The US hog herd hit its highest level since records began in 1988 last month, according to the USDA. The herd, which now stands at close to 71m, is up 2.4% year-on-year and many are predicting a further 1.2% rise. Hog futures tumbled to seven-year lows as a result.

Maize sowings in Argentina could surge more than 30%, or over 900,000ha, next year after the Argentinean government reversed its decision to cut an export tax on soyabeans by five points to 25%. The change in policy will incentivise more maize plantings which are free from export tariffs.

UK farmers will see a 16.5% increase in the value of their direct EU payments this year as a direct result of sterling weakening against the euro following the decision to leave the EU. The exchange rate used to calculate the payment will mean a payment of €100 will convert at £85.22 compared with £73.12 in 2015.

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Australia’s largest cattle exporter Wellard said its revenues were negatively impacted by a reluctance from Asian buyers to accept rising export prices. Australian cattle prices have risen more than 20% since January to $3.80/kg as supplies tightened sharply.