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
Key January data may reshape corn soybeans and wheat prices Monday, January 12, 2026 On the weekly with experts Farms.com Risk Management Chief Commodity Strategist Moe Agostino and Commodity Strategist Abhinesh Gopal, the team review recent important market developments during the week of January 5th to the 9th and focused on the upcoming USDA reports that could strongly... Read this article online
Developing a new plan for rural Canada Monday, January 12, 2026 The federal government wants input from Canadians about issues and priorities for rural parts of the country. Until Feb. 6, Canadians can participate in a public consultation through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. “What we hear from those living in rural Canada... Read this article online
Mid-January CGC updates Monday, January 12, 2026 The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) has issued some licenses while others are no longer in effect. So far in 2025 the CGC has provided three licenses. Two belong to an Alberta company. Westlock Terminals in Westlock received two licenses on Jan. 1. One elevator got its grain... Read this article online
Episode #84: How to Identify Sick Pigs Early Monday, January 12, 2026 How to Identify Sick Pigs Early In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, staff veterinarian and Pipestone Holdings owner Dr. Spencer Wayne is joined by fellow veterinarian and partner Dr. Joseph Yaros for a practical discussion on one of the most critical aspects of swine production:... Read this article online
Pork producers address USDA's New World screwworm response Monday, January 12, 2026 The National Pork Producers Council submitted comments on the USDA's draft response plan for a New orWld screwworm detection in the United States. NPPC's feedback addressed areas of the response including movement controls and movements to slaughter, treatment and physical examinations, among... Read this article online