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: Oct. 5 – 9 Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre used some of his time during question period on Oct. 5 to pressure the government on high diesel prices affecting farmers, and asked if the prime minister will take action. He cited a news article from Quebec where a farmer is paying an extra $2,000... Read this article online
CentreBC election promises Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Farms.com is continuing its coverage of election promises for farmers leading up to the Oct. 24 provincial election in B.C. This article focuses on CentreBC. If elected to form the next government, Elenore Sturko’s party has plans to support B.C.’s ag sector. “We will set 10-year... Read this article online
Kubota Brings Precision Guidance for Smaller Machines Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Precision agriculture technology has traditionally been associated with large row-crop tractors and high-horsepower equipment. Kubota is aiming to change that with the launch of WorkSmart Autosteer, a new precision guidance system designed specifically for compact and utility-sized... Read this article online
Heart of Harvest Supports Rural Cardiac Care Monday, October 12, 2026 The Southern Alberta agriculture community is preparing to come together for a special fundraising event aimed at improving healthcare services in the region. Heart of Harvest, presented by Crop Aid Nutrition, will support efforts to expand cardiac care services and help strengthen... Read this article online
Hensall Co-op Supports Ronald McDonald House Monday, October 12, 2026 Hensall Co-op is recognizing Co-op Week 2026 by launching a community-focused initiative designed to support rural families facing medical challenges. The program, called Farm Families Feeding Families, highlights the important role farm families play in providing food while also helping... Read this article online