A Chinese takeover of Smithfields? Monday, August 5, 2013 Last year was financially unkind to Smithfield Foods Inc., the largest pork producer in the United States. While full year sales were up a full percentage point to US$13.2 billion, net income was down to $183.8 million, nearly a 50 per cent drop from $361 million a year before.The company's press release said pork production was not a money maker last year because of higher feed costs and other inputs. Any pork producer could have told you that.No wonder shareholders were enthusiastic about Shuanghui International, the largest butcher in China, taking over Smithfield sometime in the next six months. Shuanghui was offering US$31 a share for Smithfield Foods stock, a 31 per cent premium over the previous trading price of $25.75. The sale requires federal government approval.Shareholders aren't the only ones wondering where this is going. Producers across North America wonder what it will mean if a firm from China, the largest pork consumer and producer in the world, acquires the Smithfield company, if indeed the sale is approved. Is this more pork going to China and away from North American markets, or what else might happen? BP Coping with the wild boar invasion Tennessee backs down on ag-gag law
FCC's New 6,000-Acre Innovation Farm in Manitoba Thursday, July 17, 2025 Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is enhancing its Innovation Farm Network to support Canadian farmers and foster agricultural innovation. The network has expanded by adding a 6,000-acre farm in MacGregor, Manitoba, with 2,600 acres dedicated to growing potatoes. This is the first time a potato... Read this article online
North American Pork Leaders Focus on Health Thursday, July 17, 2025 Leaders from the Canadian Pork Council (CPC), the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) from the United States, and the Mexican Pork Producer Organization (OPORMEX) recently gathered at a trilateral meeting in Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. The goal was to discuss key issues related to... Read this article online
Canadian Pork Council rejoins Canadian Federation of Agriculture Thursday, July 17, 2025 The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) has a new old member. The Canadian Pork Council (CPC) has rejoined the national organization, bringing the total number of CFA members to 28. The pork producer group withdrew from the CFA in 2013 over trade policies. “We are unwilling to... Read this article online
Celebrate Farming with Alberta Open Farm Days 2025 Thursday, July 17, 2025 Alberta Open Farm Days returns on August 16 and 17, 2025, inviting Albertans to explore the heart of agriculture and rural tourism. This annual event connects people with local farmers and food producers, offering a chance to learn about farm life and food production. Now in its 13th... Read this article online
Ag buildings among Manitoba’s most endangered structures Thursday, July 17, 2025 Two buildings related to Manitoba’s ag history are among the most endangered in the province. The Scallion Granary and the Lake of the Woods Grain Elevator appear on the Manitoba Historical Society’s list of the Top 10 Endangered Structures for 2025. The list is made up of... Read this article online