Global or local food chains? Uncovering the dilemmas in Senegal and Peru
This paper (PDF) by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), examines whether local or global food chains are better at delivering food security and safety, decent employment, protecting the environment and contributing to economic growth. Using case studies from Senegal and Peru, the authors show a new and complex reality that challenges ideological views about re-localising food production and consumption. It points to the dilemmas but also to the potential and limits of national policies and food chain practices in a context of market globalisation. Despite many differences, both country case studies show that changes in domestic consumption, business and policy strategies are contributing to reshaping global trade. The paper highlights that international food trade is a key component of world food security. According to the authors, global and local food-chain performance must be assessed against national and global concerns related to food security and safety, employment, natural resource constraints and environmental impact to make markets work for the many and in the long term.