World Agrinews

Grain prices in Chicago fell, leveling off earlier gains, amid optimism about a possible end to the war in the Middle East. This is reported by Bloomberg.

Oil prices – one of the key drivers of the grain and oilseed market in recent times – have also fallen in recent days. Brent futures fell below $ 100 a barrel on Wednesday after President Donald Trump said that the United States could withdraw from the conflict with Iran within weeks, although hostilities continue.

Wheat fell as much as 2.4% – this is the biggest drop in more than a week. Corn and soybeans also fell.

China aims to secure grain production at around 725 million tons in 2026, potentially reaching one of the highest levels in the country’s history. The target was outlined in a government report presented at the 4th session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC).

According to monthly data from the National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) released Tuesday, U.S. soybean crushing volume in January reached a record high for the first month of the year, and soybean oil stocks rose to their highest level since April 2023.

Recent applied trials initiated by Tom Murray, Technical Manager: Fresh Fruit and Horticulture at Woolworths South Africa, are providing new insight into how light frequency, trap placement, and operating schedules can significantly influence insect pest capture in protected cropping systems. Conducted with research partners and growers, the work focuses on refining light-based attraction systems for key greenhouse and field pests, including thrips, Tuta absoluta, and several moth species.