Toward a global agricultural research system: A personal view

Abstract

Before the beginning of this century almost all increases in agricultural production occurred as a result or increases in area cultivated. By the end of the century increased agricultural production will depend almost entirely on more intensive cultivation of areas already being ued for agricultural production. Over the next several decades agricultural research capacity must he established for each commodity of economic significance in each agroclimatic region of the world. The new system of international agricultural research institutes must be supplemented by the strengthening of national research systems. The development of national systems has however, been characterized by cycles of growth and decay. Small country research systems face severe size diseconomies. Regional collaborative networks have not been very successful, External supporl for development of national systems needs to give greater attention to enhancement of political and economic viability as well as scientific viability.