South African News
China Eyes Increase in South African Agricultural Imports, Says Agbiz
The Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz) has highlighted China's interest in expanding its agricultural imports from South Africa. Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo noted that, despite China being a leading global agricultural importer, South Africa's share remains modest. In 2023, South Africa ranked 28th among China's agricultural suppliers, contributing only 0.4% of China's total agricultural imports. Agbiz advocates for more assertive engagement with Chinese authorities to enhance market access, particularly by addressing trade barriers such as import tariffs and phytosanitary restrictions. South Africa's agricultural sector, which exports about half of its annual production, sees China as a significant opportunity for growth.
Read full story: iol.co.za
Date Published: April 30, 2025
Salute Mzansi Honours Agricultural Workers as the Backbone of South Africa’s Rural Economy
Salute Mzansi, an initiative by Food For Mzansi, celebrates the vital role of agricultural workers in South Africa's rural economy. These workers, often overlooked, are integral to food production, rural development, and job creation. The campaign aims to raise awareness about their contributions and challenges, advocating for greater recognition and support. By highlighting their stories, Salute Mzansi seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the agricultural sector and its workforce.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: May 1, 2025
African News
Pastoralists Crucial to Sustainable Livestock and Environmental Balance in Africa
Pastoralists across Africa play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting food security. In Senegal, for instance, nearly 70% of land is dedicated to livestock grazing. Contrary to the belief that livestock are an environmental liability, innovative practices are enabling livestock and healthy ecosystems to coexist. Strategic grazing, informed by rainfall patterns, helps prevent overgrazing and land degradation. However, sub-Saharan Africa produces only 2.8% of global meat and milk, despite being home to over 85% of the world's pastoralists. To meet the growing demand for animal-source foods, increased investment and collaboration are essential.
Read full story: African Agribusiness
Date Published: April 30, 2025
Global News
China Asserts Self-Sufficiency in Food and Energy Amid US Trade Tensions
China maintains that its food and energy security remain robust, even without imports from the United States. Zhao Chenxin, Deputy Head of the National Development and Reform Commission, affirmed that China has achieved self-sufficiency in staple grains and possesses ample energy reserves. He highlighted that imports of sorghum, corn, and soybeans from the US constituted a minor portion of China's total grain consumption in 2024, primarily for animal feed. Zhao emphasised that these products are easily replaceable, with abundant global supply and sufficient domestic reserves, ensuring the nation's food security is unaffected by potential disruptions in US trade.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Date Published: April 29, 2025
Beekeepers Urge for Coordinated All-Ireland Bee Inspection Service
Beekeepers across Ireland are advocating for a unified, all-island bee inspection service to enhance the health and safety of bee populations. The proposal aims to standardise practices, improve disease management, and bolster biosecurity measures. Currently, bee health services are managed separately in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, leading to inconsistencies and potential gaps in disease surveillance and response. A coordinated approach would facilitate more effective monitoring, quicker response times to outbreaks, and a more resilient apiculture sector. This initiative aligns with broader environmental goals, including the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, which seeks to protect and promote pollinator health across the island.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: April 30, 2025
Nitrogen Demand Surges Amidst Shrinking Supply
Global nitrogen demand is escalating, driven by increased agricultural needs and industrial applications. However, supply constraints are emerging due to factors such as rising production costs and geopolitical tensions affecting trade routes. This imbalance is leading to higher prices and potential shortages, impacting sectors reliant on nitrogen for fertilizers and other products. Industry experts are urging for strategic planning and investment in alternative solutions to mitigate the effects of this supply-demand gap.
Read full story: The Western Producer
Date Published: April 30, 2025
Australia's Wine Exports to Global Markets Decline to 20-Year Low, Excluding China
Australia's wine exports to markets outside China have fallen to their lowest levels in over two decades, according to Wine Australia's latest report. While exports to China surged to $1.03 billion following the removal of tariffs, global sales have declined due to reduced consumer demand, health concerns, and cost-of-living pressures. The volume of wine exported to other countries decreased by 9% in the past year, with bulk wine losing favour among consumers. Industry leaders are urging for government support to explore new markets and assist producers in transitioning to alternative crops.
Read full story: ABC News
Date Published: May 1, 2025
