South African News
South Africa boosts FMD vaccine output with second local batch
South Africa’s Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has released a second batch of 20,000 locally produced foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine doses, signalling a steady recovery in domestic production capacity after years of inactivity. Following an initial batch of 12,900 doses in February, the latest release meets government targets aimed at strengthening disease control. Continued production is expected to reduce reliance on imports and support long-term supply sustainability. Alongside locally made vaccines, millions of imported doses have contributed to vaccinating over 1.7 million animals, with further shipments set to accelerate efforts to contain the outbreak.
Read full story: African Farming
Date Published: April 14, 2026
Diesel price surge threatens South Africa’s transport and farming sectors
Sharp increases in diesel prices are placing severe strain on South Africa’s road freight and agricultural industries, raising fears of business closures and wider economic disruption. A 32.5% rise in fuel costs has significantly impacted transport operators, where diesel accounts for up to half of operating expenses, squeezing margins and cash flow. Smaller firms are particularly vulnerable, with some facing imminent shutdowns. Farmers are also struggling with rising costs and inconsistent diesel supply during critical planting and harvesting periods. With further price hikes expected, the combined pressure on these key sectors could have serious implications for employment and economic stability.
Read full story: BusinessTech
Date Published: April 14, 2026
African News
FAO supports Kenyan farmers with inputs and training to combat fall armyworm
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has supplied fertiliser and maize seed to farmers in Bungoma County, Kenya, to support demonstration trials on fall armyworm management ahead of the 2026 long rains season. Around 1,300 farmers will benefit from hands-on training through farmer field schools, combining weekly sessions with practical “baby plot” applications at home. The initiative promotes peer-to-peer learning and integrated pest management techniques to improve crop resilience and food security. Building on earlier success, the programme is set to expand, extending its reach and strengthening sustainable farming practices across the region.
Read full story: Global Agriculture
Date Published: April 14, 2026
Global News
Farmers for Action weighs UK-wide protest over fuel and tax pressures
Farmers for Action (FFA) in Northern Ireland is considering a UK-wide protest in response to rising fuel costs and tax pressures affecting farmers, small businesses and the haulage sector. The group is monitoring fuel price developments and government responses before deciding on action. Concerns are mounting that current policies are failing to support key sectors of the economy. The move follows recent fuel protests in the Republic of Ireland, which caused widespread disruption, prompting police intervention. Meanwhile, the Irish government has introduced a €100 million fuel subsidy scheme to ease the burden on farmers and related industries.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: April 13, 2026
Texas livestock producers warned as screwworm threat nears US border
Livestock producers in Texas have been urged to remain vigilant after the New World screwworm was detected just 90 miles from the US-Mexico border, marking its northernmost spread in Mexico. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with US and Mexican agencies collaborating on surveillance and control measures, including sterile fly dispersal. Updated response guidelines have been issued to strengthen preparedness and coordination. Despite ongoing efforts, the pest has not yet been contained, raising concerns about its potential impact on livestock. Officials stress the need for proactive measures to limit the risk of further spread into the United States.
Read full story: Brownfield Ag News
Date Published: April 13, 2026
Smart mushroom farming in Chengdu drives high yields and global exports
An intelligent mushroom farm in Chengdu is showcasing the rapid transformation of agriculture through digital technology, achieving yields up to 50 times higher than traditional farming. Using an internet of things platform developed with Huawei, the facility precisely controls growing conditions, enabling year-round production and improved quality. The farm produces over 35,000 tonnes annually and exports to 57 countries, supported by efficient rail links that cut delivery times. This operation reflects China’s expanding smart agriculture sector, which continues to grow, with further investment planned to enhance infrastructure, logistics and international trade capacity.
Read full story: China Daily
Date Published: April 14, 2026
Vietnam unveils three-stage plan to shield agriculture from global conflict impacts
Vietnam has introduced a three-stage strategy to protect its agricultural sector from rising energy and logistics costs linked to the Middle East conflict. The plan outlines short-, medium- and long-term measures to stabilise supply chains, manage input costs and sustain export growth in 2026. Immediate actions focus on price controls, financial support and improving logistics, while longer-term efforts aim to diversify export markets and promote higher-value, sustainable farming. Although direct trade exposure to the Middle East is limited, indirect effects from global economic uncertainty and rising transport costs are expected to challenge competitiveness and disrupt agricultural trade.
Read full story: Nation Thailand
Date Published: April 14, 2026
