-Welcome to our world- the real world of Farming and Agriculture in South Africa- Local and International news-   (Farmingportal.-168,260 hits per minute)

This AGRI NEWS RUSH - Just that one Step Ahead -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 

AGRI NEWS RUSH - HEADLINE NEWS OF THE WEEK -  www.agrinewsnet.co.za

South Africa is harvesting a record corn crop of 17.9 million tonnes for the 2025-26 season, cementing its role as a key regional exporter. Despite a bearish price environment, higher input costs from elevated fuel and fertilizer prices linked to Middle East tensions, and the risk of a drier summer from a potential El Niño, the sector is expected to stay stable in 2026-27.

What’s driving grain markets in July 2026 is a mix of weather, war, and China. Weather remains important, but it’s no longer the only story. In the US, winter wheat production is forecast at 1.030 billion bushels, down 27% from last year, with hard red winter wheat at its lowest level since the late 1950s.

South African water users have until 23 July 2026 to register or update all commercial water use details with the Department of Water and Sanitation, or face legal penalties.

Peru ships about 380,000 tonnes of blueberries a season for more than $2 billion a year. By comparison, Africa’s leaders are Morocco, then South Africa at roughly 25,000 tonnes, then Zimbabwe at around 12,000 tonnes this year. On paper the gap looks impossible, but Zimbabwe is not trying to match Peru overnight. It is the smallest player in Africa right now, and that is the runway.

Western Europe has been the driest major agricultural region in the middle latitudes over the past four months, and the situation has been made worse by recent waves of extreme heat.

South Africa’s future depends on strengthening food security, protecting natural resources, and building resilient rural economies. Agriculture is central to these goals, and agricultural science is the key driver of the innovation, productivity, and resilience the sector needs

Landbouminister Willie Aucamp het op 25 Julie die departement se nuwe aanlynstelsel vir die magtiging van private bek-en-klouseer (BKS) inenting bekendgestel. Die stelsel stel eienaars en bestuurders van beeskuddes in staat om vrywillig hul diere teen BKS te laat inent, mits hulle aan wetlike en biosekuriteitsvereistes voldoen.

The United States has increased tariffs on South Africa from 10% to 12.5% under Section 301 of the Trade Act, citing concerns over forced labour practices in various economies. Despite submissions from the South African government, private sector, and organised agriculture opposing the hike, the US proceeded with the increase.

US grocery shoppers are buying fewer items, according to a new report from Bain & Company and Nielsen IQ. Unit sales declined by 1.8%, with overall volumes falling around 2% year-on-year. The slowdown started in mid-2025 and has accelerated since February, affecting all regions of the country.

South Africa’s red meat industry will only reach its full potential once more producers start raising their animals with a specific consumer market in mind. For decades, many beef farmers have been content with producing good weaner calves and selling them to feedlots, leaving the rest of the value chain to others.

The U.S. increased tariffs under a trade law related to forced labor practices, and while South Africa’s government, private sector and agriculture groups made submissions opposing the hike, the increase still went ahead. The tariff facing South Africa rose from 10% to 12.5%.

NWK, met sy hoofkantoor op Lichtenburg in Noordwes, het ’n wins voor belasting van slegs R5 miljoen aangeteken in die boekjaar tot 30 April 2026 – teenoor R155 miljoen die vorige jaar. Dié skerp daling kan grootliks aan eksterne faktore toegeskryf word wat dié landboumaatskappy se oliesaad- en graanverhandelingsbedrywighede afsonderlik getref het.

At a water sector conference in Cape Town, the focus was on strengthening engagement with water stakeholders beyond just addressing problems as they arise. The remarks highlighted how closely South Africa’s farming economy depends on water.

Analysts are closely watching the likely impact of a severe El Niño forecast for mid-2026 on South Africa’s agriculture and food prices in 2027. For southern Africa, El Niño typically brings drought, and this one is expected to coincide with the 2026-27 summer crop season.

Despite heavy rains and flooding in May that hit production regions in the Western Cape, the local FAS agency explained the rise in volume can be attributed to overall favorable weather conditions, controlled pest pressures, and the coming into full production of higher-yield cultivars.

Economists are warning that a potential “super” or “Godzilla” El Niño in 2026-27 could deliver a major shock to global food prices, with effects possibly lasting into 2028. This comes at a time when the Iran war has already pushed world food prices to their highest level in three years, creating “two shocks at once” for supply chains.

South Africa’s new Minister of Agriculture, Willie Aucamp, is receiving praise from beef farmers for his efforts to resolve the foot-and-mouth disease vaccination crisis. FairPlay founder Francois Baird has urged the minister to apply the same problem-solving approach to the poultry sector, where mass vaccination against bird flu remains stalled.

According to Wildswinkel, the auctioneer, the results were excellent and the auction clearly confirmed the strength and resilience of the South African wildlife industry. The event was attended by approximately 280 industry participants, with 303 registered bidders, reflecting strong interest in the exceptional genetics and investment opportunities on offer

The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), launched in 2006 by the Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation, aimed to double agricultural yields and smallholder incomes while halving food insecurity across the continent. By 2020, AGRA had received nearly $1 billion in funding, with almost $650 million coming from the Gates Foundation.

If you are using our content in your media coverage or on any agricultural radio programme, we would greatly appreciate it if you could credit the source. We understand how valuable and convenient this information can be—especially on a Monday morning after a weekend of NO WORK .

www.agrinewsnet.co.za 

South Africa - Cattle, Sheep & Pork and Chicken Market Prices | 26 July 2026

Here’s a summary of the latest available livestock and meat prices in South Africa:1. Cattle (Beef)

• Weaner Calves (200–250kg): R42 – R48 per kg (live weight)
• A-Grade Young Steers (slaughter): R38 – R42 per kg (carcass weight)
• Cows & Oxen (slaughter): R32 – R37 per kg (carcass weight)
• Feedlot prices remain firm due to good demand and strong grass-fed supply.

2. Sheep & Lamb

• Lambs (A-grade, 30–40kg): R48 – R55 per kg (carcass)
• Mutton (older sheep): R38 – R44 per kg (carcass)
• Karoo and Free State lambs are trading particularly well due to strong export and local demand.

3. Pork

• Porkers (live weight): R28 – R32 per kg
• Baconers: R26 – R29 per kg
• The pork market remains under pressure from good supply and relatively lower feed costs, keeping consumer prices stable.

4. Chicken

• Whole Bird (fresh): R42 – R48 per kg (retail)
• Frozen Chicken: R35 – R39 per kg
• The poultry industry is benefiting from lower maize and soya prices, helping to keep chicken as the most affordable protein.

Overall Market Sentiment (as of 25 July 2026):

• Strong grass-fed supply is supporting prices in the red meat sector.
• FMD vaccination progress is slowly improving confidence in the cattle industry.
• Lower grain prices are providing some relief to intensive livestock producers (pork & poultry).

JUNIOR AGRIWRITERS AWARDS 2026

CLICK on IMAGE 

Summary: South African Grain & Oilseed Prices – July 2026 

Here’s a summary of the latest spot and futures prices:Major Grains

• White Maize — R4,850 – R5,050 per ton
• Yellow Maize — R4,650 – R4,850 per ton
• Wheat — R6,200 – R6,450 per ton (import parity remains influential)

Oilseeds

• Soybeans — R8,200 – R8,500 per ton
• Sunflower Seed — R7,800 – R8,100 per ton

Market Summary (26 July 2026)

• Grain prices remain under pressure due to the record 2025/26 summer crop harvest and large carryover stocks.
• Good rainfall in many production areas has supported expectations for a solid 2026/27 planting season, despite El Niño concerns.
• Lower international grain prices and a relatively stronger rand are keeping local prices subdued.
• Soybean prices are holding firmer than maize on strong crushing demand and export interest.

Note: Prices can fluctuate daily based on weather updates, currency movements, and international markets. Futures prices on SAFEX are currently trading at a slight discount to spot prices.Would you like me to include historical comparison or a more detailed provincial breakdown?

South Africa -Weeklikse Landbou Nuusoorsig - Weekly Agriculture News Summary 15 July 2026

50 Key South African Headline News Stories in Agriculture, Farming & Agritech 17 July 2026

1. Bumper Summer Crops in South Africa - Inflation rate increased
2. North West Province Vaccinates Over One Million Cattle Against FMD
3. Minister Willie Aucamp Hails FMD Settlement as Major Boost for Livestock Sector
4. Private Sector Now Allowed to Import and Distribute FMD Vaccines
5. El Niño Threatens 2026/27 Summer Season as Geopolitical Risks Mount
6. SA Agriculture Exports Reach Record Levels Despite Global Headwinds
7. Flooding in Eastern and Western Cape Threatens Citrus Export Season
8. Record Maize Harvest Expected to Stabilise Feed Costs for Poultry Industry
9. Mozambique Expands Domestic Production to Reduce Reliance on SA Vegetable Imports
10. Wildlife Legacy Auction Achieves R35.9 Million Turnover
11. Buffalo Cow Sells for Record R4.8 Million at Wildlife Auction
12. Agbiz Warns of Input Cost Pressures Despite Strong Crop Outlook
13. South Africa and Botswana Sign Three-Year FMD Biosecurity Action Plan
14. New FMD Control Measures Gazetted to Support Farmers and Trade
15. Goldman Sachs Warns Super El Niño Could Spike Global Food Prices by 15.8%
16. SA Grain and Oilseed Production Forecast Remains Robust for 2026/27
17. Poultry Industry Urges Minister Aucamp to Fast-Track Bird Flu Vaccination Policy
18. Wandile Sihlobo: SA Farmers Better Prepared for El Niño Than in Previous Cycles
19. Sugar Industry Forecasts 2% Production Increase in 2026/27 Season
20. Italy and South Africa Deepen Agricultural Trade and Investment Ties
21. Township Economy Plan Aims to Unlock Agri-Processing Opportunities
22. SA Oilseed Sector Set for Record Crush and Exports in 2026/27
23. Free State Reaches One Million FMD Vaccinations Milestone
24. Climate Change and Logistics Remain Top Concerns at Agbiz Congress 2026
25. South Africa’s Wheat Plantings Could Hit 12-Year Low in 2026/27
26. New Water Infrastructure Agency Established to Tackle Agricultural Drought Risks
27. Record Summer Grain Harvest Adds Significant Carryover Stocks
28. Citrus Growers Call for Urgent Support After Flood Damage in Cape Provinces
29. Private Veterinarians to Play Bigger Role in National Disease Control
30. Agri NW Reports Strong Demand at Recent Game Auctions
31. Rising Fuel and Fertiliser Costs Threaten Farmer Margins Ahead of New Season
32. SA Remains Net Exporter of Agricultural Products in First Half of 2026
33. Biosecurity Pact with Botswana Aims to Protect Regional Livestock Trade
34. Farmers Welcome Settlement Allowing Private FMD Vaccine Imports
35. El Niño Expected to Bring Drier Conditions to Summer Crop Regions
36. Livestock Industry Shows Resilience Despite Ongoing FMD Challenges
37. Government and Industry Collaborate on New Avian Influenza Strategy
38. Strong International Demand Boosts SA Fruit and Nut Exports
39. Agripreneurs Benefit from New Italy-SA Agribusiness Partnership
40. Karoo Farmers Adapt Successfully to Changing Climate Patterns
41. Record Soybean Harvest Drives Growth in Local Oilseed Crushing
42. Minister Aucamp Emphasises Science-Based Approach to Disease Management
43. SA Agriculture Gross Value Added Grows 3.9% in First Quarter of 2026
44. Calls for Faster Infrastructure Investment to Support Export Growth
45. Red Meat Industry Services Imports 4.5 Million FMD Vaccine Doses
46. Game Breeding Sector Demonstrates Strong Market Confidence
47. Experts Urge Balanced Approach to El Niño Risk Management
48. New National Water Access Programme Launched in Rural Communities
49. Agricultural Employment Rises to 960,000 Jobs in Early 2026
50. South Africa Positions Itself as Regional Food Security Hub Amid Global Uncertainty

These headlines reflect the key themes dominating South African agriculture in July 2026: FMD management, strong crop harvests, El Niño concerns, export performance, and industry resilience.

READ MORE  ( Stats)    Listen to all our Daily Audiocast - It is doing very good. But also see that some news mediums like to follow us.

MORE GOOD NEWS -  AUDIO AGRI NEWS NET which was selected by Million Podcasts as one of the Top 100 Agriculture Podcasts, Top 100 Farming Podcasts and Top 100 Sustainable

Agriculture Podcasts on the web. READ MORE 

Here's a concise summary of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) situation in South Africa as of mid-July 2026:

South Africa continues to battle an ongoing FMD outbreak that has affected multiple provinces. Key Developments:

• Over one million cattle have been vaccinated in the North West province alone, with other provinces also scaling up efforts.
• A major breakthrough occurred on 9 July 2026 when Minister Willie Aucamp reached a settlement agreement with key agricultural organisations. This allows the private sector to import, distribute, and administer FMD vaccines for the first time.
• New national FMD control measures have been gazetted, providing clearer pathways for farmers to manage outbreaks, move animals under controlled conditions, and reduce economic losses.
• Progress is being made toward regaining FMD-free status, but authorities emphasise that robust surveillance, traceability, and a second vaccination round are still required.

The disease remains a significant challenge, but the shift toward private sector involvement and improved vaccination access has improved industry confidence. Full recovery and reopening of export markets will depend on sustained control and proven disease-free zones.The situation is being closely monitored, with collaboration between government, private veterinarians, and farmers’ organisations.

   WATCH OUT- NEW program on the way - exclusive to CRA MEDIA and the FARMERS of South Africa - 2026  

Weather Predictions for South Africa: 26th July

General Outlook

• Winter conditions continue across much of the country.
• A cold front is expected to move across the southern parts, bringing rain, strong winds, and significantly colder temperatures.

Regional Forecast:

• Western Cape & Southern Cape: Rain and showers likely, especially along the coast and over the mountains. Strong south-westerly winds and cold conditions. Possible light snow on high ground (Cederberg, Overberg).
• Eastern Cape: Cool to cold with scattered showers along the coast. Interior remains mostly dry.
• Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo & North West: Mostly clear and cold. Minimum temperatures will drop below 5°C in many areas, with frost expected in low-lying and rural parts.
• Free State & Northern Cape: Very cold mornings with widespread frost. Daytime temperatures will struggle to rise above 15–18°C. Dry conditions expected.
• KwaZulu-Natal: Milder with a chance of coastal showers. Inland areas cool.

Key Highlights:

• Very cold nights expected across the Highveld and interior.
• Strong winds along the southern and south-western coast.
• Fire danger remains high in dry areas.

Summary: South African Fertilizer Prices – July 2026

Here’s a concise update on current fertilizer prices in South Africa:Major Fertilizer Prices (per ton, VAT excl.)

Product	Price Range (Rand/ton)	Trend
Urea (46%)	R9,800 – R10,500	Stable to slightly down
LAN (28%)	R7,200 – R7,800	Stable
MAP (Monoammonium Phosphate)	R14,500 – R15,800	Firm
DAP (Diammonium Phosphate)	R15,200 – R16,000	Firm
Potassium Chloride (KCL)	R11,500 – R12,300	Stable
Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN)	R6,800 – R7,400	Stable

Market Summary

• Fertilizer prices have remained relatively stable over the past month, supported by lower international urea and ammonia prices.
• The stronger Rand and lower global shipping costs have helped ease some pressure.
• Farmers are currently benefiting from reasonable fertilizer prices ahead of the new summer planting season, although concerns remain about potential El Niño-related demand spikes later in the year.

Prices can vary by region and supplier. Bulk purchases and forward contracts often secure better rates.

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 

Dis weer Sondag en baie het gebeur oor die naweek. Ek het Saterdag ’n heerlike tyd gehad in Pretoria by die "Lamb Champs". Die lekkerste skaapvleis geëet.

Daar was baie mense-ek hoor 7000 en hulle was honger en dors..baie dors -en daar was oorgenoeg vir die droee kele- en die lekker "doef" "doef" musiek wat aan 'n man se borsbeen geklop het - sal ek se- was dalk te hard vir my ore. Die manne wat die skaapkoppe ge-eet het in so vinnige tyd- moet seker vanoggend net so vinnig hardloop vir die wittroon.

Die mense doen baie moeite. Baie netjies, skoon en baie goed beplan. Daar is niks soos om tussen my eie mense te wees nie die ware boere van Suid Afrika. Ek het die Ambassadeer van Amerika gesien loop, asook die Minister van Landbou- en die voornemende burgermeester van Pretoria, Cilliers Brink, baie belangrike mense- Ek self het nie hooggeplaastes uit die ander Landbou organisasies gesien nie - ek kon hulle dalk gemis het.

In ons dorpie groet jy mense as jy by hulle verby ry- en dit het ek ook gesin in die aftree oord waar ons by vriende in Pretoria gekuier het. En na 'n lang aandrit is ek terug op die plaas in die Vrystaat. Dankie SAAI julle doen uiters goeie werk en geluk aan die boere wat gewen het.

My vrou, Getruida, het my vertel dat "Boer Soek ’n Vrou" weer op TV is. Ek verstaan dis vermaak, maar ek kan nog steeds nie in my kop kry dat ’n man op televisie moet gaan soek vir 'n vrou nie. Vir my voel dit meer soos ’n skou.- Dit lyk of die dames reeds in die wegspringblokke is om die manne te ontmoet. Dit wys net hoe baie dinge in so ’n kort tyd verander het- in my dae het ons gereis om te gaan vry. 

Een van die dae gaan daar soveel Springbok Rugby spelers wees dat jy nie eers almal se name sal onthou nie- dink net wat is die bedrag aan Salarisse wat betaal moet word. 

Met al die slim ekonome in die land, lyk dit of die enigste plan is om rentekoerse aanhoudend te verhoog. Ons weet almal wat pryse regtig opstoot: brandstofkoste en gulsige maatskappye wat pryse bly verhoog om windste te behou en nog meer.  Die sisteem is verouderd- so ook van die manne vwat by die Reserwebank die besluite neem. Dit is een ding om rente op nuwe lenings te verhoog. Maar om rente te verhoog op skuld wat mense reeds het? Dit vernietig net die rykdom wat gesinne oor jare opgebou het.

Ons is nog besig om te oes en gelukkig lyk die oes goed. Maar as ek vorentoe kyk, maak dit my bietjie bang om te sien hoe die brandstofprys weer styg. Elke keer as diesel duurder word, word alles op die plaas duurder — van plant tot en met om die oes by die mark te kry.

Ek sien ook dat President Ramaphosa vir ’n rukkie van die haak is met sy Phala Phala-saak. Die man het nege lewens.

En nou het ons ’n nuwe Minister van Landbou. Hy is baie gewild. Almal wat daarvan hou om onderhoude te doen, kry ’n kans- al weet baie nie veel van Landbou nie. Maar soms dink ek dit sal beter wees as boere die kans kry om vrae te stel. 

Die VSA is al weer besig met sy Tariewe en dit gaan ons nog baie duur te staan kom. 

Dit is groet tyd - die Vrystaat is weer koud- maar ons is dankbaar vir nog 'n dag van lewe.

Mag julle almal ’n lekker week he ons gesels weer. OOM Kerneels.

NS -We normally do not post sponsored or external videos on our professional platforms. However, videos of this nature — which are non-marketing and informative — are not freely available  YouTube channels. We will soon have our own Professional Video Channel form our own Production house.

Tonight, I welcomed farmers, organisers, sponsors and industry leaders to Tshwane ahead of the Pretoria leg of Lamb Champs South Africa’s premier lamb festival and agricultural competition.

We are proud to host an event that celebrates our farmers, promotes food security,… pic.twitter.com/LJFwv8A13U

— Dr Nasiphi Moya (@nasiphim) July 24, 2026

We had a wonderful time at Lamb Champs 2026. We met visitors, farmers and industry leaders who came together to celebrate the very best of South African agriculture.

The event showcased the passion, skill and dedication that make our agriculture sector so special. This… pic.twitter.com/EcbRppzq4a

— Dr Nasiphi Moya (@nasiphim) July 26, 2026

Twitter