Farmer's Weekly

Farmer’s Weekly is an agricultural magazine based in South Africa, targeting the whole of Southern Africa. The magazine is committed to advancing the interests of the region’s farmers and its agricultural industry by serving as a mouthpiece for the industry and by keeping its readers informed of the latest developments in the agricultural sector.

Nobody really knows what to expect

Farmer's Weekly

Why a solar-power subscription might not make financial sense • Solar-energy subscriptions are often marketed as convenient and hassle-free, but it’s important to consult a checklist before signing up for one. Teresa Kok, director of One Energy, talks about what to look for.

Calling all young farmers! • 1 to 2 April, Pretoria North

Veggie gardens in estates integrate wellness, sustainability, and greener living

New danger to potatoes

Focus on key areas to maintain competitiveness and address socioeconomic challenges • Collaboration between government, business, and civil society is vital for the continued success of South Africa’s agribusiness sector and overcoming food insecurity.

WEEKLY NEWS WRAP

Maize expected to trade near import parity levels in 2024/25 marketing season • Weather conditions in the critical months between January and March will determine the production outcome of maize and may allay supply concerns, writes Annelie Coleman.

Higher domestic wheat prices could be on the cards for South Africa in 2025 • Global issues, including the policies of the new US administration under Donald Trump and the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, could significantly affect international wheat trade. Annelie Coleman reports.

New-season estimate for barley dubbed 'conservative' • Although the total production of barley in 2024 was slightly less than that of the previous season, the planned release of new varieties holds promise. Magda du Toit reports.

Cotton industry is gaining momentum! • Cotton production is expected to continue its expansion into the new season. Magda du Toit reports.

Positive outlook for wine industry in 2025 • Conditions leading up to the 2025 wine grape harvest have generally been favourable, which should result in good-quality grapes, writes Glenneis Kriel.

Good-quality table grape harvest expected • South Africa has access to 16 of the world’s top 20 table grape-importing countries, and aims to expand exports by cultivating markets in Southeast Asia, the US and Canada. Glenneis Kriel reports.

Groundnut prices expected to drop or move sideways in 2025

Potato farmers' viability under threat in new year

Concern over Chinese dominance in nut market • South Africa’s macadamia and pecan crops are largely destined for China. This is problematic, with Chinese consumers under pressure. Lindi Botha reports.

Innovation and increased local production bode well for citrus in 2025 • Poor weather and smaller harvests in key citrus production regions around the world present South African growers with many opportunities. Octavia Avesca Spandiel reports.

Farmers urged to plan carefully for the next ostrich season

Poultry industry poised for recovery

Red meat industry eyes moderate growth and new export opportunities

Little wiggle room to increase pork margins in 2025

Agricultural machinery sales in 2025 likely to remain on par with those for 2024

The weather conditions could go either way in 2025, say scientists

South Africa's horse industry: steady growth and global reach • With the EU recently lifting the ban on the direct export of horses from South Africa, the future for the horse industry is looking particularly bright. Sinenhlanhla Mncwango reports.

Developing a vegetable-growing enterprise: Part 2...