27 July '26 - Today in Farming

South African News 

Agricultural Science Key to South Africa’s Food Security and Growth

South Africa’s long-term food security, environmental sustainability and rural economic growth depend on continued investment in agricultural science, according to Dr Lerato Matsaunyane of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC). Marking National Science Month, she argues that research is helping farmers tackle climate change, emerging pests and diseases through drought-tolerant crops, improved livestock genetics, climate-smart farming and precision agriculture. The ARC is also working to ensure scientific advances reach both commercial and smallholder farmers through partnerships and knowledge transfer. Matsaunyane says investment in agricultural research strengthens productivity, boosts exports, supports rural jobs and delivers lasting economic and environmental benefits.

Read full story: IOL

Date Published: July 23, 2026

Fuel Reserve Policy Sparks Food Security Concerns

Agricultural organisations have raised concerns that South Africa’s proposed Strategic Petroleum Stock Policy does not adequately protect food security despite aiming to strengthen the country’s fuel resilience. Agbiz argues the draft policy fails to recognise agriculture as an essential service, even though farming relies heavily on diesel for planting, irrigation, harvesting, processing and transport. The organisation warns that fuel disruptions could have widespread effects on food production, rural livelihoods and the wider economy, while mandatory fuel stockholding costs could ultimately increase food prices. Agbiz is calling for greater strategic diesel reserves, priority recognition for agriculture and measures to prevent additional costs being passed on to the sector.

Read full story: Farmer’s Weekly 

Date Published: July 24, 2026

African News 

Super El Niño Raises Fears of Worsening Food Crisis Across Africa

A strengthening El Niño is expected to increase the risk of severe drought across southern Africa and widespread flooding in the Horn of Africa, threatening food production and livelihoods. The World Meteorological Organization says there is a high probability of El Niño developing by late 2026, with Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Botswana among the countries most at risk of poor rainfall during the planting season. Existing drought conditions in parts of East Africa are expected to worsen, while disrupted fertiliser supplies and rising food prices could contribute to a wider humanitarian crisis. The FAO and World Food Programme have appealed for more than US$200 million in emergency assistance.

Read full story: Africa Confidential 

Date Published: July 23, 2026

Global News 

Japan GAP Standards Added to Global Sustainability Database

Japan’s fruit and vegetable certification schemes have been added to the International Trade Centre’s (ITC) Standards Map for the first time, giving exporters and buyers greater transparency when trading with the Japanese market. The inclusion of the JGAP Fruit and Vegetables and JGAP+SA Fruit and Vegetables standards allows users to compare them with more than 380 global sustainability certification programmes. The schemes cover food safety, environmental protection, worker safety, human rights and farm management, helping producers meet export requirements. The move is expected to improve market access for exporters while supporting Japan’s efforts to expand agricultural exports and promote sustainable production practices.

Read full story: FreshPlaza

Date Published: July 23, 2026

EU Approves €715 Million Dutch Farm Closure Scheme to Cut Pollution

The European Commission has approved a €715 million Dutch state aid scheme aimed at permanently reducing ammonia emissions from livestock farms near protected Natura 2000 sites. The voluntary programme will support the irreversible closure of eligible livestock farms, including those with dairy cattle, pigs, poultry, goats and rabbits, with priority given to farms located within or close to environmentally sensitive areas. Farmers will receive grants covering 100% to 110% of eligible costs, and the scheme will operate for five years. The Commission said the measure complies with EU State aid rules and is intended to reduce nitrogen pollution affecting vulnerable ecosystems.

Read full story: The Brussels Times 

Date Published: July 23, 2026

Scientists Develop Method to Help Soils Withstand Climate Change

Researchers at the University of Lincoln have discovered a way to improve soil resilience to rising salinity by encouraging naturally occurring microbes to adapt to low levels of salt. The study found that gradually exposing soils to mildly saline irrigation enabled microbial communities to better withstand future saline conditions, helping crops continue to grow and maintain yields. The technique does not require new chemicals or organisms, making it a potentially cost-effective tool for farmers. With around 30% of agricultural soils already affected by salinisation, and this expected to reach 50% by 2050, the researchers believe the approach could strengthen food security and help farming adapt to climate change.

Read full story: Farming Online 

Date Published: July 24, 2026

Canada Pledges Support for Farmers Amid Escalating US Trade Dispute

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to protect the country’s farmers as trade tensions with the United States intensify. Speaking to provincial premiers, Carney said Canada would continue trade negotiations but would defend its interests if necessary. The dispute follows US plans to impose 50% tariffs on around US$20 billion of Canadian products, including dairy, from August 19. The proposed tariffs threaten several agricultural sectors, with dairy producers among those expected to be most affected. While the federal government has vowed to support farmers and businesses, some provinces oppose retaliatory export restrictions due to concerns over their own key export industries.

Read full story: Manitoba Co-operator 

Date Published: July 23, 2026