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
Ag in the House returning with fall session of Parliament Monday, September 15, 2025 A new session of Parliament started on Sept. 15, meaning a new series of Ag in the House articles is soon to follow. For those new to the series, it’s a weekly article designed to keep members of the Canadian ag industry up to date about how much time issues related to agriculture receive... Read this article online
Crop report reveals slight reduction in U.S. corn yield estimates–are estimates too high? Monday, September 15, 2025 In the latest , hosted by Farms.com Risk Management's Chief Commodity Strategist Moe Agostino and Commodity Strategist Abhinesh Gopal, the experts reflected on key market trends and forecasts for the week of May 12 to 16, 2025. This week saw strong momentum in agricultural markets.... Read this article online
Cdn. delegation returns from canola trip to China Monday, September 15, 2025 The prime minister’s office expressed optimism following a Canadian delegation’s trip to China about multiple trade issues including canola. Sask. Premier Scott Moe led the trip. Kody Blois, the parliamentary secretary to Prime Minister Carney, participated as a federal... Read this article online
Strategies to Optimize Market Returns in Ontario Monday, September 15, 2025 Berkley Fedorchuk, grain marketing specialist with Hensall Co-op in Southwestern Ontario, recently shared insights into the current corn market and strategies for forward marketing during his presentation at the . With a focus on the Ontario and Eastern Canadian grain sectors,... Read this article online
Jaylor launches advanced 6000 Series TMR mixers Friday, September 12, 2025 Jaylor recently announced the launch of its all-new 6000 Series Vertical Total Mixed Ration (TMR) Mixers, bringing a new level of speed, efficiency, and durability to livestock feeding, officially available on October 1, 2025. Developed with direct input from producers, the 6000... Read this article online