62 / SEEDWORLD.COM INTERNATIONAL EDITION 2026 logicals are evaluated using frameworks originally designed for chemicals, which can result in long timelines, high fees and uncertainty, especially for new microbial technologies or gene-edited strains. “The absence of specific pathways for biologicals creates delays and complex ity,” Bäsel explains. This is further compounded by competitive market conditions and lingering grower skepticism fueled by inconsistent performance of early- generation products. On the technical side, Pronk stresses the difficulty of maintaining product efficacy throughout the seed’s shelf life. Biologicals must survive formulation, seed application, storage and downstream handling while still performing in the field. Compatibility inside increasingly complex seed treatment stacks is equally critical. From a regulatory standpoint, Hazel highlights the dual challenge of stability and data requirements. For biopesticides, regulatory pathways are somewhat more aligned globally but still heavily data- driven. Biostimulants and biofertilizers, however, operate in a more complex and evolving regulatory space, with requirements varying widely by country. Meanwhile, a lack of harmonized stand ards continues to slow commercialization. Gaffney underscores that product consistency is essential for rebuilding grower trust. Extensive pre-commercial testing ensures seed safety, environ mental safety, compatibility with other treatments and performance across geographies and seed treatment pro cesses. The industry is rising to meet these expectations, but the bar is high. Why Global Regulatory Harmonization Matters for Biological Seed Treatments Given this fragmented global landscape, clearer guidance and shared terminology have become essential. Gaffney sees the ISF Guide for Biologicals as a practical step forward. By aligning definitions and product classifications, the guide sup ports advocacy for science-based and risk-proportionate regulation. It also helps facilitate trade and enables companies to build internal compliance systems around common principles. For Bäsel, the guide’s value lies in cre ating a shared language. When regulators and industry speak consistently about biologicals, what they are, what they do and how they should be evaluated, communication improves across borders. Understanding the regulatory landscape in other regions, he notes, is critical for companies operating globally, and the guide provides a structured way to do exactly that. What Drives Farmer Adoption of Biological Seed Treatments? Farmer adoption ultimately depends on trust, and trust depends on results. Pronk believes that setting realistic expectations is fundamental. Biologicals are powerful tools, but growers must understand and use them appropriately to succeed. Performance and return on invest Christine Hazel is the global regulatory lead – Seed Applied Technology at Corteva Agriscience. Rob Pronk, global marketing manager and global regulatory manager at Incotec. certain cases replace them altogether, highlighting how biologicals are diversify ing the role of seed-applied technologies across crops and regions. Challenges and Barriers in Developing and Commercializing Biologicals Despite their promise, biological seed treatments face a demanding road to market. The biological innovation cycle is fast, and Bäsel notes that this dynamism makes it difficult for large companies to align pipeline development with short- and mid-term portfolio needs. Bayer has responded with an open innovation model that relies on partnerships with smaller innovators and technology lead ers to keep pace with market demand. Regulation remains the biggest struc tural barrier. Across many regions, bio Rob Gaffney is the director global marketing seed treatments – global key accounts at BASF. Steve Bäsel, senior regulatory policy manager at Bayer.
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