the company’s expectation that demand for regenerative agriculture-compatible weed management solutions will continue to expand globally.
Also Read: Bayer Launches New Insecticide Trance for Cotton in India
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