A new highperformance insecticide developed by BASF promises to offer growers a valuable new tool for control of the most economically significant insects in potatoes, vegetables and a range of other crops. Pending registration, this new insecticide will be marketed in the U.S. under the product name Alverde™.

“The results from field studies indicate high efficacy against target pests, which will make Alverde stand out among the crowd,” said BASF insecticides product manager Richard Warriner. “We’re very excited about this innovation. As more research trial data comes in, it only confirms the efficacy of this compound against many of the worst insect pests out there.”

“This technology will also offer growers a tool to manage resistant pests while maintaining beneficial insects and pollinators,” said Warriner. “With the strong control of the problem insects we’re seeing in research trials, this product is shaping up to be a real plus for growers.”

Alverde brings a new class of chemistry to the U.S. insecticide market, and therefore is well suited for use in Integrated Pest Management and Integrated Resistance Management programs.

Alverde is expected to gain U.S. regulatory approval by the end of 2006. BASF plans to launch the product during 2007.

With sales of €3,298 million in 2005, BASF’s Agricultural Products division is a leader in crop protection and a strong partner to the farming industry providing well-established and innovative fungicides, insecticides and herbicides. Farmers use these products and services to improve crop yields and crop quality. Other uses include public health, structural/urban pest control, turf and ornamental plants, vegetation management, and forestry. BASF aims to turn knowledge rapidly into market success. The vision of BASF’s Agricultural Products division is to be the world’s leading innovator, optimizing agricultural production, improving nutrition, and thus enhancing the quality of life for a growing world population. Further information can be found on the web at www.agro.basf.com.

BASF is the world’s leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF’s intelligent system solutions and high-value products help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future. In 2005, BASF had approximately 81,000 employees and posted sales of more than €42.7 billion (approximately $50.4 billion). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

Always read and follow label directions.
Alverde is a trademark of BASF.