South African News
AgriSA warns draft mining bill threatens food security and rural livelihoods
Farmer union AgriSA has warned that South Africa’s Draft Mineral Resources Development Amendment Bill (2025) could endanger agriculture, food security and rural communities if passed in its current form. While the Bill seeks to promote inclusive economic development, AgriSA argues it undermines property rights by allowing small-scale mining on farmland without proper consultation or compensation. The union also criticises the lack of socio-economic impact assessments, weak rehabilitation measures and poor alignment with agricultural legislation. AgriSA is calling for the Bill’s withdrawal, stronger protections for farmers and stricter environmental safeguards before implementation.
Read full story: African Farming
Date published: August 18, 2025
Targeted support and partnerships seen as vital for black farmers’ growth
Speakers at the 2025 Agricultural Transformation Lekgotla stressed that black farmers need tailored financing, market access and strong partnerships to thrive. Industry leaders from the red meat, grain, potato, fruit and pork sectors agreed that regional, targeted interventions are more effective than broad-based approaches. Initiatives include Fruit SA’s blended finance schemes for long-term crops, Potatoes SA’s R160 million enterprise projects and plans for a major chips factory in Limpopo, as well as mentorship and biosecurity programmes for small-scale pork producers. Panelists emphasised that sustainable transformation requires collaboration, shared vision and focused investment.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date published: August 18, 2025
African News
Egypt’s National Veal Project surpasses EGP 10bn in funding, aiding over 45,000 farmers
Egypt’s National Veal Project has exceeded EGP 10bn in funding, supporting more than 45,000 beneficiaries and rearing over 522,000 head of cattle, according to Agriculture Minister Alaa Farouk. The scheme, which targets small-scale breeders and young graduates, aims to boost domestic meat and dairy production, stabilise prices, and create rural jobs. In its latest round, the board approved EGP 337.8m for 194 beneficiaries to support 2,089 cattle. The project also forms part of the Hayah Karima initiative to improve rural livelihoods, with technical inspections, veterinary support and insurance schemes ensuring sustainability and farmer protection.
Read full story: Daily News Egypt
Date published: August 17, 2025
Global News
Survey to measure agritourism’s growing role in transforming rural Scotland
A national survey has been launched to assess the growth of agritourism in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands, as part of the Scottish Agritourism 2030 Strategy. Currently valued at around £60 million, the sector is expected to reach £250 million by 2030, supporting almost 10,000 jobs and involving up to 1,000 farms and crofts. Agritourism activities such as farm shops, berry picking, and croft stays are seen as vital for rural economies, offering sustainable income, preserving traditions, and dispersing tourism beyond major cities. Findings will also inform Scotland’s preparations for hosting the Global Agritourism Conference in Aberdeen in 2026.
Read full story: Travel and Tourism
Date published: August 17, 2025
U.S. farmers call for immigration reform to secure Mexican labour
American farmers say labour shortages and restrictive visa programmes are threatening agriculture, stressing that Mexican workers are essential for orchards, dairies and livestock operations. Producers such as dairy executive Brad Bouma and Texas peach farmer Jamey Vogel argue that U.S. citizens are unwilling to take these physically demanding jobs, leaving immigrant workers as the backbone of the industry. They criticise the H-2A seasonal visa for being inflexible and unsuitable for year-round farming, while TN visas are costly and restrictive. Both urge a streamlined immigration system that allows reliable recruitment, legal protection and long-term stability for vital farm labour.
Read full story: Farm Progress
Date published: August 18, 2025
India will resist foreign pressure on farm imports, says Union Minister Reddy
Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy has affirmed that the Modi government will not yield to external pressure to allow agricultural imports, stressing its commitment to protecting Indian farmers’ interests. Speaking at the inauguration of Crystal Crop Protection’s new seed manufacturing facility in Siddipet, Telangana, Reddy questioned the impact such imports would have on domestic producers. He also highlighted the importance of natural farming practices, urging farmers to embrace modern technology while reducing reliance on chemical fertilisers. The minister reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pledge to stand firmly with the country’s farmers.
Source: The New Indian Express
Date published: August 18, 2025
U.S. farmers face uncertainty as possible ban on Chinese ag drones looms
Agricultural spray drones are rapidly gaining traction among U.S. farmers for cost-effective crop spraying and seeding, but a potential federal ban on Chinese-made drones could disrupt the industry. Chinese manufacturers, particularly DJI, dominate about 90% of the market, with concerns over national security and forced labour prompting legislation that may restrict their use from December 2025. Industry leaders warn that domestic alternatives, such as Texas-based Hylio, cannot yet meet demand, risking setbacks for farmers relying on drones to cut costs and increase efficiency. Critics argue a rushed ban could harm agriculture before U.S. production scales up.
Read full story: North Daktota Monitor
Date published: August 17, 2025
