South African News
Lower interest rates create expansion opportunity for South African farmers
Falling inflation and interest rates are creating a more favourable financial climate for farmers in South Africa, offering opportunities to invest in productivity, resilience and long-term growth. Daneel Rossouw of Nedbank says the shift encourages strategic borrowing focused on expansion rather than survival. Key challenges shaping 2026 include biosecurity risks in livestock production, changing global trade conditions and increasing climate volatility. With the repo rate lowered by the South African Reserve Bank, farmers are urged to prioritise careful financial planning, technological investment and collaboration across the sector to strengthen competitiveness and manage long-term risks.
Read full story: Zawya
Date published: February 17, 2026
Tongaat Hulett liquidation threat raises fears of wider South African sugar industry collapse
Tongaat Hulett Limited has applied for provisional liquidation after a proposed acquisition by the Vision consortium collapsed, prompting warnings of severe consequences for the wider sugar sector in South Africa. Business rescue practitioners said funding agreements could not be secured, while rising sugar imports and weak domestic sales worsened financial pressures. Industry body SA Canegrowers warned that closure of the company’s mills could disrupt processing capacity, threaten thousands of growers and destabilise rural economies. Stakeholders are urging government intervention to preserve milling operations and safeguard the long-term sustainability of the industry.
Read full story: African Farming
Date published: February 17, 2026
African News
Egypt launches first slaughterhouse biogas unit to boost renewable energy and sustainable farming
Egypt has inaugurated its first biogas unit converting slaughterhouse waste into renewable energy and organic fertiliser, marking a step towards greener infrastructure and improved waste management. The pilot facility in Qalyubia aims to support agricultural exports, reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers and strengthen the country’s green economy. Environment minister Manal Awad said the project forms part of wider plans to expand bioenergy technology across government-run slaughterhouses. Further developments include additional units and a proposed large-scale plant in New Valley Governorate, expected to generate revenue, create jobs and improve environmental sustainability.
Read full story: Bioenergy Insight
Date published: February 16, 2026
Global News
Storm damage hits North Island farms as floods and winds destroy crops and infrastructure
Severe weather across New Zealand’s North Island has caused widespread damage to farms, with flooding and strong winds destroying fences, crops and shelter belts while leaving thousands without power. Areas including Ōtorohanga remained under a state of emergency as slips, blocked waterways and rising rivers affected dairy and arable operations. Vegetable growers reported major crop losses, with some fields completely washed out or wind-damaged, raising concerns over future supply shortages. Despite localised stock losses, farmers have relied on generators and community support, while milk collection and transport disruptions highlighted the ongoing challenges facing rural communities recovering from the storms.
Read full story: The Country
Date published: February 16, 2026
Concerns grow over Canadian agricultural research cuts amid warnings on competitiveness
Proposed reductions to agricultural research capacity by the Canadian government have prompted warnings that farmers could lose competitiveness without continued investment in innovation. Stuart Smyth of the University of Saskatchewan said producers and industry leaders must clearly communicate the economic value of research to policymakers, particularly in sectors such as pork production. An impact assessment highlighted strong returns from research investment, while the planned closure of facilities including the Lacombe Research Station has raised concern. Stakeholders warn that reduced funding could weaken export competitiveness and limit innovation across Canada’s agricultural sector.
Read full story: Farms.com
Date published: February 16, 2026
Illegal fishing vessels spark biosecurity fears for Australian agriculture
Australian farmers are raising concerns that illegal foreign fishing vessels entering northern waters could introduce pests and diseases capable of severely damaging the country’s agricultural sector. Producers warn that threats such as lumpy skin disease and foot-and-mouth disease could devastate livestock and horticulture industries if biosecurity breaches occur. The Australian Border Force has intercepted multiple vessels near Queensland, prompting a new multi-agency crackdown. Industry groups, including the National Farmers' Federation, say stronger border controls are essential to protect exports, rural livelihoods and national biosecurity as fears grow over the economic impact of a potential outbreak.
Read full story: ABC News
Date published: February 17, 2026
Inner Mongolia herders boost incomes as winter tourism transforms frozen grasslands
Herders in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region are capitalising on growing winter tourism, turning traditional horse racing and cultural festivals into major seasonal attractions across frozen grasslands. Events such as winter Naadam festivals and horse racing leagues are drawing visitors during previously quiet months, creating new income streams through accommodation, food and cultural experiences. The surge in tourism is also driving investment in the regional horse industry, including selective breeding programmes that combine traditional Mongolian horses with imported bloodlines to improve performance while maintaining resilience. Officials say the initiative supports rural development, cultural preservation and the modernisation of the equine sector.
Read full story: Xinhua Net
Date published: February 17, 2026
