South African News
Grain SA Warns Wheat Tariff Decision Threatens Local Production
South Africa’s wheat industry has criticised the government’s decision to keep the wheat tariff framework unchanged, arguing that it fails to address the growing pressures faced by local producers. Grain SA said the rejection of proposals to raise the dollar-based reference price and introduce a faster tariff-trigger mechanism leaves farmers exposed to rising input costs, international competition, and policy uncertainty. The organisation warned that the decision could weaken domestic wheat production, reduce incentives to maintain high-quality grain standards, and increase reliance on imports. Grain SA is considering further action and plans to continue engaging with government and industry stakeholders.
Read full story:Farmer's Weekly
Date Published: June 21, 2026
Agribusiness Confidence Falls as Costs and Uncertainty Mount
South Africa’s agribusiness confidence declined in the second quarter of 2026, with the Agbiz/IDC Agribusiness Confidence Index falling below the neutral level as concerns over profitability outweighed strong production prospects. Despite favourable harvest conditions and good yields in many regions, producers face pressure from rising fuel and fertiliser costs, weak global grain prices, ongoing foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks, and geopolitical tensions linked to the Middle East conflict. Concerns about a potential El Niño weather pattern have added further uncertainty. Industry leaders say improved disease control, policy certainty, better logistics, and measures such as subsidised crop insurance could help restore confidence across the agricultural sector.
Read full story:Farmer’s Weekly
Date Published: June 21, 2026
African News
KCB Bank and Inchcape Kenya Launch Financing Drive to Boost Farm Mechanisation
KCB Bank and Inchcape Kenya have partnered to improve access to agricultural mechanisation by offering flexible financing for the purchase of New Holland tractors and related equipment. Under the agreement, farmers can obtain up to 95% financing, including agricultural implements, with repayment terms of up to five years. Customers can choose monthly instalments or seasonal repayment schedules aligned with harvest cycles, while monthly payers will benefit from a 60-day repayment holiday after receiving their tractor. The partners say the initiative aims to increase farm productivity, lower operating costs and remove financial barriers that have limited the adoption of modern agricultural machinery across Kenya.
Read full story:It News Africa
Date Published: June 22, 2026.
Global News
Philippines Expands Climate-Resilient Farming Measures Ahead of El Niño
The Philippine government is strengthening climate-resilient farming initiatives as forecasts indicate a high likelihood of a moderate to strong El Niño developing later in 2026 and potentially lasting into 2027. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced measures including the promotion of solar-powered irrigation pumps, water recycling systems and drought-adapted farming practices. Farmers are also being encouraged to cultivate high-value crops that require less water than rice. The announcement coincided with the inauguration of the Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Bohol, which will provide a reliable water supply, support up to three cropping cycles annually, and benefit more than 700 farmers across 530 hectares of agricultural land.
Read full story:Inquirer
Date Published: June 22, 2026
Alanya Fruit Growers Embrace Smart Farming to Tackle Climate Challenges
Fruit growers in Alanya, Türkiye, are increasingly adopting smart farming technologies to improve efficiency and adapt to the effects of climate change and drought. Producers of tropical crops such as bananas and avocados are equipping greenhouses with automated irrigation, ventilation and humidity-control systems that monitor conditions and respond in real time. The technology helps reduce water and energy use while improving crop management and productivity. Many farmers are also installing solar power systems and receiving training to meet international agricultural standards. According to local producers, smart systems can significantly cut labour and water costs while boosting yields, helping secure the long-term sustainability of the region’s agricultural sector.
Read full story:Hurriyet Daily News
Date Published: June 21, 2026
Biochar Could Transform Farm Waste into a Soil and Climate Solution for India
Biochar is being promoted as a sustainable way to address two major challenges in Indian agriculture: crop residue burning and declining soil health. Produced by heating agricultural waste in low-oxygen conditions, biochar locks carbon into the soil while improving water retention, nutrient availability and microbial activity. Studies suggest it can increase crop yields by 10% to 30% and enhance water-holding capacity by up to 25%, particularly in degraded soils. The article argues that wider adoption, supported by carbon credit schemes and government initiatives, could reduce pollution, improve climate resilience, generate additional income for farmers and turn agricultural and organic waste into a valuable resource.
Read full story:The Hindu
Date Published: June 22, 2026
China Bets on AI-Powered Farm Robots to Boost Food Security and Productivity
China is increasingly turning to artificial intelligence and agricultural robotics to address a shrinking and ageing farming workforce while improving food security and farm efficiency. Industry experts believe the country’s strengths in AI development and large-scale manufacturing could help it replicate the success it achieved in the electric vehicle sector. Companies are developing advanced robotic systems capable of monitoring crops, identifying pests and making farming decisions using real-time data. With demand for agricultural robots growing rapidly, the government is encouraging the adoption of robotics, drones and smart technologies as part of its rural development strategy to modernise agriculture and increase productivity.
Read full story:South China Morning Post
Date Published: June 21, 2026
