Global science company Syngenta is to cease manufacturing the controversial weedkiller paraquat – meaning the loss of around 90 jobs at its Huddersfield plant.
The company intends to cease global production of paraquat by the end of June 2026 – and the Leeds Road plant is its only manufacturing site in the UK. It says the decision is entirely a commercial one.
Around a quarter of the 376 jobs in Huddersfield will go but the company stressed that it remains committed to the town and is looking at further investment in its historic Leeds Road site.
In 2024 Syngenta invested £50 million in re-engineering one of its large-scale production lines to make an ingredient used in PLINAZOLIN®, an insecticide technology. The new plant was officially opened in March 2025.
Syngenta has come under pressure over the continued production of paraquat which environmental organisations says “kills bees and is so toxic it is banned in 50 countries.”
Paraquat has been illegal in the EU since 2007 and in 2021 the then Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman called for Syngenta to cease production.
Several protests have been held in Huddersfield in recent years and in 2022 activists from Extinction Rebellion caused disruption by blocking two entrances to the Leeds Road site.
A Syngenta spokesperson said: “Regrettably, the decision to cease manufacture of paraquat in Huddersfield will result in approximately 90 job losses, from a current roster of 376 roles.
“Syngenta will handle any changes in a socially responsible manner and support employees through the transition, consulting with staff representatives.
“Syngenta remains committed to Huddersfield as the site continues to transition.
“In 2024 the company invested £50m in establishing manufacture of a new insecticide product, PLINAZOLIN® technology.
“The site will retain skilled people in manufacturing, engineering and science roles and has important energy and waste infrastructure as well as available industrial land that can be an asset for future investment opportunities, to enable the production of advanced solutions.
“Additionally, Syngenta continues to successfully encourage third parties to locate at the site which is diversifying, modernising and strengthening its footprint.”
In a statement, Syngenta added: “Following an asset review, a program has now been initiated to phase out the production of paraquat at Syngenta’s Huddersfield site – its only manufacturing facility for this active ingredient globally.
“A small scale, multi-product production unit at the site will also close.
“Syngenta will continue to assess future investment opportunities at the site to enable the production of advanced solutions.
“Syngenta has recently completed a GBP50 million investment to manufacture one of its most advanced crop protection technologies, PLINAZOLIN® technology, at the site.
“The UK remains an important location for Syngenta, which employs more than 2,000 people across six sites primarily focused on R&D, production and supply.
“Paraquat is highly effective in controlling weeds and enables conservation agricultural practices such as no-till farming, remaining an essential component of the farming toolbox for many growers.
“First brought to market by a Syngenta predecessor company more than sixty years ago, paraquat is today a generic herbicide that is registered for sale by more than 750 companies.
“Syngenta sells this herbicide in just a few markets around the world, and it accounts for less than 1% of Syngenta’s global sales.
“Syngenta’s decision to cease paraquat production is in line with its focus on innovation, and its commitment to bring new solutions that elevate the productivity and sustainability of agriculture.
“Syngenta offers growers an extensive range of agricultural solutions ranging from quality seeds and seed treatments, agricultural biologicals, advanced crop protection technologies and an expanding offer of AI-enabled digital and precision agriculture solutions.”
Mike Hollands, Syngenta UK’s president and head of Syngenta global production and supply, said: “This decision is about focusing our resources where they deliver the greatest value for our business and our customers.”
The statement added: “Syngenta affirms that paraquat is safe when used in line with registered label instructions, and will work with its partners, customers and employees in relevant markets to ensure a smooth transition.”
