Sakata Sells Its Onion Breeding Program

Sakata Seed America has sold its onion breeding program to Zaad Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of the South African agribusiness Zeder. Zaad is a vertically integrated agriculture company headquartered in Cape Town, has a strong R&D, production, and distribution systems established in continental Africa, Europe, and the U.S.

Sakata will retain first right of refusal for any new onion genetics that Zaad develops for Sakata territories, including the U.S. Dr. Sean Fort, the program’s breeder for more 18 years, will continue onion breeding efforts for Zaad.

“We are excited about the partnership to market these genetics globally,” says John Nelson, Vice-president of Sakata Seed America. “Zaad has an outstanding reputation and capabilities that will enable them to expand production and supply channels in the onion market.”