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With research staff from more than 60 countries, and offices across the globe, IFPRI provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition in developing countries.

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Samuel Benin

Samuel Benin is the Acting Director for Africa in the Development Strategies and Governance Unit. He conducts research on national strategies and public investment for accelerating food systems transformation in Africa and provides analytical support to the African Union’s CAADP Biennial Review.

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Where we work

IFPRI currently has more than 600 employees working in over 80 countries with a wide range of local, national, and international partners.

Analysis: Many countries have reacted to the food crisis in the worst possible way, making it increasingly difficult (YLE) 

June 09, 2022


YLE (Finland) published an article writing that when one country bans the export of food products, the others typically follow suit. This will create a panic-like atmosphere in which prices will only rise higher. As the crisis approaches, hoarding begins. How to prevent the uncontrolled rise in food prices and ensure that food is available around the world? Senior researcher Kalle Hirvonen replied that at least it is clear what should not be done. Exports of food products should not be restricted, as this will only exacerbate the situation. This was the case during the 2008 food price crisis. As large producer countries restricted their exports, prices rose even higher. World Bank researchers estimate that about 45 percent of the increase in rice prices and 30 percent of the increase in wheat prices at that time was due to barriers to trade, Hirvonen said. IFPRI has collected data on export restrictions (See tool, Food & Fertilizer Export Restrictions Tracker) and has found restrictions have already been applied almost as widely as during the 2008 price crisis. In early June, a total of 27 countries have imposed barriers to trade in food products. In 2008, that figure was 33. IFPRI researchers warn that in previous crises barriers to trade have been erected as a chain. When one country bans exports, the others follow suit, creating a panic-like atmosphere in which prices continue to shoot higher and higher. 

 

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