How Are APEC Ministers Enhancing Global Food Security?
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Synopsis
In a crucial meeting, APEC member economies rallied to strengthen food security in the Asia-Pacific region, addressing global challenges like climate change and supply chain disruptions. Discover how these nations aim to foster collaboration and innovate agri-food systems for future prosperity.
Key Takeaways
- Joint commitment to enhance food security in the Asia-Pacific.
- Focus on sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.
- Importance of advanced technologies like AI in agriculture.
- Collaboration among APEC members to address global food challenges.
- Goals set for food security by 2030 and a peaceful community by 2040.
Seoul, Aug 10 (NationPress) The member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) convened on Sunday to approve a joint statement that emphasizes the need for enhanced efforts to improve food security across the region, as stated by the South Korean agriculture ministry.
This initiative arises amid various global challenges impacting food security, including climate change, an aging population, disruptions in supply chains, and poverty in certain areas—issues that threaten to escalate food prices and increase the risk of food insecurity and malnutrition.
"We are dedicated to fostering collaboration among APEC member economies and cultivating unity to enhance food security through productive, sustainable, resilient, and innovative agri-food systems, ensuring prosperity for all our people and future generations," the statement revealed during the 2025 APEC Food Security Ministerial Meeting, which concluded its two-day session in Incheon, approximately 40 kilometers west of Seoul.
The 2025 meeting gathered all 21 ministers linked to food security from APEC member economies, including the United States, China, Japan, and Thailand, to deliberate on the theme of "Driving Innovation in Agri-food Systems for Shared Prosperity."
According to the ministry, the joint statement reaffirmed the ministers' commitment to APEC's roadmap aimed at strengthening regional food security by 2030 and creating a resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040.
"In light of these pressing issues, APEC economies acknowledge the necessity of promoting more sustainable and resilient food systems through efficient agricultural resource utilization and implementing policies that support sustainable agricultural productivity growth," it further stated.
The ministers also emphasized the need for advanced digital technologies, like artificial intelligence (AI), in the food and agriculture sectors to enhance supply chain sustainability while recognizing the "critical" role of trade in achieving food security, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
"We already have various technologies, including smart farming and data-driven policies to improve food security, and the pivotal question now is, 'With whom and how will we connect these elements to bring about real change?'" remarked South Korean Agriculture Minister Song Mi-ryung.
Minister Song also indicated that South Korea is eager to share its expertise in smart farming and AI-driven agricultural business models with international partners to strengthen food security in the region.
Additionally, on the sidelines of the ministerial meeting, Song engaged in bilateral discussions with her counterparts from China, Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia to explore avenues for increasing South Korea's food product exports to these nations, according to her office.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the commitment of APEC member economies towards enhancing food security. This initiative reflects a collective effort to address pressing issues that threaten food availability across the region. The dialogue among these nations signifies a vital step towards collaboration and innovation that could have lasting impacts on food systems and global stability.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the APEC ministerial meeting?
The APEC ministerial meeting focused on enhancing food security in the Asia-Pacific region through collaboration and innovation in agri-food systems.
Which countries participated in the APEC food security discussions?
Participating countries included the United States, China, Japan, Thailand, and other APEC member economies.
How does APEC plan to address food security challenges?
APEC plans to tackle food security challenges by promoting sustainable agricultural practices, utilizing advanced technologies, and fostering international cooperation.
What role does technology play in improving food security?
Technology, such as artificial intelligence and smart farming, is essential for enhancing supply chain sustainability and agricultural productivity.
What commitments did the ministers make for the future?
The ministers committed to strengthening regional food security by 2030 and creating a resilient Asia-Pacific community by 2040.
