The International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems (IPES-Food) has unveiled its latest report, “Food From Somewhere,” underscoring the critical role of territorial markets in fostering global food security and resilience. This report critiques the current global food system, which is dominated by corporate-controlled supply chains, and highlights the potential of local and regional markets as a more reliable alternative.
According to the IPES-Food report, nearly 30 percent of the global population suffers from food insecurity, while 42 percent cannot afford a nutritious diet. The report attributes these challenges to setbacks caused by recent global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the escalating climate crisis. These events have exposed the vulnerabilities of the current global food system, revealing its inflexibility and ineffectiveness in times of crisis.
Territorial markets, defined as local or regional markets that facilitate relationship-building and offer autonomy to small-scale actors, are presented in the report as a viable solution to the problems plaguing corporate-controlled food systems. Jennifer Clapp, Canada Research Chair in Global Food Security and Sustainability at the University of Waterloo and a co-author of the report, emphasizes their importance, stating, “Territorial markets provide food for up to 70 percent of the global population, especially benefiting marginalized communities with diverse and affordable nutrition. They are indispensable.”
Beyond enhancing food security, territorial markets offer various socio-economic and ecological benefits. They provide diverse livelihood opportunities for producers, traders, and food processors while supporting small-scale agricultural practices that are less reliant on industrial methods. Clapp notes that these markets are more resilient to crises due to their foundation in strong relationships among farmers and buyers, making them better equipped to adapt to changing circumstances.
Moreover, territorial markets play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage by preventing the homogenization of food that often occurs in global supply chains. Clapp highlights that these markets enable the cultivation and consumption of locally specific and traditional crops, thus maintaining regional food traditions that are often lost in industrial systems.
These markets also function as communal hubs, offering a space where people can engage directly with food producers. Unlike conventional grocery stores, territorial markets allow consumers to connect with those who grow their food, ask questions, and understand the production process.
To ensure the continued success of territorial markets, the report suggests several policy recommendations. These include providing subsidies to support market participants, investing in rural infrastructure, and enhancing food systems education.
Clapp expresses hope that the report will inspire policymakers to make necessary changes but acknowledges potential obstacles. “The growing concentration of corporate power poses a significant threat to resilient food systems by undermining livelihoods, ecological integrity, and food security,” she explains.
In conclusion, the IPES-Food report asserts that territorial markets offer a promising alternative to corporate dominance. They not only address food security and environmental concerns but also strengthen community ties and cultural preservation. “Territorial markets build connections between people and provide alternatives to the global industrial system, which are crucial for fostering resilient and sustainable food systems,” Clapp affirms.
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