South African News
US Tariffs Threaten South African Sugarcane Industry and Rural Livelihoods
South African sugarcane farmers are facing growing uncertainty as the US government, under President Donald Trump, considers increased tariffs on sugar imports. Although a 30% tariff has been temporarily suspended for 90 days, a 10% tariff remains, undermining the competitiveness of South African exports. SA Canegrowers CEO Dr Thomas Funke has urged the government to prioritise negotiations to safeguard the industry. With over 24,000 tonnes of sugar exported to the US annually, farmers fear revenue losses, job cuts, and the collapse of small-scale operations. Experts warn of broader implications for the country’s agricultural exports.
Read full story: IOL
Date Published: April 15, 2025
Unilever and Government Launch Programme to Empower Jozini Farmers
Unilever South Africa, in collaboration with the national and KwaZulu-Natal departments of agriculture, has launched a programme to uplift 100 smallholder farmers in Jozini. The initiative focuses on sustainable herb and spice farming, skills development, and connecting farmers to markets, including Unilever’s supply chain. Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen emphasised the power of public-private partnerships in driving inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. Farmers from villages such as Ndumo and Mahlabeni are receiving hands-on training, with early participants already seeing improvements in their farming techniques and market access, contributing to both economic empowerment and food security.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: April 16, 2025
African News
Tanzania Leads East Africa in Crop Exports Amid Major Agricultural Reforms
Tanzania has emerged as East Africa’s top food crop exporter, driven by substantial government investment, strategic reforms, and targeted subsidies. Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe announced a 325% increase in the sector’s budget since 2021, with rice, maize, and cashew production seeing dramatic gains. Tobacco and coffee exports have also soared, boosting farmers’ incomes. Agricultural exports rose from $1.2 billion in 2021 to $3.5 billion in 2024. The government is also set to launch a National Cooperative Bank to improve farmers' access to capital. These efforts reflect President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s ongoing commitment to transforming Tanzania’s agricultural landscape.
Read full story: Daily News Tanzania
Date Published: April 16, 2025
Global News
NZ Wine Industry Steps Up Climate Action with Focus on Carbon Footprint and Water Use
New Zealand's wine industry is making significant strides in reducing its environmental impact, according to the latest New Zealand Winegrowers Sustainability Report. With climate change identified as the sector’s most pressing long-term challenge, growers and winemakers are increasingly adopting carbon reduction strategies. The report found that 68% of wineries and 56% of vineyards are actively implementing measures to lower emissions. Water conservation efforts are also improving, with half of wineries recycling cleaning water. Industry-wide goals include reaching Net Zero by 2050, supported by digital tools, education, and updated sustainability guidelines, aiming to future-proof the sector for generations to come.
Read full story: RNZ
Date Published: April 16, 2025
US Farmers Fear Economic Fallout as China Retaliates in Escalating Tariff War
American farmers are bracing for severe financial losses as China responds to President Donald Trump’s latest tariff measures with retaliatory actions. China, the largest buyer of US agricultural goods—including soya beans, sorghum, beef, and chicken—imported approximately $24.65 billion worth in 2024. The new tariffs have triggered a sharp drop in crop prices, with farmers warning the situation could drive many out of business. Industry leaders are concerned that China may turn to Brazil and other suppliers. While previous tariff battles were cushioned by government aid, officials remain uncertain if similar support will be needed this time.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: April 14, 2025
China’s Cofco Expands in Brazil Amid Trade Tensions, Boosts Recruitment Drive
Chinese state-owned food giant Cofco International is ramping up hiring in Brazil as it builds its largest global export terminal at the port of Santos. The recruitment of dozens of new staff reflects Brazil’s growing importance to Cofco amid escalating trade tensions between China and the US, which are prompting China to seek alternative agricultural suppliers. Cofco, one of Brazil’s top grain exporters, is investing heavily in infrastructure, with its new terminal expected to boost export capacity from 4.5 million to 14 million tonnes by 2026. Roles span operations, sales, trading, and administration.
Read full story: Reuters
Date Published: April 15, 2025
F&N Welcomes 2,500 Chilean Dairy Cattle to Gemas in Major Milestone for Malaysia
Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd (F&N) has successfully received its first batch of 2,500 Chilean Holstein dairy heifers at its integrated farm in Gemas, Negeri Sembilan—marking Malaysia’s largest single importation of breeding cattle. The genetically tested cattle match US standards and were transported from Santiago under expert care. This milestone also represents Malaysia’s first cattle import from Chile. The animals are now housed in high-tech barns at F&N’s AgriValley, designed for optimal comfort and health. The initiative supports Malaysia’s ambition to strengthen its domestic dairy industry and reduce reliance on imports.
Read full story: The Edge Malaysia
Date Published: April 16, 2025
