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
Canadian Dairy and Poultry Farmers Highlight $45-Billion Economic Impact to Parliamentarians Wednesday, October 28, 2026 Supply-managed dairy, poultry and egg sectors point to domestic food production, economic stability and food security during an Ottawa event Canada’s dairy, poultry and egg farmers are putting a number on their contribution to the Canadian economy while making the case that domestic... Read this article online
Replenish Nutrients Expands Fertilizer Production Wednesday, October 28, 2026 Replenish Nutrients is making steady progress across its fertilizer production network as it works to increase output, improve efficiency, and support future growth in the agricultural sector. The company recently provided an update on several fertilizer facilities located in Alberta and... Read this article online
Protect Grain Quality During Wet Harvests Wednesday, October 28, 2026 Cool and wet harvest conditions can create several challenges for cereal growers. When grain is harvested at higher moisture levels, it requires extra attention during storage to maintain quality and prevent spoilage. One of the biggest concerns is the development of Ochratoxin A (OTA), a... Read this article online
Canadian farmers spotlight supply management at Ottawa event Wednesday, October 28, 2026 Canadian farmers from the dairy, chicken, turkey and egg sectors gathered in Ottawa this week to highlight the role supply management plays in supporting Canada’s food system and economy. The event, dubbed the Downtown Diner, was held on October 27, 2026, bringing together... Read this article online
FCC Investing $1.5 Million in Rural Community Projects Across Canada Wednesday, October 28, 2026 Rural communities across Canada are receiving a boost from Farm Credit Canada (FCC), which is investing $1.5 million through its FCC AgriSpirit Fund to support 83 community projects designed to improve local infrastructure, services and gathering spaces. The funding will help rural... Read this article online