German chemical group BASF has officially registered its first wholly-owned agricultural solutions entity in China at the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone in Pudong New Area. The move marks a major step forward in BASF's push into Asia's agricultural market, and is a testament to the free trade zone's robust business environment.

Founded in 1865 and headquartered in Germany, BASF recorded approximately $71 billion in sales in 2024, retaining its position as the world's largest chemical company. Its China operations span 12 sectors, including petrochemicals, specialty materials, and agricultural solutions, with production bases in Shanghai, Nanjing, and Chongqing.

Waigaoqiao was a deliberate choice. Pudong has served as BASF's strategic hub in China since 1994, housing its Greater China headquarters and its Innovation Campus Shanghai — giving the new agricultural unit direct access to world-class R&D resources and localized expertise.

BASF's Innovation Campus Shanghai in Pudong New Area. [Photo/WeChat ID: pdnews]

The zone's port status also played a key role. As a major national entry point for imported fruits and grains, Waigaoqiao offers upgraded customs facilities that enable the efficient clearance of imported seeds and testing materials, which is a critical advantage for an agricultural business.

BASF described the move as adopting an integrated model combining R&D, headquarters functions, and logistics, leveraging the zone's established infrastructure and logistics network to deepen its presence in China's vast agricultural market.

Waigaoqiao has become a preferred destination for global chemical leaders. Companies including Covestro and Merck have set up operations in the zone, building a complementary industrial ecosystem spanning R&D, manufacturing, and global distribution.