South African News
Repo Rate Rise Deepens Financial Strain on South African Agriculture
South Africa’s agricultural sector is facing growing financial pressure after the Reserve Bank raised the repo rate by 0.25 percentage points to 7%, pushing the prime lending rate to 10.5%. The increase comes as farmers contend with rising fuel and input costs, weak commodity prices, market volatility and the threat of an El Niño weather event later in 2026. Industry leaders warn that higher borrowing costs will add strain across the agricultural value chain, while consumers are likely to face higher food prices. Economic analysts argue that easier access to credit and greater investment in infrastructure, renewable energy and climate-resilient agriculture are needed to strengthen the economy and improve long-term stability.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date Published: June 1, 2026
South Africa’s Gluten-Free Oats Market Set for Strong Growth Amid Health and Wellness Trends
Rising awareness of digestive health, food sensitivities and the benefits of functional foods is driving rapid growth in South Africa’s gluten-free oats market. Valued at USD 2.76 million in 2025, the sector is forecast to reach USD 6.03 million by 2034, supported by increasing demand for clean-label, plant-based and nutrient-rich foods. Manufacturers are expanding product offerings, while retailers and online platforms are improving accessibility nationwide. Advances in AI-assisted farming, quality control and supply chain management are also helping producers meet growing demand. Continued innovation in product formats, flavours and packaging is expected to further strengthen market adoption across South Africa.
Read full story: Futurism
Date Published: June 1, 2026
African News
Ghana Launches Poultry Initiative to Reduce Poverty and Create Jobs in Volta Region
Ghana’s Nkokor Nkitinkiti poultry programme has been launched in Ho, Volta Region, as part of efforts to reduce poverty, create employment and strengthen food security. The initiative will distribute 180,000 four-week-old chicks, with each participating household receiving 50 birds, feed support and veterinary services. Officials said the programme aims to improve household incomes, encourage youth participation in agriculture and reduce reliance on imported poultry products. Regional and national leaders described poultry farming as a proven pathway to economic empowerment and said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to stimulate local production, create wealth and support sustainable rural development.
Read full story: Ghanaian Times
Date Published: June 1, 2026
Global News
European Farm Jobs Attract Indian Workers with Higher Earnings and Savings Potential
Growing labour shortages across Europe’s agricultural sector are creating new employment opportunities for Indian workers, with seasonal farm jobs offering monthly earnings of between €1,200 and €3,000, often including accommodation. Modern agricultural roles in countries such as Poland and Spain increasingly involve technology-driven tasks, including greenhouse management, digital crop monitoring and automated logistics systems, rather than purely manual labour. Demand is rising for fruit pickers, greenhouse technicians, livestock assistants and vineyard workers. The prospect of higher savings and possible pathways to longer-term employment is attracting applicants from a range of backgrounds, although experts advise careful verification of job offers, visa requirements and employment conditions.
Read full story: Business Standard
Date Published: June 1, 2026
Massive Locust Swarm Threatens Crops and Livelihoods in Southeastern Iran
Billions of Moroccan locusts have invaded southeastern Iran, placing crops, grazing land and rural livelihoods at risk in the Sistan-Baluchestan region. Locust populations have risen to levels several times higher than last year, prompting authorities to launch large-scale monitoring, spraying and eradication efforts across affected areas. Farmers fear significant damage to young crops and rangeland vegetation, which could reduce livestock feed supplies and increase production costs. Officials have identified climate change and shifting weather patterns as contributing factors behind the growing frequency and severity of infestations. Experts warn that worsening pest outbreaks, combined with drought conditions, could pose increasing threats to food security across the region.
Read full story: Intellinews
Date Published: May 31, 2026
Punjab Pushes Climate-Resilient Seeds to Safeguard Agriculture and Boost Yields
Efforts are being stepped up in Punjab to develop and distribute climate-resilient seed varieties as agriculture faces increasing pressure from rising temperatures, water shortages and unpredictable weather. The Managing Director of the Punjab Seed Corporation, Naveed Shahzad Mirza, said research-based seeds capable of withstanding changing climatic conditions are essential to maintaining productivity and ensuring food security. He noted that improved seed quality could increase per-acre yields, reduce input costs and support agricultural exports. The corporation also plans to expand seed processing facilities and strengthen partnerships with the private sector and universities to accelerate innovation in agricultural research and development.
Read full story: The News
Date Published: June 1, 2026
Ottawa Pushes for Farm Succession Tax Reform to Protect Family Farms
Farm succession reform in Canada has gained renewed momentum as lawmakers and agricultural advocates call for changes to federal tax rules affecting the transfer of family farms. Ontario Senator Robert Black has urged amendments to Section 73(3) of the Income Tax Act to extend capital gains tax deferrals beyond children to include nieces and nephews, arguing that current legislation does not reflect modern family farming realities. Supporters say many relatives actively involved in farm operations are excluded under existing rules, risking forced sales or fragmentation of agricultural assets. Advocacy groups, including Farmstrong, warn that reform is urgent as billions in farm assets are expected to change hands over the coming decade, making succession planning critical for preserving agricultural continuity.
Read full story: Farm Marketer
Date Published: June 1, 2026
