🌍 International Food Industry Highlights (Week of January 13-19, 2025)

📦 U.S.-China Agricultural Trade Surges

China increased its imports of U.S. agricultural products by 20% last year, with soybeans and corn leading the pack. This rebound follows a relaxation of trade tensions and renewed purchase commitments under a bilateral agreement.
Source: Reuters

🥩 Tyson Foods Announces Restructuring Plans

Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest meat processors, announced plans to streamline operations, cutting 10% of management roles. The company cited rising input costs and shifting consumer preferences toward plant-based protein as factors.
Source: Bloomberg

🌾 Ukraine Grain Exports Face New Challenges

Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, Ukraine’s grain exports fell by 25% compared to last year. Port disruptions and export route adjustments have impacted key markets, particularly in North Africa.
Source: BBC News

🛒 Plant-Based Market Expands in Europe

European retail sales of plant-based products grew by 15% in 2024, driven by increasing consumer interest in sustainable diets. Germany and the UK remain the largest markets, with innovations in dairy alternatives fueling growth.
Source: The Guardian

🍫 Cocoa Industry Grapples with Supply Issues

Ivory Coast and Ghana, which produce over 60% of the world’s cocoa, reported lower-than-expected harvests due to drought conditions. Cocoa futures prices have surged, creating concerns for global chocolate manufacturers.
Source: Financial Times

🌱 Singapore Invests in Vertical Farming

Singapore unveiled $100 million in funding for vertical farming and alternative protein startups, as part of its “30 by 30” initiative to achieve 30% food self-sufficiency by 2030.
Source: Channel News Asia