BASF invests in Saskatoon facility to boost canola breeding innovation
BASF Agricultural Solutions is investing $27 million CAD to expand its Canola Breeding Centre of Innovation in Saskatoon. The project will begin this spring and aims to strengthen the company’s position in global canola development. This investment also supports economic growth and innovation in Saskatchewan while improving competitiveness in agriculture.
For over 30 years, InVigor® hybrid canola has helped farmers improve crop productivity and performance. With this new expansion, BASF plans to continue this legacy by increasing breeding capacity and using advanced technologies. The upgraded facility will allow faster development of new canola hybrids with better yield and performance.
“Canola is a strategic crop for our Agricultural Solutions business, playing a crucial role for Canadian farmers and supporting food production worldwide,” said Livio Tedeschi, President, BASF Agricultural Solutions. “This investment underscores our commitment to advancing our entire portfolio of canola. As the global leader in canola production and innovation, BASF is proud to invest in its future innovation capabilities.”
A major focus of expansion is the use of modern breeding tools. BASF will introduce precision-controlled growth systems and automated processes to improve efficiency. These technologies will help scientists make faster and more accurate breeding decisions using genomic selection. As a result, the time required to develop improved seed varieties will be reduced.
“For three decades, Canadian farmers have relied on InVigor® hybrid canola for its consistent performance and yield advantage,” said Leta LaRush, Vice President, BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada. “This significant investment strengthens our ability to bring forward the next generation of high-performing hybrids, supporting yield gains, agronomic resilience and long-term success for Canadian farmers.”
The project also includes building an advanced research glasshouse. This will support the development of future hybrid varieties that can handle changing conditions such as diseases, weather challenges, and market needs. Strengthening research capabilities will help BASF deliver better solutions for farmers.
This investment highlights the importance of canola as a key crop in global agriculture. It supports food production and plays a major role in farming systems, especially in Canada. By improving breeding programs, BASF aims to provide farmers with high-performing and reliable seed options.
“This investment enhances our ability to integrate advanced breeding technologies into our North American seeds and traits portfolio,” said Jeff Mansiere, Canola Breeding Manager, BASF Agricultural Solutions. “By expanding our Saskatoon breeding facility, we are enabling InVigor® growers across North America to have access to world-class genetics for years to come while also supporting our European and Australian breeding programs. I’m excited to break ground on this project this spring.”
Overall, the expansion reflects BASF’s long-term commitment to innovation and farmer success. By enhancing research and technology in Saskatoon, the company is working to ensure strong growth for the canola industry while supporting farmers in North America and around the world.
Photo Credit: BASF-logo