Food security is at risk from new sources of instability. As the food system becomes increasingly globalized, disruptions reverberate faster and more widely than ever before.

This conference will identify the underlying causes of the recent volatility in food prices and offer a comprehensive assessment of the risks to food security. Particular focus will be given to addressing instabilities in the global food market, vulnerabilities in the global supply chain and the impacts of climate change.

Senior policy-makers and business leaders will map the risks facing the global food system, analyse the potential impact and identify priorities for action. Discussion will consider what is required in terms of national policy, new business practice and international cooperation to mitigate these risks and find cost-effective ways to ensure a more resilient food system.

Key questions for discussion include:

• What are the greatest threats to the global food trade and what is required to manage the market?
• What are the projected impacts of climate change on different parts of the food system?
• How can national agricultural, business and trade policies mitigate supply risks?
• What international coordination is required to collectively respond to these risks?