BASF Canada Agricultural Products has received the final federal regulatory approvals from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Health Canada for CLEARFIELD sunflowers. This approval allows BASF to pursue the development and commercial production of CLEARFIELD sunflowers in Canada for both oilseed and confectionary markets.

"The development of the CLEARFIELD sunflower production system is an important strategic initiative, as we continue to provide solutions for growers through our CLEARFIELD technology," says Scott Chapman, CLEARFIELD Business Manager for BASF. "Once commercialized, the availability of CLEARFIELD technology in sunflowers will give Canadian growers - specifically those in the major sunflower-growing regions - access to the latest, innovative seed technology for this crop. As with all our CLEARFIELD systems, stewardship initiatives will be a key component of the commercialization of CLEARFIELD sunflowers, in order to maintain the integrity of the products and technology."

BASF currently markets CLEARFIELD production systems for both canola and wheat. These systems are comprised of non-genetically modified, herbicide-tolerant seed and broad-spectrum herbicides.

With sales of (euro) 3,354 million in 2004, 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 yields and quality of agricultural crops. Other uses include public health, structural/urban pest control, turf and ornamental plants. 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.

(R) CLEARFIELD is a registered trademark of BASF.
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