Caxton Magazines
Shortage of wool drives the market
The wool market is bullish, witheveryone on edge, waiting to see when the cycle will turn. The general shortage of accumulated wool stocks in the wool processing pipeline - due to the economic depression - is having a strong positive effect on demand, said Martin Schwellnus, general manager for BKB's fibre trading.
Steady recovery in adult mohair predicted
While 2010 was challenging for mohair producers and buyers, there are many signs that 2011 will be a positive year for the industry. The strategic marketing drives of Mohair South Africa will continue to focus on the unique fibre and drive growth both locally and internationally.
Failing land reform programme threatens litchi industry growth
Numerous failings within South Africa's land reform programme, and the uncertainties this is causing, have resulted in no new investment taking place on existing litchi farms.
Citrus on rocky road to recovery
South Africa's citrus industry experienced a significant recovery in exports during 2010, achieving a record export crop of 99 million cartons of fruit after a tough 2009 season.
Promising year ahead for vegetables
The 2010 FIFA World Cup, the extreme cold snaps and drought in some parts of the country have all had a positive impact on the vegetable industry.
Slow but steady economic recovery expected
Despite "isolated shocks" in certain countries, there's been a slow recovery in the world economy since mid-2009, if the upward trends on the Baltic Dry Index and the oil price are anything to go by.
Slight growth for macadamias
While 2010 was a good year for South African macadamias, a hailstorm toward the end of 2010 could affect the 2011 crop.
Fruit industry poised to enter a growth phase
With UK and Europe prices for pome and stone fruit 16% higher on average, producers are positive about the future as the industry experienced a re-establishment and expansion of orchards over the past two seasons after a number of years of dwindling hectares.
Lower carryover stocks to bring relief for wheat and maize farmers
Lower international carryover stocks for wheat and maize are expected for the 2010/11 season, according to the International Grains Council's 2010 Market Report.
Avocadoes hard hit by hail
Hail storms in Limpopo's avocado-growing areas could affect the availability and, therefore, the prices of avocados in 2011, according to Rudolf Badenhorst, SA Subtropical Fruit Growers Association industry affairs manager.
Dairy farmers could get more cream from their milk
With milk volumes only slightly higher than dairy consumption, and imports at lower levels than last year, the Milk Producers' Organisation (MPO) hopes there might be sufficient impetus to push up the milk price in the first quarter of 2011, according to MPO chairperson Dean Kleynhans.
What will water and mining leaders be dealing with in 2011?
The yearly performances of the mineral resources and water departments have mostly diminished farmers' livelihoods for many years.
Summer will blow hot and cool
Farmers in the summer rainfall areas can expect a relatively cool summer in 2011 with normal to below-normal temperatures, while farmers in the Western Cape's winter rainfall area can expect a very hot summer.
Tough year ahead for agriculture
The AGRICULTURE Department had a rough 2010.
Things to do this year
We all need some goals to work towards, even if it means resolving to have some faith in government's promises to help emerging farmers, writes Phangisile.
The year ahead
Agri SA president Johannes Möller's New Year message to farmers is one of optimism and opportunity.
Caring for piglets before weaning
The pig farmer can ensure maximum survival by understanding and meeting the piglets' needs.
Types of mulches – part 2
We look at using pine needles, leaves, lawn clippings, straw, compost and straw manure as mulch.
What patronage shares mean
Co-operatives must reward members who work harder on the co-operative's behalf and deal with members who try to get away with the least amount of work.
A christmas feast
Double-stuffed chicken & mango pud.
