South African News
South Africa Unveils Five-Point Strategy to Counter US Tariffs and Diversify Export Markets
The South African government has announced a comprehensive five-pronged plan to address the 30% tariffs imposed by the United States, combining an “ambitious” new trade offer with a drive to expand export markets. Ministers John Steenhuisen and Parks Tau outlined concessions on poultry, pork, and blueberries to resolve US biosecurity concerns, resulting in imminent shipments of these goods. Simultaneously, South Africa is pursuing new trade opportunities in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, while rolling out support measures for affected farmers and businesses. The negotiations are complicated by US concerns over domestic policies, which Pretoria views as part of a “new normal” in trade diplomacy.
Read full story: Agri News
Date Published: August 13, 2025
Western Cape Apple and Pear Exporters Urge Port Privatisation Amid R1 Billion Losses
The Western Cape’s apple and pear industry has lost an estimated R1 billion in 2024 due to persistent inefficiencies at the Port of Cape Town, prompting urgent calls for its privatisation. Industry leaders, including Tru-Cape and Two-a-Day, warned that delays threaten market share in Europe, the UK, and the Far East. While some operational improvements have been made, productivity remains far below historic levels, forcing costly diversions to other ports. The provincial government is pursuing rail and road upgrades, but exporters stress that rapid execution and structured collaboration with Transnet are essential to safeguard jobs and global competitiveness.
Read full story: Farmer’s Review Africa
Date Published: August 12, 2025
African News
Farmer-Led Tree Regeneration Transforms Niger’s Land and Lives
In Niger, the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) method, pioneered by Australian agronomist Tony Rinaudo, is restoring degraded land, improving food security, and inspiring spiritual transformation. Developed during Rinaudo’s 17 years in the Sahel, FMNR harnesses existing underground tree root systems, allowing farmers to regrow trees without planting anew. Now practised on over 18 million hectares in 27 countries, it has boosted soil fertility, provided firewood and timber, and revitalised communities. The “Sowing Seeds of Change in the Sahel” project continues this legacy, offering practical and spiritual support to subsistence farmers facing environmental and economic hardship.
Read full story: SIM
Date Published: August 12, 2025
Global News
EU Backs £700k AI Project to Drive Regenerative Potato Farming Across Europe
The European Commission’s EIT Food Innovation Agency has awarded £700,000 to UK agritech firm Cropin to develop an AI-powered platform promoting regenerative potato farming. The ‘FIRST Potato’ initiative will use real-time data, predictive analytics, and satellite imagery to optimise irrigation, inputs, and residue management, aiming to maintain yields and quality while reducing fungicide use. Initial scientific trials will take place in Denmark with Aarhus University, followed by commercial pilots in the UK and Germany. Cropin says the technology will boost profitability, support sustainability goals, and accelerate Europe’s shift from conventional to regenerative practices.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: August 12, 2025
China Ramps Up Argentine Soybean Imports to Record Levels in Bid to Cut US Reliance
China’s imports of Argentine soybeans have surged to record highs, potentially surpassing 11 million metric tons—four times the usual volume—amid efforts to reduce dependence on US supplies during ongoing trade tensions. Competitive pricing, with Argentine soybean meal at around USD 350/t versus USD 418–420/t in China, has bolstered demand for both beans and processed meal. Companies like Bunge Global S.A. are securing repeated shipments, though analysts warn the boom could fade if US-China trade relations improve. For Argentina, the spike offers a chance to strengthen market share, though sustaining growth will require investment in logistics, efficiency, and quality standards.
Read full story: Fundación Andrés Bello
Date Published: August 12, 2025
China-Pakistan Sesame Project Targets 5,000-Tonne Exports and Major Acreage Expansion
A China-Pakistan agricultural partnership is aiming to boost sesame exports from Punjab to 5,000 tonnes in 2025, with plans to expand cultivation from 500 to 50,000 acres. Led by the Silk Road Biohealth Agriculture Industry Alliance, China Machinery Engineering Corporation, and Pakistan’s Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, the project has introduced high-yield Chinese sesame varieties and advanced farming techniques. Working with over 120 farmers, it has already exported 3,500 tonnes to China for use in food, pharmaceuticals, and industry. The initiative has created over 500 long-term jobs and plans to enhance yields through technology, training, and climate-resilient practices.
Read full story: The Express Tribune
Date Published: August 13, 2025
Egg Industry Holds Steady as Malaysia Moves to Targeted Subsidies
Malaysia’s egg sector has remained stable despite the August shift from broad subsidies to a targeted model for essential goods. Eggs, a primary protein source for millions—especially lower-income households—continue to see strong demand, with prices for a tray of 30 Grade C eggs averaging USD 2.35–2.50. The industry has introduced lower-priced “Special Grade Eggs” to maintain accessibility, while enforcement teams monitor price compliance. Supply remains steady, benefiting consumers and small businesses alike. Industry collaboration with policymakers is ensuring affordability, production efficiency, and innovation, cementing eggs as a strategic pillar of national food security and economic resilience.
Read full story: avi News
Date Published: August 13, 2025
