South African News
South Africa Secures Millions More Vaccine Doses to Combat Foot-and-Mouth Disease
South Africa has approved millions of additional vaccine doses to strengthen its response to the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak. The government has fast-tracked the import of six million Dollvet doses, alongside plans to procure five million more from Biogénesis Bagó, following earlier deliveries from Turkey and Argentina. A phased rollout reflects global supply challenges, while collaboration between government, private sector and international partners remains central to the effort. Authorities emphasise that timely vaccine distribution is critical to protecting livestock, safeguarding rural livelihoods, and ensuring long-term food security as the country works to contain the disease.
Read full story: African Farming
Date Published: March 25, 2026
Fuel Rationing and Diesel Shortages Hit South African Farmers
Fuel rationing and delayed diesel deliveries in parts of the Western Cape are raising serious concerns for South Africa’s agricultural sector, particularly during the critical planting and harvesting season. While officials insist national supply remains stable, many farmers report severe shortages, with some receiving only a fraction of their usual allocations. The disruptions are linked to global instability driven by conflict in the Middle East, which is also pushing up fuel and fertiliser costs. With fertiliser making up a large share of production expenses, reduced usage could lower crop yields and ultimately drive higher food prices for consumers.
Read full story: Money Web
Date Published: March 25, 2026
African News
Cocoa Farmers Urged to Preserve Trees for Long-Term Yields and Sustainability
Rising cocoa prices have encouraged farmers to expand production, often by cutting down trees, but research in Nigeria shows this approach may harm long-term yields. Trees provide shade, regulate temperature, and reduce pests, all of which are vital for healthy cocoa crops, particularly as climate change intensifies. They also offer additional income through fruit, spices, and timber, sometimes making up a significant share of household earnings. Despite short-term gains from clearing land, many farmers retain trees for their economic and environmental benefits. Supporting sustainable practices, including certification schemes, could help protect biodiversity while maintaining farmers’ livelihoods.
Read full story: Yahoo Finance
Date Published: March 25, 2026
Global News
Canadian Farmland Values Rise Again in 2025 Despite Slower Growth in Some Regions
Canadian farmland values continued their upward trend in 2025, rising by 9.3%, driven largely by strong growth in the Prairie provinces. Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan recorded the highest increases, while gains in Ontario and Quebec slowed compared to previous years. Demand remained robust despite challenges such as high input costs, trade uncertainties and lower commodity prices, supported by limited land availability and confidence in the agricultural sector. British Columbia saw a slight decline but still holds the highest average land values. While rising prices benefit existing owners, they pose increasing barriers for new entrants seeking to join the industry.
Read full story: Farms.com
Date Published: March 24, 2026
Smart Farming Drives Transformation of Rice Production in Southern China
Taishan in Guangdong province is accelerating the shift from traditional agriculture to technologically advanced “smart grain cultivation”. The adoption of modern machinery and digital tools has significantly boosted efficiency, with rice transplanting now 94.5% mechanised and overall mechanisation across ploughing, sowing and harvesting reaching 98.35%. Technologies such as drones and automated transplanting systems are improving productivity and reducing labour demands. This transformation reflects broader efforts to modernise agriculture, enhance food production and strengthen sustainability, positioning the region as a model for integrating innovation into farming practices.
Read full story: People’s Daily Online
Date Published: March 25, 2026
Punjab Farmers Near Border to Receive Compensation for Flood Damage
Farmers cultivating land along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab’s Ajnala region are set to receive compensation of Rs 20,000 per acre, according to state officials. The payments will cover crops damaged by severe flooding last year, including those grown on government land, marking a first for the state. Authorities have also distributed boats to assist farmers working across the Ravi river. Officials praised border communities for their role in supporting national food supplies despite challenging conditions, while highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen flood defences and improve infrastructure to prevent future damage.
Read full story: The Tribune India
Date Published: March 25, 2026
Myanmar Farmers Struggle for Diesel as Conflict Drives Fuel Crisis
Myanmar’s rice farmers are facing severe diesel shortages and soaring costs as the Iran conflict disrupts global fuel supplies, compounding the country’s ongoing economic and political instability. Long queues, rationing and reliance on expensive black-market fuel are hampering harvesting and planting, with some farmers forced to wait days for minimal supplies. Rising fertiliser costs are adding further pressure, threatening to double production expenses and reduce crop yields. Aid agencies warn that without urgent intervention, lower agricultural output could worsen food insecurity in a country where millions already face hunger, pushing staple prices further out of reach.
Read full story: The Star
Date Published: March 25, 2026
