Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The OECD emphasizes that well-designed agricultural policies are critical in helping farmers meet growing global demand for safe, nutritious, and sustainably produced food. However, some current policies can negatively impact food security, markets, and the environment both domestically and internationally. The OECD monitors agricultural policies across 54 countries—representing about three-quarters of global agricultural value-added—to provide comprehensive insights into these policies’ implementation and impact. This evidence-based monitoring supports governments in developing more effective, efficient, and sustainable agricultural policies.
The OECD notes that resilient, sustainable, and productive agriculture and food systems require constant innovation. Agricultural innovation includes adopting new practices and making more efficient use of resources to ensure the sustainable management of natural resources while meeting rising food demands. The OECD assists countries by benchmarking agriculture and food system performance and offering tailored policy guidance. Collaboration between governments and the private sector is key to strengthening agricultural innovation systems and scaling up practices that improve productivity and sustainability.
The OECD identifies agricultural trade as crucial for supporting the livelihoods of farmers and workers across the agri-food supply chain and for reducing global food insecurity. A significant portion of agro-food trade now involves global value chains, linking multiple countries and connecting various stages of food production and processing.
Fisheries and aquaculture provide food for billions and are important for local economies and cultures in coastal communities worldwide. Fish products are among the most traded foods, and their exports are essential for food security. However, fisheries and aquatic ecosystems face pressures from climate change, illegal fishing, overfishing, and pollution.
Overall, the OECD acknowledges a triple challenge for agriculture: ensuring food and nutrition security, preserving the environment and natural resources for future generations, and supporting sustainable rural livelihoods. Effective agricultural policies are essential to meet these challenges, especially amid increasing climate pressures and emerging risks.