Valent Secures U.S. EPA Registration for Rapidicil Herbicide, Targets Commercial Launch in Late 2026
31 July 2026, California: Valent U.S.A. has received registration from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Rapidicil® (active ingredient: epyrifenacil), a new herbicide developed by its parent company, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. The approval paves the way for the commercial introduction of Rapidicil-based herbicides in the United States later this year.
The registration marks the entry of a new herbicide active ingredient designed for foliar preplant weed control across a broad spectrum of broadleaf weeds and grasses. According to Valent, the approval expands weed management options for U.S. growers while supporting conservation-focused farming practices.
First Commercial Products Planned for Late 2026
Rapidicil belongs to the protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor class of herbicides. Valent plans to introduce its first two Rapidicil-based products—Empera® and Empera Viragess™—for use during the latter part of 2026.
The company said the new active ingredient will form the foundation of a broader product pipeline expected to reach major agricultural markets over the next several years. Ahead of commercialization, Valent will conduct applicator stewardship initiatives and grower education programs to support responsible product use.
Designed for Preplant Weed Control
Field evaluations indicate that Rapidicil provides fast-acting control of a wide range of broadleaf weeds and grasses when applied as a preplant foliar herbicide. The technology is intended for use before planting crops including corn and soybeans, helping growers establish cleaner seedbeds before crop emergence.
The herbicide is also positioned for use in no-till and reduced-tillage production systems, where effective preplant weed management is essential.
Supporting Regenerative Agriculture Practices
Valent said Rapidicil can contribute to regenerative agriculture by enabling efficient termination of cover crops before planting. Extending cover crop growth periods may help improve soil health while supporting conservation practices.
The herbicide is also intended to facilitate weed control in no-till and minimum-tillage systems, which can reduce soil disturbance and lower carbon dioxide emissions compared with conventional tillage, supporting broader sustainability objectives in crop production.
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