Agbiz Congress Update - Only 20 days left to register
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Tremendous excitement is building up as there is only one month left before we host the Agricultural Business Chamber's (Agbiz) biennial congress! The Agbiz Congress 2016, themed "Fit for the Future" takes takes place on 1 - 2 June 2016 in Somerset West, Cape Town. All interested parties are invited to register before 16 May 2016. The updated programme is linked»
The Agbiz pre-congress workshop on 31 May 2016 is almost fully booked. The workshop is themed: "Transforming leadership in agribusiness". Please note that seats are limited for this workshop and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Find linked the workshop programme as well as the registration form.
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Minister Nkwinti delivers DRDLR Budget Speech in Parliament

Minister Gugile Nkwinti delivered the Budget Speech for the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) on the 26th of April 2016. The Minister emphasized especially Agri-Parks development and progress with the re-opened restitution process. Please click on Budget Speech to peruse.
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International trade and investment intelligence
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Status of Oriental fruit fly in South Africa and control measures
The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) announced that the Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) is now found in at least 65 countries and in most of Africa's sub-Saharan countries. This pest can result in food insecurity, yield reduction, job losses, market restrictions and high production and post-harvest costs, if not effectively controlled. The crop hosts include mango, guava, citrus, avocado, banana, coffee, papaya, passion fruit, pear, apricot peach, cherry, apple, pepper and tomato. Read media statement»
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The Crop Estimates Committee this week released the area planted estimate and fourth production forecast for summer crops for 2016. The report is linked»
Please note that the crop estimates are compiled by the Crop Estimates Committee of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries.
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El Nino update by ARC
According to the Oceanic Nino Index, the three strongest El Ninos since 1950 occurred during 1982/83, 1997/98 and the current summer. Drought associated with the current El Niño event reached its maximum extent and intensity during 2015. Read more in the linked Umlindi report or the ARC.
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Monsanto researchers showcase new breakthrough in protein science
Research published earlier this week by Monsanto and Harvard University is poised to deliver never-before-seen breakthroughs for the role of protein science in agriculture and will lead to new innovations for farmers and society. Below are links to more information:
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VKB Group takes over trade activities of DIY Superstore
The VKB Group will be taking over the trade activities of DIY Superstore in Bethlehem from 1st of May this year. Read more»
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