Corteva links science and farm practice to support South African growers
The company says closer ties between research and farmers can help protect yields and meet export demands.
SOUTH AFRICA – Corteva Agriscience is working to help South African farmers stay competitive as global buyers tighten quality and sustainability rules, while costs and climate pressure continue to rise.
The company places focus on steady output, grain quality and clear compliance with export standards. It supplies seed, crop protection and data tools that help farmers meet these needs while managing costs on the farm.
South Africa exports maize, sunflower, soybeans and sorghum, but market access now depends on strict checks on residues, uniform grain and proof of responsible farming.
Corteva draws on research from more than 140 countries and adapts it to local conditions. This gives farmers access to tested tools that perform under different weather patterns. The aim is to support better planning and reduce risk at farm level.
Driaan Bresler, AME Seed Product Development Lead at Corteva Agriscience, said the company focuses on turning research into practical tools farmers can use. “Central to this commitment is ensuring that advanced research does not remain theoretical but is translated into practical solutions that deliver measurable value to farmers,” he said.
Seed genetics remain a key part of this work. Corteva develops hybrids that support both yield and crop strength under heat and erratic rainfall. These traits help farmers maintain output while meeting export grade standards. The company also offers crop protection products that manage weeds, pests and diseases to keep crops uniform and market ready.
Rising input costs for fuel, fertiliser and agrochemicals continue to affect farm margins. Corteva says its tools help farmers use inputs more carefully, reduce waste and improve returns per hectare. Data tools also allow growers to apply inputs with greater accuracy based on field conditions.
Bresler said grain production now faces more pressure from climate shifts and new rules. “Modern hybrid breeding operates within an immense universe of possible genetic combinations. Testing every combination in the field is not feasible,” he said. “The challenge is deciding which combinations to prioritise and advance.”
The company also supports soil health through biological products such as microbes and bio stimulants. These help improve nutrient use and root growth, which can lower the need for synthetic inputs over time.
Corteva says this mix of genetics, crop protection and data tools can help farmers keep output stable, meet market rules and stay profitable in a demanding global market.
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