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This AGRI NEWS RUSH -Some of the news stories of this week-, SUNDAY EDITION - ALWAYS ON TIME  - AGRI NEWS RUSH is now one of the most read Articles on a Sunday 

Another week, another own goal for Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, who continues to come under heavy criticism for his handling of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) crisis.The latest controversy centres on a snide internal email sent by his chief of staff, Jana le Roux.

The inaugural South Africa–Italy Agriculture Business Forum was successfully hosted by South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, and Italy’s Minister of Agriculture, Francesco Lollobrigida.Held under the theme "South Africa and Italy Building Resilient, Value-Added Agri-Business Partnerships:

The May 2026 floods in the Western and Eastern Cape caused devastating damage to South Africa’s pome and stone fruit industry, with losses estimated at R6.3 billion (approximately US$380 million).

Wet spells during harvest hurt quality in some regions, though average wheat protein improved to 12.2%.Germany remains a top agricultural trader, ranking third in imports at $146 billion in 2024 and fourth in exports at €106 billion, with about one third of farm output shipped abroad.

South Africa needs to urgently review its membership structure of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) to gain greater flexibility in negotiating bilateral trade agreements and expanding export opportunities, according to agricultural industry leaders.

The ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in South Africa, although costly and highly disruptive, is driving meaningful long-term progress in the livestock sector.According to BFAP, the crisis has sparked an unprecedented partnership between government and the private sector.

Brazil is heading for a record grain harvest in the 2025-26 season, according to the latest forecast released by the National Supply Company (Conab) on 11 June.Soybean production stands out strongly, with output now projected to reach a record 180.3 million tonnes — an increase of 8.8 million tonnes from the previous season.

South Africa’s agriculture faces a potentially difficult 2026/2027 season as strong signs point to the development of El Niño. In simple terms, El Niño is a natural climate pattern that occurs when sea temperatures in the Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal.

Half of the world’s habitable land is already used for agriculture. HALF! Beef uses over 300 square metres of land per kilo. Mutton even more. Cheese is high. Pork and milk sit somewhere in the middle. Vegetables like carrots and tomatoes - a tiny fraction by comparison.

This week’s agricultural highlights several key pressures and opportunities currently shaping South African farming.In the grain market, maize prices dropped sharply, driven by heavy fund selling, favourable weather in the United States, and local export parity levels. Livestock markets show a mixed picture.

Permit holders who want to translocate game (especially antelope) outside the normal capture and transport season in the Northern Cape must strictly follow tight regulations focused on animal welfare and biosecurity.

South Africa’s foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak continues to worsen, with official figures showing 2,249 reported outbreak locations across the country. Of these, 2,211 outbreaks remain active while only 38 have been closed, highlighting the scale of one of the most serious livestock disease crises in recent history.

The past month has highlighted both the resilience and the vulnerabilities within South Africa’s agricultural sector. While producers continue to face serious challenges, there are also clear signs of progress, particularly in the national response to foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

Gemiddelde tot bogemiddelde reën word van Julie tot September oor die grootste deel van Suid-Afrika verwag. Daarna voorspel deskundiges baie droë en warm toestande van November tot Maart/April weens die vinnige ontwikkeling van ’n sterk El Niño in die Stille Oseaan.

Water users have about a month left to register any unregistered water uses with the Department of Water and Sanitation or face possible criminal prosecution. Law firm Webber Wentzel warns that failing to register can lead to criminal liability including up to five years in jail.

On behalf of the South African Feedlot Association, appreciation was expressed for the allocation of additional foot-and-mouth disease vaccines and for the support shown to the livestock sector during a difficult period. The feedlot sector has faced significant losses from FMD outbreaks, which reduced calf purchases as risk increased and capital was redirected to absorb existing losses.

South African agriculture is facing a serious climate risk as strong signals point to the development of El Niño conditions during 2026, with the impact likely to extend into the 2026/2027 summer production season.

Farmer confidence and expectations for South African agriculture over the next year have weakened significantly, even before the recent devastating storms in the Western and Eastern Cape.A recent survey among agricultural economists and financial advisors in the country confirms what many farmers are experiencing on the ground: conditions in the sector are tough.

Agribusinesses are focused on strengthening South Africa’s position as a major agricultural exporter at a time when some markets are becoming harder to access and conflicts are disrupting trade.There is consensus that Africa, the EU, the UK, the Americas, and Asia remain core markets, and the country must retain and deepen access there, including for products that do not yet have preferential or lower tariffs.

South Africa and Italy have strengthened their agricultural trade ties after approving a technical agreement that will allow the export of Italian table grapes into the South African market.

Professor William Gumede, associate professor at Wits School of Governance, argues that Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) has allowed white-owned companies to avoid real structural change and protect their market position.

Suid-Afrika se landbousektor het in die eerste kwartaal van 2026 ’n rekordhandelsoorskot van VS$1,55 miljard (ongeveer R25,7 miljard) behaal, wat 16,1% hoër is as dieselfde tydperk in 2025. Landbou-uitvoere het VS$3,30 miljard beloop, terwyl invoere met 10,6% afgeneem het. Die groter handelsoorskot was egter hoofsaaklik die gevolg van laer invoerkoste eerder as sterker uitvoergroei.

Landbouminister John Steenhuisen se personeelhoof, Jana le Roux, het glo tydens die Nampo-oesdag van 12 tot 15 Mei by Bothaville in die openbaar gevloek op Vrystaat Landbou se uitvoerende hoof, Gernie Botha. By ’n braai wat deur Landbouweekblad se redakteur Chris Burgess gereël is, het sy hom glo toegesnou: “Ek gaan julle opf** in die hof.” Sy is daarna gevra om te kalmeer en Botha het belowe om ’n vergadering met Vrystaat Landbou se president Francois Wilken te fasiliteer. Vrystaat Landbou, Saai en Sakeliga het die landboudepartement voor die hof gedaag oor die verbod op privaat verkryging en toediening van bek-en-klouseer-entstowwe. Die hooggeregshof in Pretoria het op 25 Mei tussentydse bevel verleen dat entstowwe wel privaat toegedien mag word, hangende ’n volledige hersieningsaansoek later vandeesmaand. Die voorval kom kort nadat Le Roux verskoning moes vra vir ’n uitgelekte e-pos waarin sy ’n bek-en-klouseer-drükgroep se versoek om meer betrokkenheid as “amusant” afgemaak het. Netwerk 24 Sondag 14 Mei 2026

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Summary: Red Meat, Chicken & Pork Prices in South Africa – Second Week of June 2026  Red Meat (Beef & Lamb/Mutton)Beef carcass prices remained relatively firm in early June 2026:

• A2/A3 Beef: Around R63.75 – R63.93/kg
• AB2/AB3: Around R61.50/kg
• B2/B3: Around R59.00/kg
• C2/C3: Around R57.65 – R58.00/kg

Weaner calves traded at approximately R42 – R44/kg.Lamb/Mutton carcass prices were stronger, especially for better grades:

• A2/A3 Lamb: Around R106 – R110/kg
• Feeder Lamb: Around R52/kg

Red meat prices (particularly beef) have been holding steady or slightly firmer in recent weeks, supported by tighter supply in some classes.ChickenChicken prices remained under pressure due to weaker consumer demand.

• Whole fresh chicken (retail average): Around R68 – R69/kg in May, with some further softening reported in early June.
• Producer/wholesale frozen chicken prices hovered in the low to mid R35/kg range.

Overall, chicken continues to be the more affordable protein option but faces margin pressure.PorkPork prices have dropped noticeably in recent weeks:

• Porker carcasses: Down sharply, trading around R36 – R37/kg (declines of 3–6% week-on-week reported in late May).
• Retail pork products averaged around R128/kg in May, also showing some softening.
•  Red meat (especially beef and lamb) prices are holding firmer than chicken and pork. Chicken and pork are under pressure from weaker consumer spending and improved supply in some segments. Prices can vary significantly between wholesale, carcass, and retail levels, as well as by region and grade.

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Summary: South African Grain & Oilseed Prices – Second Week of June 2026 Here’s a clear overview of SAFEX spot and nearby futures prices as of mid-June 2026 (around 12 June):

Major Grains

• White Maize: Trading around R3,160 – R3,196 per ton
• Yellow Maize: Trading around R3,163 – R3,200 per ton

Both white and yellow maize prices remained under pressure due to the large expected 2025/26 harvest and improved weather forecasts.Oilseeds

• Soybeans: Around R6,711 – R6,745 per ton
• Sunflower Seed: Around R8,820 – R8,860 per ton

Wheat

• Wheat: Trading around R5,730 – R5,748 per ton

Market Context (Second Week of June 2026)

• Prices across maize, soybeans, and sunflower were generally soft to weaker, driven by the record projected summer grain and oilseed harvest (21.1 million tonnes).
• Good rainfall forecasts and large carryover stocks added downward pressure on the market.
• Wheat prices were also softer, influenced by global trends and local import parity levels.

Overall Trend: The market is in a surplus-driven phase. With South Africa expecting one of its largest-ever grain and oilseed crops, prices remain under pressure. This benefits consumers and the animal feed industry but squeezes producer margins, especially with high input costs.

 AGRI NEWS NET- WEEKEND NEWS RUSH Summary of the Week News 31st May 2026

30 Key South African Headline News Stories in Agriculture, Farming & Agritech as of Friday, 12 June 2026:

Here is a concise and well-organised roundup of the major stories dominating the sector right now:

1. FMD Crisis Deepens: All nine provinces affected as foot-and-mouth disease reaches worst levels in South African history.
2. “For Amusement” Scandal Rocks Agriculture: Department of Agriculture officials mocked farmers’ plea for help in FMD fight, sparking widespread outrage.
3. Farmers Say “Enough is Enough”: Growing anger over slow FMD response and perceived disrespect from government officials.
4. Tongaat Hulett Liquidation Hearing Looms: KZN High Court case on 17 June raises fears of massive job losses and sugarcane industry collapse.
5. El Niño 2026/2027 Warning Issued: Strong probability of hot, dry conditions ahead – farmers urged to start droughtproofing immediately.
6. Record Summer Grain Harvest Expected: 21.1 million tonnes forecast despite disease and weather challenges.
7. Agricultural Growth Surges: Sector expands 3.9% in Q1 2026, boosted by strong field crops and horticulture.
8. SA Agricultural Exports Hit US$3.7bn: 11% increase in first quarter of 2026.
9. BEE Compliance Costs Explode: One company paid 307% of profit on BEE in a single year, new report reveals.
10. BEE Costs Economy Up to R290 Billion Annually: Equivalent to nearly 4% of GDP, according to Solidarity and FMF study.
11. Italy-SA Table Grape Export Deal Signed: New agreement opens SA market to Italian grapes as trade relations strengthen.
12. Slow FMD Vaccination Rate Criticised: Only 31% of national herd vaccinated by early June, far below 80% target.
13. Farmers Demand Private Sector Role in FMD Fight: Calls for faster vaccine access and cooperation intensify.
14. Farmer Sentiment Plummets: Latest survey shows sharp decline in confidence for the year ahead.
15. AFMA Calls for Modernised Assurance System: Feed industry pushes risk-based, tech-driven compliance to boost traceability.
16. Rail Revitalisation Will Not Sideline Road Freight: Transport Minister Barbara Creecy reassures trucking industry.
17. SA Faces R13.1 Billion FMD Losses Over Five Years: BFAP study warns of severe long-term economic damage.
18. Poultry Sector Recovers Strongly: Feed production rises as avian flu impact fades and prices ease.
19. Food Insecurity Inquiry Continues: SAHRC highlights affordability crisis and calls for land access and systemic reform.
20. eSusFarm Raises Hope for Smallholders: Agri-fintech platform uses AI and satellite data to unlock credit and insurance for African farmers.
21. Western Cape Storm Damage Lingers: Recent heavy rain and cold snap leaves trail of destruction in farming areas.
22. Upcoming Cold Snap and Snow Forecast: Minimum temperatures could drop to -5°C in parts of Free State and Eastern Cape.
23. Sugar Industry Warns of Biofuels Opportunity at Risk: Collapse of Tongaat Hulett could derail green energy ambitions.
24. VF Plus Calls for Investigation: Demands probe into Department of Agriculture’s handling of FMD correspondence.
25. Winter Rainfall Regions Brace for Below-Average Rain: Concerns mount for wheat, barley and canola production.
26. Rising Input Costs Squeeze Margins: Fuel, fertiliser and interest rates put pressure on profitability.
27. Call for Greater Private Sector Role in Agriculture: Industry leaders push back against “statist” approach to crises.
28. Consumer Food Baskets Under Strain: Low-income households underspending on nutrition by at least 17%.
29. Agri-Fintech Expansion into West Africa: South African startups lead push for better smallholder financing across the continent.
30. Farmers Urged to Droughtproof Now: Experts warn 2026/2027 season could test resilience of entire food value chain.

These stories reflect the current mix of crisis management (FMD), long-term risks (El Niño, BEE costs), positive signals (harvests & exports), and structural debates (policy, transformation, and private sector involvement) shaping South African agriculture right now. 

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South Africa Weather Forecast:

South Africa Weather Forecast: Week of 15–21 June 2026. South Africa is currently in mid-winter, with cool to cold conditions dominating most of the country this week.

• Interior (Gauteng, Free State, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga): Mostly fine and cool to cold. Cold mornings with frost patches possible, especially over the high ground. Daytime highs generally 17–23°C.
• Western Cape: Cool with periods of light rain and showers, especially along the south-western and southern coastal areas early in the week.
• Eastern Cape & KwaZulu-Natal: Cool to mild with a chance of scattered showers along the coast.
• Northern Cape: Very cold in places, with minimum temperatures dropping close to or below freezing in some areas.

Day-by-Day Highlights

• Monday 15 – Wednesday 17 June: Partly cloudy and cool across much of the interior. Light rain possible over the Western Cape and south coast. Cold mornings, especially in the central and southern interior.
• Thursday 18 – Friday 19 June: Conditions remain mostly stable and cool. A weak frontal system may bring light rain to the south-western Cape.
• Weekend (20–21 June): Mostly fine and cool to cold. Frost is likely over the interior on clear nights.

Temperature Ranges (Approximate)

Region	Daytime Highs	Night-time Lows
Johannesburg	17–21°C	4–8°C
Pretoria	18–22°C	5–9°C
Cape Town	16–19°C	8–11°C
Durban	21–24°C	10–13°C
Bloemfontein	15–19°C	1–5°C
Kimberley	17–21°C	3–6°C

Frost Risk: Moderate to high over the Highveld and central interior on clear nights.
Fire Risk: Elevated in the northern and north-eastern interior due to dry, cool conditions.Would you like a more detailed forecast for a specific province or city?

Fertilizer Prices in South Africa: Second Week of June 2026

Fertilizer Prices in South Africa – Third Week of June 2026Fertilizer prices in South Africa remain elevated and volatile, mainly due to global supply disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East (particularly the Strait of Hormuz) and higher energy costs.Current Wholesale / Delivered Prices (approximate, mid-June 2026)

Fertilizer Type	Price (R/ton)	Trend	Notes
Urea (46%)	R11,800 – R13,200	Strongly up	Major increase due to Middle East disruptions
MAP (Monoammonium Phosphate)	R16,500 – R18,200	Up significantly	High demand and tight supply
DAP (Diammonium Phosphate)	R16,800 – R18,500	Up 10–15% since early 2026	Strong global price pressure
KAN / LAN (28–30%)	R9,800 – R10,800	Moderately up	More stable than urea
Potassium Chloride (MOP)	R9,200 – R10,200	Slightly up	Relatively better supplied
Ammonium Sulphate (AMSUL)	R6,800 – R7,800	Stable to slightly higher	Used in blends

Key Market Context

• Global Influence: Urea prices surged sharply earlier in 2026 due to export disruptions from the Middle East. Although some relief has appeared through rerouting, prices remain well above 2025 levels.
• Local Situation: South Africa imports roughly 80% of its fertilizer. The rand’s performance and international shipping costs are adding extra pressure.
• Farmer Impact: Input costs for the upcoming 2026/27 planting season are noticeably higher than the previous year. This is a major concern for grain and oilseed producers, especially with already soft grain prices.

Overall Trend: Fertilizer prices are 10–25% higher year-on-year, depending on the product. Urea and phosphate-based fertilizers (MAP/DAP) have seen the sharpest increases.

South Africa Economy Status – Third Week of June 2026 -South Africa’s economy is showing modest recovery but remains constrained by structural challenges. Growth is positive yet subdued, with cautious optimism for the rest of 2026.Key Highlights (as of mid-June 2026):

• GDP Growth: The economy expanded by 0.5% quarter-on-quarter in Q1 2026 (seasonally adjusted), beating expectations. Year-on-year growth reached 1.9%. This marks the sixth consecutive quarter of expansion, though momentum is slowing.
• 2026 Growth Outlook: Most forecasts point to full-year GDP growth of between 1.2% and 1.6% for 2026. The National Treasury and OECD project around 1.6%, while the African Development Bank is more conservative at 1.2%.
• Inflation: Headline inflation has risen to around 4.0% in April/May, up from 3.1% earlier, mainly due to higher fuel, diesel, and food prices (partly linked to FMD). Risks remain on the upside due to global oil prices and input costs. The South African Reserve Bank is closely monitoring this.
• Unemployment: The official rate increased to 32.7% in the first quarter — the highest in three quarters. Approximately 345,000 jobs were lost, with major declines in community services and construction. Agriculture, mining, and manufacturing recorded small gains.
• Rand Performance: The Rand has been relatively resilient, supported by improved investor sentiment and stronger Q1 GDP data.
• Key Positive Factors:
  • Improved electricity supply (fewer load-shedding days)
  • Strong agricultural harvest in 2025/26
  • Gradual logistics reforms under Operation Vulindlela
  • Better business confidence earlier in the year
• Major Challenges:
  • High input costs (fuel, fertiliser, logistics)
  • Persistent infrastructure bottlenecks (especially rail and ports)
  • Weak consumer demand and high unemployment
  • Geopolitical risks (Iran conflict affecting oil prices)
  • Slow progress in structural reforms

Overall Assessment:
The economy is in a low-growth recovery phase. While positive momentum from energy stability and agriculture continues, high unemployment, rising inflation risks, and logistics constraints are limiting faster expansion. Most analysts expect gradual improvement in the second half of 2026 if reforms gain traction and global conditions do not deteriorate sharply.

DISCLAIMER

The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by CRA and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.Just for your information. - We need to share this as this is part of Farming and Agriculture.

AGRI NEWS NET stands as South Africa’s leading source for farming and agriculture news, delivering trusted, up-to-date content 7 days a week, 365 days a year. With over 50 “good news stories you can trust,” the platform is driven by 30 years of practical farming and media experience, ensuring a deep understanding of the needs and realities of farmers and the agricultural sector. AGRI NEWS NET prides itself on being committed, independent, focused, and always on time. As part of the CRA Group, the platform leverages its extensive expertise to provide reliable, farmer-centric news. Its content is compiled using advanced AI technology, ensuring accuracy and relevance while staying connected to the broader global farming and agriculture community. For the third consecutive year, AGRI NEWS NET’s Daily Audiocast has been ranked among the top 15 agricultural podcasts on Feedspot, a testament to its quality and impact. The audiocast delivers concise, engaging updates, making it a go-to resource for farmers, industry professionals, and agriculture enthusiasts seeking timely insights. With a focus on “good news stories,” AGRI NEWS NET highlights positive developments, innovations, and successes in South African agriculture. Rooted in real-world farming knowledge and media expertise, AGRI NEWS NET bridges the gap between farmers, policymakers, and the public. Its AI-driven platform ensures comprehensive coverage, from local issues . By focusing on practical, trustworthy content, AGRI NEWS NET empowers the agricultural community to stay informed and inspired. 

OOM KERNEELS 

Vandag gesels ek in Afrikaans.

Suid-Afrikaners raak baie opgewonde oor rugby en sokker — almal staan saam agter die spanne en wil hê hulle moet goed doen op die wêreldverhoog. Sokker is waarskynlik die sport wat wêreldwyd die meeste ondersteun word, en met die Wêreldbeker wat nou aan die gang is, is die gees baie hoog in Suid-Afrika.  Die Edelagbare Minister het reeds gesê Suid-Afrika het ‘n baie goeie kans om te wen, en met ‘n begroting van R19 miljoen om te gaan kyk en te ondersteun, hoop ons regtig so want die belasting betalers betaal maar vir alles. Maar ek moet eerlik wees, ek weet nie veel van sokker nie — en ek dink nie hulle gaan die beker wen nie. Intussen kry rugby ook momentum, en Springbok-rugby gaan hierdie winter weer hoog op die agenda wees.Terselfdertyd is die media vol van bek-en-klou-seer, wat steeds ‘n groot probleem bly, en  baie van ons boere is nie baie gelukkig met die Edelagbare Minister van Landbou nie en wat ek vanoggend in nuus lees is nog meer onstellend wat gese is deur Landbouminister John Steenhuisen se personeelhoof, Jana le Roux, wat ek nie hier kan herhaal nie. Boonop maak El Niño nou sy verskyning en dit gaan ‘n groot impak op die land en ons boere hê. Trekkerverkope het dramaties geval, wat ook ‘n duidelike teken is van die druk waaronder boere verkeer.Ons is so trots op ons skaapboere, en nadat ek die Lambchamps dokumentêr gekyk het, wil ons SAAI en almal betrokke by daardie groot kampioene gelukwens. Dis 'n nuwe week- die weer is deurmekaar en hou jou kop hoog.  

Groete  Oom Kerneels. 

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