IFAD's Alvaro Lario Warns of Global Food Crisis Risks

Alvaro Lario, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), warned that surging energy prices could deepen global food insecurity. Speaking at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok, he noted that countries dependent on imported agricultural inputs and with limited domestic food production would be most affected.

Rising energy costs impact agriculture at various stages, including operating machinery, pumping water, and transporting crops. These increased expenses may force farmers to raise prices or cut production, straining household food budgets.

Small-scale farmers are particularly at risk due to limited financial resources. IFAD indicated that disruptions in fuel and fertilizer supplies, linked to the conflict in the Middle East, are already impacting rural producers and exposing weaknesses in global food systems.

The agency called for greater investment in resilient rural economies and agricultural systems to mitigate future crises.