Ukraine invasion could spark global food crisis (ABC Australia)

ABC Australia produced an interview with senior research fellow David Laborde who was asked about the significance of the conflict on the food supply. Laborde said, “The war has significantly impacted the world food supply because people are panicking and there is a trickle-down aspect. Since February, even before the war, some shipments from Ukraine were disrupted. For people in North Africa and the Middle East, wheat from that area is important. It is considered their breadbasket.” Ukraine is known for its fertile soil. How important is it for Europe’s food supply? Laborde said, “It isn’t critical for Europe’s food supply. Europe gets sunflower oil and it uses Ukraine corn to feed livestock. The overall food security for Europe isn’t as affected.” When asked about the planting of crops in the Spring, Laborde stated that “The conflict will undermine the food crop significantly. Even if there is peace or some peace in April, it might be too late because the preparations haven’t been made. In July and August, the winter wheat planted last year, should be harvested. One-third of the wheat traded in the world comes from Ukraine.” He also said, “For rich countries like Australia and the U.S. you will see noticeable increases in eggs and milk and not wheat. The wealthier countries will see increases in those products because the livestock needs to be fed and the corn won’t be produced. In the south of the world, it is just the opposite. You will see an increase in hunger in places where there is already famine, like Yemen,” and other difficulties. Laborde added that there is no way for Ukraine to export anything and the G7 might want to add restrictions and sanctions to Russia which could affect everyone. Russia is a key exporter of potash and with restrictions on that, the world’s global production of food might be affected.”