Company Ends Gramoxone Output Amid Rising Competition and Safety Concerns
Syngenta announced on March 3, 2026, that it will stop producing and selling Gramoxone, a widely used herbicide that contains paraquat. Production will end by June 30, 2026, and sales will stop by December 31, 2026, or when supplies are finished.
Stephen Robertson, SDSU Extension Pesticide Education Field Specialist, along with John Ball, Eric Jones, Graig Reicks, and Philip Rozeboom, shared important information about paraquat use and safety to help guide farmers through this transition period.
Gramoxone has played a key role in weed control for many years, especially in crops like corn and soybeans. Paraquat acts quickly by stopping plant growth when it touches the plant. Farmers use it for burndown treatments, orchard weed control, and crop drying before harvest in crops such as soybeans and sunflowers.
Paraquat has been used since the early 1960s and is known for its effectiveness. However, it also comes with serious health risks. It is labeled “Danger-Poison” because it is highly toxic. Even small amounts can be harmful if swallowed, which has raised major safety concerns and led to legal cases against manufacturers.
Syngenta explained that strong competition from smaller companies is the main reason for its decision regarding Gramoxone. There is speculation that safety concerns and legal pressure may have also influenced the decision.
Even after Gramoxone is discontinued, paraquat products will still be available from other manufacturers. Farmers can check official pesticide listings to find approved options.
Experts advise farmers to consider both chemical and non-chemical weed control methods.
The SDSU team reminds farmers that safety remains a top priority. Farmers must follow label instructions, use protective equipment, and handle products carefully. While paraquat is effective, understanding its risks is important to protect people, animals, and the environment.
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