Global trade rules threaten food security amid climate shocks

Abstract

The overwhelming scientific consensus points towards the growing frequency and intensity of climate-induced shocks to the global food system. Historically, public food stockholding – the acquisition, storage and distribution of food stocks – has been an important policy tool used by governments to guard against production shocks by stabilizing supply and prices. However, current global trade rules severely restrict the ability of governments to use public food reserves. World Trade Organization (WTO) rules must be reformed to allow greater scope for governments to build and operate food reserves, in order to respond to emerging food security challenges caused by climate change.