South African News
South African Red Meat Industry Initiates Traceability with GLN Registration
The South African Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) has launched the first phase of its traceability initiative, urging producers to obtain a Global Location Number (GLN) for each of their production units. This unique identifier, provided free of charge by RMIS, is essential for enhancing disease management, meeting market access requirements, and ensuring meat safety. Producers can register their production units by visiting the RMIS website. This initiative is part of a broader effort to standardise data exchange within the red meat value chain, aiming to improve transparency and efficiency across the industry.
Read full story: AgriOrbit
Date Published: January 31, 2025
Eskom's 12.74% Electricity Tariff Increase to Cost South African Farmers an Additional R1.27 Billion in 2025
Starting 1 April 2025, Eskom will implement a 12.74% electricity tariff increase, as approved by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa). This hike is expected to cost South African farmers an additional R1.27 billion annually, significantly impacting sectors reliant on electricity, such as irrigation, dairy, poultry, pig, and fresh produce farming. Theo de Jager, chairperson of the Southern African Agri Initiative, expressed concern that small- and medium-sized family farms, lacking financial reserves, will be particularly affected. He also noted that unlike other industries, farmers cannot easily pass increased costs onto consumers, further squeezing already tight profit margins.
Read full story: Farmer's Weekly
Date Published: February 2, 2025
African News
Erratic Rainfall Threatens Southern Africa's Harvests, Raising Hunger Concerns
Southern Africa is facing a significant hunger crisis as unpredictable rainfall patterns, exacerbated by climate change, threaten the region's agricultural output. The El Niño weather phenomenon has led to prolonged dry spells and heatwaves, severely impacting staple crops like maize and soybeans. Countries such as Zimbabwe and Zambia have reported substantial crop failures, with maize production down by approximately 50%. The World Food Programme warns that over 27 million people are experiencing food insecurity, with five nations declaring national disasters. Efforts to mitigate the crisis are underway, but challenges persist due to limited resources and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: February 2, 2025
Global News
Canadian Agriculture Sector Faces Challenges Amid Imminent U.S. Tariffs
The Canadian agriculture industry is bracing for significant economic impacts as the U.S. moves forward with a 25% tariff on Canadian agricultural exports. Farmers and industry leaders fear reduced market access, increased costs, and lower competitiveness, particularly for beef and grain producers. Experts warn that the tariffs could disrupt long-established trade relationships, further straining an already volatile agricultural economy. Industry groups are urging the government to negotiate relief measures or alternative trade agreements to mitigate the damage. The long-term effects remain uncertain, but stakeholders are preparing for a challenging period ahead.
Read full story: Canadian Cattlemen
Date Published: February 2, 2025
Brazil Expands Agricultural Exports to Saudi Arabia and Turkey
Brazil has secured new agricultural export opportunities, with Saudi Arabia authorising the import of yerba mate and macadamia nuts, and Turkey approving the import of mucopolysaccharide, a compound used in the pharmaceutical industry. These developments are part of Brazil's broader strategy to diversify its export markets and strengthen trade relationships. In 2024, Brazil's agricultural exports to Saudi Arabia exceeded $2.3 billion, while exports to Turkey surpassed $2.9 billion. Since early 2023, Brazil has achieved 302 new market openings, reflecting international confidence in its sanitary and phytosanitary controls.
Read full story: Revista Chacra
Date Published: February 1, 2025
The Uk’s Defra Urged to Expedite Gene Editing Legislation for Livestock
Members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Science and Technology in Agriculture are pressing Defra ministers to implement legislation under the Precision Breeding Act promptly, aiming to accelerate the adoption of gene editing in farmed animals. They highlight the potential of gene editing to combat diseases such as avian influenza in poultry, African swine fever in pigs, and bovine tuberculosis in cattle. The group emphasizes that gene editing can enhance animal welfare and reduce reliance on antibiotics, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: January 30, 2025
Welsh Shearer Llyr Jones Triumphs in New Zealand's Premier Speed Shear Competition
Welsh shearer Llyr Jones clinched the top prize at New Zealand's North Island Speed Shear Championship in Te Kuiti, completing his final shear in an impressive 17.72 seconds. He secured the $4,000 award, surpassing local favourites including runner-up Jimmy Samuels, who finished in 19.1 seconds, and third-placed Reuben Alabaster. Jones's victory underscores the international competitiveness in shearing, traditionally dominated by New Zealanders. His success follows a series of strong performances in both the North and South Islands, highlighting his exceptional skill and speed in the shearing arena.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: February 3, 2025
