We often worry about international barriers to trade and their effect on food security – with a focus on developed country policy. What are the effects of regional policy within the developing world?
Africa can help feed Africa: Removing barriers to regional trade in food staples
Africa is not achieving its potential in food trade, increasing the risk of widespread hunger and malnutrition. This column argues that the most serious problems for the continent are problems of political economy and barriers along the value chain. The good news is that, despite demand for food throughout Africa predicted to double over the next decade, governments can act now to overcome these problems. With a regional approach to food security, African governments can spur on benefits to farmers and consumers as well as job creation along the value chain of staples.