Golden Valley, Minnesota
October 18, 2002

Syngenta (NYSE: SYT) announced today that John Sorenson, head of Syngenta's vegetable seeds business in North America, will assume responsibility for Syngenta Seeds in North America. The appointment is effective on November 1, 2002. John Sorenson will bring a strong background in
the agriculture sector to his new role. Prior to heading the North American vegetable seeds business from 1996, Sorenson was with Asgrow Seeds for 14 years, serving in a variety of technical and commercial roles. He holds a PhD in genetics from the University of South Carolina and a BS in biology and chemistry from Defiance College.

"We are pleased that John will be leading the business in this important region. His extensive experience in the seeds business will be welcome on the NAFTA leadership team," said Jeff Beard, Chief Operating Officer of Syngenta Seeds.

Having steered Syngenta Seeds in North America through the intensive merger and post-merger period, Ed Shonsey, who has led the seed company in North America since 1995, has decided to leave the company effective November 1st to return to GTRI, a west coast consulting business he founded in 1993.

"We thank Ed for his contribution over the years, and particularly for his role in the creation of Syngenta in North America," said Jeff Beard. "We wish him much success for the future and we are pleased that he will continue to actively support us as a consultant."

Sorenson will be relocating to Golden Valley, Minnesota, the headquarters for the Syngenta Seeds North American operations, in the near future.

Syngenta is a world leading agribusiness. The company ranks first in crop protection, and third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2001 were approximately US $6.3 billion. Syngenta employs more than 20,000 people in over 50 countries. The company is committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative Research and Technology. Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange, and in London, New York and Stockholm.