South African News
El Niño Threat Eases as South Africa Enters Season with Strong Water Reserves
South Africa is better positioned to withstand the expected 2026/27 El Niño than during the severe 2015/16 drought, with high dam levels, strong soil moisture and record grain and oilseed harvests providing a buffer. However, the risk of heatwaves and below-average rainfall remains, and neighbouring countries such as Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia could face serious grain shortages after relying on South African imports. East Africa may receive more favourable rainfall, but limited grain production could restrict its ability to support the region. Funding cuts to the World Food Programme could also make any regional food crisis harder to manage.
Read full story: Financial Mail
Date: August 21, 2026
Grain SA Warns of R696 Million Impact from Soya Bean Pricing Dispute
Grain SA is challenging the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s decision to abandon a pilot Multiple Reference Point system for soya bean location differentials and return to a Single Reference Point from March 2027. The organisation estimates the change could result in about R696 million in additional theoretical transport deductions, reducing already tight producer margins. Grain SA argues that the Multiple Reference Point model better reflects actual grain flows and processing destinations, while the Single Reference Point can impose transport costs that do not occur in practice. It is pursuing legal action to delay implementation and has called for a more transparent and efficient pricing system.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date: August 20, 2026
African News
Botswana Contains FMD Outbreaks in Two Disease Control Zones
Botswana’s Ministry of Lands and Agriculture has confirmed that Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks in Disease Control Zones 3C and 6B have been successfully contained and officially closed with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The response included emergency vaccination, animal identification and enhanced surveillance, with the aim of achieving FMD-free status with vaccination. However, control measures remain in place in Zones 11 and 13, where outbreaks are reportedly responding well to veterinary protocols. Localised cases have been identified in several areas, prompting the ministry to urge farmers and the public to maintain biosecurity, comply with livestock movement controls and report suspected infections immediately.
Read full story: Daily News
Date: August 20, 2026
Global News
Brazil’s Fruit Sector Calls for More Markets and Research Investment
Brazil’s fruit sector is calling on the next government to prioritise opening new international markets and increasing investment in agricultural research. The Brazilian Association of Fruit and Derivative Producers and Exporters (Abrafrutas), which represents about 90% of the country’s fruit exports, says continued market access is essential to expanding exports. President Waldyr Promicia also highlighted the importance of scientific research to strengthen production and competitiveness. He said a stronger fruit supply chain could boost foreign exchange earnings, create more jobs and support economic development in fruit-producing regions. Abrafrutas’ priorities form part of a wider agribusiness sector consultation ahead of Brazil’s 2027 presidential election.
Read full story: FreshPlaza
Date: August 20, 2026
India Could Be Losing Up to Rs 2 Lakh Crore Annually by Overlooking Women Farmers
Women make up a growing share of India’s agricultural workforce but remain under-recognised and disadvantaged in accessing finance, inputs, extension services and other support. A new Arya.ag report estimates that unequal access to productive resources could be costing India between Rs 1.2 lakh crore and Rs 2 lakh crore in agricultural output each year. Women account for about 48% of the agricultural workforce, yet more than half are classified as unpaid helpers. The report says women-run farms can be 24% less productive than comparable male-run farms, largely because of resource gaps. It recommends improving recognition, finance, technology and farmer organisation for women.
Read full story: YourStory
Date: August 21, 2026
APEC Backs Safe Genome Technologies to Strengthen Food Security
APEC economies have called for greater use of agricultural biotechnology, including gene editing, precision breeding and synthetic biology, to improve food security and support climate-resilient farming. Delegates highlighted potential benefits including greater drought tolerance, higher productivity with reduced fertiliser use and improved nutritional value. However, concerns over the safety of genetically modified foods remain a barrier to consumer acceptance. APEC officials stressed the need for science-based, case-by-case regulation covering food safety and environmental risks, alongside stronger public education. The discussions in Dalian, China, form part of preparations for the APEC Food Security Ministerial Meeting in Hangzhou on August 25.
Read full story: ANTARA News
Date: August 20, 2026
Australian Farmers Fear Working Holiday Visa Pause Will Hit Farm Labour Supply
Australian farmers are warning that a federal pause on working holiday visa approvals could create serious labour shortages on farms and threaten food security. Backpackers have long played an important role in harvesting and packing produce through Australia’s Working Holiday Maker programme, which has operated for decades and benefits both rural communities and overseas workers. Farmers fear restrictions on new visa approvals could reduce access to this seasonal workforce, particularly during peak harvest periods when labour demand is high. The programme allows young people from overseas to travel around Australia while working, providing farms with a flexible source of workers.
Read full story: ABC Rural
Date: August 21, 2026
