iPES-Food Report Warns Trade Wars and Supply Chain Fragility Are Driving Global Food Insecurity

A report from iPES Food highlights how geopolitical disruptions are revealing weaknesses in the global food system, leading to rising food insecurity. The report emphasizes the need for governments to reduce dependence on volatile international markets by implementing market management tools such as public food reserves and supply management systems. Rising food prices and import costs have exacerbated debt burdens in low- and middle-income countries, making it difficult for governments to respond effectively.

The report also addresses the issue of corporate concentration in the food supply chain, which has allowed large agrifood corporations to benefit from market instability, potentially engaging in corporate profiteering. By examining successful models such as India's public food stockholding system, Canada's dairy supply management system, and the West African regional food security reserve, the report emphasizes the importance of cooperation and public tools in stabilizing markets and building resilience locally. The report calls for political will to scale these efforts and reduce reliance on volatile global markets for long-lasting food security.