In the ‘Sea of Plastic’, Syngenta builds a frontline defence against global crop disease

Syngenta Vegetable Seeds has opened a $10 million R&D Technology Centre in Almería, Spain, at the heart of the world’s largest greenhouse cluster, aiming to accelerate the development of disease-resistant crops as pathogens evolve rapidly. The facility uses a “field-to-lab” approach, integrating real-world grower challenges directly into the breeding pipeline and consolidating scientific disciplines to halve breeding timelines. By leveraging data analytics, AI, and biosafety infrastructure, Syngenta seeks to respond quickly to threats like Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus and other emerging diseases. Insights from the centre will inform global R&D efforts, helping develop resilient crop varieties for diverse regions.