Wool & Mohair Market Boost: Baokunyaoda says it’s improving how Lesotho farmers sell wool and mohair, with faster payments, lower transport costs and more direct access to international buyers after trading with woolsheds across Mokhotlong, Quthing, Thaba-Tseka, Butha-Buthe and others. Trade & Tariffs (India–SACU): India and the Southern African Customs Union (including Lesotho) have signed Terms of Reference to restart talks on a Preferential Trade Agreement, aiming to conclude negotiations within a year and focusing first on “low-hanging fruits” and sensitive-sector protection. Youth & Jobs (Agriculture Push): Lesotho’s Agriculture Minister urged young people to pursue productive work for economic independence, highlighting tractor support for youth and plans to link beneficiaries to training and PostBank loans. Climate-Smart Farming: Farmers were urged to act early on El Niño warnings by adjusting planting times, improving water management and adopting drought-proofing practices. Regional Border Trade Efficiency: SACU is expanding its Regional Authorised Economic Operator pilot, with a second phase starting 18 August and building on earlier work involving Eswatini, Lesotho and South Africa. Labour & Migration Pressure (South Africa): South Africa stepped up labour inspections and is seeking reimbursement for repatriation costs from Malawi, Nigeria and Ethiopia amid migration tensions that also disrupt local industries. Mining Safety (Cross-border impact): A mine dump collapse in South Africa’s North West killed at least 14 suspected illegal miners, with many believed to be from Lesotho, underlining ongoing risks around illegal mining.