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
Rise in 4WD tractor sales amid market challenges Thursday, September 12, 2024 Modest gains for 4-wheel-drive tractors in U.S., Canada The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) reported an encouraging uptick in 4-wheel-drive tractor sales in the U.S. and Canada for August 2024. In the U.S., sales increased by 4.8% from the previous year, contributing... Read this article online
Milwaukee Extended Anvil High Torque Impact Wrench Thursday, September 12, 2024 Measuring torque is a common on-farm task it can sometimes be a challenge to accomplish this for multiple and varied pieces of equipment, that where Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL™ 1" D-Handle Ext. Anvil High Torque Impact Wrench w/ ONE-KEY™ can provide value. Cordless tools create convenience,... Read this article online
Fall Collection Sites for Unwanted Pesticides and Medications Announced Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Five Provinces to Host Agricultural Waste Disposal Events Cleanfarms is set to continue its vital environmental stewardship efforts through its Unwanted Pesticides and Old Livestock/Equine Medications (UPLM) program. The initiative, which spans five Canadian provinces, provides farmers... Read this article online
Ontario Boosts Agri-Food Sector with $3.5M Innovation Investment Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Funding Aims to Enhance Sector Competitiveness and Growth The Ontario Agri-Food sector is set for a substantial advancement as the governments of Canada and Ontario announce a joint investment of $3.5 million. Thefundingaims to spur the development and adoption of innovative... Read this article online
Where is Agriculture? Tuesday, September 10, 2024 This past January, the Government of Canada announced its “Team Canada” missions to the U.S., to promote Canadian exports in advance of the upcoming renegotiation of the Canada – U.S. – Mexico Agreement (CUSMA, the former NAFTA). The missions to State legislatures and the United States... Read this article online