Sparks - Amoeba

Amoeba has announced that it has obtained a 120-day emergency authorisation in Italy for the use of its biofungicide AXPERA as a preventive treatment against basil downy mildew. The authorisation, granted by the Italian Ministry of Health and supported by Italian basil-grower associations, runs from 5 June to 2 October 2026 and addresses a plant-health issue that can affect 70–80% of production and, in severe cases, destroy a crop within three to four days. The approval comes as Italian growers face high disease pressure, varietal sensitivity and a declining number of authorised pesticidal active substances, with demand for alternative solutions particularly relevant for organic producers, which account for 30% of global market volume.

Italy is a key market for basil in Europe, supported by the Genovese basil supply chain for fresh consumption and processing, including pesto production. Amoeba stated that the authorisation is aligned with its and Koppert’s strategy to roll out the biocontrol solution against fungal diseases in Europe, while meeting an immediate field need on a high-value crop ahead of full marketing authorisation in Italy. While the emergency approval is temporary and does not replace full registration, it provides AXPERA with an initial opportunity for field use in the Italian basil market.