South African News
Over 500,000 Animals Vaccinated Against FMD in Limpopo as Subsistence Farmers Voice Concerns
Limpopo has vaccinated 504,186 domestic animals against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) as part of a province-wide campaign aiming to protect 80% of its cloven-hoofed livestock by December. Authorities have prioritised high-risk areas, particularly Vhembe, where livestock interact with wildlife from the Kruger National Park. However, some subsistence farmers argue that commercial producers are receiving greater attention, citing limited access to agricultural extension officers and delayed preventative vaccination. The provincial government says additional vaccine doses have been distributed and is encouraging farmers to report suspected cases while remaining confident of achieving its vaccination target.
Read full story: African Farming
Date published: July 3, 2026
Early Action Key to Controlling Rising Macadamia Nut Borer Threat
Macadamia growers are being urged to tackle macadamia nut borer infestations early in the season, as delayed action can lead to significant yield and financial losses. The pest often causes hidden damage by feeding on developing kernels, making infestations difficult to detect until harvest. Experts recommend monitoring orchards in January and February to assess damage and guide future control strategies. An integrated approach combining well-timed chemical treatments, biological controls, pheromone technologies, pruning and orchard sanitation offers the best results. Maintaining accurate records and understanding the pest’s life cycle are also essential for protecting kernel quality and reducing long-term infestations.
Read full story: Farmer's Weekly
Date published: July 6, 2026
African News
HRNS Leadership Change to Strengthen Support for Tanzanian Coffee Farmers
Thousands of smallholder coffee farmers in Tanzania are expected to benefit from continued support as the Hanns R. Neumann Stiftung (HRNS) introduces a new global leadership team. Dr Karen Hadem will join Jens Sorgenfrei as Managing Director, succeeding Michael Opitz after more than 20 years of leadership. The foundation says the transition will ensure continuity while expanding its work in sustainable coffee production, environmental conservation, youth development and rural livelihoods. Operating in seven countries, including Tanzania, HRNS remains committed to strengthening partnerships, improving household incomes and supporting resilient farming communities through long-term agricultural and community development programmes.
Read full story: Tanzania Insight
Date published: July 5, 2026
Global News
European Livestock Sector Faces Growing Pressure After Heatwave Kills Millions of Chickens
A late-June heatwave has exposed the vulnerability of Europe’s livestock sector after an estimated 2.5 to 3 million broiler chickens died in France, overwhelming disposal services and prompting emergency burial measures. Farmers in Belgium also reported heat stress affecting cattle and pigs, reducing productivity. Scientists say the extreme temperatures were made significantly more likely by human-caused climate change, while animal welfare groups are calling for stronger protections and a move away from intensive farming. Industry representatives argue that farmers need investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, innovation and lower-emission practices to adapt without undermining European food production.
Read full story: Food Ingredients First
Date published: July 6, 2026
US Soybean Farmers Cautious as China Resumes Purchases
China has resumed buying US soybeans following a trade agreement that ended its purchasing freeze, offering some optimism to American farmers after two difficult years. While exports to China have increased, they remain well below pre-trade war levels, and many producers continue to face high production costs and poor profitability. Industry experts warn that uncertainty remains over whether China will meet its long-term purchase commitments, while some believe the current buying surge reflects government stockpiling rather than sustained demand. Farmers are also seeking to expand exports to other international markets to reduce reliance on China and improve long-term stability.
Read full story: South Dakota Searchlight
Date published: July 3, 2026
Sunn Hemp Helps Farmers Cut Fertiliser Costs and Improve Soil Health
Australian farmers are increasingly turning to Sunn hemp as a cover crop to reduce their reliance on costly urea fertiliser. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, Sunn hemp naturally enriches the soil, helping grower’s lower fertiliser use while improving soil health. Sugarcane farmer Neil Maitland says it has reduced his urea costs by more than 25%, while research by the Department of Primary Industries has found it can provide the nitrogen equivalent of up to 320kg of urea. Trials have also shown it can help suppress damaging nematodes in cotton, with further research exploring its wider benefits and any potential disease risks.
Read full story: ABC Rural
Date published: July 6, 2026
Japan Plans $6.2 Billion Investment to Expand Future Food Technologies
Japan has unveiled a draft public-private investment roadmap that includes ¥1 trillion (US$6.2 billion) for new food technologies by 2040 as part of a wider ¥370 trillion strategy across 17 sectors. The funding will support the development of animal-free proteins and functional nutrition products, with Japan aiming to become a global leader in food innovation and generate ¥3 trillion in sales by 2040. Additional investment will target indoor farming, food machinery and land-based aquaculture. The government is also progressing work on regulations for cultivated meat while promoting fermentation technologies and other sustainable food innovations.
Read full story: Green Queen
Date published: July 6, 2026
