Some interesting insights from Harold James at Project Syndicate where he reflects on the possible directions that the looming global food crises may influence or lead to – noting that “rising food prices have historically been the trigger for political revolutions”. He also points out this paradox:
Higher food prices have had a major impact in expanding the area devoted to cultivation in many countries, and have led to higher output levels worldwide. Brazil, Russia, and China, but also Algeria, Egypt, and South Africa – indeed, all African countries that have maintained functioning governments – have seen dramatic increases in food production over the past decade.
This should be a happy picture: the world is now better able to feed itself. But the same economic stimuli that underpin higher food output also lead to supply problems, a decline in living standards, and massive social strains, especially in urban centers.
