The FDA has banned using medically important antibiotics for growth promotion in animal production, affecting the food supply chain, from producer to consumer. Adopting technology to prevent development of antimicrobial resistance in the food supply chain will be a big challenge in the agriculture and food industries over the next few years.

At the 2017 International Food and Agribusiness Management Association (IFAMA) World Conference, a panel of agribusiness experts will gather to discuss the implications the FDA ban will have on the market through the coming years. 

Agbiz CEO, Dr John Purchase, will facilitate a panel discussion on the changing dynamics of world food trade and Sub-Saharan Africa's ability to meet the requirements of enhanced trade regulations.

The IFAMA 2017 World Conference is June 18-21 in Miami, Florida, USA. Click on programme  and conference flyer for more information.   Register today!

South Africa's Crop Estimate Committee (CEC) reaffirmed its expectation of the second biggest maize crop on record in 2017. The CEC revised up its forecast by 1% from the previous one to 14.54 million tonnes. This is against market expectations of a 1% decline to 14.20 million tonnes.   Wandile Sihlobo, provides more information in the linked update»

Zeder chief executive, Norman Celliers, says Kaap Agri will definitely be listed in 2017. "Nothing will change on how the company is run after the listing. It will continue to operate as it is because it has a very good management team." - Read more»

The Free State Agriculture Safety Desk received an amount of R420 000 from VKB in support of rural safety in the Free State. These funds were raised by means of the 2017 VKB Drive for Safety Golf Day. The company has been hosting this day for the past four years in aid of rural safety - Read more»

The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Mr Senzeni Zokwana on Tuesday visited  the Sun Farming Project at the University of North West, Potchefstroom Campus.  The visit is part of an ongoing plan by the department to intensify public-private partnerships in training graduates and creating employment opportunities.   The visit aimed to strengthen partnerships with the university in research and training in vertical vegetable production done in the solar roofed tunnels located at the university. The production method allows for higher planting density and yield. It also provides an opportunity for rain water harvesting.   Several types of vegetables including tomatoes and spinach have been grown in the tunnels since June 2016  -   Read more»