DuPont Reaffirms Seed Corn NA Share Expectations

Following this week’s USDA planting progress report that showed more than 70 percent of the U.S. corn acres have been planted, DuPont yesterday reaffirmed its expectations of achieving at least 30 percent North America seed corn market share for 2008 and growing share for the region in future years.

"Our confidence in our early estimates has increased as the number of acres planted has advanced" said Paul Schickler, DuPont vice present and general manager and president of DuPont business Pioneer Hi-Bred.

"We will have better information on how we performed this season after all the corn is planted" Paul said. "Though this year’s cold, wet spring has kept planting progress behind historical trends, we are pleased with the demand for Pioneer® brand seed thus far"

Key milestones for Pioneer in 2008 are: delivering North America seed corn market share at levels at least equal to last year; extending its soybean leader position; and growing its presence in other key markets around the world.