South African News
Sugar growers urge government rescue as Tongaat Hulett faces liquidation threat
The South African Canegrowers Association has appealed to Cyril Ramaphosa and Cabinet ministers for urgent intervention to prevent the liquidation of Tongaat Hulett, warning of severe economic fallout. Growers say closure of the company’s mills could leave 18,000 farmers without processing capacity, threaten about 40,000 jobs, and deepen rural poverty. Industry leaders also fear increased reliance on volatile sugar imports and broader value-chain collapse. Government departments oppose liquidation and are exploring restructuring options, while calls include revising import protections, scrapping the Health Promotion Levy, and recommitting to the Sugar Value Chain Master Plan 2030.
Read full story:Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: February 24, 2026
Temporary US tariff cut offers boost to South African agricultural exports
A temporary reduction in US import tariffs to 10% has provided relief for South African agricultural exporters after higher duties eroded competitiveness. The measure follows a court ruling against sweeping tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, with the new rate replacing a previous 30% duty for up to 150 days under the Trade Act of 1974. Economists say the move should improve market access and help recover lost share, particularly for fruit, wine and nuts exports. However, uncertainty over future US policy remains a concern. Industry representatives stress that maintaining the lower tariff for longer would support planning, stability and renewed trade growth.
Read full story:Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: February 24, 2026
African News
Africa’s certified organic farmland declines amid stricter EU rules
Africa’s certified organic farmland fell by 17.6% in 2024 to 2.8 million hectares, marking the first contraction in more than a decade, according to a report by Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL). The decline largely reflects the European Union’s new organic regulation requiring full compliance from third-country exporters, prompting certification bodies to revise eligible land. Despite this, organic exports rose 7.6% to 687,395 tonnes, driven by stronger US demand. Uganda, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and Togo dominate certified areas. While compliance costs may rise, expanding agroecology policies and certification initiatives suggest continued growth opportunities.
Read full story:Ecofin Agency
Date published: February 25, 2026
Global News
Strong farm returns boost confidence but cautious spending limits wider impact
New Zealand farmers are benefiting from strong farm-gate prices and improved production, yet remain cautious with spending, directing profits mainly towards debt reduction and on-farm upgrades. Regional business leaders say improved confidence is slowly filtering into local economies, supporting sectors such as construction, retail and manufacturing. Expectations of increased payouts from Fonterra could stimulate further investment, although many farmers remain conservative after recent difficult years. Financial advisers note agriculture’s export strength is helping drive regional recovery, but stress disciplined cost management and careful capital decisions to safeguard long-term stability amid inevitable market cycles.
Read full story:New Zealand Herald
Date published: February 24, 2026
Malaysia moves to protect Musang King brand amid durian mislabelling concerns
Malaysia is intensifying efforts to safeguard the premium Musang King durian brand following claims that fruit from Thailand and Vietnam is being sold in China under the same name. Agriculture Minister Mohamad Sabu said Malaysia holds geographical indication protection for Musang King, giving it exclusive naming rights. Authorities are working with China’s customs administration to prevent mislabelling and promote authentic exports using the MyBest certification managed by Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA). Officials stress brand protection is vital as durian shipments to China represent a growing, high-value market supporting farmers’ livelihoods and national agricultural income.
Read full story:Yahoo News
Date published: February 25, 2026
US cow herd falls to lowest level in 75 years with slow recovery expected
The US cow herd has declined for a seventh consecutive year, reaching 86.2 million head as of January 2026, its smallest size since 1951, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. Bill Bullard of R-CALF USA said ongoing liquidation reflects sustained herd reductions, though increased heifer retention suggests a potential stabilisation. Due to cattle’s long biological cycle, any recovery is likely to be gradual, with only modest growth possible in 2026 and more meaningful expansion expected between 2027 and 2028. The trend highlights persistent supply pressures across the US cattle industry.
Read full story:Ag Info
Date published: February 25, 2026
UK farmers warn EU pact must not restrict crop chemicals and gene-editing advances
British farmers have urged negotiators to safeguard access to gene-edited crops and crop protection chemicals as the UK seeks closer ties with the European Union. Tom Bradshaw of the National Farmers' Union warned that aligning with EU rules could undermine technological gains and limit approved plant protection products still permitted in Britain. The government says talks aim to reduce trade friction after a 20% fall in agri-food exports to the bloc since Brexit. Industry group CropLife UK cautioned that losing chemical tools could cost the sector up to £810 million in the first year.
Read full story:Reuters
Date published: February 24, 2026
