BASF Acquires AgBiTech to Expand Biological Crop Protection

BASF Agricultural Solutions has reached an agreement with private equity firm Paine Schwartz Partners and other shareholders to acquire AgBiTech, a company specializing in biological insect control solutions, as part of its strategy to expand its BioSolutions portfolio and strengthen its position in integrated pest management.

Under the agreement, BASF will assume full ownership of AgBiTech, including its entire product portfolio, intellectual property rights, manufacturing operations, R&D facilities, and workforce. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. The companies said the financial and commercial terms of the deal will not be disclosed.

Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, AgBiTech pioneered the use of nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) technology to develop insect control solutions based on naturally occurring viruses. The company focuses primarily on controlling caterpillars, one of the most persistent pests affecting crop productivity. AgBiTech operates in the United States, Brazil, and Australia and serves growers of soybean, corn, cotton, and other crops.

“AgBiTech has a strong track record of developing solutions designed to help farmers manage insect pests effectively. We are excited to see this technology complement our existing BioSolutions portfolio, as it underscores our commitment to a more sustainable, holistic approach to agriculture in line with our business strategy,” said Livio Tedeschi, President, BASF Agricultural Solutions.

BASF executives said the acquisition supports the company’s broader push into biological crop protection, a segment gaining relevance as farmers look to balance productivity, resistance management and sustainability requirements.

“This planned acquisition is a consequent step in executing our strategy that strengthens our presence as an integrated solution provider in this highly relevant segment,” said Marko Grozdanovic, Senior Vice President of Global Strategic Marketing and Sustainability, BASF Agricultural Solutions.

Sergi Vizoso-Sansano, Senior Vice President, BASF Agricultural Solutions in Latin America, highlighted the relevance of AgBiTech’s technology for the region. “Yield-robbing chewing insects, especially lepidoptera caterpillars, have long been concerns for farmers, who have come to know AgBiTech’s technology as an additional solution for addressing these,” he said.

BASF’s BioSolutions portfolio includes biological products designed to protect crops against diseases and insects, support resistance and residue management, increase stress tolerance, and extend windows of pest and disease protection. These products are positioned to complement conventional chemical treatments within integrated pest management programs.

With the acquisition of AgBiTech, BASF aims to broaden its biological offering and reinforce its presence in a segment viewed as central to the future of modern agriculture.