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
Assessing Hail Damage in Wheat, Barley, Oats and Corn Wednesday, July 8, 2026 Recent severe storms across Manitoba have left some producers facing damaged crops and uncertain yield prospects. Hail ranging from loonie-sized stones to golf ball- and baseball-sized impacts was reported in several agricultural regions over the past week, damaging cereals, canola... Read this article online
Cattle industry stakeholders asked to take Canfax survey Wednesday, July 8, 2026 A cattle industry service provider is asking stakeholders to weigh in on how it can improve. Canfax, the market analysis division of the Canadian Cattle Association, is conducting a survey asking participants to share what datapoints drive decisions on individual farms and the overall... Read this article online
Canadian Grain Commission Updates Grain Grading Rules for 2026-27 Crop Year Wednesday, July 8, 2026 The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) is introducing several important changes to grain grading procedures for the 2026-27 crop year, including updates affecting Canada Western Amber Durum, wheat and red lentils. The revisions, which take effect August 1, were developed following... Read this article online
Grain Markets Rebound as Key Crop Reports Surprise Traders Wednesday, July 8, 2026 On the weekly Farms.com Risk Management Ag Commodity Corner+ Podcast with experts Chief Commodity Strategist Moe Agostino and Commodity Strategist Abhinesh Gopal, the discussion focused on major agricultural developments affecting grain, oilseed, and fertilizer markets. The title of the July 3... Read this article online
Major Heat Ridge Builds as Record-Pace El Niño Raises New Weather Concerns Wednesday, July 8, 2026 The past few weeks have already been crazy for agriculture weather wise, with more to come. Nearly 2,000 severe wind reports were recorded across the United States over the past three days, with the most widespread impacts stretching from the central Plains through the Midwest and... Read this article online