South African News
South African Farmers Embrace Regenerative Practices to Mark Earth Day
On Earth Day 2025, South African farmers are adopting regenerative agriculture to enhance environmental sustainability. Experts like Dr. Hendrik Smith advocate for practices that improve biodiversity and water-use efficiency, while combating climate change. Despite agriculture being the nation's fourth-largest greenhouse gas emitter, initiatives such as the Conservation Champion Programme and Woolworths' drone-assisted farming are promoting water conservation and reduced emissions. These efforts align with EarthDay.org's theme, "Invest in our planet," aiming for a transformative shift in global agricultural practices.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: April 22, 2025
South African Poultry Industry Concerned Over Potential Changes to US Import Tariffs
The South African poultry sector is apprehensive about possible modifications to import duties on US chicken products. Currently, a specific anti-dumping duty of R9.40 per kilogram applies to frozen bone-in portions from the US, alongside a 62% general tariff. These measures are set to expire in November 2025. The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has requested a renewal of these duties, citing concerns that their removal could lead to increased imports and negatively impact local producers. Additionally, the expiration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in 2025 may result in the loss of tariff-free access to the US market for South African goods, further complicating the trade landscape.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Date Published: April 23, 2025
African News
Kenyan Government Allocates KSh500 Million for Coffee Seedling Distribution
The Kenyan government has earmarked KSh500 million to propagate and distribute coffee seedlings to smallholder farmers across the country. This initiative aims to revitalise the coffee sector, which has faced challenges such as declining production and climate-related issues. The funding will support the provision of certified seedlings, particularly the disease-resistant Batian and Ruiru 11 varieties, to enhance yields and quality. The programme is part of broader efforts to increase coffee production and improve the livelihoods of farmers involved in the coffee value chain.
Read full story: Kilimo News
Date Published: April 21, 2025
Global News
Trump’s Tariffs Threaten Thai Rice Farmers with Survival Crisis
Thai rice farmers face severe challenges as proposed US tariffs threaten to disrupt their primary export market. The US plans to impose a 36% tariff on Thai rice, potentially rendering jasmine rice uncompetitive against cheaper alternatives like Vietnamese rice. This move follows a 30% drop in global rice prices after India resumed exports. Farmers, already struggling with rising production costs, warn that without tariff relief, their livelihoods are at risk. Thailand exported nearly 850,000 tonnes of rice to the US last year, valued at approximately US$735 million.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Date Published: April 23, 2025
Maharashtra Grants Agricultural Status to Fishing Industry to Boost Sector
The Maharashtra government has officially recognised the fishing industry as part of the agricultural sector, aiming to enhance its development and support local fishermen. This decision aligns with the state's broader initiatives to modernise and expand its fisheries sector, which contributes significantly to both the economy and food security. The move is expected to provide fishermen with access to agricultural benefits, including subsidies and support for sustainable practices. Maharashtra's extensive coastline and rich marine resources position it as a key player in India's fishing industry.
Read full story: AgroSpectrum India
Date Published: April 23, 2025
Seaweed Project Aims to Cut Fertiliser Use in UK Farming
A new initiative is investigating the potential of seaweed-based biostimulants to enhance soil health and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers in UK agriculture. Led by Scottish firm Algapelago Marine Ltd in collaboration with Atlantic Mariculture Ltd, the UK Agri-Tech Centre, and the James Hutton Institute, the project focuses on low-energy sugar kelp extracts. Early findings indicate that these extracts can improve soil microbial diversity and nutrient cycling, potentially leading to decreased use of nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers. Field trials will assess their impact on crop yield and nutrient uptake under reduced fertiliser conditions.
Read full story: Farming UK
Date Published: April 21, 2025
New Zealand Government Expands Drought Support to North Island Farmers
The New Zealand government has extended its medium-scale adverse event classification to include parts of the North Island, such as Northland, Taranaki, Horizons, and Greater Wellington regions, due to ongoing dry conditions. This expansion unlocks up to NZ$80,000 in funding for Rural Support Trusts in these areas, complementing the NZ$90,000 already allocated to the South Island. The classification provides farmers with access to additional support, including tax relief and Rural Assistance Payments. Ministers Todd McClay and Mark Patterson have been visiting affected regions to assess the situation and coordinate further assistance.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: April 23, 2025
