South African News
Potato And Tomato Prices Plunge as Avocado Prices Surge
South African potato prices fell by more than 23% to R63.46 per 10kg bag, while tomato prices dropped 40% to R8.97/kg amid oversupply, weak consumer demand, heat-related quality problems and fewer informal bulk buyers. Onion prices also eased, alongside declines in sweet peppers, carrots and green beans. In contrast, avocado prices rose 24% to R20.07/kg, supported by expectations of tighter supply, while table grapes, bananas and oranges also recorded gains. Agricultural economist Conce Moraba warned that higher export volumes do not necessarily improve farmgate returns, as European oversupply continues to squeeze avocado producer margins.
Read full story: Food For Mzansi
Date published: October 20, 2026
Eastern Cape Farmers Invited to Apply For 2027/28 Support
Emerging farmers in South Africa’s Eastern Cape have until 30 October 2026 to apply for provincial Department of Agriculture support for the 2027/28 financial year. The Farmer Support Programme assists subsistence and smallholder farmers with livestock breeding, seeds, fertiliser, agrochemicals, mechanisation, household gardens and infrastructure, including boreholes, fencing and irrigation equipment. Applicants may seek assistance across multiple categories, subject to programme requirements, and must provide relevant documentation, such as business plans and proof of land access. Applications undergo several levels of assessment, but funding is not guaranteed and depends on available budgets and competing needs.
Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly
Date published: October 21, 2026
African News
Zambia Irrigation Scheme Aims to Boost Climate Resilience and Farm Incomes
Zambia’s 25-hectare Malombe Irrigation Scheme, launched in May 2026, is helping farmers in drought-prone Sioma District reduce their reliance on unpredictable rainfall. Drawing water from the Zambezi River, the K4.29 million centre pivot system enables year-round production, while an electric fence helps protect crops from elephants. Supported by the UNDP’s SCRALA project and Green Climate Fund, the initiative includes mechanisation, training and private sector partnerships to strengthen commercial farming skills and market access. Wheat has been planted, with plans to expand irrigation to 41 hectares. The scheme could support three crop cycles annually, generating returns of up to K2 million.
Read full story: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Zambia
Date published: October 20, 2026
Global News
Welsh Dairy Farmers Continue to Lose Money Despite Rising Milk Prices
Welsh dairy farmers are still producing milk at a loss despite recent increases in farmgate prices, according to Dyfrig Griffiths, vice-president of the Welsh Dairy Show. His milk price rose by 9p to 39p per litre, but production costs have exceeded 40p due to rising fuel and fertiliser expenses. Farmers attribute recent price increases partly to drought-related declines in milk production. NFU Cymru and Farmers Union Wales are calling for greater financial stability and a long-term strategy for the sector, which contributes £929 million to the Welsh economy. The Welsh government cited existing agricultural support schemes.
Read full story: BBC Wales
Date published: October 20, 2026
Italian Truckers’ Protests Disrupt Freight Transport and Push Up Produce Prices
Truck drivers’ protests over rising diesel prices have disrupted freight operations across southern Italy, slowing fresh produce deliveries to Rome. Blockades at a major logistics hub have reduced supplies of tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and grapes, pushing up wholesale prices and increasing reliance on imports. The Italian government has begun releasing €480 million in support for road haulage companies, with further funding planned for September and October claims and tax credits due in 2027. Protests continue in several southern regions, with demonstrators demanding action on fuel costs and the release of promised financial support.
Read full story: Anadolu Agency
Date published: October 20, 2026
Nepal’s Rising Agricultural Production Fails to Resolve Food Insecurity and Malnutrition
Nepal’s food grain production exceeded 7.3 million tonnes in 2022/23, creating a surplus of 1.668 million tonnes, yet malnutrition and food insecurity remain significant challenges. More than a quarter of children under five suffer from stunting, while uneven food distribution and deficiencies in essential nutrients persist. The agricultural sector also faces climate change, high production costs, labour shortages, soil degradation and post-harvest losses of up to 30%. A government working paper calls for greater investment in climate-resilient farming, improved storage and processing, local crop varieties, digital technologies and nutrition-focused policies to strengthen food security.
Read full story: Ratopati
Date published: October 17, 2026
New Zealand Campaign Helps Farmers Improve Farm Waste Management
Beef + Lamb New Zealand is supporting a six-week nationwide campaign encouraging farmers to develop practical waste management strategies and use available recycling programmes. Rural Waste Sorted NZ has launched a website featuring videos, resources and advice on managing common farm waste, working with staff and suppliers, and identifying suitable disposal and recycling options. The initiative aims to support farmers at all stages, promoting solutions tailored to individual farms rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Supported by agricultural and environmental organisations and local councils, the campaign also highlights farmers’ role in protecting land and reducing waste for future generations.
Read full story: Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Date published: October 20, 2026
