WORLD BANK WARNS OF FRAGILE GLOBAL FOOD SUPPLY

The World Bank has issued a stark warning about the fragility of the global food supply, citing climate change, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions as major threats to food security worldwide.

In its latest Global Economic Prospects report released on Friday, the World Bank highlighted that many countries remain vulnerable to shocks that could trigger sharp increases in food prices and widespread hunger. The institution called for urgent action to strengthen food systems and improve resilience.

“Global food supply is more fragile than many realise. We must invest in sustainable agriculture, reduce waste, and improve trade policies to ensure that everyone has access to affordable and nutritious food,” said World Bank President Ajay Banga.

The report noted that conflicts in key agricultural regions, extreme weather events, and high fertiliser costs continue to put pressure on food production. It also warned that developing countries, particularly in Africa and parts of Asia, are most at risk due to limited resources and high dependence on food imports.

The World Bank urged governments to prioritise agricultural innovation, climate-smart farming practices, and better storage and distribution systems. It also called for increased international cooperation to prevent export restrictions and improve food aid delivery during crises.

Agricultural experts have welcomed the warning, noting that proactive measures are needed to prevent a repeat of the 2008 and 2022 food crises. They emphasised the importance of supporting smallholder farmers and investing in research to develop more resilient crop varieties.

The report comes as many countries continue to grapple with high food inflation and supply shortages. The World Bank has pledged to increase its support for food security initiatives and work with governments to build more robust and sustainable food systems globally.