Policy & Trade: Philippines’ Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. orders a halt to importing bioethanol feedstock (molasses, sugar, sugarcane and syrups), aiming to close a legal loophole and protect the domestic sugar sector and farmers. Water Security: North Okanagan farmers face historic drought cuts as Greater Vernon Water limits use to 30% of remaining allocations, forcing tough choices for orchards and livestock. Farmgate Cashflow: In India’s Khammam district, thousands of maize farmers say Rs. 300 crore is still unpaid for April sales, even as kharif begins. Border Tensions: Moldova farmers expand protests by blocking Leușeni and Sculeni customs access, citing VAT hikes and demands for direct payments. EU Support: The European Commission proposes up to €540m from the CAP reserve for crisis-hit farmers in the Middle East, with added liquidity and flexibility. Climate-Smart Finance: South Africa’s Standard Bank commits R3.4bn to climate-smart agriculture, backing irrigation, solar and precision tools. Invasive Pest Watch: Washington ramps up Japanese beetle and other invasive pest monitoring, while WSDA also urges safe yard-waste disposal to prevent spread. Rural Development & Modernisation: China highlights Xi’s push for grain stability and rural revitalisation, citing Dezhou’s “Dunbanliang” productivity gains.