South African News
Cape Storms Cripple Transport and Export Networks
Severe storms across the Western Cape have caused widespread destruction to roads, infrastructure and farming areas, disrupting key export routes and supply chains. Authorities are still assessing the full financial impact after extreme winds and flooding displaced around 40,000 people and claimed at least six lives. Agricultural regions including the Cape Winelands, Overberg and West Coast suffered power outages and transport closures, raising concerns for farmers already under pressure from global market instability. While exporters said the timing avoided peak fruit export season, significant damage assessments and recovery efforts remain underway as emergency services continue clearing roads and assisting affected communities.
Read full story: Cape Chamber
Date Published: May 13, 2026
South Africa Becomes World’s Leading Citrus Exporter
South Africa has overtaken Spain to become the world’s largest citrus exporter after shipping 2.9 million tonnes of citrus in 2025. The achievement marks a major milestone for the country’s agricultural sector and highlights the growing success of local farmers adopting advanced and sustainable farming methods. Industry leaders welcomed the accomplishment but warned that rising fuel costs, tariffs and strict international regulations continue to pressure producers. The citrus industry supports around 140,000 jobs and plays a critical role in rural economies across South Africa. Government officials also stressed the need for stronger infrastructure, diplomacy and expanded access to global markets, including India and China.
Read full story: Cape {town} Etc
Date Published: May 15, 2026
African News
Kenyan Farmers Gain Support Through Better Risk Information
Researchers at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) are helping Kenyan farmers manage the growing risks linked to rainfed agriculture by improving access to clearer and more practical information. Agricultural economist Jordan Chamberlin says farmers often hesitate to adopt new technologies because of uncertain returns, unpredictable weather, pests and fluctuating prices. CIMMYT is developing tools and models that better explain both the benefits and risks of investment decisions, enabling farmers to make more informed choices. Researchers have found that farmers respond particularly well to information showing the variability of financial returns, helping them overcome uncertainty and improve long-term planning for their farms and communities.
Read full story: Food Tank
Date Published: May 15, 2026
Global News
UK–EU Deal Set to Reduce Trade Costs for Northern Ireland Businesses
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds visited Northern Ireland to discuss the benefits of the new UK–EU food and drink agreement aimed at reducing trade barriers and lowering costs for businesses. The deal will remove most checks and certification requirements for goods moving between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, potentially saving companies millions of pounds each year. Farming, horticulture and retail sectors are expected to benefit from simpler trade processes, improved supply chains and better product availability. Government ministers and industry leaders said the agreement would strengthen the UK economy, ease food price pressures and support smoother movement of agricultural products, plants and machinery across the Irish Sea.
Read full story: Farming Online
Date Published: May 15, 2026
Mexican Scientists Identify Soil Bacteria That Could Transform Sustainable Farming
Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) have identified diverse soil bacteria in Oaxaca that could help improve agricultural productivity while reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers. The study examined microbial communities in ancient farming systems within the Mixteca Alta UNESCO Global Geopark and found bacteria linked to nutrient cycling, disease control and soil health. Scientists believe these naturally adapted microbes could eventually be developed into local biofertilisers and biostimulants suited to harsh farming conditions. While further greenhouse and field testing is still required, the research highlights the growing importance of soil microbiomes in tackling soil degradation, improving crop resilience and supporting more sustainable farming practices.
Read full story: Eco News
Date Published: May 14, 2026
US Expects Multi-Billion Dollar Surge in Chinese Agricultural Purchases After Trump–Xi Talks
The United States is expecting China to commit to purchasing “double-digit billions” worth of American agricultural goods following a summit between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping in Beijing, according to US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The anticipated deal is expected to extend beyond soybeans, covering a wider range of farm products over the next three years. Soybeans remain central to US–China agricultural trade, with existing commitments already valued in the tens of billions. While details remain unclear, officials say China has continued meeting prior obligations and further buying is likely to be concentrated later in the year, potentially influenced by tariff adjustments and market conditions affecting private Chinese importers.
Read full story: Reuters
Date Published: May 15, 2026
Farmers Say Skilled Migrants Essential to Sustaining Rural Australia Amid Labour Shortages
Australian farming groups have argued that skilled migrants are vital to sustaining rural communities, filling critical labour shortages and supporting food production across the country. Submissions to a parliamentary inquiry highlight that migrants do not replace local workers but instead complement the workforce, particularly in sectors such as dairy and meat processing where overseas labour is heavily relied upon. Industry bodies say migrants also help maintain regional services, schools and community organisations, while contributing to food security and economic stability. The debate comes as political pressure mounts to reduce immigration, with calls for tighter caps alongside government efforts to prioritise skilled visa allocations.
Read full story: Michael West Media
Date Published: May 15, 2026
