South African News
Trump Confronts South African President with Disputed Claims of 'White Genocide'
During a White House meeting on 21 May 2025, US President Donald Trump confronted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa with claims of a "white genocide" in South Africa. Trump presented a video showing crosses purportedly marking the graves of murdered white farmers, a widely discredited narrative. He also displayed printouts of alleged attacks on white South Africans. Ramaphosa responded by clarifying that such views do not represent government policy and are from a minority opposition party. The meeting, intended to improve US-South Africa relations, was overshadowed by this unexpected confrontation.
Read full story: BBC News
Date Published: May 21, 2025
South African Citrus Exports to India Surge to 30,000 Tonnes
South Africa's citrus exports to India have experienced significant growth, tripling from 10,000 tonnes in 2020 to 30,000 tonnes in 2024. This surge is attributed to India's expanding middle class and increasing demand for premium, seedless citrus varieties like oranges and mandarins. The seasonal overlap between South Africa's peak citrus season (June to October) and India's domestic production (November to March) provides a strategic market window. However, challenges persist, including a 30% import tariff and restrictions on in-transit cold treatment, which inflate costs and complicate logistics. Efforts are underway to harmonise phytosanitary measures and improve trade conditions.
Read full story: FreshPlaza
Date Published: May 21, 2025
African News
Kenya's Data-Driven Farming Initiative Achieves Triple Win in Climate Adaptation, Nutrition, and Equity
A data-driven farming initiative in Ahero, Kisumu County, Kenya, has demonstrated the benefits of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), combining fish, indigenous vegetables, and rice farming. The study, involving 510 households, revealed that IMTA enhances food security, diversifies diets, and builds resilience against climate challenges like floods and droughts. Led by ICON Data and Learning Labs (IDL), in partnership with the Kenya Industrial Research & Development Institute (KIRDI) and TINADA Youth Action Africa (TYAA), the project utilised household interviews, field observations, and predictive modelling to assess IMTA's impact under various climate scenarios.
Read full story: African Agribusiness
Date Published: May 22, 2025
Global News
China's 'Vegetable Capital' to Pilot Smart Farming in UAE's Deserts
Shouguang, a city in eastern China renowned for its vegetable production, is collaborating with UAE agritech firm Silal to establish a 100,000-square-metre smart agriculture centre in Abu Dhabi's desert region. The project involves a 120 million dirham (US$32.67 million) investment and aims to implement advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics for efficient seeding, climate control, irrigation, and harvesting. The centre will support the cultivation of over 10 crop varieties, including tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and strawberries. This initiative reflects China's broader strategy to export agricultural expertise through its Belt and Road Initiative.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Date Published: May 22, 2025
Argentine Agricultural Sector Welcomes Temporary Reduction in Export Taxes but Calls for Broader Application
Argentina's agricultural sector has expressed approval of the government's decision to temporarily reduce export taxes (retenciones) by an average of 20% until June 2025, and to eliminate them entirely for regional economies. However, industry leaders are advocating for the extension of these benefits to all crops. The Sociedad Rural Argentina (SRA) and other agricultural organisations have long sought the complete removal of export taxes, arguing that such measures would enhance competitiveness and investment in the sector. Despite the temporary relief, producers continue to face challenges related to high production costs and economic instability.
Read full story: Revista Chacra
Date Published: May 21, 2025
Fuding White Tea Culture System Recognised as Global Agricultural Heritage by UN
The Fuding White Tea Culture System in Fujian, China, has been recognised by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS). Celebrated for its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and sustainable farming practices, the system combines centuries-old tea-growing traditions with ecological wisdom. Centred around the revered Lyuxueya mother tree and natural withering methods, it integrates tea gardens with forests and crops, supporting both local livelihoods and biodiversity. This recognition highlights China’s leadership in agricultural heritage preservation and showcases Fuding’s eco-friendly model as a global example for sustainable rural development in mountainous farming regions.
Read full story: Fujian China
Date Published: May 21, 2025
New Law to Tackle Livestock Worrying Moves Forward
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill has progressed to the committee stage in the House of Commons, bringing it closer to becoming law. The bill aims to enhance protections for livestock by granting police greater powers to respond to incidents of livestock worrying, including the ability to seize and detain dogs involved in attacks. Additionally, the legislation expands the definition of protected livestock to include alpacas and llamas and extends the scope to cover roads and paths. The RSPCA has welcomed the bill, highlighting its potential to reduce the financial and emotional impact of livestock worrying on farmers.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: May 21, 2025
