Bio-Gene Advances Natural Insecticides with Global Strategy and US Defence Backing

About Bio-Gene Technology Limited

Bio-Gene Technology Limited (ASX: BGT) is an Australian agtech company focused on developing natural insecticides. The Company’s new compounds effectively combat pest insects and present substantial opportunities for businesses creating innovative insect management solutions to satisfy the growing global demand for safe and natural pesticides. Bio-Gene Technology Limited was listed on the ASX on 29 November 2017 at an issue price of AUD 0.240 per share.

Financial Performance

While Bio-Gene is not yet generating significant product revenue, the company has demonstrated its ability to attract alternative funding sources through government grants, commercial agreements, and strategic partnerships. In January 2025, the company secured two grants under the U.S. Department of Defence’s Deployed Warfighter Protection (DWFP) program, collectively worth A$3.0 million over three years. These funds are earmarked for developing a wearable mosquito-repellent product using Flavocide, and a Qcide-based sprayable insecticide for crawling pests such as bed bugs. These grants also reflect validation by leading US military research institutions, including the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command.

Growth Pipeline

Bio-Gene Technology is focused on delivering commercially viable insect control solutions by advancing two core active ingredients: Flavocide® and Qcide®. These compounds are derived from natural sources—flavesone and a specific eucalyptus cultivar, respectively and offer a new mode of action in insecticide development, which is crucial for combating the growing issue of insecticide resistance. The company’s development pipeline comprises eight formulated product opportunities spanning five high-value sectors: crop protection, grain storage, public health, consumer applications, and animal health.

In particular, Bio-Gene is developing formulations suitable for indoor and outdoor vector control sprays, space sprays for residential use, and agricultural treatments for fruit, vegetable, and ornamental crops. These formulations are being advanced in collaboration with partners who bear the costs of formulation and testing, allowing Bio-Gene to focus its capital on scaling its active ingredients and regulatory submissions.

Strategic Development

Bio-Gene is a leading innovator in botanical insecticides through collaboration. Clarke, the US’s largest integrated mosquito control firm, is advancing Flavocide for public health in North America. Evergreen Garden Care formulates consumer products in Europe and Australasia that are driven by regulatory and consumer demand for eco-friendly pest control. STK is developing Qcide-based crop protection products in agriculture, with Bio-Gene supplying active ingredients. These partnerships expand Bio-Gene’s reach and secure co-investment from experienced formulators, enhancing distribution and regulatory expertise.

Additional collaborators include CSIRO, aiding in development and registration, and Envu, evaluating Flavocide for mosquito control. These efforts are crucial for swift regulatory timelines and thorough data collection. Bio-Gene has also completed pilot-scale production of Flavocide and Qcide, confirming manufacturing scalability.

Industry Context

The pesticide industry is transitioning due to resistance to traditional chemistries, stricter regulations, and a demand for safer pest control. Annually, 20–40% of global food production is lost to pests, costing over US$2 trillion. Increasing resistance further complicates the issue, as pests become immune to legacy chemicals. Consumers want family-safe, pet-friendly alternatives, and public health authorities seek effective solutions for diseases like malaria and dengue. Governments and agritech companies are investing in biological and botanical options, as reflected in recent M&As and licensing. Bio-Gene focuses on natural actives with proven efficacy, aligning with industry trends. Its patents in major markets enhance its competitive edge and support long-term value. The company’s strategy of rapid development and commercialisation with global partners positions it to benefit from changes in the pest control market.