South African News
Tech, fair trade, and long-term thinking key to SA farming future
South African farmers must embrace technology, push for fairer trade conditions, and adopt a long-term outlook to remain globally competitive, experts told a Swartland Show seminar on 5 September. Grain SA CEO Dr Tobias Doyer warned that slow tariff processes, poor infrastructure, and imported chicken undermine local production, while global subsidies create an uneven playing field. Economist Johan Fourie urged perspective, noting that long-term progress and innovation could offset short-term challenges. Political analyst JP Landman highlighted shifting global power towards China, stressing the need for adaptability and technological advancement in agriculture.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: September 7, 2025
Mpumalanga Show equips small-scale farmers to supply new produce market
The Mpumalanga Show in Mbombela highlighted opportunities for small-scale farmers to enter the provinces nearly completed International Fresh Produce Market. Organisers said a recent roadshow revealed more farmers than expected, many producing at larger scales. Training was provided by AgricultSURE on boosting yields, chemical safety, and marketing to help growers meet the market’s standards. Now in its eighth year, the show also featured livestock, machinery, and technology exhibits, serving as the province’s key agricultural platform. Manager Lyzelle van Wyk stressed that the ultimate goal is to build consistent small-scale supply to the fresh produce market.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: September 7, 2025
African News
Standard Bank launches free Sustainability Academy to boost African business resilience
Standard Bank has unveiled its Sustainability Academy, a free learning platform designed to equip African businesses with practical Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) skills. Developed in partnership with Microsoft and Philanthrosoft, the cloud-based platform offers training in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, water management, carbon markets and ESG principles. Piloted in five countries, the programme received strong uptake, highlighting the urgent demand for sustainability expertise. Executive Head Dr Manessah Alagbaoso said the initiative aims to close knowledge gaps, empower SMMEs, and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly through partnerships that expand impact across the continent.
Read full story: African Farming
Date published: September 8, 2025
Global News
Global agriculture drone market set to quadruple by 2029 amid farming challenges
The global agriculture drone market is forecast to rise from $2.01 billion in 2024 to $8.03 billion by 2029, reflecting a CAGR of 32%, according to MarketsAndMarkets. The surge is driven by labour shortages, the need for greater farm productivity, and supportive government policies. North America leads demand, with exemptions enabling wider deployment of drone technologies. Public-private partnerships and training initiatives are also accelerating adoption. Companies such as ZenaTech, Draganfly, and AgEagle are investing in innovation to capture growth. Analysts project the overall drone market could surpass $85 billion by 2033, spanning agriculture, defence, and commercial sectors.
Read full story: eeNews Europe
Date published: September 8, 2025
Arkansas farmers plead with Trump for urgent aid as costs soar and prices collapse
Farmers in Arkansas warn that generations-old family farms face closure without immediate federal aid, as rising input costs, collapsing crop prices, and severe weather leave many on the brink of bankruptcy. Despite President Trump’s strong support in the state, with 64.2% of the 2024 vote, his administration’s tariffs and inflationary pressures have deepened the crisis. Severe weather earlier this year compounded losses, with most farmers reporting negative returns in 2024 and expecting worse in 2025. Growers are now urging lawmakers to pressure Trump for emergency payments to help them survive until new legislation takes effect next year.
Read full story: AS USA
Date published: September 7, 2025
Automation and insulation transform China’s greenhouse farming in 2025
China is rapidly advancing its agricultural sector through automated, insulated, and four-seasons greenhouses, which now dominate the market. More than 60% of new installations use automated purchasing systems, integrating IoT, AI, and precision farming to improve yields, reduce labour, and enhance sustainability. Insulated designs cut energy use by up to 40%, while four-seasons models enable year-round production, even in harsh northern climates. Wholesalers play a pivotal role by offering turnkey solutions, training, and digital traceability, often supported by satellite and blockchain tools. These innovations are strengthening food security, supply chains, and climate resilience across the country.
Read full story: Farmonaut
Date published: September 8, 2025
Stink bug surge threatens Japan’s rice harvest and price stability
Japan is facing a surge in rice-damaging stink bugs, raising concerns over the country’s already fragile rice supply and high prices. Warmer winters and extreme summer heat have allowed the pests to multiply, with 35 prefectures issuing 46 warnings this year — the highest in a decade. Farmers report yield losses of up to 20% despite increased pesticide use, while the government fears the outbreak could undermine its target to boost production by 560,000 tons in 2025. Emergency subsidies for pesticides have been introduced, but experts warn regional, coordinated spraying is needed to contain the fast-spreading infestation.
Read full story: Asia News Network
Date published: September 8, 2025
