E-Malt.com News article: UK: RAGT completes acquisition of Syngenta’s malting barley seeds business

RAGT and Syngenta announced on January 6 that RAGT has completed the acquisition of Syngenta’s malting barley seeds business.

The transaction was initially announced on 20th November 2025 and is now fully closed with effect from 30th December 2025, the companies confirmed.

With the completion of the transaction, RAGT has acquired Syngenta’s Market Stainton site, a centre of excellence for malting barley breeding located in Lincolnshire.

Syngenta’s staff dedicated to malting barley have now formally transferred to RAGT. This acquisition also covers certain specific Syngenta IP, registrations, and other related intangible assets.

Laurent Guerreiro, president of the RAGT Group said: “This acquisition gives RAGT a strong international barley platform with outstanding genetics and teams. We look forward to delivering value to farmers and the malting, brewing industries worldwide.”

Damien Robert, managing director of RAGT Semences, added that the team is “thrilled” to integrate Syngenta’s barley expertise, varieties, and expert teams into RAGT.

He continued: “This is not only a strategic milestone that strengthens our portfolio and accelerates our RAGT 2030 strategy, but also a human adventure that brings talented people together to support farmers across Europe and beyond.”

Robert Hiles, seeds field crops marketing & portfolio management head at Syngenta Europe, concluded: “We are pleased to see this agreement reach completion and to provide continuity for the teams and partners involved.

“RAGT is a strong and trusted player with a proven record in integrating strategic acquisitions, and we are confident the business is well positioned for future success. Syngenta remains fully committed to the growth of our seeds business and to continued investments in key strategic markets and crops in Europe.”

Both companies will continue to collaborate during the transition period to ensure continuity. RAGT said it will remain committed to delivering high-quality service to growers, customers, and partners, building on the strong foundations established by Syngenta.


06 January, 2026