South African News
South Africa’s Apple Sector Eyes Growth Amid Global Pressures
South Africa’s apple and pear industry remains optimistic despite geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and rising costs. Industry leader Calla du Toit highlights strong foundations built on reliable global supply, disciplined production, and close retailer partnerships. Increased collaboration among growers and exporters has improved competitiveness, while a new generation of skilled, globally connected farmers is driving innovation and energy in the sector. With ongoing varietal development and entrepreneurial approaches, particularly in the Western Cape, the industry is adapting to challenges and positioning itself for future expansion, with confidence that its best prospects still lie ahead.
Read full story: Fruit Net
Date Published: March 24, 2026
Fuel Shortages Squeeze South African Farmers During Critical Season
South African farmers are facing mounting pressure as diesel rationing and delayed deliveries disrupt operations during key planting and harvesting periods. Reports from the Western Cape indicate many farmers are unable to access sufficient fuel, with some receiving only a fraction of their usual supply. Rising diesel costs are also pushing up fertiliser prices, which make up a significant share of production expenses, forcing some farmers to reduce usage and risk lower yields. While authorities insist national supply remains stable, farmers warn the shortages are more severe on the ground, threatening productivity and likely driving up food prices for consumers.
Read full story: The Citizen
Date Published: March 24, 2026
African News
Kenyan Farmers Gain New Opportunities with Duty-Free Access to China
Kenya’s first duty-free agricultural shipment to China marks a major breakthrough for farmers, opening access to a vast new market and boosting export potential. The deal allows products such as avocados, coffee and green beans to enter tariff-free, improving competitiveness and offering prospects for higher and more stable incomes. For farmers, this creates an opportunity to diversify beyond traditional European markets and benefit from rising demand in China. However, strict quality standards and the need to scale production and logistics present challenges. Success will depend on farmers’ ability to meet compliance requirements while expanding output to sustain long-term trade.
Read full story: Dawan Africa
Date Published: March 24, 2026
Global News
Rising Costs Reshape New Zealand Farming, Favouring Top Performers
New Zealand farmers are operating in a significantly higher-cost environment, with expenses rising 27% since before Covid, according to ANZ research. The increase is now considered structural, meaning farmers must boost productivity simply to maintain profitability. While inflation has eased, ongoing pressures from input costs, fuel volatility and global uncertainty continue to challenge the sector. Top-performing farms are managing these conditions more effectively by maintaining strong financial discipline, closely monitoring costs and continuing to invest in efficiency. The findings highlight a widening gap between resilient, well-managed farms and those struggling to adapt to the new economic reality.
Read full story: Rural News Group
Date Published: March 24, 2026
Smart Farming Drives Higher Yields and Incomes for Chinese Farmers
Digital technology is transforming agriculture across China, enabling farmers to boost productivity, cut labour costs and increase incomes. From drones and robots to real-time soil sensors and 5G-controlled irrigation, smart systems allow farmers to manage large-scale operations remotely and more efficiently. In some areas, yields have risen by over 50%, while automation reduces manual workload. The shift is also improving rural livelihoods, with more stable earnings and local employment opportunities. As investment in smart agriculture grows rapidly, farmers are benefiting from higher efficiency and stronger market competitiveness, marking a significant step towards modernised, data-driven farming.
Read full story: People’s Daily Online
Date Published: March 24, 2026
Indonesia Pushes Self-Reliance as Farmers Face Global Uncertainty
Indonesia is prioritising food and energy self-reliance to protect farmers and domestic supply chains from global instability, with President Prabowo Subianto arguing it is a practical necessity rather than ideology. Rising geopolitical tensions and disrupted trade have highlighted the risks of import dependence, particularly for essential commodities. The strategy aims to strengthen local production and ensure farmers play a central role in national resilience. However, economists stress that policies must balance self-sufficiency with investment in infrastructure, productivity and efficient spending, warning that long-term agricultural growth depends on supporting farmers while maintaining selective global engagement.
Read full story: Asia News Network
Date Published: March 24, 2026
China Solidifies Lead in Africa, Leaving U.S. Farmers at Risk
Africa’s rapidly growing population and rising incomes offer a major opportunity for U.S. agricultural exports, yet China has already secured a dominant position, warns University of Illinois research. Beijing has invested heavily in infrastructure through the Belt and Road Initiative, facilitating trade and reducing costs, and will soon implement zero-tariff access for all African partners. Meanwhile, U.S. engagement remains limited, putting American farmers at risk of losing ground in a market that could rival China in size. Experts stress that urgent strategic action is required to build lasting trade relationships before China’s advantage becomes insurmountable.
Read full story: Farm Progress
Date Published: March 20, 2026
