South African News
South Africa introduces new Foot and Mouth Disease measures to protect farmers and trade
South Africa is introducing a new national framework to manage Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), giving livestock farmers clearer, science-based guidance while protecting the country's agricultural trade and biosecurity. The measures allow some trading and slaughter activities to resume during quarantine under risk-based rules, reduce unnecessary disposal of animal products, and provide alternative recovery options instead of compulsory herd removal. The framework also includes tailored approaches for communal farming systems, streamlined veterinary procedures and more flexible quarantine arrangements. Developed with industry and veterinary experts, the measures will be reviewed after 12 months to assess their effectiveness.
Read full story: SAnews.gov.za
Date published: June 25, 2026
Young people encouraged to build agricultural businesses from the ground up
Young people were encouraged to enter the agriculture sector by starting with small, practical ventures rather than waiting for land, grants or government funding at the Madibeng Agri Youth Day in Brits. Speakers highlighted agriculture as a modern, technology-driven industry with significant opportunities for entrepreneurship, job creation and innovation. Delegates were urged to make use of training programmes, mentorship and digital tools such as artificial intelligence, drones and data analytics to improve productivity. The Madibeng Local Municipality also committed to expanding support for young farmers during the 2026/27 financial year and confirmed the event will become an annual initiative.
Read full story: Farmer's Weekly
Date published: June 25, 2026
African News
Namibia seeks Dutch expertise to boost agriculture and water management
Namibia is strengthening ties with The Netherlands to support its development goals through greater cooperation in agriculture, water management and investment. Ambassador Alfredo Hengari said Namibia aims to benefit from Dutch expertise in precision farming, greenhouse production, agroforestry, sustainable water management and agricultural digitalisation to improve food security and drive economic growth. The embassy will pursue partnerships with Dutch businesses, universities and research institutions to encourage investment, technology transfer and skills development. Hengari also highlighted growing bilateral trade and said Namibia hopes to expand collaboration with The Netherlands in scientific research, sport and cultural exchange.
Read full story: The Namibian
Date published: June 25, 2026
Global News
Extreme heat drives shift towards climate-smart farming across the MENA region
Extreme heat is accelerating the adoption of climate-smart agriculture across the Middle East and North Africa as rising temperatures threaten food production, water supplies and rural livelihoods. A joint FAO and WMO report warns that heat is intensifying drought, reducing crop yields and limiting safe working hours for farm labourers. Countries such as Saudi Arabia are investing in controlled-environment agriculture, hydroponics and AI-powered greenhouses to improve water efficiency and strengthen food security. While these technologies offer greater resilience, experts say wider adoption will require significant investment, technical expertise and long-term institutional support, particularly in lower-income and conflict-affected countries.
Read full story: Uns Farms
Date published: June 25, 2026
Japan steps up protection of premium crop varieties from overseas copying
Japan is strengthening legal protections for its premium agricultural varieties after growing concerns over the unauthorised export and overseas cultivation of high-value crops such as Shine Muscat grapes. An agriculture ministry survey found that around 50 Japanese-developed varieties may have been leaked abroad, causing significant financial losses to domestic producers. The government plans to introduce legislation allowing exports to be blocked before varieties are officially registered and will establish a specialist body to monitor infringements, enforce breeders' rights and support legal action. Officials also aim to encourage licensed international production while ensuring royalties fund the development of future crop varieties.
Read full story: Japan Forward
Date published: June 26, 2026
US launches new regenerative agriculture framework to boost farmer incomes
The US government has introduced new measures to encourage regenerative agriculture, with President Donald Trump signing an Executive Order and the USDA unveiling its final Regenerative Feedstock Rule. The framework creates voluntary opportunities for farmers growing crops such as maize, soybeans, sorghum and canola to earn additional income through biofuel markets by adopting regenerative practices. It includes standards for carbon intensity measurement, supply chain traceability and verification, alongside a new carbon intensity calculator to quantify environmental benefits. The initiative aims to improve soil health, reduce input costs, expand market access and strengthen the long-term profitability and competitiveness of American agriculture.
Read full story: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Date published: June 25, 2026
Delayed monsoon deepens water shortages and farming uncertainty across India
A delayed and weaker-than-average monsoon has triggered water shortages in Indian cities and disrupted planting for millions of farmers, raising concerns over food production and livelihoods. Mumbai has introduced water restrictions as reservoir levels fall, while farmers across northern India are delaying sowing because of insufficient rainfall. Experts attribute the erratic weather to a combination of El Niño and climate change, which are making monsoon patterns increasingly unpredictable. With India heavily reliant on groundwater, specialists warn that continued over-extraction and inconsistent rainfall are worsening water stress, highlighting the urgent need for improved water conservation, storage and long-term climate resilience.
Read full story: Associated Press (AP)
Date published: June 26, 2026
