South African News
Rooibos Leads Global Surge in Herbal Extract Market
The global demand for herbal and botanical extracts is experiencing significant growth, with projections estimating a steady annual growth rate of 5.5% through 2030, potentially reaching a value of USD 54.2 billion. Among the frontrunners in this rapidly expanding sector is rooibos, a versatile South African botanical, now recognised worldwide for its health benefits and expanding market presence. Rooibos is gaining international traction for its impressive health properties, known to support heart health, aid in digestion, and assist with stress management. Rooibos extracts are used in a variety of sectors, including food and beverages, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and health supplements. This rapidly growing market not only boosts rooibos’ economic significance but also positions South Africa as a key player in global agriculture and trade.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: January 24, 2025
White Maize Price Surpasses R7,000 per Ton
The price of white maize on the South African Futures Exchange (SAFEX) has surpassed R7,000 per ton, marking a notable rise that reflects shifts in the market. This increase is largely driven by a combination of factors, including reduced local supply and higher demand from both domestic and international markets. As a crucial staple food in South Africa, white maize's price hike has significant implications for both consumers and farmers. While it could lead to higher input costs for food producers and raise the price of maize-based products for consumers, it offers greater returns for producers, enhancing the profitability of maize farming.
Read full story: AgriOrbit
Date Published: January 24, 2025
African News
Botswana Suspends Imports of Certain South African Commodities
Botswana has temporarily suspended imports of select South African commodities, including maize, sorghum, and certain fruits, due to outbreaks of Goss's bacterial wilt and bud rot of palms. This action is aimed at preventing the spread of these diseases. While South Africa has met its international obligations by notifying trade partners, Botswana remains the only country to impose such a ban. South Africa's Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, criticised the decision, emphasising that Goss’s disease does not affect grain intended for consumption, making the suspension overly cautious.
Read full story: Farmer's Weekly
Date Published: January 23, 2025
Global News
Queensland Graziers Alarmed by Rising Feral Pig Populations and Disease Threats
Graziers in outback Queensland are increasingly concerned about a dramatic surge in feral pig numbers, which threatens livestock, native wildlife, and agricultural operations. The invasive animals are linked to environmental destruction, including damage to pastures and waterways, but their potential role in spreading diseases such as Japanese encephalitis has heightened alarm. Farmers fear that these outbreaks could impact both livestock health and human safety, with rural communities particularly vulnerable. They are calling for stronger government intervention, including funding for control measures such as trapping and culling. The situation highlights the urgency of developing effective pest management strategies to protect rural industries and prevent disease transmission.
Read full story: ABC News
Date Published: January 24, 2025
Technological Decline Threatens Russia's Grain and Oilseed Sectors
Russia's grain and oilseed sectors are facing a sharp technological decline, with farmers reducing the use of modern farming inputs like fertilisers and plant protection agents. The 2025 winter grain harvest is expected to be the smallest in 23 years, largely due to technological regression and severe drought conditions. Reduced access to high-quality seeds and increased seed prices have worsened the situation. As a result, farmers are opting for cheaper seeds and older machinery, which may leave crops vulnerable to extreme weather. This shift is leading to decreased grain production and a rise in alternative crops like lentils and chickpeas.
Read full story: Oils & Fats International
Date Published: January 24, 2025
U Proposes Measures to Protect Farmers Amid Mercosur Trade Deal Concerns
The European Commission has proposed financial support to safeguard EU farmers who may be adversely affected by the impending free trade agreement with Mercosur countries (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay). The deal, which aims to enhance trade between the regions, has raised concerns among European farmers about increased competition from South American agricultural imports, particularly beef. To address these apprehensions, the Commission's plan includes compensation mechanisms and the implementation of safeguard measures to protect sensitive agricultural sectors. The proposal seeks to balance the benefits of expanded trade with the need to maintain the viability of EU farming communities.
Read full story: Euronews
Date Published: January 23, 2025
Greeneye Technology Introduces Precision Spraying System for Cotton
Greeneye Technology has expanded its precision spraying system to include cotton crops, aiming to reduce non-residual herbicide use by an average of 87%. This AI-enabled system targets herbicide application precisely to weeds, addressing challenges such as herbicide resistance and the need for multiple applications during cotton's extended growing season. The system offers flexibility for both pre- and post-emergence applications, enhancing weed control efficacy and lowering costs. Several U.S. cotton farmers, including Texas producer Dudley Pohnert, have adopted the technology, anticipating a 25-40% reduction in annual herbicide use.
Read full story: AgroPages
Date Published: January 24, 2025
