CALGARY, ALTA. — Viterra Inc. released a statement today indicating that it is in exclusive discussions with a third party regarding the possible acquisition of Viterra. Media reports suggest the potential suitors include a consortium of Glencore, Richardson International Ltd. and Agrium, Inc. Last week, The Wall Street Journal reported that Cargill was interested in Viterra.

“Viterra confirms that it has begun exclusive negotiations with a party and the basis of this exclusive negotiation is at a price which is consistent with our previous statement,” the company said. Last week, the company said it was aware of reports that interested buyers were offering C$16 per share for the company.

“Viterra cautions investors not to rely on these press reports as there can be no assurance that an agreement will result or that a transaction will occur and that if one does occur, there can be no assurance at what price it will be completed,” Viterra said.

Viterra is one of the largest grain handlers in Canada and also owns grain handling assets in Australia. Since the end of Canada’s single desk grain marketing monopoly has resulted in a flurry of interest in the region.