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
Black Sea Peace Prospects Influence Global Grain Prices Monday, September 7, 2026 Grain and oilseed markets remained closely tied to geopolitical developments, weather conditions and export expectations during the week ending September 4, 2026. Corn futures were largely unchanged, while soybeans posted a new contract closing high and soybean meal also strengthened.... Read this article online
Canada invests $3.1M in swine health surveillance Monday, September 7, 2026 Recognizing that infectious disease is one of the major risks to swine production, the Government of Canada is helping industry further develop the tools needed to safeguard animal health, strengthen sector resilience, and support future growth. Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath... Read this article online
Heads Up Plant Protectants Unveils New Brand Identity Friday, September 4, 2026 Saskatchewan-based Heads-Up Plant Protectants unveiled a refreshed brand identity at the 2026 Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa, introducing a new logo, updated visual design, revised messaging, and a redesigned website. The rebrand reflects the company’s continued focus on supporting... Read this article online
Canada Expands Livestock Tax Relief for Producers Friday, September 4, 2026 Canadian livestock producers continue to face growing challenges as extreme weather events affect forage supplies and day-to-day farm operations. Drought, flooding, and excess moisture can reduce feed availability, making it difficult for ranchers tomaintainhealthy breeding herds and sustain... Read this article online
Saskatchewan Expands AgriStability Support for Farmers Friday, September 4, 2026 Federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit have announced changes to the 2026 AgriStability Program to provide additional support for producers affected by excess moisture and localized flooding across Saskatchewan. The... Read this article online