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Crisis in Gaza: The Nexus of Conflict and Food Insecurity

Dec 19th, 2023 • by Sediqa Zaki and Sara Gustafson

Introduction

Nearly 80 percent of Gaza’s population has been displaced in the ongoing conflict, which has entered its second month. A recent World Food Programme rapid food security assessment conducted during the temporary humanitarian pause in fight in late November has found evidence of unprecedented humanitarian crisis, including widespread food insecurity.

Background

Fertilizer policies amid global supply and price shocks

Dec 12th, 2023 • by Kibrom Abay, Jordan Chamberlin, Pauline Chivenge, Charlotte Hebebrand, and David J.Spielman

Achieving efficient and effective fertilizer usage in agricultural production is a critically important economic and environmental policy objective for countries at all stages of economic development, although the nature of the policy problem may vary radically in different contexts.

A new rapid assessment tool for food security risks posed by global price shocks

Dec 8th, 2023 • by Nicholas Minot and Rob Vos

International food commodity prices have experienced a series of shocks over the past decade. The prices of rice, maize, and wheat spiked in 2007-08 as a result of supply shocks, demand for biofuels, and export trade restrictions. Commodity prices increased again in 2010-11. And most recently, global supply chain disruptions in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine sent international food and fertilizer prices soaring, though they have moderated somewhat after peaking in mid-2022.

Unlocking opportunities of planet-friendly school meals

Dec 8th, 2023 • by Aulo Gelli and Marie Ruel

This post is part of a series examining key issues involving climate and agrifood systems tied to the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai (November 30-December 12). To learn more about IFPRI’s engagement at the Conference, visit our COP28 Spotlight page. 

FAO Food Price Index, AMIS Market Monitor See Reduction in Price Volatility

Dec 8th, 2023 • by S. Gustafson

The FAO Food Price Index remained stable in November, with increased vegetable oil, dairy, and sugar prices balanced by falling cereal and meat prices. The November 2023 Index was 10.7 percent below its 2022 level.

The Cereal Price Index decreased by 3 percent in November to reach nearly 20 percent below its November 2022 level. Maize prices fell most significantly in November due to increased sales in Argentina and higher seasonal supplies in the U.S. Wheat prices also fell, albeit less sharply, due to ongoing harvests in Russia. Rice prices remained stable in November.