"While experimentation in the fields is indispensable to evaluate plant varieties in real crop conditions, today's know-how is expanding enormously. Gene detection is carried out using molecular biology techniques thanks to information technology. Plant selection has becomea veritable research application requiring teamwork and close relations with the research community. The plant biotechnology development complex of Toulouse Midi-Pyrenees provides a complementary advantage for development of the seed breeding sector. Creating a new variety is a long term bet. It takes twelve years on average to market a new variety."

Source: exctract from www.asedis-so.com

Greater southwest France is the leading region in the country for seed breeding and production. This sector accounts for about €1 billion in sales, of which one quarter is exported. The seed breeding industry is increasingly involved in applications (food and non-food) of their products in downstream sectors. For example groups such as Syngenta possess the means to exploit their research results with facilities to produce enzymes and additives, for bio-fuels, animal feed and bio pharmacy products.

The use of agricultural products for non-food purposes has a long tradition in Midi-Pyrenees. Perhaps the best known example is woad (Isatis tinctoria, for the production of dyes) which made the Pays de Cocagne famous during the Renaissance. Several companies continue to draw their current inspiration from the region's historic and cultural resources.