BUENOS AIRES – Bayer CEO Juan Farinati announced the company’s forthcoming “Preceon” system for corn production, a genetically modified, lower-stature crop designed to improve resilience and yield, during a visit to the Expoagro agricultural exhibition in Argentina. The system, developed through traditional breeding techniques, features plants approximately 35-40% shorter than conventional corn varieties, reducing the risk of lodging and breakage, according to Farinati.
“This represents going to be a change in the crop,” Farinati told Clarín, as reported by the news outlet. “The amount of benefits it brings to the producer, not only in terms of how the crop is protected, but similarly in how technologically you can facilitate the introduction of fungicide applications, fertilization, density management… That’s where the technological solution points. It’s a complete system.”
Preceon integrates genetic modification, biotechnology, digital tools, crop protection, and tailored recommendations for producers. Bayer plans a phased commercial rollout beginning with the 2026/27 growing season, initially partnering with a select group of farmers for real-world testing and data collection. The company intends to rapidly expand availability over the following three years.
According to Farinati, the technology is initially best suited for late-season corn, which currently accounts for 60-70% of Argentina’s corn production. Bayer is collaborating directly with producers to refine the system and adapt it to local conditions. “Each producer who approaches us begins to see the concept of the crop and finds other benefits,” Farinati said.
The announcement comes as Argentine producers demonstrate increasing interest in sustainable agricultural practices, according to Bayer. Farinati highlighted the potential for Preceon to contribute to both environmental responsibility, and profitability. “From the point of view of all the sustainable agriculture programs we have, we are seeing a lot of interest from producers… The producer is interested not only in doing sustainable agriculture, but also in being able to have other skills and certifications.”
During a recent trip to the United States with Argentine government officials, Farinati discussed the importance of economic openness, technological adoption, and international intellectual property standards. He reported that the officials “demonstrated that they are looking for competitiveness, trying to generate value, to seek employment,” a sentiment Bayer found encouraging.
Farinati also emphasized the need for continued reductions in export taxes and a consistent fiscal policy to support the agricultural sector. “It is very important for the sector to continue the trend of lowering withholdings, but at the same time, I believe it is fundamental that this path is a consistent path… As fiscal issues allow us, the idea is to continue on this path towards agriculture without withholdings.”
Bayer showcased additional innovative solutions for corn cultivation at Expoagro, combining genetics, biotechnology, digitalization, and crop protection. The company’s strategy, Farinati stated, centers on technological innovation, respect for international intellectual property standards, and economic openness as key factors for strengthening the competitiveness of Argentine agriculture.
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