South African News
South African Agriculture Must Turn Promises into Practical Results
South Africa’s agricultural sector needs stronger coordination, timely funding and practical support to turn development plans into measurable results, according to discussions at two recent industry gatherings in Gauteng. Emerging farmers require land alongside infrastructure, training, finance and reliable market access, while investment in processing and exports could create additional value. Meanwhile, the red meat industry faces significant challenges from foot-and-mouth disease, which threatens more than R97 billion in livestock value, and declining beef exports. Improved biosecurity, traceability, research adoption and collaboration across the value chain are essential. Both gatherings stressed that agricultural progress depends on effective implementation, accountability and tangible outcomes rather than promises.
Read full story: Farming Portal
Date published: October 25, 2026
Gauteng Farmer Taps into Niche Market with Unusual Cucamelon Crop
Rina Meijer of KleinKraak Boerdery in Elandsfontein, Gauteng, is diversifying her farming business by growing cucamelons, small, grape-sized fruits resembling miniature watermelons with a crisp, cucumber-like flavour and citrus tang. Cultivated on 1ha, the crop offers opportunities in South Africa’s emerging speciality produce market. Meijer sells fresh fruit through Tshwane Market and distributes pickled products through the Pretoria Farmers’ Market and her website. Cucamelons thrive in warm conditions, require trellising and regular irrigation, and take approximately three to four months to produce a harvest. Meijer hopes to introduce more South Africans to the versatile fruit.
Read full story: Farmers Weekly
Date published: October 26, 2026
African News
Tanzania And Kenya Potato Councils to Sign Pact to Boost Regional Trade and Productivity
The Potato Council of Tanzania and the National Potato Council of Kenya will sign a cooperation agreement on 28 October during the first World Potato Congress held in sub-Saharan Africa, taking place in Naivasha, Kenya. The agreement aims to improve technology sharing, harmonise quality and seed standards, strengthen cross-border trade and support joint research and training. Tanzania has increased potato yields in its Southern Highlands from seven to 28 tonnes per hectare between 2016 and 2025. However, limited certified seed supplies and regulatory barriers continue to constrain production. The partnership aims to improve access to clean seed and develop more reliable regional supply chains.
Read full story: Kilimokwanza
Date published: October 26, 2026
Global News
Malaysia Considers Expanding Crop Insurance as Extreme Weather Risks Increase
Malaysia is considering extending its crop insurance scheme beyond rice farming to protect other agricultural sectors from natural disasters and extreme weather. The government will conduct a comprehensive study to assess premium payments, eligible losses and potential coverage before making a decision. The Rice Crop Takaful Scheme, introduced in 2024, has paid RM24.6 million in compensation to 10,726 farmers, offering coverage of up to RM3,000 per hectare. Alongside financial protection, the government is promoting climate-resilient crop varieties and technologies, including fertigation, rain shelters and smart irrigation, to reduce weather-related losses and safeguard food production.
Read full story: Traders Union News
Date published: October 26, 2026
Lula’s Election Victory Raises Questions for US Farmers and Global Agricultural Trade
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s re-election for a fourth term could influence agricultural trade, commodity markets and relations with US President Donald Trump. Brazil competes directly with the US in soybeans, maize and beef, while its growing export capacity and strong trade relationship with China challenge American farmers’ market share. US soybean growers face particular uncertainty as Chinese purchasing decisions and trade tariffs influence global demand. Lula’s approach to regional integration may also affect South American trade agreements and investment. However, future agricultural trade flows will depend on diplomatic negotiations, production costs, infrastructure, currency movements and international demand.
Read full story: AgroLatam
Date published: October 26, 2026
CropLife Australia Calls for Government Intervention Over Delayed Pesticide Approvals
CropLife Australia is urging government intervention over delays in pesticide approvals, claiming the national regulator is underperforming despite increased funding and reduced workloads. Data from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority show that only 43.9% of major agricultural chemical applications were processed within statutory timeframes during January to March 2026, with more than 200 agricultural product registrations reportedly overdue. CropLife is demanding a measurable recovery plan and greater accountability, while also raising concerns about rising regulatory fees. The APVMA disputes criticism of its performance, defending changes to its assessment processes and cost-recovery arrangements.
Read full story: Global Agriculture
Date published: October 26, 2026
Afghanistan’s Opium Ban Drives Poppy Cultivation into Pakistan and Iran
Afghanistan’s 2022 ban on opium cultivation has contributed to a shift in production towards neighbouring Pakistan and Iran, according to experts. Satellite imagery identified more than 9,000 hectares of poppy cultivation in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, while production is also expanding in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchistan region. Drought, insecurity and poor returns from conventional crops are encouraging farmers to grow poppies, with Afghan growers reportedly bringing expertise and investment across borders. Despite the ban, cultivation is also resurging in parts of Afghanistan. Experts warn that further expansion in 2027 could increase heroin supplies, fund armed groups and worsen regional instability.
Read full story: Ariana News
Date published: October 26, 2026
