South African News
Woolworths Farming Initiative Recognised as Global Sustainability Benchmark
A four-year independent academic study has recognised Woolworths South Africa’s Farming for the Future (FFF) programme as a world-leading sustainability standard. Conducted at Coventry University between 2021 and 2025, the research found the retailer-led initiative has delivered measurable environmental improvements, strengthened producer resilience and supported long-term supply security without exhausting natural resources. The study analysed 16 years of data from major suppliers, alongside surveys, field visits and interviews. Researchers concluded the programme helps improve soil health, water management and biodiversity while enabling farmers to better withstand climate shocks. The findings suggest long-term partnerships between retailers and growers can strengthen agricultural supply chains and environmental outcomes.
Read full story: Nova News
Date Published: March 11, 2026
Animal Disease Outbreaks Push Pork Prices Higher in South Africa
Pork prices in South Africa are expected to rise as outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) and Foot-and-Mouth Disease reduce supply in the formal market. Industry figures indicate that around 7,000 pigs have been lost from weekly slaughter volumes of roughly 72,000, creating a shortage that can quickly drive up prices due to pork’s market sensitivity. Wholesale prices have already increased from about R32 to R40 per kilogram, with further rises anticipated as supply tightens. Producers warn that existing stock buffers have been depleted, leaving the industry exposed to market pressures. Despite the outbreaks, authorities emphasise that pork sold through formal channels remains safe for human consumption.
Read full story: Independent Online
Date Published: March 12, 2026
African News
Agrivoltaics Tipped as Africa’s Next Growth Frontier for Food and Energy
Agrivoltaics, combining solar power generation with agricultural production on the same land, is being promoted as a promising long-term strategy to address Africa’s growing food, energy and climate challenges. Advocates say the approach can improve land productivity, strengthen farmer incomes and support rural value chains by powering irrigation, storage and processing. However, the sector remains at an early stage and faces regulatory uncertainty, financing barriers and complex land tenure systems. A new African Agrivoltaics Platform Initiative, set to launch in Paris in April 2026, aims to support policy reform, market development and innovative finance. Supporters argue coordinated policy, community engagement and patient investment will be key to scaling the model.
Read full story: Pv Magazine
Date Published: March 11, 2026
Global News
Bird Population Declines Accelerating in North America’s Intensive Farming Regions
Bird populations across North America are declining at an accelerating pace, particularly in regions dominated by intensive agriculture, according to new research published in Science. Analysing data from 261 species between 1987 and 2021, researchers found overall bird numbers fell by about 15%, with nearly half the species studied showing significant declines. The fastest losses are occurring in the US Midwest, California and parts of the Mid-Atlantic. Scientists link the trend to factors associated with modern farming, including pesticide use, fertiliser application and habitat loss, alongside climate pressures. Researchers warn that monitoring accelerating declines could help identify conservation hotspots earlier and guide efforts to restore biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.
Read full story: Down To Earth
Date Published: March 12, 2026
Middle East Conflict Could Cut Vietnam’s Agricultural Exports by Up to $8 Billion
Vietnam’s agricultural, forestry and fisheries exports could fall by between $1 billion and $8 billion if the ongoing Middle East conflict continues, according to the country’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. Officials warn that supply chain disruptions, higher energy costs and rising shipping insurance are already affecting trade flows. A one-month conflict could reduce exports by more than $1 billion, while a year-long escalation could severely disrupt shipments to the Middle East and halve exports to Europe and North Africa. Key exports at risk include cashew nuts, seafood and coffee. Authorities are exploring strategies to offset losses by strengthening trade with markets such as China, Japan, ASEAN, the EU and the United States.
Read full story: Vietnam Investment Review
Date Published: March 12, 2026
Outdated Mandi System Hindering Agricultural Innovation in Pakistan
Pakistan’s traditional mandi (wholesale market) system is increasingly seen as a barrier to agricultural innovation and efficiency. The decades-old structure relies heavily on middlemen and regulated market yards, limiting farmers’ ability to sell produce directly, adopt modern supply chains or benefit from transparent pricing. Critics argue the system discourages investment in storage, processing and logistics while reducing incentives for technological upgrades. As a result, farmers often receive a small share of the final retail price, while consumers face higher costs. Analysts say reforming the mandi system—through digital trading platforms, improved market access and modernised regulations—could help boost productivity, encourage innovation and strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural competitiveness.
Read full story: Lokmat Times
Date Published: March 12, 2026
H&H Launches Comprehensive ‘Whole Farm’ Valuation Service for Northern England Farmers
H&H Land & Estates has introduced a new “whole farm” valuation service for farmers in northern England, offering a complete assessment of agricultural businesses. The service brings together land and property surveyors, machinery specialists and livestock auctioneers to provide a full appraisal covering land, buildings, equipment and livestock. The initiative responds to growing demand from banks, accountants and farming families seeking clearer insight into the total value of farm enterprises. Rising interest has been driven partly by recent Budget changes and inheritance tax considerations, prompting farmers to review succession and financial planning. The company says the service aims to support better-informed decisions about business restructuring, borrowing and future sales.
Read full story: Hexham Courant
Date Published: March 12, 2026
