QU Dongyu Speaks at G20 on Sustainable Food Systems and Trade

QU Dongyu, Director-General of the FAO, spoke at the G20 summit, focusing on sustainable food systems and agricultural trade. He emphasized global strategies to improve food security, advocate for sustainable practices, and enhance trade efficiency in the agriculture sector. His address aimed to align international efforts and policies to address pressing food and trade challenges.

At a G20 meeting of agriculture ministers in Brazil, Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), emphasized the G20's potential to enhance global food security by improving market transparency, avoiding trade restrictions, and renewing agricultural negotiations at the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Dongyu highlighted that the FAO has consistently advocated for open, rules-based trade to bolster global food security. He noted that trade policies fostering openness and reducing barriers stabilize food prices, ensure a steady supply of diverse food products, and encourage international cooperation. Through trade, countries can share knowledge, technology, and best practices, which can enhance agricultural methods and resilience to climate change.

FAO data indicates that trade enhances access to a wider variety of foods at lower prices, significantly increasing dietary diversity. This is particularly important for net food-importing countries, underscoring that agricultural trade is crucial for global food security and nutrition.

During the G20 session on Sustainable Food Systems and Agricultural Trade in Chapada dos Guimarães, Dongyu urged the G20 to advance market transparency through systems like the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), which the FAO supports, and to provide valuable data and information.

Dongyu also pointed out the negative impact of trade restrictions, which can disrupt food supply and demand balance across regions. Such restrictions not only threaten global food security but also exacerbate problems internationally, undermining efforts to maintain a stable and affordable food supply.

He stressed the importance of a multilateral, fair, and rules-based trading system for advancing agricultural and rural development and improving global food security and nutrition.

As global agrifood systems face unprecedented challenges, Dongyu stressed the need for transformation to enhance efficiency, inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability. This includes adopting practices that minimize environmental impacts, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preserving biodiversity, while optimizing resource use and reducing food losses. Techniques like conservation tillage, integrated pest management, and crop diversification can help achieve these goals.

Innovation and technology are crucial in advancing sustainable agrifood systems, from precision agriculture and digital farming to biotechnology and renewable energy. Dongyu emphasized that investing in research and development is key to finding new solutions to agrifood system challenges and promoting a sustainable future.

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