DuPont Prevails in PROaccess Arbitration with Monsanto

An arbitration panel has ruled in favor of DuPont in a dispute filed by Monsanto in May 2009. In the arbitration, Monsanto alleged that DuPont business Pioneer Hi‑Bred's PROaccess(SM) genetics distribution relationships breached Pioneer's Roundup Ready® corn and soybean licenses with Monsanto. The arbitrators' ruling denied Monsanto's claims for damages and for injunctive relief. The written decision is confidential. "Today's ruling is good news for farmers who have shown support for choices in the marketplace by their purchases of seed through PROaccess genetics affiliates and distributors," said Paul E. Schickler, Pioneer president. "The arbitration panel's decision affirms DuPont's commitment to bring choices to the farmer." "We are pleased to continue business as usual and put this dispute behind us," said Schickler. "The PROaccess business is an important part of Pioneer's success. Early season sales indicate 2012 will be another strong year for us." Through its PROaccess(SM) business model, launched in 2008, Pioneer has acquired seven U.S. seed companies and maintains distribution relationships with two unaffiliated U.S. seed companies.