Bayer CropScience has signalled its intention to enter the European wheat seeds market by signing an agreement with French breeders RAGT.

Under the agreement, RAGT has granted Bayer access to its wheat germplasm and associated molecular markers, while having the option to license wheat traits from Bayer.

Both firms will develop their own wheat varieties resulting from the research co-operation, and also explore joint projects to further improve wheat breeding.

“The agreement represents a major step for RAGT in expanding its solid position in the European wheat seed market,” said Daniel Segonds, chairman of RAGT. “It is a key crop that deserves huge research efforts involving both conventional and new breeding techniques to address the future challenges in agriculture.”

Sandra Peterson, Bayer’s chairman and chief executive officer, said the collaboration was another important step to achieve their goal of improving cereal production through solutions based on its crop protection portfolio, agricultural services and wheat varieties.

“These solutions will enable growers to increase the productivity of wheat in a sustainable way, addressing challenges such as climate change.”