5. Common global issues

1. The Global Food Crisis and the Importance of Food Security and Nutrition

The global food crisis and food security have become critically important issues in modern society. These problems arise from various factors and are exacerbated by chronic economic inequalities between regions and countries, significantly impacting the global economy.

The likelihood of a global food crisis is increasing annually, and the need for policy responses to mitigate this crisis varies by country and region. In some nations, food insecurity, characterized by low food availability, accessibility, and stability, is causing significant breakdowns in critical social infrastructure and markets, widespread trade disruptions, and deteriorating quality of life for many people.

2. Global Population Growth and Increasing Food Demand

The UN has released the "World Population Prospects 2022" report, stating that the current global population stands at 7.94 billion and is projected to reach approximately 10 billion by 2050. In 2023, India is estimated to surpass China as the most populous country in the world. While technological advancements have led to continuous increases in agricultural productivity, the current food production methods may struggle to keep up with the high population growth rate. Moreover, variations in population trends, including rapid population decline, the onset of aging societies, and disparities in population growth rates among countries, are becoming more pronounced. Additionally, rural areas are increasingly urbanizing, leading to a rapid decrease in arable land and agricultural populations.

3. Resource Scarcity and Increasing Farming Uncertainty Due to Global Climate Change

Shortages of resources such as water, soil, and energy have a significant impact on food production. Water scarcity, in particular, imposes significant constraints on agricultural production and can lead to a decrease in food production. Severe droughts, heavy rains, heatwaves, and abnormal weather conditions have serious consequences for crops and agricultural industries. They are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, altering growing seasons and increasing the risks associated with farming operations, thereby accelerating the impact of climate change on the agricultural sector.

4. Security Threats from War and Epidemics / Aging Farming Population Due to Changes in Economic Activity

Prolonged wars and epidemics have led to disruptions in global food supply chains, causing inflation and widespread turmoil as nations suspend exports and stockpile their agricultural products. In some regions, conflicts between nations, wars, civil wars, and other factors have disrupted or blocked food supplies, leading to food crises. Addressing food crises and food security requires international cooperation.

The global increase in the aging population index results in a reduced workforce, challenges in adopting technology, difficulties in managing farmland, decreased modernization and competitiveness, and financial burdens. This has contributed to a global food crisis.

5. Food Fraud

Intentional actions by companies or individuals to deceive buyers and gain unfair profits can have a profound impact on nations, businesses, and individuals.

Misrepresenting the content, origin, or quality of food products poses a threat to consumer health and, in the worst cases, can lead to severe illnesses or even death. Food fraud is a serious issue that undermines consumer trust, and despite national and corporate efforts to prevent and detect food fraud, its types and patterns continue to rise annually.