In 2019, MAS Seeds significantly enhanced its global research and development capabilities by establishing a new R&D platform in Mexico. This expansion strategically aims to accelerate innovation in temperate corn and sunflower breeding programs.

The Mexican platform, which spans sites in Puerto Vallarta and Queretaro, will enable MAS Seeds to accelerate genetic advancements in both temperate and tropical corn, as well as sunflowers. Leveraging the unique climatic conditions of Mexico, the company has created an environment that allows for continuous breeding cycles. This setup accelerates the development of new varieties, enabling the company to bring innovative products to market more quickly.

One standout feature of the new R&D platform is its ability to conduct winter season breeding. This capability is crucial for speeding up the breeding process, as it allows crops to grow and be tested during periods that would otherwise be dormant in its European facilities. 

The dual-site approach in Mexico has proven to be a game-changer. By enabling up to three generations of breeding in a single year, MAS Seeds can integrate new genes into its lines much more quickly. “This accelerated process means farmers can access the latest hybrids sooner, enhancing their productivity and resilience,” says Marie Pons, R&D director at MAS Seeds.

The success of the Mexican R&D platform is also attributed to the advanced agronomic technology and expertise available locally. 

“The deep-rooted agricultural knowledge in Mexico, particularly in corn cultivation, has been instrumental in our rapid development efforts,” Pons notes. This local expertise, combined with MAS Seeds’ global breeding strategies, ensures the company remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation.

For farmers, the accelerated breeding cycles and advanced R&D capabilities translate into tangible benefits. 

• They gain access to new, high-performing hybrids much faster than before. These hybrids are designed to be more resilient to climate challenges and to meet the specific needs of different regions, ensuring that farmers can achieve higher yields and better crop performance. “Farmers need products that adapt quickly to changing conditions,” Pons says. “Our accelerated breeding program helps meet that demand. The result is a significant reduction in the time required to develop new hybrids. Ultimately, this means getting improved varieties into the hands of farmers faster.”
• The project supports the advancement of farming around the globe. The ability to rapidly develop and test new varieties not only boosts the company’s competitiveness but also makes life better for farmers everywhere. “As we refine our processes and expand our capabilities, we are committed to delivering superior seeds that help farmers thrive in an ever-changing environment, no matter where they do business,” Pons says.

MAS Seeds’ investment in a new R&D platform in Mexico underscores its commitment to accelerating agricultural innovation. The Mexican platform is a cornerstone of MAS Seeds’ strategy to lead in agricultural research and development, ensuring the delivery of cutting-edge solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

“Through strategic growth and innovation, we are paving the way for a more resilient and productive global agriculture industry,” adds Pons. “MAS Seeds remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of agricultural technology and breeding, and its Mexican R&D platform is a critical component of this vision.”

The post How MAS Seeds is Accelerating Temperate Corn and Sunflower Breeding appeared first on Seed World.