On April 3, 2025, Dabeinong Technology Group Co., Ltd. (Stock Code: 002385) announced that its subsidiary, Beijing Dabeinong Biotechnology Co., Ltd., has received approval from Uruguay’s National Biosafety Commission (GNBio) for the planting of its genetically modified (GM) herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant soybean products. The approval follows the GNBio’s issuance of resolutions No. 164, 163, and 165 on April 3, 2025, allowing the commercialization and cultivation of the following genetically modified soybean events: DBN9004 (DBN-09004-6), DBN8002 (DBN-08002-3), and the stacked product DBN9004×DBN8002 (DBN-09004-6×DBN-08002-3).
This development marks a significant milestone for Dabeinong as its insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant soybean varieties have now received approval in Uruguay, further expanding their presence in South America. The approval follows earlier permits granted in Argentina and Brazil, solidifying Dabeinong’s position in the region’s agricultural biotechnology market.
Overview of Dabeinong’s GM Soybean Products
1. DBN9004 – Herbicide-Tolerant Soybean
The DBN9004 soybean is genetically modified to tolerate both glyphosate and glufosinate-ammonium herbicides. This innovative product provides a solution to the persistent challenge of weed control in South American soybean production. By addressing the issues of glyphosate-resistant weeds and volunteer corn (self-seeded) plants from previous crops, DBN9004 offers farmers an effective and convenient tool for more sustainable crop management.
- Key Features: Tolerates glyphosate and glufosinate-ammonium herbicides.
- Key Benefits: Effective weed control, especially for glyphosate-resistant weeds and self-seeded corn, contributing to better crop yields and lower weed management costs.
- Previous Approvals: DBN9004 was granted approval for cultivation in Argentina in 2019 and in Brazil in 2023, prior to its recent approval in Uruguay.
2. DBN8002 – Insect-Resistant and Herbicide-Tolerant Soybean
The DBN8002 soybean variety is engineered to offer dual resistance: it is both herbicide-tolerant (specifically to glufosinate-ammonium) and insect-resistant. DBN8002 is highly resistant to a range of significant pests, including the fall armyworm and beet armyworm, which are common in South American regions. This genetically modified soybean provides farmers with an effective defense against pest pressures, which are particularly high in the southern parts of China and South America.
- Key Features: Herbicide tolerance (glufosinate-ammonium) and resistance to multiple important insect pests.
- Key Benefits: Significant pest protection against several key insects, including the fall armyworm, sweet potato weevil, and other significant pests across multiple South American regions.
- Previous Approvals: DBN8002 received approval for cultivation in Argentina in 2022 and Brazil in 2024.
3. DBN9004×DBN8002 – Stacked Product
The DBN9004×DBN8002 product combines the benefits of both the DBN9004 herbicide tolerance and the DBN8002 insect resistance into a single genetic profile. This stacked product provides an even more comprehensive solution for farmers, offering both herbicide tolerance and pest control in one package. This product is especially attractive to farmers seeking to maximize productivity and minimize both weed and pest management challenges.
- Key Features: A combination of herbicide tolerance (glyphosate and glufosinate-ammonium) and insect resistance.
- Key Benefits: A holistic approach to managing both weed and insect threats, offering better protection for soybeans across various conditions.
- Previous Approvals: This stacked variety was approved for planting in Argentina in 2023.
Implications for the South American Market
This approval represents a significant step forward for Dabeinong as it expands its footprint in Uruguay, further solidifying its growing presence in the South American soybean market. The approval of these genetically modified soybean varieties enhances the company’s ability to offer innovative agricultural solutions, especially in regions facing challenges such as high pest pressure and herbicide-resistant weeds.
Given the large soybean-producing regions in Argentina, Brazil, and now Uruguay, the expanded market access is expected to provide Dabeinong with ample opportunities for growth. These genetically modified products not only offer practical benefits to farmers but also contribute to more sustainable farming practices, helping to reduce chemical use and enhance yields.
Looking Ahead
Dabeinong’s ongoing efforts in agricultural biotechnology continue to advance its global expansion strategy. With approvals in key agricultural regions of South America, the company’s next steps will likely involve further innovation and product development, as well as potential market entry into other regions facing similar agricultural challenges.
