South African News
South Africa Wine urges faster rollout of agricultural master plan to boost growth and exports
South Africa Wine has called on government to accelerate implementation of the Agricultural and Agro-processing Master Plan, urging clearer commitments, coordinated delivery and targeted public investment to support growth, competitiveness and transformation in the wine and brandy sector. The organisation highlighted the need for improved market access, predictable excise policies, stronger logistics performance and investment in infrastructure, research and climate resilience. It also emphasised expanding inclusive enterprise development and recognising wine tourism as a national economic driver. Faster execution, it argues, could strengthen exports, rural employment and investor confidence while supporting broader economic development across the value chain.
Read full story: Engineering News
Date published: February 9, 2026
Agriculture sector voices concern over Land Bank CEO resignation
The resignation of Land Bank CEO Themba Rikhotso has sparked concern across South Africa’s agricultural sector, with industry figures warning that leadership uncertainty could affect farmers, financing and food security. Rikhotso, credited with stabilising the institution during a difficult period and advancing its turnaround strategy, will remain until the end of April before joining another bank. Some experts have linked his departure to ongoing legal uncertainty over the bank’s authority in farmer liquidations, while agricultural groups fear the institution is struggling to meet its mandate. Despite concerns, economists note the Land Bank remains vital to agricultural funding and development, particularly for small-scale farmers.
Read full story: IOL
Date published: February 10, 2026
African News
Dar es Salaam to host Africa fertiliser conference focused on productivity and investment
Dar es Salaam is set to host the Argus Fertiliser Africa Conference 2026, bringing together government officials, investors and industry experts to discuss strengthening fertiliser markets and improving agricultural productivity across the continent. The three-day event will examine supply chain challenges, investment opportunities, affordability for smallholder farmers and strategies to boost regional fertiliser production. Discussions will also cover sustainable and organic fertiliser use, logistics improvements and financing models to support long-term growth. The meeting forms part of wider efforts to modernise agriculture, improve yields and enhance food security while promoting climate-smart and environmentally responsible farming practices.
Read full story: The Guardian
Date published: February 9, 2026
Global News
Persistent heavy rain raises flooding fears and threatens UK crop yields
Prolonged heavy rainfall across the UK is increasing the risk of flooding and placing further strain on farmers already facing low commodity prices and financial uncertainty. Flood alerts remain widespread, with saturated ground delaying field work, damaging crops and increasing disease pressure, particularly for cereal and vegetable growers. Farmers report waterlogged fields, livestock being moved to higher ground and rising operational costs. Industry representatives warn that repeated extreme weather events are undermining productivity and investment, while ongoing wet conditions are expected to continue affecting harvest prospects, farm incomes and rural businesses in the weeks ahead.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: February 9, 2026
Australian farmers warn on market access as EU trade talks resume
Australia’s farming sector has raised concerns as negotiations on a proposed Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement resume, warning that insufficient agricultural market access could disadvantage producers for decades. The National Farmers’ Federation has urged the government to maintain its stance that no agreement is preferable to a poor deal, citing concerns over limited EU market access and the impact of European farm subsidies on competition. Farmers argue that while Australian agriculture is globally competitive, meaningful and balanced trade terms are essential. Industry leaders also highlighted growing global trade uncertainty, stressing that any agreement must deliver fair conditions and tangible commercial benefits for Australian producers.
Read full story: Fresh Plaza
Date published: February 9, 2026
Chile’s high-tech fruit industry drives global export success
Chile has developed one of the world’s most efficient fruit export industries, generating more than US$7 billion annually through advanced irrigation, technology and integrated logistics. Concentrated in central irrigated valleys, the sector has grown steadily over four decades through coordinated public policy, private investment and export-focused production aimed at off-season markets in the Northern Hemisphere. The country has become a global leader in cherries, grapes and blueberries, supported by strong cold-chain infrastructure and international market access. Despite its success, the industry faces challenges from water scarcity and climate change, prompting increased investment in efficiency and sustainability as Chile seeks to maintain competitiveness in global markets.
Read full story: CPG
Date published: February 9, 2026
China sets out agricultural modernisation and rural revitalisation plans
China has released its 2026 “No. 1 central document”, outlining priorities for agricultural modernisation and rural revitalisation over the coming five-year period. The policy places food security, rural development and farmer incomes at the centre of national strategy, with measures aimed at improving agricultural productivity, strengthening arable land protection and advancing agricultural technology. The plan also focuses on consolidating poverty alleviation gains, developing rural industries, improving infrastructure and public services, and promoting integrated urban–rural development. Authorities emphasised institutional reform, investment innovation and stronger governance as key to building agriculture into a modern pillar sector while improving living standards in rural areas.
Read full story: Global Agriculture
Date published: February 10, 2026
