South African News
Western Cape Steps Up Emergency Response as Foot-and-Mouth Disease Spreads
Western Cape authorities have intensified efforts to contain Foot-and-Mouth Disease following new confirmed and suspected outbreaks across the province. After a Cabinet briefing on 4 February, stricter quarantine measures, roadblocks and biosecurity controls were introduced, supported by a R100 million emergency fund for vaccines and rapid response measures. A confirmed case in Mbekweni heightened urgency, while suspected infections in the Garden Route have prompted calls for voluntary dairy farm lockdowns. Officials warn that livestock movement poses the greatest risk and stress strict reporting and farm-level biosecurity. The response aims to protect the province’s agricultural sector, a key contributor to the regional economy.
Read full story: Agri News
Date Published: February 9, 2026
Fusion Meat initiative aims to strengthen South Africa’s red meat sector
A new Fusion Meat Value Chain programme launched by the Industrial Development Corporation, North-West University and Agri X aims to improve profitability and sustainability for South African red meat farmers. The initiative will connect farmers, researchers and industry stakeholders to share practical knowledge, address production challenges and expand market opportunities. The inaugural event in March 2026 will focus on productivity, nutrition, biosecurity and market access, while promoting collaboration across the value chain. Organisers say the programme will help translate academic research into practical on-farm solutions, supporting sector growth, job creation and long-term resilience in the livestock industry.
Read full story: African Farming
Date Published: February 9, 2026
African News
Nigeria begins work on national fertiliser manual to improve farm productivity
Nigeria’s National Agricultural Development Fund, alongside government and industry stakeholders, has begun validating a national fertiliser manual aimed at improving farming practices across different agro-ecological zones. The guidance seeks to replace generalised fertiliser recommendations with site-specific advice to improve yields, protect soil health and enhance profitability. Officials say consistent, science-based guidance will help farmers apply nutrients more efficiently while supporting sustainability, food security and improved nutrition outcomes. The initiative is intended to ensure practical use by farmers and extension workers, with stakeholders contributing technical input to support nationwide adoption and long-term agricultural development.
Read full story: The Guardian
Date Published: February 9, 2026
Global News
Former U.S. agriculture leaders warn of sector collapse without policy action
A group of 27 former U.S. agricultural leaders has warned Congress of a potential collapse in American agriculture, citing falling exports, rising input costs and policy challenges undermining farm profitability. In a letter to congressional agriculture committees, they highlighted declining global competitiveness, increased bankruptcies and shrinking export market share, particularly in soybeans. The coalition linked the downturn to trade disputes, tariffs on key inputs, labour shortages and reduced funding for agricultural research and support services. They called for urgent legislative measures, including tariff exemptions, a new Farm Bill and trade policy reforms, to stabilise farm incomes and restore long-term viability across rural economies.
Read full story: eDairy News
Date Published: February 9, 2026
Myagdi orange harvest reaches Rs 316 million despite production decline
Farmers in Nepal’s Myagdi district produced oranges worth Rs 316 million this year, with total output reaching 4,515 metric tonnes from 430 hectares of land. Oranges remain a key cash crop for the region, selling at an average price of Rs 70 per kilogram. Despite favourable weather conditions and the absence of disease or natural disasters, both production and income declined compared with the previous year, when higher yields generated Rs 340 million. Officials attributed the drop to a natural production cycle rather than external factors. Several villages across the district continue to serve as major orange-growing areas supporting local farm incomes.
Read full story: Nepal News
Date Published: February 9, 2026
Dong Nai carp farmers rush harvest ahead of Tet celebrations
Carp farmers in Song May hamlet, Dong Nai province, are entering their busiest period as demand peaks ahead of Vietnam’s Tet festival and the Kitchen Gods’ Day ritual. Red carp, raised specifically for ceremonial release, must reach the right size and condition within a narrow timeframe, making timing and careful pond management essential. The long-standing local industry now supports dozens of households, with traders placing orders months in advance. Prices this year range from USD 2.40 to 3.20 per kilogram, allowing many farmers to secure seasonal profits. Maintaining fish health through natural methods remains key to preserving the area’s reputation and ensuring repeat buyers.
Read full story: Vietnam Net
Date Published: February 9, 2026
India–U.S. interim trade deal sparks farmer concerns over imports and prices
An interim trade framework between India and the United States has prompted concern among farmer organisations and food security groups, who fear tariff reductions on agricultural imports could harm domestic producers. The agreement includes lower tariffs on a range of U.S. farm products such as animal feed ingredients, soybean oil, fruit and nuts, raising worries about falling local prices and increased reliance on imports. Campaigners have also highlighted concerns over potential imports of genetically modified food and feed. Farmer groups have called for protests, arguing the deal could disrupt domestic crop and livestock markets while negotiations continue towards a broader bilateral trade agreement.
Read full story: Mongabay
Date Published: February 9, 2026
