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Agribusiness News

Tariffs set to devastate farmer incomes worldwide

With tariffs already being applied to farm produce in several markets the result appears to support heavy losses for farmers Until Australia’s former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull started an open spat with US president Donald

John Deere boosts Women in Turf Program for 2025

This program creates career pathways and builds support networks to encourage greater female participation in the greenkeeping sector John Deere has announced a major boost to its Women in Turf Program for 2025, collaborating with

drumMUSTER is closing the loop in drum to drum recycling

For over two decades the drumMUSTER program has been a cornerstone of sustainable practices in the agricultural industry The drumMUSTER program was established to address the growing issue of waste from agricultural chemical containers, and

Plant based meat alternatives continue their rise

Plant-based meat is growing in market share as alternative lifestylers find more retail outlets prepared to stock expanding product lines The volume and types of plant-based meats in Australia have developed quickly over the past

Toyota HiLux goes electric with Revo BEV Ute

A prototype all-electric HiLux evaluated by local engineers signals Toyota’s commitment to cleaner battery powered Utes for its top-selling marque Toyota Australia has marked another milestone in its progress towards zero tailpipe emissions with its

Norco Cheese adds another accolade to its award tally

Norco Natural Elbo Style Cheese has claimed an award for ‘Best Dairy for Lunchboxes’ in the Healthy Food Guide Lunchbox Awards 2023 Norco Co-operative, Australia’s largest and oldest dairy co-operative, is celebrating a great win for best

OTR Tyres acquires the Titan Australia operation

Titan Australia is now incorporated under the OTR Tyres brand for a strong nationwide network for agriculture tyres and wheels OTR Tyres management had this to say about the stronger national network that will result

Kubota buys AgJunction in a US$72.8 million deal

Kubota has positioning itself to stay up with the main broadacre runners with its surety in precision agriculture secured following the AgJunction buy out AgJunction is an important technology source for Kubota Corporation and to

LK Diesel first call for engines, pumps and gen sets

LK Diesel has built a strong reputation on its expertise in repairing and overhauling industrial and commercial diesel engines Now as an authorised dealer for many leading brands, the company also provides an equipment design

Bega Cheese acquires Lion Dairy and Drink

Bega Cheese will pay $560 million to acquire Lion Dairy and Drinks and its portfolio of products including household names like Big M, Yoplait, Farmers Union, Pura and Daily Juice

Jadan-Big-Bale-Stacker

Jadan one-person hay handling and stacking solutions

Based in Cowra, NSW, Jadan Enterprises specialises in equipment solutions designed to make it easy for a single operator and tractor to collect, stack and transport hay. Jadan’s bale stacker range includes popular models for

Davimac Group increases demand for Aussie-built models

Davimac Group has been working hard to build its Australian dealership network to sell and support its range of Australian-built farm implements. Millions of Australian businesses have seen their employees spend the last few months

Manutec CNC machine

Manutec expands Aussie Made parts and components

Putting its faith in the growing local demand for more accurate planting components and replacement parts, Manutec has increased its CNC machining capability and taken on two additional apprentices to assist with the growth. In

Australian Drought

Agriculture outlook dominated by recovery from drought

The latest forecast from Agricultural experts identifies the recovery from drought as dominating the very positive near-term outlook for higher farm incomes. Even the COVID-19 pandemic that has presented its own challenges has been brushed

Kubota-M72

Agriculture drags down Kubota results

Kubota’s reported first quarter results show an 8.6 per cent revenue decline on the same period last year to AU$6.3 billion. Domestically this drop was mainly attributed to decreased sales of farm equipment but on

AGCO Massey Ferguson

First quarter AGCO sales take a small hit

Massey Ferguson, Fendt and Valtra manufacturer, AGCO, has booked first quarter sales worth AU$2.95 billion, a decrease of approximately 3.4 per cent compared to the first quarter of 2019. The company’s production operations in China

Komatsu-COVID19-Strategy

Komatsu pro-actively responds to pandemic

Komatsu is a major supplier of below and above ground heavy machinery and during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic it has seen a greater emphasis on agile supply chain methods, a ramping up of

Continental wins OEM tyre deal with John Deere

Following a comprehensive audit of its Portuguese manufacturing plant, Continental has inked a partnership deal with John Deere to supply its Tractor 70 and Tractor 85 tyres for the John Deere 6MC, 6RC, 6M and

New Holland restructures management team for 2020

Bruce Healy, managing director of Iveco Australia/New Zealand for the past two years, takes the helm as Brand Leader for New Holland’s Australian and New Zealand operations, as the badge sets for growth in 2020.

Big Tractor

CNH Industrial buys ATI Track Systems

CNH Industrial (CNHI) has purchased ATI Inc. an Indiana-based US manufacturer of rubber track systems for high-power tractors and combines. With ATI Track Systems under its belt, its expected CNHI will add the tracks to

Kemin HQ

Kemin rebrands for the future

Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer, has rebranded with a new logo and new vision for the future. The company has operations on six continents and a portfolio of more than 500 specialty ingredients. It

T-Quip grabs the rights to Gianni Ferrari

The local distribution rights for the Giannai Ferrari brand have passed from JSB Equipment to Western Australian turf care specialists T-Quip. Gianni Ferrari produce a range of turf equipment including professional ride-on mowers, sweepers, flail

CNH Industrial restructures to capture more customers

CNH Industrial is the first of the major farm machinery distributors that has implemented a restructure of their agricultural machinery business in Australia and New Zealand. The structure for CNH Industrial going forward rests with

Continental tyres for John Deere tractors

Continental wins OEM tyre deal with John Deere

Following a comprehensive audit of its Portuguese manufacturing plant, Continental has inked a partnership deal with John Deere to supply its Tractor 70 and Tractor 85 tyres for the 6MC, 6RC, 6M and 6R mid-sized

Olivia Newton-John is selling Australia Farm

Olivia Newton-John’s longtime Australia farm at Dalwood NSW that she has owned for almost forty years is for sale. Olivia Newton-John was first introduced to the world in the 1970s with a string of #1

Honda 50 year milestone in Australia

Honda Australia celebrates its 50th birthday in 2019, marking half a century since the company was first established locally on 4 February 1969. Honda products have been distributed around Australia by a variety of private

Titan is a one-stop supplier of OTR wheels and tyres

In an Australian marketplace where most tyre lines are being imported and former local makers are moving their operations to more cost-effective overseas locations. There are still some tyre ranges being made in Australia. And

Massey Ferguson celebrates 60 glorious years

Born from the merger of farm machinery companies Massey-Harris of Canada and Harry Ferguson Ltd of the UK, 2018 marks the 60th anniversary of the creation of the world-famous Massey Ferguson badge. Massey Ferguson equipment

Taege to set up a wider distribution network

Taege Engineering out of New Zealand is set to vibrate more tines in our local market. Applications for a company to become the head importer into Australia are now being sought. While previously handled by

Mahindra dealers are in the box seat

Dealers lined up for special awards at the recent Mahindra launch included Lisa Britt and Trent Martin from Lismore Tractor and Machinery Centre Lismore NSW who took out a 5 star dealer award. Mark Harris

Great time to grow your own feed and save money

Home grown feed may be a particularly cost-effective proposition this year, says proprietary pasture seed company PGG Wrightson. The firm’s product development manager Allan Mudford says hot and dry conditions last spring and over summer

Top grain grower study shows how to lift profits

Australian grain growers could learn a thing or two from the “top 20 per cent” of growers and lift profitability, as recent research findings showed how top growers mix low risk with high margins. The

GRDC Seed of Light award goes to Alan McKay

A scientist who has been at the forefront of extending knowledge and advice to help grain growers manage costly soil-borne diseases has been officially recognised for his efforts and achievements in communicating the outcomes of

Local producers get China ready for tariff cuts

With China extending tariff cuts at the end of the year to a range of Australian fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, seafood and pork, local producers looking to access this lucrative market are being urged

Farmgard opens up an expanded network for Celli

Celli has been so impressed with the New Zealand distribution and sales of its quality tillage equipment it has now handed over the Australian distribution rights to Farmgard who has in turn set-up a full

Reefinator Rocks Gone collects another award

The Rocks Gone Reefinator has been awarded the Growth Category winner at the WA Innovator of the Year awards 2017. Rocks Gone founder and inventor, Tim Pannell was thrilled to receive the award. Many of

Dowerin tops the charts in the West

It was a little surprising that the 2017 Dowerin GWN7 Machinery Field Days didn’t break the all-time attendance record, but with over 24,000 it only fell shy by 5 per cent fewer than the 2015

Trimble adds two distribution partners to its Vantage network

Trimble has added two new Australian distribution partners to its Vantage distribution network. This global network established by Trimble consists of independent experts that provide growers, advisors, retailers, co-ops and local OEM dealers with precision

All seeing eye in a tree offers wide angle security

The folk at Silvan Australia’s Selecta merchandise division have come up with a way for property owners to counter losses from theft. The Selecta high-tech 3G wide-angle motion activated security camera can transmit, record and

Arbos reveals plans for extending its tractor reach

Chinese-Italian tractor manufacturer Lovol Arbos is gathering momentum with a full-line of product revealed in Italy. It has also detailed plans to expand the Chinese-Italian build into all world markets. Lovol, the Chinese manufacturer rocked

2 Continental_Hendrik-Lange

Continental moves back into agri tyres

Continental Commercial Specialty Tires (CST) is strengthening its international team with a strong focus on building their Agricultural tyre business. Matthias Engelhardt (55) and Harm-Hendrik Lange (35) have taken up the newly created positions as

6 John_Deere_Kramer_telehandler

Deere and Kramer chalk up a deal for telehandlers

John Deere has announced an investment in Kramer-Werke GmbH in order access material handling equipment for distribution through the John Deere dealer network under the Kramer badge. This strategic partnership will enable John Deere to provide its dealers

9 Henty ANZ Agribusiness

Henty takes on ANZ as banking partner

ANZ’s investment and expertise in Australia’s agricultural sector has resulted in its appointment as the Henty Machinery Field Days strategic banking partner. Henty Machinery Field Days chairman Ross Edwards said the bank’s industry expertise, professionalism,

Hermann Lohbeck speaks for Claas

Hermann Lohbeck has been named as speaker for CLAAS Group Executive Board. He will take over from Lothar Kriszun on 1 October 2017, who is retiring at that point.  Source: AFDJ eNews “Lothar Kriszun has achieved

Graduate apprentices of the year

A total of 33 young service technicians graduated from the latest John Deere Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech advanced apprenticeship programs, run in partnership with national training provider ProVQ. Source: AFDJ eNews John Deere has also been listed for

No Agrimac buy out by O’Connors

O’Connors Farm Machinery has confirmed the deal to buy out machinery dealer Agrimac has fallen over. Source: The Weekly Times The takeover bid would have increased the number of O’Connors dealerships to nine, making it the largest dealer

NZ farmer confidence is high

New Zealand farmer confidence and investment intentions jumped to record levels in the second quarter of this year, buoyed by improved commodity prices. Source: The New Zealand Herald Rabobank said net farmer confidence rose to 54%  from

Tech should be the focus of farm investment

The “get big or get out” drive for greater economies of scale in Australian agriculture is not really working for farmers any more. Source: The North Queensland Register To be profitable today producers probably still

Agribuisiness leaders graduate

Agribusiness leaders from across Australia celebrated completing the Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program at a graduation in Sydney last night. Source: AFDJ eNews Addressing and presenting certificates to the graduates, Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister,

Australian farm production on trend

The gross value of Australian farm production is forecast to dip by 4.6% to $59.9 billion in 2017–18, following last year’s record-breaking returns, according to the Agricultural Commodities, June quarter 2017 issue. Source: AFDJ eNews

Budget benefits for agriculture

While the budget delivered last month didn’t propose any game-changers for the Australian machinery industry, it did have some initiatives that could see benefits for manufacturers, dealers and regional businesses according to the TMA. Source: AFDJ eNews

Sonalika opposes increase in Indian GST

Sonalika International Tractors of India has opposed the 28% levy on tractor parts proposed under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure, saying it will hurt the sector and also farmers. Source: Deccan Chronicle The

Blue Force coast to coast

Two members of tractor enthusiast club Blue Force are celebrating after completing a 5000 mile, 51-day Coastline Tractor Challenge, not previously attempted on tractors. Source: AFDJ eNews The challenge marks 100 years of blue tractor production

Sweet view of Brazil

Sugarcane producers from Africa and the Middle East were given an insider’s view of the latest harvesting methods and equipment being employed in Brazil, the largest sugarcane producer in the world. Source: AFDJ eNews The

Connectivity is the answer for farmers of the future

Seamless connectivity between machines, operators and fields is at the heart of John Deere’s latest FarmSight precision farming solutions for arable farmers and contractors, which were featured at Cereals 2017. Source: AFDJ eNews John Deere sees the future of farming

K-Lines goes to Canada

If you were a farm equipment manufacturer in a country that is its own continent, where would you look to make your first expansion into the international market? For the Australian company K-Line, the choice

Dieckmann’s year round baling with Case IH

Since the 1890s, the Dieckmann family has farmed their land at Kalbar in the Scenic Rim region of South East Queensland. Source: AFDJ eNews Originally running dairy cattle before turning for many years to vegetable

Queens’ Honours for Australians & New Zealanders

Leaders in the agricultural community have been recognised in the 2017 Queen’s Birthday 2017 Honours Lists in Australia and New Zealand. Sources: AFDJ eNews, Beef Central, New Zealand Herald Australia Among the recipients of the highest honours announced

Deutz gets free ad from Aussie Farmers

Aussie Farmers Direct, an online retailer that supplies a range of produce to Australian households, has put together two clever advertisements that have given Deutz Fahr a free ride. Source: AFDJ eNews The advertisements show

Implications for UK after Brexit not good

An agricultural consultancy that has looked into the potential implications of leaving the EU is urging farmers to prepare themselves for the possible loss of support payments. Source: Farming UK Brown & Co has produced a model

Indian tractor makers want more tax

One does not know of too many industries today desperately seeking to be taxed. Tractor makers are among those, probably a handful, lobbying hard to get the excise duty exemption now on their product removed in India

EquipmentWatch gives Case award for value

The Case IH Axial-Flow 140 Series combine was named on EquipmentWatch’s list of winners for the first Highest Retained Value Awards – the second time in a row that the brand has received the title. Source:

Commbank ag report shows optimism

Australian farmers are more confident and optimistic about the future of farming than at any time in the previous three years. Sources: AFDJ eNews, The Australian A close-to-ideal season across much of Australia last year combined

Farmall EOFY campaign starts

The Case IH Farmall has been around since 1923 for those in the market there’s never been a better time to buy. Source: AFDJ eNews Case IH has embarked on its annual Farmall end-of-financial-year campaign,

Fendt launches into South Africa

On 16 May 2017, the official launch of Fendt machines in Africa took place at the NAMPO Harvest Day in Bothaville, South Africa. Source: AFDJ eNews Four tractors from the high-tech brand Fendt will be introduced

JCBs’ alien experience

A fleet of more than 20 JCB machines is playing a starring role in a cult film following the biggest product placement project in the company’s history. Source: AFDJ eNews Skid steers loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers and

Remanufacturing with CNH

Remanufacturing is an important element of CNH Industrial, one which encourages resource productivity and reduces waste. Source: AFDJ eNews The latest online episode of CNH Industrial’s Behind the Wheel takes a closer look at Remanufacturing, explaining why

Euro farm machinery market expected to grow

The European farm machinery market is expected to return to growth again in 2017. Sales expectations for most European countries are cautiously positive, as CEMA’s Business Barometer continues its steady increase, reaching its highest monthly value in

CLAASY new testing facility

CLAAS is increasing its testing capacities for the development of new agricultural machinery by building a new centre at its site in Harsewinkel. Source: AFDJ eNews By the time it’s completed in 2018, total investment

IB International works with everyone

Many believe the irrigation industry in Australia has changed more in the last five years than it changed in the preceding 30 years. Source: AFDJ eNews Ian Baines, an expert in Australian irrigation and director of

On-farm safety a winner for high schools

Community effort and tips for staying safe on-farm was a winning formula for Kimba Area School which has taken out the inaugural Farm Safety Student Video Competition and the $1000 prize money. Source: Eyre Tribune The competition,

Timetable announced for NRSIEE regs

After a decade in planning, the government has released the details and a timetable for the implementation of NRSIEE regulations. Source: AFDJ eNews Gary Fooks from the Blue Sky Alliance spoke on the proposed Non-Road

AGCO founder Robert J Ratliff mourned

AGCO Corporation mourns the passing of founder and former President, Chairman and CEO Robert J. Ratliff. With a vision to provide solutions for the needs of the farm industry worldwide, Mr Ratliff guided the growth of AGCO from

Engineer your new career

Since launching its industry leading ‘Engineer your Career’ campaign at LAMMA, the team at CLAAS UK have been busy attending careers events and shows throughout the UK and Ireland. Source: AFDJ eNews The latest initiative

SA trade mission to Israel

South Australian agriculture, water and wine businesses are embarking on a trade mission to Israel determined to uncover new ways to grow the state’s AgTech industry. Source: Adelaide Nos Elders managing director Mark Allison would

Rudolf Diesel Medal to Helmut Claas

Helmut Claas, one of the world’s most influential agricultural engineers, has been awarded the Rudolf Diesel Medal for his lifetime of achievement in innovation. Source: AFDJ eNews Dubbed the ‘Oscars for Inventors’, the medal recognises both

Euro Drivers’ Championship

John Deere and Michelin are again hosting the European Drivers’ Championship in June 2017. Source: AFDJ eNews Sixteen drivers from all over Europe will prove their skills driving the new 6250R tractor at the Michelin test

TMA ramps up advocacy

The Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia is ramping up its efforts to advocate for the industry and sees itself working with related farming organisations. Source: AFDJ eNews One of the great things about the

New Holland at global forum in UAE

New Holland Agriculture, together with local distributor Saeed Mohammed Al Ghandi & Sons, took its place at the Global Forum for Innovations (GFIA) in Agriculture in March 2017 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Source: AFDJ eNews

Valtra Red Dot winner

Valtra’s SmartTouch armrest that was unveiled in Paris in February has won the Red Dot 2017 Design Award, while the fourth generation Valtra N Series received an honourable mention in the same competition. Source: AFDJ

Euro market a vision of contrasts

The decline in sales of arable farm equipment in Europe slowed down in 2016 and is expected to come to a halt this year. Source: AFDJ eNews According to provisional calculations, sales in 2016 totalled

NAB that niche for agtech finance

Australia’s largest bank lender to the farm sector has seized on the emerging opportunities and synergies available to the financial services sector as new technologies and innovations change the face of agriculture. Source: The Australian National Australia

JCB goes F1 racing

JCB is entering into a partnership with Williams Martini Racing ahead of the 2017 season which will offer the company immense opportunities to promote its brand around the world. Source: AFDJ eNews As part of the

AGCO to acquire Lely

AGCO announced that it has reached agreement in principle to acquire the forage division of Lely Group. Source: AFDJ eNews Lely’s forage division is a leading manufacturer of balers and loader wagons in Europe. The transaction is subject to

EU AG vehicle accidents priority actions

Compared with accidents with other vehicles, the number of on-road accidents with agricultural vehicles in the EU is low. Source: AFDJ eNews The risk of being involved in an on-road accident is lower (-82%) per

John Deere partners King Agro for carbonfibre parts

John Deere’s exclusive partner King Agro has opened a new facility at Picassent, near Valencia in Spain. Source: AFDJ eNews This is dedicated to the production of the revolutionary carbonfibre spray boom introduced last year on the new R4050i self-propelled sprayer.

Sales top $1b for Australian ag equipment

Sales of agricultural equipment in Australia are now comfortably topping $1billion a year and February saw the continuation of what promises to be another landmark according to Gary Northover Tractor & Machinery Association of Australia

Case IH locals keep business humming along

Western Australia is home to a number of Case IH dealerships, three of which stand, not only for their dedication to their customers, but due to the proud histories they share with their local communities.

Two JCBs awarded at SIMA

Two of JCB’s newest and most innovative products have been named as Machines of the Year for 2017 at one of the world’s leading agricultural shows. Source: AFDJ eNews The 8000 Series JCB Fastrac received

MF show debut at SIMA

The new MF 6700 S Series, which includes the world’s first 200hp, four-cylinder agricultural tractor, made its SIMA Show debut in Paris, following its preview in France last year. Source: AFDJ eNews With its unrivalled four-cylinder

JD’s Joy

John Deere’s new CommandPRO joystick won the Farmers Guide Award for Excellence for 2016, the second year that these awards have been presented for innovations in the machinery and arable sectors. Source: AFDJ eNews The awards

Get Behind the Wheel with the CNH design team

The latest episode of the Behind the Wheel series follows CNH Industrial’s Design Analysis & Simulation team as they collaborate across continents with super computers to conceptualize future machines. Source: AFDJ eNews With the help

Claas Machine of the Year 2017

At the “Machine of the Year 2017” awards ceremony held at SIMA, CLAAS won the Special Jury Prize for the JAGUAR fitted with SHREDLAGE crop processing technology. Source: AFDJ eNews A large audience watched the

Tractor sales for Australia

Following an outstanding 2016, sales of tractors experienced a considerable bump in January although much of this has been put down to an overhang from the pre-Christmas period according to Gary Northover, executive director of the Tractor

Dana appoints PFG to distribute products

Dana Australia has appointed PFG Australia Pty Ltd as the lead agricultural distributor of its Dana/ Spicer/Victor Reinz drivetrain and sealing products range in Australia and New Zealand. Source: AFDJ eNews The appointment will be from 1

Case IH names its top performers

Case IH dealers Intersales and O’Connors have taken out Dealer of the Year titles at a ceremony held at Uluru. Source: AFDJ eNews O’Connors has won the Case IH Dealer of the Year Award in

ABARES Outlook a smash

Growth in Australia’s agriculture sector continues to smash records, with the gross value of Australian farm production is forecast to reach $63.8 billion in 2016–17, and farm cash income for Australian broadacre farms is projected to average

European figures for farm machinery are high

The total volume of orders for farm machinery across Europe are as high as they were in 2013, latest figures show. Source: Agriland The farm machinery industry is upbeat about future sales in Europe, according to CEMA, the

Safer on-road use for oversize machines

There is hope that proposed changes to VicRoads regulations will lead to safer use of oversize agricultural machines on Victorian roads. Source: The Weekly times The rules dictate size limits for agricultural vehicles using the roads, including

MobileTECH 2017 in Rotorua

In just under two months, Rotorua will again be playing host to nearly 300 industry representatives from the primary industries sector at MobileTECH 2017. Source: AFDJ eNews This is a major industry conference focusing on

Tesla tows its weight on the farm

The Tesla Model X is not your average electric vehicle and we’re not only talking about the Falcon Wing doors or the fact that it’s a SUV capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9

John Deere Expands Gator Factory

The first major expansion in 30 years at the John Deere Horicon Works factory in the US has resulted in a new 388,000ft facility for manufacturing the company’s Gator utility vehicles. Source: Stackyard The expansion has added

Amazone acquires Vogel & Noot

European farm machinery manufacturer, Amazone, has acquired the Austrian built Vogel & Noot plough range which will now be available in Australia through Claas dealers. Source: The Land The Amazone Group purchased the plough production facility

Kubota announces new president for Europe

Kubota Corporation has appointed Kazunari Shimokawa as the new president of Kubota Europe SAS, based in France. Source: AFDJ eNews He succeeds Nobuyuki Ishii, who returned to Osaka, Japan as the Deputy General Manager of

Amazone new Euro test centre

Amazonen-Werke has invested about 2 million Euros in buildings and equipment within a new test centre at the Hasbergen-Gaste factory. Source: AFDJ eNews At the official opening of the new building Dr. Rainer Resch, who

Fendt and Fendt dealers win at AGRARTECHNIK

The prestigious AGRARTECHNIK Service Awards were presented for the 16th time on 13 January at the Landtechnische Unternehmertage conference in Würzburg. This award recognises the best agricultural machinery dealers at state, national and international level.

CNH really supports farmers in good and bad times

When the weather failed him and the rain disappeared, David McGennisken of Manooka Farms was glad to know CNH Industrial Capital wouldn’t do the same. Source: AFDJ eNews Like every farmer, David McGennisken knows you’ve got

The global farm tyre market

The growth in end user industries is expected to increase the consumption of farm tyres and the growth in agricultural industry is expected to boost demand for farm tyres. Source: AFDJ eNews In addition, rising demand

A wrap up of 2016 in the US market

A lot of major new product introductions mean machinery manufacturers are optimistic in the US. They think farmers are in a buying mood, funds are available and innovations will be well received but what happened in 2016.

AGCO takes China market very seriously

One of the world’s largest farm equipment manufacturers is predicting a bright future in China, and it is putting its money behind that belief. Source: Country Guide AGCO, parent company of well known brands Massey Ferguson, Fendt,

Ag struggles to find workers and visas don’t help

Agriculture is still struggling to find the staff it needs. Pay rates for top ag sector graduates jumped 26.2% last financial year, indicative of how agribusinesses – particularly corporates – have been forced to raise

Polaris has outstanding year

Polaris is Australia’s number one off-road vehicle brand after yet another outstanding growth year in Australia for the US$5 billion turnover North American company. Source: AFDJ eNews Polaris’ 6037 retail sales in 2016 was also

Case IH turns 175

Case IH is beginning a year of celebrations to commemorate its 175th anniversary in 2017. Source: AFDJ eNews It was in Racine, Wisconsin in the US, that founder Jerome Increase Case established the Racine Threshing

STEYR sites a new start

For the last year, people have been hard at work on the new STEYR tractors website, in Austria and Italy as well as in the USA. Source: AFDJ eNews According to STEYR the result is a

John Deere’s electric dreams

John Deere has pulled the wraps off of its first fully electric tractor in a new video. Source: The Verge The tractor project is called Sustainable Energy Supply for Agricultural Machinery, or SESAM, and John Deere plans to officially

China’s CNH plant wins bronze certification

Class Manufacturing CNH Industrial’s joint venture manufacturing plant in Chongqing, China, was recognized for its manufacturing excellence with a Bronze Level certification in World Class Manufacturing. Source: AFDJ eNews The facility produces FPT Industrial powertrains for CNH Industrial’s

Aussie farm production to top $60b

Good news continues for much of the Australian farming sector, following on from last week’s record winter crop forecast, with the gross value of farm production set to increase by 6%, topping $60 billion in

Get ready for summer

A CFA spokeswoman said total fire bans were designed to minimise fire risk, but it was also recognised that many farmers are also CFA volunteers firefighters who have in-depth knowledge and experience fighting fires. Source: The Weekly Times

Tractor sales bode well for New Zealand primary sector

Sales of tractors are remaining relatively buoyant, demonstrating a positive outlook in the primary industry, says NZ Tractor and Machinery Association President, Mark Hamilton-Manns. Source: AFDJ eNews Mr Hamilton-Manns said year-to-date (end of September) the total number

Worldwide tractor market decline is a trend

A general crisis in commodity prices and declining farm incomes are some of the reasons behind a general fall in world agricultural machinery sales. Source: The Land That is according to data released during EIMA 2016 which also indicates the

EIMA update

EIMA International, the review of agricultural mechanics held at Bologna Trade Fair Center, was a huge success with a record number of visitors in attendance. Source: AFDJ eNews Over the five days of the exposition

Michelin wins Ag Innovation award

The Michelin CARGOXBIB High Flotation soil-protecting tyre was selected as one of the three top industry advancements during Canada’s Agri-Trade Equipment Expo2016 in the Ag Innovations Awards. Source: AFDJ eNews The Ag Innovations Award honors products

CEMA calls for revised Euro regs at EIMA

CEMA, the association of European agricultural machinery manufacturers, called for a revision of the European Union regulations with technical requirement norms no longer based on the automotive sector but specific for agro-mechanics. Source: AFDJ eNews

UK machinery sector points to upswing

The UK agriculture sector is, despite the “uncertainty” stemming from Brexit, starting to recover from a downturn fostered by weak commodity prices – at least, if the machinery sector is anything to go by. Source: Agrimoney Carr’s Group, the

Backpackers tax a pain in the neck

The report from the Senate Inquiry into the Working Holiday Maker Reform package recommends the Coalition Government’s legislation to provide a 19% tax rate be passed to maintain Australia’s attractiveness to backpackers, and secure supplementary

AGCO realigns Asia Pacific structure

AGCO has announced a realignment of its regional structure, which will see an increase in its on-the-ground presence in Africa and a further expansion of the company’s significant operations on the Continent. Source: AFDJ eNews

Grays eyes ag machinery for profit boost

Cranes and trailers sold off by bankrupt mining contractors are proving a boon for auction group GraysOnline as it sells less consumer goods and focuses on machinery and equipment, targeting international buyers in Asia and the Middle East. Source:

Queen stops production at JCB

Production was paused at a JCB factory as the company said thanks to its workforce on winning one of the world’s most prestigious export awards. Source: AFDJ eNews JCB Compact Products in Cheadle won a Queen’s Award

Pressure on farmers for better equipment

A rapidly growing population and a subsequently rising demand for food has put pressure on farmers to equip themselves with the latest and advanced mechanized farming techniques. Source: AFDJ eNews, PRWire This has resulted in

EU should put the brakes on ABS

European Commission plans to force tractors to have anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are unnecessarily expensive for manufacturers and based on inaccurate analysis, EU farmers and machinery industry representatives have warned. Source: EurActiv In the EU, fast tractors

CNH takes over Kongskilde

Case New Holland Industrial announced its agreement to acquire the agricultural grass and soil implement business of Kongskilde Industries, part of the Danish Group Dansk Landbrugs Grovvareselskab. Source: AFDJ eNews This business develops, manufactures and

GoGetta specialty finance advice

Born and bred in regional Kyogle, NSW, Brandon Kook grew up working on the land. His early years were spent around the property, and later on with his father on the family harvesting and baling business.

Jobs on offer but no takers

With the annual value of the New Zealand agricultural machinery industry put at a conservative NZ$1.3 billion, and agriculture a key driver of NZ’s GDP, you’d think it would be easy to recruit youngsters into the industry. Source: Rural News

Australian tractor sales are large

Australian tractor sales are being led by the larger end at present with sales in dollar terms now 10% up on an annual basis. Source: The Weekly Times The big ticket tractors above 200hp are

Comm Bank Agri Insights

The Commonwealth Bank has released its sixth Commonwealth Bank Agri Insights report and it shows one of the strongest results to date, with farmers intending to increase investment across the majority of aspects in their

Mahindra tractor growth 70%

Mahindra tractors has sold 29,035 units and registered a growth of 70% in the domestic market during September 2016. Source: AFDJ eNews Mahindra & Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), a part of the US$17.8 billion

Deere outlook to improve in 18 months

Deere & Co was upgraded by a Wells Fargo & Co analyst who said the industry’s demand cycle will reach a bottom in the next year to 18 months. Source: Bloomberg That turnaround will mean improved sales volumes

$30m R&D for farming

Rural Research and Development Corporations (RDCs) across the country are encouraged to apply for up to $30 million in new funding for cutting edge research to boost productivity and returns across the agricultural, fishery and

Fendt finds it’s easy to be green

The new Fendt Nature Green is not a revolution, but rather an evolution because the Fendt green has been renewed several times in the history of this traditional company. Source: AFDJ eNews As an example it

JCB on the Fastrac

New South Wales spreading contractor Simon Manwaring expects his new agricultural tractor the JCB 4330 Fastrac to significantly improve his efficiency and provide him with greater flexibility in all weather conditions. Source: AFDJ eNews Mr

Backpacker tax rate cut for farm workers

The proposed 32.5% tax rate that was to apply to working holiday visa holders will be slashed to 19% following strong representations by The Nationals in Government. Source: AFDJ eNews Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture

TMA awards Landaco bulk spreader

A Riverina designed and manufactured bulk spreader has won the coveted Tractor and Machinery Association Award at the Henty Machinery Field Days. Source: AFDJ eNews The TMA award recognises the best new Australian designed and

New tech tractors may overcome labour shortages

Autonomous tractors like the recently unveiled concept vehicle by Case IH could spur new and exciting career paths in agriculture as well as overcoming labour shortages that cost Australian farmers more than $150m a year.

Manitou supports St Vincent De Paul

Manitou Australia organised a special event to celebrate and show its support to the MANITOU Elevation Week. Source: AFDJ eNews The concept was simple: get as many clothing items as possible and fill a Manitou

CEMA low expectations for industry

The general business climate in the agricultural machinery industry remains low according to CEMA. Source AFDJ eNews Future expectations picked up slightly, but according to CEMA it is important to bear in mind the record

MARS – a swarm of robots

With the MARS research project AGCO/Fendt has developed small robot units that with the assistance of a cloud-based solution, can be controlled independent of location during sowing operations. Source: AFDJ eNews The research project MARS (Mobile

Telstra sees its future in agriculture

Telstra is planning a move into the booming Australian agricultural arena as part of its transformation from a pure telecommunications company into broader technology player. Source: The Australian Telstra chief scientist Hugh Bradlow said the new ven

Landini has landed

Landini has returned home to Australia in what promises to be an exciting time for the tractor brand, and they have appointed Inlon Pty Ltd as their sole distributor for eastern Australia. ‘Landini has been

Vietnam sells shares of farm machinery company

VEAM Corporation, one of the biggest companies owned by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in Vietnam, is set to sell a 49% stake starting this month. Source: Thanh Nien News The Vietnam Engine and

New Case dealership in Kununurra

Kimberley Agricultural Investment Pty Ltd (KAI) has opened a Case IH dealership to the public at Kununurra, in Western Australia.  Source: AFDJ eNews Dealer principal Jim Engelke said after months of hard work, it was

The Claasiest in Australia and NZ

The best dealerships, teams and individuals from throughout the Landpower and CLAAS Harvest Centre network in New Zealand and Australia have been recognised at the inaugural Strive Annual Awards for Excellence held in Christchurch, New

Helmut Claas celebrates 90th birthday

Helmut Claas, for many years the managing partner of the CLAAS Group and chair of the Shareholders’ Committee has celebrated his 90th birthday. Source: AFDJ eNews He built the company, founded by his father and

Deere a big exporter of Indian tractors

John Deere India has emerged as one of the largest tractor exporters from India. Source: The Financial Express The company, a subsidiary of Deere & Company, exported 24,000 tractors made in India during the last fiscal year.

UK tractor sales drop

The Agricultural Engineers Association in the UK has released its half year tractor statistics, which continue to show a drop in sales but a gradual increase in average power. Source: Farmers Weekly UK The first six months of

Fastrac on track for 25 years

JCB is celebrating 25 years production of the Fastrac – a range of agricultural tractors that remain unique and continue to offer farmers and contractors a combination of features and performance advantages resulting in high levels

Russia in a rush for more tractors

In an attempt to shift the economy from raw materials, Russia is putting effort into the agriculture sector. Source: RT From January to June, the country produced 35% more tractors and harvesters than in 2015. “The growth of

Quarterly tractor sales generally buoyant in NZ

“New Zealand Tractor sales are relatively buoyant, despite the current dairy payout,” according to NZ Tractor and Machinery Association President, Mark Hamilton-Manns. Source: AFDJ eNews The second quarter results of New Zealand tractor sales, compiled

Global Escorts for farm machinery

Escorts , one of India’s tractor manufacturers has unveiled its global ambitions with the launch of 13 new tractors in 12HP to 110HP range under flagship brands Farmtrac, Powertrac, and Euroline. Source: Economic Times India The series will

AGCO acquires Cimbria

Agco, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment, announced that it has agreed to acquire Cimbria Holdings Ltd for approximately US$340 million from Silverfleet Capital. Source: AFDJ eNews Cimbria, based in Thisted, Denmark, is a leading manufacturer

World market analysis for ag equipment

World agricultural equipment market data analysis is available that includes current and historical data as well as forecasts. Source: AFDJ eNews World Agricultural Equipment analyzes the worldwide agricultural equipment industry and presents historical data (2004,

Claas adds to its digital future

CLAAS is investing in the digital future, and recently laid the foundation stone for a new electronics development centre in the town of Dissen, southern Lower Saxony in Germany. Source: AFDJ eNews “Information and communications

Case IH lends a hand to charities

Case IH recently launched the Farmall Local Community Program, working with its dealer community to lend a helping hand to local charities and clubs in regional Australian towns. Source: AFDJ eNews For each Farmall machine

Farm safety equals profit

National Farm Safety Week is on from 18-22 July and aims to raise awareness of farm safety issues in rural communities across Australia. Sources: AFDJ eNews, ABC Rural This year’s theme is “Safe Farms = Profit”,

AGCO new Fuse Lab in Hungary

Prof Martin Richenhagen, AGCO Chairman, President and CEO, launched the new Fuse Laboratory at the Szent-István University in Hungary. Source: AFDJ eNews The state-run university is a leader in education in the area of “Agricultural

John Deere appoints new managing director

Jonathan Henry has been appointed the new managing director of John Deere Limited in the UK and Ireland. Source: AFDJ eNews He takes over the role on 1 July 2016 from Antony Scott, who elected to

Case rejects plans to leave after Brexit

Case New Holland plant bosses insist they have no plans to leave Basildon after more than 50 years in the town despite previous claims Brexit would force it out. Source: Echo News UK Case New Holland in

Russian in a contract with Claas

CLAAS signed a special investment contract with the Russian Federation that the company will be awarded the official status of “Russian manufacturer”, and will be eligible for the same state subsidies for its combine harvesters

Service and success are linked

With winter sowing nearing the end, it’s timely to look back and see what makes planting a success. Source: AFDJ eNews Generally, thoughts turn to timing, the right varieties and the weather, but it’s also

Positive season opening for winter crops

Above average rainfall has supported a favourable start to the 2016-17 winter crop season, , according to the latest Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) Australian crop report. Source: AFDJ eNews

MF wins factory of the year

Massey Ferguson has won the Factory of the Year Awards organised by “L’Usine Nouvelle”, a leading industrial magazine in France. Source: Stackyard In selecting the winner the jury looked for a facility that has demonstrated

Silvan new CEO

Silvan Australia Pty Ltd, a private family-owned spraying equipment, agricultural machinery and merchandise business, has appointed Sean Ralphsmith as its new chief executive, based at the group’s Dandenong South headquarters in Victoria. Source: Stock & Land Mr Ralphsmith joins Silvan

AGCO supply chain award

AGCO Corporation was among the very first companies globally to receive the newly introduced ‘Secure Supply Chain’ benchmark certificate.  Source: AFDJ eNews The ‘Secure Supply Chain’ benchmark certificate was awarded by the Association Materials Management, Purchasing and Logistics (BME), Europe’s

Claas to sell foundry business

CLAAS is selling its interest in the company CLAAS GUSS GmbH. The buyers, connected with Ergocast Guss GmbH, will take over all shares in the foundry business. Source: AFDJ eNews The parties have agreed confidentiality in

Kubota to purchase Great Plains

Kubota Corporation has announced it will purchase US company Great Plains Manufacturing. Source: Farm Industry News Once final, according to the media announcement, the purchase will expand the company’s long-time partnership with Land Pride and will include all five Great Plains divisions with multiple facilities

Parklands superstores

Parklands has introduced a superstore concept for its range of power equipment product stores. Source: AFDJ eNews “It’s not a Superstore in the Ikea or Bunnings model,” Managing Director Ron Zacka said. “But we’ve tailored

Claas shows class with excellence

For the fifth consecutive year readers of the American magazines “Diesel Progress North America” and “Diesel Progress International” chose the best products, technologies and innovations across 12 categories, in different areas of the automotive industry. The CLAAS LEXION 780 triumphed

Just In Time printed parts

Imagine your local implement dealer manufacturing an emergency repair part you need at the dealership. Source: Farm and Ranch Guide Well, it’s no longer just imagination. Jake Clark, a young entrepreneur from Fargo, explained to farmers attending a

AGCO decreased net sales for first quarter

AGCO, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment, has reported net sales of approximately US$1.6 billion for the first quarter of 2016. Source: AFDJ eNews This is a decrease of approximately 8.4% compared with

Automatic safety app for farms

A Canterbury, New Zealand farmer has developed a new phone app to keep farm workers safe in one of the most dangerous working environments, using GPS technology to alert workers to any dangers around them. The app

Mahindra Finnish with global combine business

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M Ltd), a part of the Mahindra Group, headquartered in Mumbai, India, announced its foray into the global combine harvester business, by entering into a strategic partnership with Sampo Rosenlew, a

Milestone for Loadall

A JCB product that changed the handling of loads on construction sites and farms around the world passed a major milestone – the production of the 200,000th machine. Source: AFDJ eNews The JCB Loadall telescopic handler

Customvac sells to Canadian Walinga

Grain handling equipment specialist, Customvac Australia, has transferred ownership to its Canadian supplier in a succession plan. Source: North Queensland Register Customvac founder, Jim Sampson will continue in his role as resident director and national sales manager while the company

The Digital Farmer

Farmers have all the latest agricultural software at their fingertips, but they’re now able to identify the online products and apps to suit them through The Digital Farmer. Sources: The Land, AFDJ eNews This website allows the user to

Consultants with Claas

The Claas Harvest Centre network the New Zealand distributor for Trioliet Solomix mixer wagons and nutritional consultants Dairy Business Centre have announced a partnership. Source: AFDJ eNews Under the arrangement all existing and new purchasers of Trioliet mixer wagons

Yokohama buys Alliance

As part of its plans to expand its commercial tyre business, Yokohama Rubber reached an agreement with global investment firm KKR to purchase all of the shares of Alliance Tire Group (ATG) for US$1,179 on

Hesston’s 100,000th windrower

Hesston by Massey Ferguson is the hay equipment brand of AGCO Corporation and it unveiled its historic 100,000th windrower on 29 March, in Hesston, Kansas. Source: AFDJ eNews Hesston introduced the self propelled windrower to the agricultural harvesting

Deere joins up with Hagie

The environment continues to be ripe for machinery acquisitions, as shown by the latest news from Deere and Co, that announced a joint venture with Hagie Manufacturing. Sources: AgWeb, Farm Weekly Under the arrangement, Deere will

Rural Australia carrying the fuel can

An economic think tank has left rural Australia carrying the can for fixing the federal budget deficit. The Committee for Economic Development in Australia has recommended cutting the fuel tax credit scheme, which includes diesel rebates, by

NZ to pick the brains of its dairy farmers

The New Zealand government is set to pick the brains of the country’s top dairy farmers in an effort to help those struggling with the low dairy payout. Source: Stuff NZ A $175,000 study into low

Polaris purchases Taylor-Dunn

Polaris Industries has announced the acquisition of Taylor-Dunn, a leading provider of industrial vehicles, serving a broad range of commercial, manufacturing, warehouse and ground-support customers. Source: AFDJ eNews Taylor-Dunn, a privately owned company based in

Farmers plan to increase investments says Rabobank

A quarter of Australian farmers plan to increase their investments in property and expand this year according to the latest Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey. Source: ABC Rural The survey revealed that the greatest confidence is among cotton

South Korean ag co on the market

Tong Yang Moolsan, a South Korean manufacturer of agricultural machinery and equipment, has submitted a final bid to acquire full stake in local rival Kukje Machinery Company from its majority shareholder Dongkuk Steel Mill and

Top issues from top manufacturers

Top executives from leading farm machinery manufacturers met to discuss their thoughts on what’s next in agriculture and the issues that will affect the farming industry. Source: Farm Industry News The AEM Ag Executive Outlook

Tax breaks help farmers go shopping

Driverless tractors and drones might not be on many farmers’ shopping lists just yet, but spending on new farm technology products has undergone a notable lift since tax breaks worth up to $20,000 were introduced

ABARES forecasts a modest rise for farm production

The gross value of Australia’s farm production is forecast to pass $60 billion for the first time next financial year, according to the latest ABARES figures. Source: AFDJ eNews ABARES Executive Director, Karen Schneider said the

An Outlook for the ag sector

Outlook 2016 which is on from 1-2 March in Canberra, is a top information and networking forum for the public and private sector decision makers in the agriculture sector. Source: AFDJ eNews With more than 60

Aussie tractor sales bubble to burst

Tractor sales are on the up but industry experts warn the bubble could burst this year. Last year, tractor sales rose 10 per cent, to 11,500 units, giving Australia five consecutive years of more than 10,000 units

Ag White Paper sets direction for RD&E

The Coalition Government has moved to strengthen the targeting of rural research, development and extension (RD&E) funding towards on-farm technologies and practices that deliver farmgate returns with the development of clear farmer, fisher and forester‑oriented

Sonalika double take to 2020

Sonalika International Tractors aims to double its revenue, which stands at US$660 million by 2020. Source: The Economic Times India The company, which produces tractors between 20hp to 120hp, is among the top three tractor manufacturers in the country with a

AGCO reports on annual sales

AGCO has reported net sales of approximately US$2.0 billion for the fourth quarter of 2015, a decrease of approximately 21.2% compared with net sales of approximately US$2.5 billion for the fourth quarter of 2014. Source:

Major job cuts for de Bruin Group

A major part of the workforce has been made redundant at de Bruin Engineering at Mount Gambier in the south-east of South Australia. Source: ABC News The de Bruin Group, one of the regional city’s biggest companies,

Acute market report on ag machinery growth

According to the latest Acute Market Report the global agricultural machinery market valued at US$152 billion in 2014 is expected to reach US$267 billion by 2022 growing at a compound annual growth rate of 7.3%

Buhler turnover drops

Canadian Buhler maker of Versatile tractors and Farm King equipment has reported a revenue for the year was CA $245.7 million, down CA$79.8 million from CA$325.5 million reported in 2014. Source: AFDJ eNews According to

AGCO Africa Summit signs MOA

AGCO held its fifth annual AGCO Africa Summit in Berlin, Germany. The Summit is a joint initiative of AGCO, Bayer CropSci ence, Rabobank and De Lage Landen. Source: AFDC eNews The 2016 Summit focused on

MF tractor for city slickers

Farm machinery brand Massey Ferguson is continuing to support the Collingwood Children’s Farm in suburban Melbourne with the loan of another new tractor. Source: AFDJ eNews The latest model, a bigger 82hp MF4708 Global Series tractor replaces the current

Reshaping Vic water connections project

Work to reshape the second stage of the most significant irrigation infrastructure upgrade in Victorian history, the Goulburn-Murray Water Connections Project Stage 2, continues to advance. Source: AFDJ eNews Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce,

WEEDit for hire

Croplands dealer, McPhersons Parts & Service, located in Parkes NSW recently took delivery of an 18 metre, hydraulic folding WEEDit toolbar sprayer. Source: AFDJ eNews After several demo nights were held in the Parkes and Condobolin regions

New Mahindras enter competitive market segment

Mahindra Ag and Auto Australia has announced the introduction of two new models from the same, and now co-owned, Japanese factory. Built in the newly named Mitsubishi Mahindra Agricultural Machinery Co. Ltd factory in Japan,

Mobile apps for crop management

Two new mobile apps have been produced by the Australian National Variety Trials (NVT) program and funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). Source: AFDJ eNews The new NVT Long Term Yield Reports

New good work design handbook online

SAFE WORK Australia has launched a new handbook to help businesses meet obligations under the work health and safety laws, reduce worker injury rates, and improve productivity and bottom line. Safe Work Australia Chief Executive

Briefs

Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal (AFDJ) has been published since 1984 and is recognised as the leading primary industry news source for Field Days and Events, contacting farm supply stores and dealers, Manufacturers, distributors, farm consultants and leading Agronomists

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