South African News
Afrikaners Reject Trump's Refugee Offer Amidst South Africa's Challenges
Many white South Africans, particularly Afrikaners, are declining US President Donald Trump's offer to resettle them as refugees, citing no persecution in their home country. Ulrich Janse van Vuuren, a prominent Afrikaner social media influencer, emphasised his commitment to South Africa, stating, "For me, South Africa is home." While acknowledging issues like high crime rates and land reform policies, he and others view the refugee claims as exaggerated. Trump's offer, which has been widely discredited, has been criticised as a political move rather than a genuine humanitarian gesture.
Read full story: BBC News
Date Published: May 15, 2025
Strong Turnout at Nampo Harvest Day 2025
Day two of the Nampo Harvest Day saw 24,545 visitors braving traffic to attend South Africa’s flagship agricultural event. With over 100 aircraft landing and key political figures set to visit, the expo continues to draw nationwide attention. A major highlight: Thursday’s “Nation in Conversation” on the Expropriation Bill’s impact on farming.
Read full story: Farm.co.za
Date Published: May 15, 2025
South African Avocados Arrive in China Amid Beef Export Suspension
Despite China's recent suspension of South African beef imports due to foot-and-mouth disease, the first shipment of local avocados for the 2025 season has successfully arrived in Shanghai. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen hailed this as a significant achievement, highlighting the resilience and strategic planning within the avocado industry. The shipment underscores the importance of diversifying export markets, especially as the country navigates challenges in its livestock sector. South Africa's entry into the Chinese avocado market positions it as a key player, offering a timely alternative to global suppliers during off-peak seasons.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: May 15, 2025
African News
Egypt and Lebanon Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation at FAO Conference
Egypt and Lebanon have committed to enhancing their agricultural collaboration during the FAO Regional Conference for the Near East held in Jordan. Egyptian Agriculture Minister El-Sayed El-Qusair met with his Lebanese counterpart, Abbas Al-Hajj, to discuss initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural trade and addressing shared challenges. The ministers agreed to facilitate the exchange of agricultural goods between the two countries, focusing on streamlining exports and imports to benefit both nations. This cooperation aligns with the political leadership's guidance to deepen ties and support mutual agricultural development.
Read full story: Egypt State Information Service
Date Published: May 14, 2025
Global News
Japan's Rice Prices Remain Elevated Amid Persistent Agricultural Policies
Despite efforts to stabilise the market, Japan's rice prices remain high, with supermarket costs exceeding ¥4,200 per 5 kg bag—more than double the price from the previous year. Contributing factors include increased demand from tourism, hoarding due to earthquake fears, and poor harvests caused by extreme heat in 2023. Government measures such as releasing emergency stockpiles and relaxing import restrictions have had limited impact. Analysts attribute the ongoing price surge to long-standing agricultural policies that prioritise domestic production and protect farmers, which, while politically advantageous, hinder market flexibility and sustainability.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Date Published: May 14, 2025
England to Lift Mandatory Poultry Housing Order Amid Reduced Bird Flu Risk
The UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced the lifting of the mandatory housing order for poultry and captive birds in England, effective from 00:01 on Thursday, 15 May 2025. This decision follows a comprehensive risk assessment indicating a reduced threat of avian influenza. However, stringent biosecurity measures remain in place nationwide, including the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ). Poultry keepers are advised to gradually release birds over a seven-day transition period to minimise welfare issues. Preparations should include cleansing and disinfecting outdoor areas, fencing off standing water, and reintroducing wild bird deterrents.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: May 13, 2025
U.S. Soybean Exports Face 20% Decline Without Improved China Trade Deal
U.S. soybean exports could decrease by 20%, from an estimated 1.865 billion bushels to 1.5 billion, if the ongoing trade dispute with China remains unresolved, according to agribusiness consultancy AgResource. Despite a temporary tariff reduction from 145% to 10%, U.S. soybeans remain uncompetitive in the Chinese market, which previously accounted for over half of U.S. soybean exports. AgResource President Dan Basse warned that without a substantial trade agreement by late summer, U.S. farm income will suffer. Soybean prices could fall to $9 per bushel, down from $10.6, while corn and wheat are also expected to see significant price drops.
Read full story: Canadian Cattlemen
Date Published: May 14, 2025
Black Barley Offers Health Promise and Market Potential in Canada
A new variety of black barley, HB23150, developed by Agriculture Canada researchers in Brandon, could transform Canada’s food barley market. Rich in anthocyanins—antioxidants linked to protection against heart disease, diabetes, and obesity—the grain is designed for pearling and milling, offering potential health benefits alongside practical uses. Supported for registration in March, the variety is still a few years from commercial availability, pending licensing and seed multiplication. With global demand rising for health-oriented foods, especially among ageing populations, black barley may present a premium crop opportunity, mirroring successful examples like Australia’s BarleyMax.
Source: The Western Producer
Date Published: May 14, 2025
