The Rice Crisis: Markets, Policies and Food Security

Description

The recent escalation of world food prices - particularly for cereals - prompted mass public indignation and demonstrations in many countries, from the price of tortilla flour in Mexico to that of rice in the Philippines and pasta in Italy. The crisis has important implications for future government trade and food security policies, as countries re-evaluate their reliance on potentially more volatile world markets to augment domestic supplies of staple foods. This book examines how government policies caused and responded to soaring world prices in the particular case of rice, which is the world's most important source of calories for the poor. Comparable case studies of policy reactions in different countries, principally across Asia, but also including the USA, provide the understanding necessary to evaluate the impact of trade policy on the food security of poor farmers and consumers. They also provide important insights into the concerns of developing countries that are relevant for future international trade negotiations in key agricultural commodities. As a result, more appropriate policies can be put in place to ensure more stable food supplies in the future. Published with the Food and Agriculture (FAO) Organization of the United Nations

David Dawe is a Senior Economist at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. A graduate of Harvard University, he has studied the Asian rice economy for more than 20 years, including 15 years resident in the Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand.

'This book, with chapters from many prominent experts, presents new evidence from the recent rice price crisis and draws lessons for preventing the next crisis. It is a unique set of references on global food security and the world rice market.' Shenggen Fan, Director General, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) 'This book is a must-read for those who wish to understand the world rice market, trade policies and food security concerns. It provides a careful and detailed analysis of the causes and consequences of the 2007 and 2008 global rice crisis. It is written by knowledgeable experts from the key rice economy nations.' Professor Eric J. Wailes, University of Arkansas, USA