South African News
South Africa’s Table Grape Industry Faces Rising Global Supply
South Africa remains a major table grape exporter, producing more fruit from a shrinking vineyard area as improved cultivars and production practices boost productivity. However, global production has risen faster than demand, intensifying competition and putting pressure on prices. China’s growing production and exports are reshaping Asian markets, while tariffs and geopolitical disruption have affected South African exports to the US and Middle East. Europe and the UK remain key destinations, accounting for 83% of exports. The industry is increasingly focused on market diversification, quality, timing and stimulating consumer demand to protect producer returns.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: October 7, 2026
Intelligent Systems Could Help Reduce Africa’s Post-Harvest Food Losses
Post-harvest losses account for around 20% of cereals and 40–50% of fruits, vegetables and tubers across Sub-Saharan Africa, undermining food security and farmer incomes. While investment in storage, refrigeration, transport and processing is essential, poor access to timely information also contributes to waste. The article argues that artificial intelligence and connected digital systems could help coordinate harvesting, storage, transport, processing and sales, allowing problems to be identified before produce spoils. Solutions must be adapted to local conditions, including limited connectivity among smallholders. Better data could also improve access to finance, export markets and sustainability reporting.
Read full story: SAP
Date Published: October 7, 2026
African News
Namibia Strengthens FMD Controls as Cases Rise
Namibia has intensified measures to contain a SAT1 foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in the Karasburg State Veterinary District after confirmed cases rose to 127 across 15 farms. Twenty surveillance teams have inspected more than 29,000 animals, while roadblocks, movement restrictions, vaccination and targeted culling are being introduced. The outbreak has also suspended Namibia’s FMD-free status, disrupting exports, with the EU temporarily restricting imports of fresh meat from the affected zone. The restrictions are putting financial pressure on livestock farmers and businesses and could affect South African red meat supplies, as Namibia is an important source of weaner calves and slaughter sheep.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date Published: October 7, 2026
Global News
New Zealand Invests €58 Million In Farm Emissions Reduction
New Zealand’s agricultural businesses and government are investing an additional €58 million (NZ$117 million) through the public-private partnership AgriZeroNZ to develop technologies that reduce farm greenhouse gas emissions. The funding brings the partnership’s total budget to more than €150 million, with a focus on reducing methane and nitrous oxide without compromising productivity or profitability. Since 2023, AgriZeroNZ has invested around €40 million in 21 projects, including methane inhibitors, probiotics, genetic selection, vaccines and wearable emissions-monitoring technology. Its first supported product, a methane-inhibiting bolus, claims to reduce methane emissions by more than 75% over 100 days and is nearing regulatory approval.
Read full story: Food Agribusiness World
Date Published: October 8, 2026
Brazil’s Milk Production Stalls Despite Strong Regional Growth
Brazil’s milk production has stagnated despite the country being the world’s fourth-largest producer, with the Northeast the only region recording sustained growth, averaging 5.24% annually. Per-capita milk consumption reached 178 litres in 2024, below its previous peak and around 11% below a 200-litre benchmark. The dairy sector recorded a $6.887 billion trade deficit between 2016 and 2026, while drought linked to severe El Niño events has contributed to declining dairy cow numbers. Limited farm modernisation remains a challenge, with most holdings relying on manual milking. Proposed measures include improved technology, technical support, finance, quality certification and price protection.
Read full story: Dairy News Today
Date Published: October 7, 2026
Policy Uncertainty and Rising Costs Hit British Farm Profits
Policy uncertainty is creating significant financial pressure for British farmers, with 86% saying it is negatively affecting their businesses and 87% reporting a substantial decline in profitability due to rising costs. A quarter have broken even or made a loss over the past year, while two in five are considering leaving farming because of financial pressures. Farmers are also concerned about food security, with 87% pessimistic about Britain’s ability to secure future supplies. Unpredictable weather is another major challenge, although farmers investing heavily in sustainability are more optimistic about the sector’s future. Greater investment, simpler regulation and fairer trade policies are among their priorities.
Read full story: Agriland
Date Published: October 7, 2026
Pakistan Seeks Russian Agricultural Technology and Investment
Pakistan is seeking to deepen agricultural cooperation with Russia by focusing on technology transfer, local production, joint research, seed development and skills training rather than relying mainly on imports of finished agricultural products. The country’s Minister for National Food Security and Research said greater collaboration could support modernisation, improve productivity and strengthen domestic agricultural capabilities. Potential areas include agricultural technology, seed development, breeding programmes and research into crop varieties suited to local conditions. Closer cooperation with Russian institutions and technology providers could also attract investment and expand technical expertise, helping Pakistan build a more productive and resilient agricultural sector.
Read full story: Associated Press of Pakistan
Date Published: October 7, 2026
