South African News
Western Cape Launches Rail Revival to Boost Agricultural Exports and Ease Road Congestion
The Western Cape government has launched the Overberg Freight Rail Business Case and Implementation Plan, a pilot project aiming to shift 10% of freight from road to rail in a key agricultural corridor. With an estimated 900,000 tonnes of goods to be rerouted annually, the initiative is set to remove 40,000 truck trips from the N2, cut transport costs by up to 30%, and support the province’s ambition to triple export value by 2035. Backed by public-private partnerships, the project is designed to enhance competitiveness, attract investment, and promote sustainable development in the region.
Read full story: Agri News
Date Published: August 6, 2025
Deputy Minister Capa Inspects Citrus Packhouses to Boost Limpopo’s Export Standards
On 5 August 2025, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Nokuzola Capa began a multi-day assessment of citrus packhouses in Burgersfort, Limpopo. The visit focused on quality assurance at four key facilities—Naranja Packers, Morone Citrus Co-op, Mahela, and JP Packers—highlighting government support for the citrus sector, which employs around 100,000 workers in the province. Limpopo contributes 40% of South Africa’s citrus output. The initiative aims to strengthen compliance with global export standards, ensure health protocols, and drive inclusive rural development amid challenges like climate change and market pressures.
Read full story: African Farming
Date Published: August 7, 2025
African News
SAPZ Initiative to Drive Agricultural Transformation and Inclusive Growth — Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima has highlighted the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme as a key driver of Nigeria’s agricultural industrial revolution and inclusive economic development. Speaking via Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari at the SAPZ groundbreaking in Ibadan, Shettima described the initiative as vital to creating agro-industrial hubs that will empower farmers, boost value-added production, and generate jobs. The project, backed by global partners such as the AfDB, IFAD, and IsDB, aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Plans are underway to expand SAPZ to all 36 states, beginning with 10 more by early 2026.
Read full story: Tribune Online
Date Published: August 5, 2025
Global News
Argentine Farmers Grow Impatient as Milei’s Reforms Fall Short of Promises
Despite initial support for President Javier Milei’s free-market reforms, Argentine farmers are increasingly frustrated by the slow pace of change and the limited relief provided. While modest export tax cuts have been introduced—such as reductions on beef, corn, and soybeans—many producers argue they are insufficient to restore competitiveness. Farmers also decry high transport costs, inadequate infrastructure due to frozen public works, and heavy taxation across government levels. While some welcome inflation control and partial easing of currency restrictions, concerns remain over the long-term viability of Argentina’s agriculture sector without deeper reforms and investment in logistics.
Read full story: Barron’s
Date Published: August 6, 2025
Smallholders Lead Malaysia’s Palm Oil Sustainability Push
On Carey Island, Malaysia, smallholders like Reta Lajah are reshaping the palm oil sector through sustainable practices, community leadership, and innovation. Once dominated by large corporations, smallholders now contribute 26% of the nation’s palm oil supply. National initiatives such as the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification and government-supported diversification programmes have helped reduce deforestation and boost access to global markets. Despite challenges, grassroots efforts by groups like Wild Asia have empowered farmers to improve biodiversity and land use. With increasing focus on traceability and international compliance, Malaysia’s smallholders are vital to the industry's more responsible future.
Read full story: CNN
Date Published: August 6, 2025
PM Modi Vows to Defend Farmers’ Interests Amid Rising US Tariffs
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the interests of India’s farmers, fishermen, and dairy workers, stating he is willing to pay a personal price if necessary. His remarks follow the US decision to raise tariffs on Indian goods, including agricultural exports, to 50%. Speaking at a global conference honouring the birth centenary of M.S. Swaminathan—India’s “father of the Green Revolution”—Modi stressed that national policy would never compromise the livelihoods of rural producers. He also unveiled a commemorative coin and stamp in tribute to Swaminathan’s legacy in transforming Indian agriculture.
Read full story: Hindustan Times
Date Published: August 7, 2025
Guyana Plans More Farmers’ Markets to Cut Food Costs and Middlemen Margins
The Guyanese government is considering expanding farmers’ markets to tackle rising food prices and reduce excessive markups by intermediaries, Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo announced. He highlighted that while farmgate prices for staples like cassava remain low, consumers pay up to five times more due to multiple layers of middlemen. Direct-to-consumer markets would allow farmers to earn more and improve price transparency. Jagdeo also pointed to broader agricultural reforms including smart farming, drone use, and biotechnology. President Irfaan Ali reinforced these efforts, outlining plans for Region One to become a coffee and cocoa hub, supported by major infrastructure investments.
Read full story: Guyana Current Affairs
Date Published: August 6, 2025
