**Syngenta Suggests Shutdown of Grangemouth Facility Endangering 377 Employment Positions**
The agrochemical behemoth Syngenta has revealed its plan to cease its manufacturing activities at Grangemouth, Scotland, which may potentially lead to the elimination of 377 jobs. This location specializes in the production of active components utilized in various fungicides and herbicides, primarily for export. However, these substances have long been off-patent, and the increase in third-party production capabilities has resulted in heightened competition. A spokesperson for the company pointed out the growth of generic production capacity in global markets, affecting Grangemouth’s market edge. As a result, there are no plans to move production to other Syngenta sites.
In a formal statement, Syngenta indicated that the Grangemouth site has been evaluated due to intensified competition and “difficult energy circumstances.” Despite attempts to identify cost savings and assess formulation technology possibilities, the site continues to lack competitiveness. Just last year, the company invested nearly £15 million, along with a £2.2 million grant from the Scottish government, for a new formulation, fill, and pack facility to improve operations. Regrettably, this new facility is also part of the closure proposal. Syngenta intends to return the segment of the government grant it has obtained.
Mike Hollands, President of Syngenta UK, expressed respect for the talented and committed workforce in Grangemouth but recognized the difficulties in maintaining competitiveness. The company stresses that a definitive decision has yet to be made, and it is still evaluating alternatives for the site.
The Grangemouth facility boasts a century-long legacy of manufacturing specialty chemicals, originally under ICI. A confirmed closure would worsen job losses in the region, following the shutdown of Petroineos’ oil refinery last year, which resulted in 400 job reductions.
Earlier this year, Syngenta halted paraquat herbicide production at its Huddersfield site in the UK, affecting 90 jobs. Similar to the products from Grangemouth, these were exported due to bans in the UK and EU, and encountered intense competition from international generics. At that time, Syngenta signaled plans to invest in alternative processes at Huddersfield.