South Africa -Weeklikse Landbou Nuusoorsig -  Weekly Agriculture News Summary 8 July 2026

South Africa -Weeklikse Landbou Nuusoorsig - Weekly Agriculture News Summary 8 July 2026

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Weeklikse Afrikaanse Landbou Nuusoorsig - Die Afrikaanse/Engelse Nuus is die afgelope paar dae op AGRI NEWS NET geplaas, saam met nog ander artikels. 

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In this analysis, the new Minister of Agriculture, Willie Aucamp, inherits a department in the midst of the worst foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in decades, but the article argues that the real levers of power for South African agriculture lie mostly outside his department

Maize is far more than a staple food. It is one of the world's most important agricultural and economic crops, playing a vital role in food security, livestock production, industry, and global trade.

South Africa is starting to see the benefits of a likely peace deal between Iran and the US, with fertiliser and fuel prices declining notably from recent highs. The resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has eased some supply concerns, although uncertainty remains while talks continue.

Global demand for goat meat is rising steadily, fuelled by health trends, cultural practices, and religious observance. According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity, global goat meat trade has grown by 1.76% annually over the past five years, with the UAE, US, and South Korea leading as importers. Australia remains the world’s largest exporter, followed by Kenya and Ethiopia.

South Africa’s tractor and combine harvester sales dropped in June 2026 as a few pressures came together. According to the South African Agricultural Machinery Association, tractor sales fell by 2% year-on-year to 623 units, and combine harvester sales were down 15% to 11 units.

An administrative dispute over veterinary certification is disrupting South Africa’s imports of Argentine oxtail, with import contracts already being cancelled while a resolution is awaited.South Africa relies on Argentina for about 70% of its oxtail supply because local production cannot meet demand, especially in winter.

The Citrus Growers' Association says newly appointed Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition John Steenhuisen should use his agricultural diplomacy experience to help shield South Africa’s citrus exports from looming US tariffs
About 32.3% of this year’s estimated maize crop had been delivered by 19 June, along with 88% of the soybean crop and 82% of the estimated sunflower crop. Maize deliveries are slower than the three- and five-year averages because the season started later and persistent late-season rain delayed both harvesting and natural drying.

Tinned chicken, long established in Europe and North America, has only recently been introduced locally after being proposed in 2024 as a product to compete with similarly sized cans of pilchards.

South Africa accounts for just 5% of global wine production and ranks as the 7th largest wine-producing country, but the sector’s impact is much larger than that share suggests. The country produces about 1.0 billion litres of wine a year, with more than 300 million litres exported to over 120 countries.

The country is at a crossroads as rising political tension from protests, coalition pressures, and ongoing service delivery failures raise questions ahead of the next election, and that uncertainty is already visible in markets.

Macadamia milk is gaining traction as a locally produced plant-based dairy alternative in South Africa’s growing dairy alternatives category. The country produced just over 95,500 tonnes of macadamias in 2025, more than 30% of global supply, but 95% to 98% of the crop is still exported, leaving room for more local value-added products like plant-based milk.

Graan SA verwelkom die nuwe minister van landbou en landelike ontwikkeling en sien uit na ’n konstruktiewe vennootskap wat ’n betekenisvolle bydrae kan lewer tot die ondersteuning van graanprodusente, landbouwaardekettings en landelike ekonomieë. Georganiseerde landbou is gereed om saam te werk om die sektor se mededingendheid, winsgewendheid en volhoubaarheid te versterk.
An IOL investigation has documented a pattern of large, rapid fraud losses among Standard Bank customers in South Africa and Namibia, with cases exceeding R3 million combined and victims reporting more than R1.1 million drained in hours

Professor William Gumede, an associate professor at Wits’ School of Governance, argues that South Africa’s black economic empowerment policy mirrors the indigenisation strategies previously used in Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Ghana, and is following the same failed path.

Twee lede van ons span het verlede week die 31ste Val Boeredag in Val, Mpumalanga, bygewoon. Meer as 6 000 besoekers en sowat 200 uitstallers het op 1 Julie onder die tema “Skouer aan die wiel” saamgetrek. Die fokus was op samewerking en praktiese oplossings vir produsente, met die plaaslike boerevereniging as aanbieder en ’n landbouverskaffer as hoofborg.

Tiger Brands has sourced 100% of the oranges for its Oros beverage from South African growers for a second consecutive citrus season, a shift after years of relying on imports. Previously, local shortages forced Tiger Brands to import about 35% of its oranges.

Die Wêreld-Meteorologiese Organisasie (WMO) verwag dat die El Niño-toestande in die tropiese Stille Oseaan in die komende maande vinnig na ’n sterk El Niño kan versterk, veral tussen Julie en September 2026.

The EU agri-food sector maintained and expanded a positive trade balance in the first four months of 2026, with a cumulative surplus of €15.6 billion, €233 million higher than in the same period in 2025. Cumulative exports for January–April totalled €77.6 billion, €2.3 billion (3%) below the same period in 2025, mainly due to lower values of exports of cocoa products and pigmeal

The FAO Meat Price Index reached a new record high in June, averaging 131.0 points, up 0.4% from May and 4.0% above a year earlier, according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation's monthly food price report.
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South Africa -Weeklikse Landbou Nuusoorsig - Weekly Agriculture News Summary 1July 2026

 
50 Key International Headline News Stories in Agriculture, Farming & Agritech
as of 8 July 2026    
Here is a curated selection of major global headlines making waves in the sector this week:
  1. Global fertiliser prices continue to ease as Iran-US peace talks progress and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz normalises.
  2. Brazil’s soybean harvest reaches record levels, boosting global supplies and pressuring international prices.
  3. India extends rice export restrictions amid domestic monsoon concerns and food security priorities.
  4. Ukraine’s grain exports face renewed Black Sea shipping risks despite truce efforts.
  5. China ramps up corn imports as domestic production struggles with extreme weather.
  6. EU approves new gene-editing rules to boost climate-resilient crops.
  7. Argentina’s wheat production forecast raised after favourable winter rains.
  8. Australia reports strong cherry exports to Asia despite domestic weather challenges.
  9. Vietnam’s rice output expected to decline due to saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta.
  10. Global cocoa prices surge as West African production faces disease and climate pressure.
  11. US Midwest farmers battle record flooding, delaying corn and soybean planting.
  12. Kenya launches major digital agritech hub to support smallholder farmers.
  13. Netherlands leads new EU precision farming initiative using AI and drone technology.
  14. Russia announces expanded grain export deal with several African nations.
  15. Morocco invests heavily in phosphate fertiliser production to secure global supply chains.
  16. Canada’s canola crop faces frost damage risk in key prairie regions.
  17. Thailand expands shrimp farming with new sustainable technology to meet export demand.
  18. New Zealand dairy farmers report strong milk prices but warn of rising input costs.
  19. Egypt expands wheat planting area to reduce reliance on imports.
  20. Mexico struggles with avocado export delays due to new US phytosanitary rules.
  21. Indonesia pushes palm oil sustainability certification amid EU market pressure.
  22. France reports record wine production but faces oversupply concerns.
  23. Global coffee prices rise as Brazilian drought affects arabica yields.
  24. Israel advances desert agriculture research with new water-saving tomato varieties.
  25. Ethiopia launches large-scale teff export programme to capture premium markets.
  26. Global wheat stocks revised upward after better harvests in several key producers.
  27. Singapore invests in vertical farming and lab-grown protein to boost food security.
  28. Spain’s olive oil production rebounds after last year’s severe drought.
  29. Ghana’s cocoa farmers protest low farmgate prices amid record global demand.
  30. United Arab Emirates expands food import diversification strategy.
  31. New Zealand kiwifruit industry adopts AI-driven orchard management tools.
  32. Pakistan faces wheat shortage fears after erratic monsoon rains.
  33. Chile’s cherry exporters diversify away from China toward Europe and North America.
  34. Nigeria partners with international firms on large-scale cassava processing projects.
  35. Global dairy prices stabilise as New Zealand and EU output remains strong.
  36. Bangladesh expands shrimp farming with new climate-resilient techniques.
  37. Turkey’s hazelnut production forecast raised after good pollination season.
  38. Saudi Arabia accelerates vertical farming projects in desert regions.
  39. Peru’s blueberry exports continue strong growth to North American and European markets.
  40. Global sugar prices rise as Brazil diverts more cane to ethanol production.
  41. Madagascar vanilla farmers struggle with low prices and climate challenges.
  42. South Korea invests heavily in smart greenhouses and automation for vegetable production.
  43. Ivory Coast announces new cocoa sustainability and traceability programme.
  44. Global pork prices firm as China’s herd rebuilding continues.
  45. Ireland’s dairy sector faces new EU environmental regulations.
  46. Vietnam’s dragon fruit exports hit record volumes to China.
  47. Canada approves new gene-edited wheat variety for commercial planting.
  48. Philippines expands coconut processing industry with new value-added products.
  49. Global rice prices remain elevated due to weather concerns in major producing countries.
  50. United Nations warns of worsening food insecurity in parts of East and Southern Africa due to El Niño forecast.
These represent the most prominent stories shaping the global agriculture conversation right now.
Farming isn’t your typical 9-to-5 gig. It’s a lifestyle that demands early mornings, late nights, and plenty of time operating machinery or walking the land. That’s where Audiocast shine. They’re hands-free, portable, and don’t care if you’re covered in dirt or steering through a muddy field. Unlike a book or a video, a Audiocast doesn’t ask you to stop what you’re doing—it joins you in the cab, the shed, or wherever the day takes you. And farmers are listening. Surveys suggest that a significant chunk of the agricultural community—some estimates say over a third—tune into ag-related podcasts regularly. Whether it’s catching up on market trends, learning about the latest in soil health, or just hearing a good story from another grower, these audio shows have become a go-to resource.

15 Best South Africa News Podcasts 

READ MORE 

 

Top Headline News on Farmingportal & Agri News Net

  • South Africa Weekly Agriculture News Round-Up – Latest developments from the agricultural sector across the country.
  • Full Silos, Dry Skies – Why Southern Africa's record maize reserves may not be enough if an El Niño develops during the 2026/27 season.
  • Why Traceability Is Key to the Future of South African Agriculture – Growing importance of food safety, exports and supply chain transparency.
  • Micronised Lime for Open-Field Farming – Improving soil health and crop performance through better soil management.
  • World Farming, Agriculture & Commodity News – The latest developments shaping global agriculture and commodity markets.
  • French Wine Crisis – Trade uncertainty and tariff concerns continue to impact international wine markets.
  • India's Oil Demand Expected to Double by 2050 – What this means for global energy and agricultural markets.
  • The Importance of Seagrass – Why this marine ecosystem is becoming increasingly important for climate resilience and biodiversity.
  • Weekly Quanlim Life Health News – Practical health information for farmers, agricultural families and rural communities.
  • Key Factors Shaping South African Agriculture – Economic trends, weather patterns and market developments affecting the farming sector.
  • Weekend AGRI NEWS RUSH – A complete summary of the week's most important farming and agriculture headlines from South Africa and around the world.

FarmingPortal & Agri News Net continue to deliver practical farming, agriculture, commodity, agribusiness, technology, weather and health news seven days a week, 365 days a year, bringing readers timely, independent and practical information from South Africa and around the world

Entries for the 2026 Junior Writing Awards close at the end of July. Now in its sixth year, this prestigious competition invites all young writers to participate. The event is proudly sponsored by Hollard Insurance.

Fertiliser Prices in South Africa – 8 July 2026 
Fertiliser prices in South Africa have eased noticeably in recent weeks and are relatively stable as of early July 2026.Current Approximate Spot Prices (Rand per ton):
  • Urea: R8,200 – R8,800
  • MAP (Monoammonium Phosphate): R12,300 – R13,000
  • DAP (Diammonium Phosphate): R12,800 – R13,500
  • Potassium Chloride (MOP): R7,500 – R8,200
  • LAN (28%): R6,800 – R7,400
Key Factors Behind Current Prices:
  • Global supply chains have stabilised following the easing of earlier geopolitical tensions.
  • Lower international oil and gas prices have reduced production costs for nitrogen-based fertilisers.
  • A stronger rand in recent weeks has helped lower the landed cost of imported products.
  • Adequate local availability after improved import volumes.
While prices are more favourable than the peaks seen earlier in the year, they remain higher than the same period in 2025. Farmers are benefiting from the recent decline, especially ahead of the 2026/27 summer planting season starting in October.The outlook for the next few months remains relatively stable, provided global energy prices do not spike again and the rand holds its recent gains. Many farmers are expected to lock in orders soon to secure current levels before any potential volatility returns.

 South Africa Weather Forecast & Agricultural Outlook — July 2026

Current Conditions (Early July 2026)
Much of South Africa is experiencing a sharp cold snap this week, with snow on mountain peaks in the Eastern Cape, Southern Drakensberg, and parts of the interior. Night-time temperatures have dropped below freezing in many high-lying areas, with daytime highs struggling to reach 10–15 °C in the central and eastern regions.Short-Term Forecast (Next 7–10 Days) Continued cold and wintry conditions are expected over the weekend and into next week.


Light to moderate rainfall (10–30 mm) is forecast for the Western Cape Winelands, Overberg, Garden Route, and parts of the Eastern Cape.
The interior (Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo) will remain mostly dry and cold.
Frost warnings remain in place for many farming areas.

Agricultural Outlook Winter Crops — Good soil moisture from recent rains supports winter wheat and other winter grain planting in the Western Cape and parts of the Eastern Cape.
Livestock — Cold weather increases feed demand. Farmers are advised to provide extra shelter and supplementary feeding, especially for young and pregnant animals.
Summer Crop Preparation — The extended La Niña rains from previous seasons have left dams and soil moisture in relatively good condition ahead of the 2026/27 summer planting season.
El Niño Risk — Longer-range forecasts still point to a possible strong El Niño later in 2026, which could bring drier conditions for the coming summer. However, current soil moisture provides a buffer.


July is living up to its reputation as a cold winter month, bringing relief rainfall to the Cape but also frost risk to the interior. While short-term conditions are challenging for livestock, the improved water reserves and soil moisture are positive signs ahead of the new summer crop season   -

Summary -

Although there is still uncertainty about when the hot and dry conditions of the expected El Niño will begin in the 2026–27 season, an analysis of previous “super” El Niño events shows interesting rainfall patterns.In the three previous super El Niño seasons, there was at least one month with reasonable rainfall. Good early-season rains occurred in October and early November during the 1982–83 and 1997–98 seasons, while the 2015–16 season had very little spring rain but decent falls in January 2016 in parts of the eastern Free State, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.Looking specifically at rainfall records from Bothaville and Bethlehem in the Free State, the data shows that while overall seasonal rainfall was below average and poorly distributed, there were still periods of meaningful rain. However, high temperatures and low monthly totals (often less than 50 mm) were not enough to replenish soil moisture effectively, especially in the western grain areas.A key point is that the 2026–27 season is starting with probably the highest levels of stored soil moisture in many decades. This will be crucial for germination and early crop development, even if rainfall during the season is below normal.Another important factor is atmospheric water demand, driven by temperature, humidity, wind, and solar radiation. On very hot days, evaporation and plant transpiration can reach 8–10 mm per day, placing enormous pressure on soil moisture. Soil type also plays a role, with clay soils holding more water but releasing it more slowly to plant roots compared to sandy soils.Overall, while a strong El Niño is expected to bring challenges, the strong starting soil moisture provides a significant buffer that was not present in some previous super El Niño seasons.

This is CRA MEDIA .

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With Africa’s youth population booming and global food demand rising, young farmers are stepping up, armed with tools like precision farming, drones, and data analytics. Farming Portal connects these innovators with resources, markets, and knowledge, while Agri News Net amplifies their stories—showcasing how they’re boosting yields, adapting to climate challenges, and building resilient livelihoods. From smart irrigation in drought-prone regions to mobile apps linking producers to buyers, technology is empowering these farmers to thrive. The economic ripple effect is profound. By fostering sustainable practices and market access, these platforms help young farmers create jobs, support their families, and strengthen rural communities. Risk management—whether through weather forecasting tools or diversified crops—ensures stability in an unpredictable world. Together, Farming Portal and Agri News Net are more than just portals; they’re catalysts for a vibrant agricultural future. By betting on youth and innovation, they’re cultivating a legacy of food security and prosperity for generations to come.
AMT

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

White maize

R 3 222,80

per Ton

2026-07-07

1.57 %

R 3 173,00

Yellow maize

R 3 275,00

per Ton

2026-07-07

1.24 %

R 3 235,00

Soybeans

R 7 195,00

per Ton

2026-07-07

1.76 %

R 7 070,40

Sunflower seed

R 9 350,00

per Ton

2026-07-07

0.57 %

R 9 297,20

Wheat

R 5 812,40

per Ton

2026-07-07

0.73 %

R 5 770,00

Sorghum (IPP)

R 4 080,00

per Ton

2026-07-03

1.87 %

R 4 005,00

Groundnuts (IPP Randfontein))

R 19 706,00

per Ton

2026-07-03

-0.64 %

R 19 832,00

Cotton (IPP)

R 10 870,00

per Ton

2026-07-03

0.00 %

R 10 870,00

Soy Meal (US derived price)

R 11 279,00

per Ton

2026-07-03

-0.48 %

R 11 333,00

Chop

R 3 100,00

per Ton

2026-07-03

0.00 %

R 3 100,00

Lusern (Grade 1)

R 4 150,00

per Ton

2026-07-03

6.41 %

R 3 900,00

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Bananas

R 7,13

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.46 %

R 7,31

Apples

R 9,05

per Kg

2026-07-03

0.11 %

R 9,04

Oranges

R 2,38

per Kg

2026-07-03

29.35 %

R 1,84

Avocados

R 16,84

per Kg

2026-07-03

1.20 %

R 16,64

Grapes

R 73,80

per Kg

2026-07-03

39.27 %

R 52,99

Mangos

R 17,13

per Kg

2026-07-03

-49.21 %

R 33,73

Pears

R 8,81

per Kg

2026-07-03

-4.55 %

R 9,23

Pineapples

R 8,39

per Kg

2026-07-03

-4.77 %

R 8,81

Peaches

R 25,32

per Kg

2026-07-03

-20.43 %

R 31,82

Lemons

R 4,29

per Kg

2026-07-03

-0.69 %

R 4,32

Nectarines

R 91,86

per Kg

2026-07-03

65.25 %

R 55,59

Naartjies (Mandarins)

R 5,90

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.48 %

R 6,05

Blueberries

R 111,73

per Kg

2026-07-03

-5.28 %

R 117,96

Grapefruits

R 3,58

per Kg

2026-07-03

-10.50 %

R 4,00

 

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Potatoes

R 48,72

per 10Kg

2026-07-03

6.17 %

R 45,89

Tomatoes

R 13,80

per Kg

2026-07-03

-12.05 %

R 15,69

Carrots

R 6,46

per Kg

2026-07-03

5.56 %

R 6,12

Onions

R 76,62

per 10Kg

2026-07-03

4.79 %

R 73,12

Cabbage

R 3,17

per Kg

2026-07-03

-3.94 %

R 3,30

Garlic

R 55,78

per Kg

2026-07-03

23.52 %

R 45,16

Spinach

R 3,39

per Kg

2026-07-03

-6.09 %

R 3,61

Sweet Potatoes

R 3,58

per Kg

2026-07-03

1.99 %

R 3,51

Peppers

R 16,00

per Kg

2026-07-03

20.66 %

R 13,26

Chillies

R 8,08

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.06 %

R 8,25

Pumpkins

R 2,61

per Kg

2026-07-03

-1.51 %

R 2,65

Mushrooms

R 81,02

per Kg

2026-07-03

-5.49 %

R 85,73

Butternuts

R 4,54

per Kg

2026-07-03

6.82 %

R 4,25

Green beans

R 26,99

per Kg

2026-07-03

10.39 %

R 24,45

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Sheep A2/3

R 107,20

per Kg

2026-07-03

-1.78 %

R 109,14

Feeder Lamb (Dual Purpose)

R 56,98

per Kg

2026-07-03

0.74 %

R 56,56

Sheep AB2/3

R 89,00

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.91 %

R 91,67

Sheep B2/3

R 78,75

per Kg

2026-07-03

-1.97 %

R 80,33

Sheep C2/3

R 76,50

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.34 %

R 78,33

Wool 20 micron - Non RWS

R 261,00

per Kg

2026-06-12

0.00 %

R 261,00

Wool 20 micron - RWS

R 278,00

per Kg

2026-06-12

0.00 %

R 278,00

Mohair - Ave Non RWS

R 419,00

per Kg

2026-06-05

0.00 %

R 419,00

 

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Beef A2/3

R 67,67

per Kg

2026-07-03

2.92 %

R 65,75

Weaners (200-250kg)

R 45,20

per Kg

2026-07-03

-0.02 %

R 45,21

Beef AB2/3

R 66,00

per Kg

2026-07-03

3.13 %

R 64,00

Beef B2/3

R 59,50

per Kg

2026-07-03

0.00 %

R 59,50

Beef C2/3

R 57,00

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.28 %

R 58,33

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Kids (under 30kg)

R 66,21

per kg

2026-07-03

-1.95 %

R 67,53

Medium (30-40kg)

R 61,64

per kg

2026-07-03

10.47 %

R 55,80

Large (above 40kg)

R 43,53

per kg

2026-07-03

-18.02 %

R 53,10

Ewes (Goats)

R 52,42

per kg

2026-07-03

-1.96 %

R 53,47

 

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Poultry Frozen

R 32,71

per Kg

2026-07-03

1.49 %

R 32,23

Poultry fresh

R 38,63

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.00 %

R 39,42

Poultry IQF

R 35,32

per Kg

2026-07-03

-2.19 %

R 36,11

Product Name

Price

Quantity Type

Date

Change

Previous Price

Pork Porkers

R 32,17

per Kg

2026-07-03

-5.52 %

R 34,05

Pork Baconers

R 30,50

per Kg

2026-07-03

-3.48 %

R 31,60

Pork Sausage

R 25,14

per Kg

2026-07-03

-1.33 %

R 25,48

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