Global AgriWatch | May 2025: Transformations Across the Farming World
As we enter May 2025, the global agricultural landscape is reshaped by a complex mix of market dynamics, climate extremes, policy reforms, and technological innovation. From Asia’s shifting rice trade to Latin America’s push for sustainability, producers worldwide are adapting in real time to a rapidly evolving environment.
Asia: Indian Rice Exports Drive Down Prices, Stir Competition
Asia’s rice sector is experiencing a major shake-up. With India lifting its final export restrictions, a surge of low-cost rice is entering global markets. This development has offered short-term relief for import-reliant nations such as the Philippines and Indonesia, but it's placing serious pressure on rice farmers in Thailand and Vietnam, who are now facing steep price drops and shrinking margins.
The challenge ahead is clear: how can farmers remain competitive and profitable amid increased supply and falling prices?
How is your farm or business responding to these shifts? Share your strategies and insights.
New Zealand: A Sector in Transition
New Zealand's agricultural sector is undergoing a quiet revolution. Sheep numbers have fallen to just 23.6 million—down from a peak of 70 million in 1982—leaving only 4.5 sheep per person, the lowest ratio in decades. Many farmers are transitioning away from wool and meat toward dairy and forestry, with a growing focus on carbon credit markets.
At the same time, New Zealand's beef sector is surging. In March, beef exports reached a record NZD 534 million, driven by strong demand from Asia and a weaker New Zealand dollar.
Yet significant change is on the horizon: the world’s first agricultural emissions tax will take effect later this year, targeting methane and nitrous oxide emissions. As climate regulations tighten, farmers are re-evaluating their operations from the ground up.
How are you preparing for this new era of climate-conscious farming? We invite you to join the conversation.
Australia: Navigating Climate Extremes and Market Highs
Australian agriculture is facing a year of stark contrasts.
In the south, regions including Victoria and South Australia are enduring one of the worst droughts on record. Farmers are contending with depleted seedbanks, pasture losses, and rising costs for feed and water. Many have had to reduce herd sizes due to resource scarcity.
Meanwhile, Queensland has been hit by devastating floods, with over 144,000 livestock lost—primarily cattle and sheep—causing emotional and financial strain across the region.
Despite these challenges, Australia’s beef exports have reached record levels. In April, exports exceeded 127,000 tonnes, fueled by demand from China and the United States.
How is your operation adapting to these climate extremes and market shifts? Let us know.
Latin America: Innovation, Trade Momentum, and Environmental Concerns
Across Latin America, producers are balancing growth with sustainability:
In Chile, agricultural scientists have developed a new drought-resistant rice variety tailored to cooler, drier regions, offering hope for water-stressed farmers. Meanwhile, major salmon producers are implementing artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and sustainability in aquaculture.
In Brazil, soybean exports are regaining momentum as China resumes imports from five previously suspended companies. However, environmental tensions are rising, as recent legislation in Rondonia offers amnesty for illegal deforestation, sparking backlash from conservation groups.
In Mexico, the country is on track to become the top importer of U.S. agricultural products, led by increases in grain, meat, and dairy imports. At the same time, authorities are confronting a resurgence of the New World screwworm, a livestock-threatening parasite. In response, Mexico and the U.S. are collaborating to lift restrictions on pest control technologies and coordinate eradication efforts.
What strategies are you implementing to stay resilient amid these changes? Share your approach and help foster regional dialogue.