Marketed as Icafolin, it represents the first new mode of action for post-emergent weed control in major crops like soybean and cereals in over 30 years. With an estimated peak sales potential of around €750 million, Bayer expects the product to launch from 2028 onwards, with Brazil being the first market.
The company stated that Icafolin has been developed to address the growing global challenge of weed resistance, which threatens crop yields and food security. As a new chemical class, it is designed to complement existing herbicides, including glyphosate, providing farmers with a crucial new tool.
"Weeds threaten food security and farmer livelihoods, which is why investing in game-changing innovations like Icafolin is so vitally important," said Mike Graham, Head of Research & Development for Bayer’s Crop Science division. "Access to an entirely new herbicide class... also helps farmers adopt and maintain no-till and reduced tillage practices that improve soil health, which is a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture."
According to Bayer, treated weeds are "frozen," meaning they stop competing with crops for nutrients and sunlight but remain in the field longer. This creates a natural mulch layer that helps prevent soil erosion and retain moisture.
Icafolin is the first product developed using CropKey, Bayer's R&D approach that leverages artificial intelligence to design new crop protection products. "Leveraging artificial intelligence greatly accelerates our journey from concept to market," said Rachel Rama, Head of Small Molecules at Bayer's Crop Science division.
This technology allows for the creation of targeted, lower-dose applications, and Bayer has submitted the registration applications under a reduced-risk status. Following the expected 2028 launch in Brazil, the company plans to introduce Icafolin in the US, Canada, EU, and other regions in subsequent years.
