South African News
North West Farmers Urged to Register on Provincial Agricultural Database
The North West Department of Agriculture is conducting a province-wide verification of small-scale farmers to enhance its database for better planning and support. MEC Desbo Mohono emphasised the importance of accurate data to align with the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan and the provincial agriculture strategy. Farmers are encouraged to cooperate with field officials, who will be identifiable to ensure legitimacy. The initiative aims to identify opportunities, monitor performance, and address deficiencies, with the verification process expected to continue until the end of the year.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Date Published: May 21, 2025
South African Poultry Industry Poised for Recovery in 2025
The South African poultry sector is showing signs of recovery in 2025, following a challenging 2024 marked by drought and disease outbreaks. Chief Economist Wandile Sihlobo highlights improved weather conditions, stable electricity supply, and reduced input costs as key factors contributing to the rebound. Despite setbacks, the industry remains optimistic, with efforts focused on increasing local production, expanding exports, and improving consumer affordability. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition's Poultry Master Plan aims to support these objectives, addressing persistent challenges while bolstering food security and economic growth.
Read full story: Agricultural Economics Today
Date Published: May 20, 2025
African News
Zambia Leads Africa’s Avocado Revolution with Export Expansion
Zambia is emerging as a key player in Africa's avocado industry, driven by smallholder cooperatives and government support. The Lusaka Avocado Multi-purpose Cooperative Society (LAMCS) has begun supplying premium avocados to Shoprite Zambia, marking a significant milestone in local retail partnerships. A recent bilateral agreement with South Africa now allows Zambian growers to export fresh avocados, opening access to advanced regional markets. The government’s Comprehensive Agriculture Transformation Support Program (CATSP) underpins these efforts, promoting high-value crops and sustainable agri-food development. This momentum positions Zambia as a rising force in global avocado trade.
Read full story: FreshPlaza
Date Published: May 20, 2025
Global News
EU Follows China in Banning Brazilian Poultry Exports Amid Bird Flu Outbreak
The European Union has imposed a ban on all poultry and meat imports from Brazil following the country's first confirmed outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) on a commercial farm in Rio Grande do Sul. This decision aligns with China's earlier suspension of Brazilian poultry imports. EU regulations require exporting nations to be free of HPAI, a status Brazil no longer holds. Brazil's Agriculture Minister stated that the country could regain its HPAI-free status if no new cases are reported within 28 days, potentially paving the way for the resumption of exports.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Date Published: May 19, 2025
Smart Fertiliser Use Gains Momentum in Pakistan’s Wheat Systems
In April 2025, ICARDA, under the USDA-funded "Fertilize Right" project, hosted 11 field days across Sindh and Punjab to promote sustainable fertiliser practices in Pakistan's wheat farming. Over 1,230 participants, including farmers and agriculture professionals, attended demonstrations showcasing innovative fertilisation techniques, such as Green Seeker technology, coated fertilisers, and biofertilisers like Biozote. Collaborating with key research institutes, ICARDA highlighted the importance of using the right type, amount, timing, and placement of fertilisers. The initiative aims to improve crop yields, reduce costs, and minimise environmental damage while fostering gender inclusion and international collaboration in agricultural innovation.
Read full story: AgroPages
Date Published: May 21, 2025
Argentina's Soybean Crop Faces Significant Losses Following Severe Storms
Argentina's 2024/25 soybean harvest is at risk of substantial losses due to recent severe storms in Buenos Aires province. The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange reported that the storms have caused flooding and infrastructure damage, particularly in the northwestern region, where approximately 730,000 hectares of soybeans remain unharvested. These adverse conditions have delayed the harvest, with progress lagging 14.7% behind the previous year. The exchange had initially estimated a production of 50 million tonnes but may now revise this figure downward due to the ongoing challenges. Further rainfall and low temperatures are expected to continue affecting the situation.
Read full story: Reuters
Date Published: May 19, 2025
Farmers Demand Separate Minimum Support Price for Natural Farming Products
Farmers in Jharkhand are advocating for a separate Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops produced through natural farming methods. While transitioning from chemical-intensive agriculture to natural farming, farmers like Devlal Munda have faced challenges such as limited seed availability and difficulties in marketing their produce. Despite the support from initiatives like NABARD's JIVA programme, which offers training and resources for natural farming, the lack of assured pricing and markets remains a significant hurdle. Experts suggest integrating natural farming products into government schemes like mid-day meals and Anganwadis to create stable demand and support for these crops.
Read full story: Mongabay India
Date Published: May 21, 2025
