South African News
Severe storms flood Western Cape farms and damage infrastructure
Heavy rainfall and flooding caused by an intense cold front have severely affected farming regions across South Africa’s Western Cape between 9 and 12 May. Table grape vineyards in the Hex River Valley were submerged after rivers burst their banks, while roads, bridges and electricity infrastructure suffered extensive damage. Apple farms in Grabouw and orchards in Ceres were also impacted during the final stages of the harvest season. Agricultural groups said it is still too early to assess the full financial cost, as ongoing rain continues to hamper inspections and recovery efforts. Provincial disaster teams remain on high alert following widespread disruption and three storm-related deaths.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: May 13, 2026
Nampo 2026 highlights farm profitability despite slower opening turnout
Nampo Harvest Day 2026 opened with strong debate around the financial pressures facing South African agriculture, despite lower attendance on the first day compared with last year. Grain SA said many farmers were prioritising harvesting during favourable weather conditions, while fuel prices and scheduling around key events also affected visitor numbers. Discussions focused on profitability, sustainability and the long-term competitiveness of grain farming amid rising costs and market uncertainty. Industry leaders stressed the importance of technology, productivity and export growth to secure the sector’s future. Alongside policy debates, visitors also enjoyed innovation showcases and vintage machinery displays celebrating South Africa’s agricultural heritage.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: May 14, 2026
African News
Ethiopia aims for major wheat expansion after record harvest
Ethiopia has become Africa’s largest wheat producer after harvesting more than 331 million quintals of wheat during the current fiscal year, according to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Production increased significantly from the previous year due to expanded cultivation across more than 8 million hectares during both rainy and dry farming seasons. Ahmed said continued investment in irrigation, improved seeds and agricultural technology could raise output to 500 million quintals in the near future. Regional traders believe Ethiopia’s rapid growth in wheat production could reduce Africa’s dependence on imports, strengthen food security and encourage greater intra-African agricultural trade if production levels are maintained.
Read full story: Forbes Africa
Date Published: May 14, 2026
Global News
Water shortages push Bangladesh farmers away from rice cultivation
Farmers in Bangladesh’s drought-prone Barind Tract are increasingly abandoning traditional paddy farming in favour of high-value, low-water crops such as dragon fruit, mangoes, maize and lentils as groundwater levels continue to decline. While wealthier landowners with access to markets and investment capital are benefiting from the shift, landless tenant farmers and agricultural labourers are struggling with falling incomes and reduced employment opportunities. Experts warn that restrictions on irrigation and growing reliance on unregulated private water extraction could worsen inequalities and threaten long-term sustainability. Researchers say broader support, including fair market access and stronger water governance, is needed to protect vulnerable rural communities.
Read full story: Eco Business
Date Published: May 14, 2026
Brazil moves to overturn EU ban on animal product exports
Brazil has pledged to challenge the European Union’s decision to remove the country from the list of approved exporters of animal-origin products for human consumption from September 2026. The Brazilian government said it was surprised by the move, which the EU linked to regulations on antimicrobial controls in livestock production. Officials from Brazil’s foreign affairs, agriculture and trade ministries said discussions with European sanitary authorities were already under way to seek clarification and reverse the decision. Brazil also defended its internationally recognised sanitary control system and stressed that exports to the EU will continue normally until the measures take effect later this year.
Read full story: Datamar News
Date Published: May 13, 2026
Mexico and Canada impose new restrictions on US pork imports
Mexico and Canada have introduced tighter restrictions on certain US pork products following confirmed pseudorabies cases in Iowa and Texas linked to feral hogs. Mexico has banned selected pork cuts and raw materials used in pet food, while Canada has restricted imports of raw swine byproducts and pig snouts, although edible pork products remain unaffected. The measures have raised concerns that other countries could follow with similar trade barriers. Despite the restrictions, industry representatives said exports of whole muscle pork cuts continue and expressed confidence that trade issues will be resolved. The US pork sector remains focused on maintaining safe products and strengthening export demand, particularly in Mexico.
Read full story: RFD News
Date Published: May 13, 2026
Canadian farmers face mounting costs as seeding season begins
Farmers across western Canada are entering the seeding season amid rising fuel, fertiliser and machinery costs, increasing financial pressure on already tight crop margins. Southern Alberta farmer Glen Gateman described farming as a gamble, comparing it to betting in Las Vegas as producers try to manage volatile markets and unpredictable conditions. Fertiliser prices have risen sharply following the US-Iran conflict, while fuel costs have also climbed during the busy planting period. Despite the challenges, some farmers remain cautiously optimistic due to stronger grain prices, improved soil moisture and good yields from last year’s harvest. Economists say farmers are being forced to make increasingly difficult financial decisions to remain profitable.
Read full story: Calgary Herald
Date Published: May 13, 2026
