Syngenta to Halt Paraquat Production Amid Parkinson’s Disease Concerns

Syngenta, a major pesticide manufacturer, announced on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, that it will cease production of paraquat, a controversial herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease, by the end of June 2026. This decision comes as the company faces thousands of lawsuits alleging a connection between paraquat exposure and the development of Parkinson’s disease.

Lawsuits and Scientific Concerns

More than 8,000 lawsuits are currently pending in U.S. Courts, with plaintiffs claiming they developed Parkinson’s disease due to exposure to Syngenta’s paraquat products [1]. Numerous scientific studies have indicated that paraquat can damage brain cells in ways that may lead to Parkinson’s disease [2]. Syngenta has historically maintained that the evidence linking paraquat to Parkinson’s is inconclusive, but has settled some cases before trial and is negotiating settlements for ongoing claims.

Company Rationale for Discontinuation

While acknowledging the ongoing litigation, Syngenta attributes its decision to “significant competition” from generic paraquat producers and the herbicide’s relatively small contribution – less than 1 percent – to the company’s global sales [2]. Mike Hollands, president of Syngenta UK and head of Syngenta’s global production and supply, stated that the decision is about focusing resources on areas that deliver the greatest value to the business and its customers [2]. The company continues to assert that paraquat is safe when used according to label instructions and remains an effective weed control solution.

Public Health Implications and Expert Reactions

Neurologists and public health advocates have hailed the announcement as a significant step forward. Michael Okun, chair of neurology at the University of Florida, called the news a “public health milestone,” emphasizing that advocacy, data, and courage can change the course of disease [2]. Ray Dorsey, a neurologist and director of the Atria Research Institute’s Center for the Brain and the Environment, suggested that the decision could lead to fewer cases of Parkinson’s disease in the future [2].

Continued Availability of Paraquat

Despite Syngenta’s decision, paraquat will likely remain available in the U.S. Through generic manufacturers. Nathan Donley, environmental health science director with the Center for Biological Diversity, cautioned that other companies will likely fill the void left by Syngenta as long as the pesticide remains approved [3]. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has previously found “insufficient” evidence linking paraquat to Parkinson’s but has indicated it will re-evaluate data before making a final regulatory decision.

Paraquat’s History and Use

Paraquat has been used in the United States since 1964 as a broadleaf weed and grass killer [2]. While banned in several countries, including those in Europe, it has remained popular among U.S. Farmers for use on crops such as soybeans, cotton, corn, grapes, pistachios, and peanuts.

The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) notes that Syngenta will cease production in June 2026, but the fight for a full ban must continue [1].