South African News
High-Tech Strategy Aims to Shield South African Farmers from Rising Costs
Grain SA’s 2026 Congress set out a technology-driven plan to protect farm profitability amid soaring input costs and infrastructure challenges threatening food security. Key proposals include automated wheat tariffs to stabilise markets, data-intensive farming to optimise fertiliser use for profit rather than yield, and improved logistics through targeted rural transport corridors. The organisation also called for faster approval of gene-editing technologies to boost competitiveness, alongside reforms to water legislation and stronger biosecurity measures. Overall, the sector is focusing on precision farming and policy reform to manage volatility and secure long-term sustainability.
Read full story:Agri News
Date Published: March 19, 2026
South African Fruit Exporters Pressed to Adapt to Changing Global Trade
South Africa’s fruit industry is being urged to innovate and adapt as global trade becomes more complex and competitive. Rising protectionism, stricter compliance standards and shifting consumer demands for traceability and sustainability are reshaping export markets. While the sector remains resilient and supports around 320,000 jobs, challenges such as port congestion, high tariffs and logistical inefficiencies threaten profitability. Industry leaders highlight opportunities in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, alongside growing government support for agro-processing and innovation. Strengthening market access, improving logistics and embracing digital traceability will be crucial to maintaining competitiveness and long-term growth.
Read full story:Food for Mzansi
Date Published: March 20, 2026
African News
Namibia Urged to Prioritise Domestic Food Production for Security
Namibia must strengthen its own food production to achieve long-term food security and reduce reliance on imports, according to retired Lieutenant General Denga Ndaitwah. He warns that dependence on external suppliers exposes the country to economic and political risks, including potential food shortages. Ndaitwah calls for increased government support through subsidies, affordable loans and strategic agricultural policies, particularly to assist emerging farmers. Addressing historical inequalities in land ownership and improving productivity through better land use and climate adaptation are also key priorities. Greater self-sufficiency, he argues, would enhance national sovereignty and resilience against global uncertainties.
Read full story:Informante
Date Published: March 20, 2026
Global News
Dutch Fertiliser Sector Stable but Warns of Rising Cost Pressures
The Dutch fertiliser industry has reported no immediate supply disruptions despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East, although it cautions that global instability could drive up production costs. Meststoffen Nederland noted that European output remains strong, supported by high import volumes in late 2025, helping to maintain supply for farmers. However, rising pressure on nitrogen fertiliser prices highlights the importance of sustaining competitive domestic production within Europe. The association emphasised the need for continued EU support to protect farmers and strengthen supply chain resilience, stressing that reliable fertiliser access is vital for food security and agricultural continuity.
Read full story:Vertical Farm Daily
Date Published: March 19, 2026
Ireland and New Zealand Strengthen Partnership to Cut Farm Emissions
Ireland and New Zealand have reaffirmed their commitment to joint research aimed at reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining farm productivity. Building on an existing partnership, both countries will advance to a second phase of their Joint Research Initiative, which has already funded multiple projects to improve understanding of emissions in pasture-based systems. The collaboration seeks to develop practical tools for farmers to adopt more sustainable practices without compromising output. Alongside this, a new 2026–2030 strategy for the Global Research Alliance has been launched, focusing on scientific innovation, international cooperation and resource sharing to accelerate emissions reduction across agriculture.
Read full story:Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Date Published: March 19, 2026
Fertiliser Price Surge Squeezes Palm Oil Producers in Southeast Asia
Palm oil producers in Malaysia and Indonesia are facing mounting financial pressure as fertiliser prices surge causing supply disruptions and rising raw material costs. The escalation of conflict in the Middle East and disruptions to key energy routes have driven up oil and gas prices, crucial inputs in fertiliser production. Some suppliers have halted new orders as prices for certain components have risen by up to 150% in weeks. With fertilisers accounting for as much as 60% of production costs, growers are cutting expenses and exploring organic alternatives. Prolonged instability could further strain the sector and push up global vegetable oil prices.
Read full story: UKr Agro Consult
Date Published: March 19, 2026
Mass Livestock Cull in Siberia Sparks Farmer Protests and Trade Fears
Large-scale livestock culling across Siberian regions of Russia has triggered unrest among farmers, who report forced slaughter, limited transparency and inadequate compensation. Authorities cite outbreaks of diseases such as pasteurellosis and rabies, though some suspect a more serious, unconfirmed presence of foot-and-mouth disease. Thousands of cattle have been destroyed since February, with emergency measures imposed and veterinary teams carrying out removals. Farmers claim decisions are made without clear evidence, fuelling distrust. The situation is already disrupting trade, with import bans emerging, and could escalate further if more severe disease outbreaks are officially confirmed.
Read full story: ProAgro Group
Date Published: March 19, 2026
