As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the global economy and put pressure on food supply chains, debate has resurged about the role of trade in protecting food security. Though food supply chains have proved fairly resilient during the outbreak, many countries have faced both severe disruptions in supply and shifts in food demand. A few have responded with protectionist measures—namely export bans on key staple foods—with the intent of protecting domestic consumers, but depriving those abroad. These measures raise the question: Are food systems strongly connected with global value chains more vulnerable to disruptions or more resilient than more localized food systems? 

This seminar will bring together food system experts from the research community, policymaking organizations, and the private sector to discuss whether localized food systems with shorter supply chains are more resilient and sustainable than those with longer supply chains and greater integration in global markets.

Speakers

• Guido Landheer, Deputy Vice-Minister of Agriculture, The Netherlands
• Robbert de Vreede, Executive Vice-President Global Foods, Unilever
• Jeroen Elfers, Corporate Director Dairy Development & Milk Stream, FrieslandCampina (Presentation)
• Marion Jansen, Director Trade and Agriculture Directorate, OECD
• Maximo Torero, Chief Economist, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) (Presentation)

Closing remarks

• Johan Swinnen, Director General, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)

Moderator

• Rob Vos, Director, Markets, Trade and Institutions Division, IFPRI