Biotech Updates

FAO to Spearhead Global Discussions on High Food Prices

March 11, 2011

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and its partners will conduct a series of seminars in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Near East to help governments make informed decisions on how to respond to high food prices. FAO says the seminars will allow stakeholders to exchange experiences on the food price crisis and be aware of the various policy measures recommended.

"FAO feels it is essential that countries consider their policy options and steer away from decisions that might exacerbate the situation," said FAO Deputy Director-General Changchui He. "Governments should focus on mitigating the impact of high food prices on the poor and at the same time need to take steps that favor investment in agriculture."

Officials from relevant ministries of 20 countries, representatives of farmers' organizations and other stakeholders from the private sector, regional bodies and development partners are expected to attend the seminars.

The FAO media release is at
http://www.fao.org/news/story/en/item/52232/icode/