Trade rules, food security and the multilateral trade negotiations

Abstract

This paper makes the case that an open and predictable trading system plays an essential role in promoting global food security by making the international food system more efficient and more responsive to sudden shocks which might threaten food security. It argues that the draft Doha Round agricultural modalities would do much to improve the governance of global food security and examines those areas where agreement remains elusive. It calls for more engagement by economists with an increasingly sceptical civil society to help build momentum for a successful conclusion to the Doha Round.