Herbicides China Monthly Report(Herbicides China Monthly Report 202603)

In March 2026, escalating Middle East tensions and a sharp rise in crude oil prices pushed the cost base for chemicals significantly higher, driving broad‑based gains across key herbicide raw material markets. With spring stocking underway, improving export prospects, and positive signals from the CAC exhibition, China's domestic herbicide market shifted from February's mixed performance to a broad upturn.

Meanwhile, export rebate adjustments are accelerating industry consolidation, favouring large‑scale players with global reach. Jiangsu Yangnong's new Huludao facility is nearing production, Weifang Rainbow's formulation export business is poised for revaluation, and Lier Chemical is strengthening its position in glufosinate‑ammonium—all three are well positioned to unlock further growth through their core strengths.

Company dynamics

On 3 March, Syngenta announced it would halt global paraquat production by the end of June 2026, triggering volatility in pesticide-related stocks. The following day, Nanjing Red Sun hit the daily limit, with the company attributing the move directly to Syngenta's announcement.

Policy

On 26 February, the National Health Commission, the MARA, and the State Administration for Market Regulation jointly released the National Food Safety Standard—Maximum Residue Limits of Pesticides in Foods (GB 2763-2026, replacing GB 2763-2021 and GB 2763.1-2022) and six other national food safety standards, effective 1 March, 2026.

On 19 March, the MARA launched a nationwide crackdown on banned and restricted pesticides, targeting illegal production, sales, and adulteration. The campaign advances efforts across source control, process management, and enforcement, requiring multi-agency coordination and submission of provincial action plans by 20 April to safeguard agricultural product quality and safety.

Registration

On 19 March, the second batch of pesticide products proposed for registration was announced, comprising 169 herbicide products. Among these, nicosulfuron led with two single-agent and fourteen co-formulation applications.

Trade

From January to February, cumulative exports of herbicide formulations reached an 18.36% YoY increase in physical volume and a 26.42% YoY increase in value. January exports rose 1.60% YoY in volume and 6.11% YoY in value, while February exports jumped 44.73% YoY in volume and 61.23% YoY in value.

In this monthly report, the USD/CNY exchange rate is USD1.00=RMB6.9236 (Source: The People's Bank of China, 2 March, 2026). Unless otherwise stated, all prices include VAT. Export goods are valued at FOB prices. Paraquat is subject to a 9% VAT, while diquat, glufosinate, and glyphosate are subject to a 13% VAT.