South African News
China Tariff Cuts Raise Prospects for South African Farm Exports
China’s decision to reduce tariffs on a range of South African agricultural products, including citrus, wine, meat and grains, is expected to enhance export competitiveness and affordability in the Chinese market. Under the China–Africa Economic Partnership Agreement, some goods now enjoy tariff-free access, addressing previously high duties that limited growth. Although South Africa currently holds only a small share of China’s agricultural imports, the move could support expansion into a key and growing market. Experts note that while stronger trade ties offer diversification and opportunity, reliance on China also carries risks linked to pricing pressures and shifting policies.
Read full story: Food for Mzansi
Date Published: May 5, 2026
Farmers Frustrated by Continued Delays in Foot-and-Mouth Vaccine Plan
South African farmers have expressed growing frustration after further delays in the government’s response to foot-and-mouth disease, with the High Court granting Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen additional time to publish a vaccination plan. Industry groups argue the crisis could have been resolved months earlier, accusing the department of slow progress and missed deadlines. Organisations such as Saai and TLU SA have criticised the lack of clarity and urgency, while also challenging claims that farmers cannot independently access vaccines. Although government maintains vaccination efforts are underway, the ongoing uncertainty is heightening concern across the agricultural sector.
Read full story: The Citizen
Date Published: May 5, 2026
African News
Africa’s Fertiliser Dependence Exposed by Iran Conflict Shock
Disruptions to fertiliser exports בעקבות conflict in Iran and the wider Persian Gulf have exposed Africa’s heavy reliance on imports, which account for around 80% of supply. Blocked shipping routes and halted production have already driven up prices, threatening agricultural productivity and food security. Experts warn that without strategic reserves, shortages may persist. To adapt, researchers advocate shifting towards nutrition-focused food systems that rely less on fertiliser, including diversified crops, agroforestry and biofortification. Investment in innovation, infrastructure and education is also seen as essential to improve resilience, maintain yields and ensure access to more nutritious diets across the continent.
Read full story: Down to Earth
Date Published: May 5, 2026
Global News
Indonesia Faces Palm Oil Output Drop Amid Weather and Cost Pressures
Indonesia’s crude palm oil production is expected to decline in 2026, potentially falling by up to 2 million tonnes due to prolonged dry weather linked to El Niño and sharply rising fertiliser costs driven by conflict in the Middle East. Industry leaders warn that smallholder farmers, who manage over a third of plantations, may cut back on fertiliser use as prices surge by as much as 50%. This could further reduce yields during an already harsher dry season. While production had been forecast to grow, the combined pressures of climate conditions and input costs now threaten output and sector stability.
Read full story: Ukr Agro Consult
Date Published: May 4, 2026
Rising Input Costs Threaten South American Farming Amid Iran Conflict
Farmers in Brazil and Argentina are facing mounting pressure from rising fertiliser and energy costs בעקבות disruption to global supplies linked to the Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Both countries rely heavily on imported fertilisers, leaving them vulnerable to price shocks and supply shortages. Although global food supplies remain relatively stable, lower crop prices and higher input costs are squeezing profit margins. Producers may respond by reducing fertiliser use or shifting to less input-intensive crops, potentially affecting future output. Weather uncertainties, including a possible El Niño, add further risk to production and global food markets.
Read full story: IFPRI
Date Published: May 4, 2026
Japanese City Turns to Avocados as Warming Climate Reshapes Farming
Farmers in Matsuyama, Japan, are increasingly shifting from traditional citrus crops to avocados as rising temperatures make conditions more suitable for the fruit. Once known for its citrus production, the city has seen avocado output grow significantly over the past decade, supported by local initiatives and government backing. Experts predict climate change will expand suitable growing areas for avocados across Japan, while reducing viability for some citrus varieties. Similar crop diversification efforts are emerging nationwide, as farmers adapt to warming conditions and seek new opportunities in higher-value produce suited to a changing climate.
Read full story: Kyodo News
Date Published: May 5, 2026
Carbon Forestry Criticised as Threat to New Zealand’s Rural Economy
Concerns are mounting that large-scale conversion of farmland into carbon forestry is undermining New Zealand’s rural economy, with significant job losses and declining livestock numbers linked to the Emissions Trading Scheme. Since 2017, hundreds of thousands of hectares have shifted from agriculture to forestry, reducing employment and affecting related industries such as meat processing. Critics argue this transition has not meaningfully reduced emissions while weakening food production capacity and rural communities. With further planting expected to meet climate targets, warnings are growing that continued land conversion could harm long-term economic stability and national wellbeing.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: May 5, 2026
