South African News
Stalled Poultry Trade with Brazil Deepens South Africa’s Chicken Crisis
South Africa’s poultry imports from Brazil remain suspended despite a partial lifting of the ban on 19 June, due to the absence of a finalised Veterinary Health Certificate (VHC) agreement between the two countries. The delay has halted new import permits and exacerbated the looming shortage of mechanically deboned meat (MDM), a crucial ingredient in affordable processed meats. With Brazil supplying over 90% of South Africa’s MDM, consumers face rising prices and diminishing access to low-cost protein. Industry bodies warn of food insecurity, job losses, and disrupted school feeding programmes, urging swift resolution to resume trade.
Read full story: Chicken Facts
Date Published: June 25, 2025
Ostrich Feed Production Surges 128.5% Year-on-Year Despite Monthly Dip
Ostrich feed production in South Africa rose by an impressive 128.5% in February 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, according to the Animal Feed Manufacturers’ Association (Afma). While February saw a month-on-month decline of 24.6%, overall year-on-year growth signals a strong recovery following a dip in 2024. Total feed production for the month stood at 539 160 tonnes. Industry experts attribute the short-term drop to improved grazing conditions and high input costs earlier in the year. However, feed demand is expected to rise again as new grain and oilseed harvests reach the market.
Read full story: Farmer's Weekly
Date Published: June 26, 2025
African News
Egypt to Launch Specialised University for Agriculture and Food Industries
Egypt is moving forward with plans to establish a dedicated university focused on agriculture and food industries. The Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation met with the Education Development Fund Secretary-General to review the proposal, which involves collaboration with the ministries of agriculture and higher education. The institution will offer training in areas such as smart agriculture, water management, livestock production, and food technology. Designed in partnership with international institutions and aligned with global standards, the university aims to boost employability, strengthen regional industry ties, and support Egypt’s economic development.
Read full story: State Information Service – Egypt
Date Published: June 25, 2025
Global News
Polish Minister Warns EU‑Mercosur Deal Must Protect Farming Sector
Poland’s Agriculture Minister has cautioned that the proposed EU trade agreement with Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia) must not undermine EU farmers. He warned that without specific protective measures—especially for sectors like poultry, beef, eggs and sugar—the influx of cheaper South American imports could destabilise the EU’s agricultural market. The Agricultural Minister emphasised that France and Poland are demanding robust safeguards, and he plans to discuss these with his French counterpart. The European Commission is expected to publish the final deal in July; to block it, a coalition of at least four member states holding 35 % of the EU population must oppose its ratification.
Read full story: TVP World
Date Published: June 25, 2025
Anwar Exempts Apples and Oranges from New SST after Public Backlash
The Malaysian Prime Minister has decided to exempt imported apples and oranges from the revised Sales and Services Tax (SST) following strong public criticism. The cabinet agreed that while most imported fruits will remain subject to the tax, apples and oranges—widely consumed across income groups—will be spared due to popular demand. The SST threshold for sales has also been increased from RM500,000 to RM1 million. The PM reiterated his preference for local produce, but acknowledged the need to accommodate consumer habits. Further details on the expanded SST rollout are expected soon.
Read full story: South China Morning Post
Date Published: June 26, 2025
Coconut Prices Jump to US $7 a Dozen, Squeezing Retailers and Shoppers
Coconut prices have spiked sixfold since 2022, reaching around VND 190,000 (roughly US $7.26) per dozen, driven by robust global demand and tightening supply, according to Retail News Asia. This surge is unsettling for retailers and consumers alike, increasing costs across fresh coconut offerings, related snack items, and coconut‑derived products. Retail analysts warn of shrinking margins and possible price increases for customers. Unless supply improves or demand cools, elevated coconut prices are expected to linger, placing further strain on both businesses and households.
Read full story: Retail News Asia
Date Published: June 25, 2025
Guyana Only Nation Achieving Full Food Self-Sufficiency, Study Finds
A recent analysis published in Nature Food reveals that Guyana is the sole country among 186 nations capable of entirely feeding its population without reliance on food imports. The study evaluated self-sufficiency across seven key food groups—fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, plant proteins, and starchy staples—and found Guyana uniquely able to meet its own needs. While this does not mean imports won't occur—particularly for niche products—it does underscore Guyana’s abundant agricultural capacity. Other significant food producers like China and Vietnam met six of the seven categories but fell short in one.
Read full story: The Voice
Date Published: June 25, 2025
