Food policy research for developing countries: emerging issues and unfinished business

In order to be relevant and timely, food policy research must address expected future knowledge gaps and information needs. Identification of emerging policy issues and related future information needs to play an important role in setting priorities for such research. This article presents results from extensive consultations with various stakeholder groups in the area of food policy research. Eleven emerging issues and eight issues of unfinished business were identified as issues requiring priority in future food policy research for developing countries. These issues outline both future food policy priorities for the developing countries and priorities for supporting policy research. The impact of globalization, risks and opportunities associated with new technology, and food safety concerns are expected to be at the forefront of the policy agenda for the next several years. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.