Sign in Subscribe
Food supply

APEC Economies Unite to Bolster Food Security Amid Global Challenges

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies have endorsed a joint statement urging collective efforts to strengthen food security in the region, amid increasing concerns over climate change, aging populations, and poverty. The statement emphasized the importance of promoting sustainable and resilient food systems, leveraging advanced digital technologies, and fostering international cooperation to achieve shared prosperity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The APEC Food Security Ministerial Meeting, held in Incheon, brought together 21 food security-related ministers from APEC member economies, including the United States, China, Japan, and Thailand, to discuss "Driving Innovation in Agri-food Systems for Shared Prosperity."
  • The joint statement reaffirmed the commitment to APEC's road map for strengthening regional food security by 2030 and creating a resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040.
  • The ministers emphasized the importance of promoting sustainable and resilient food systems, efficient use of agricultural resources, and implementing policies that support sustainable agricultural productivity growth.
  • Advanced digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), were recognized as crucial for boosting supply chain sustainability and achieving food security.
  • South Korea's Agriculture Minister, Song Mi-ryung, highlighted the country's experiences in smart farming and AI-powered agricultural business models, stating that the key question now is "With whom and how will we connect these elements to create real change?"
  • South Korea will work to share its experiences and promote food security in the region through bilateral talks with counterparts from China, Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

Statistics:

  • 21 food security-related ministers from APEC member economies attended the 2025 APEC Food Security Ministerial Meeting.
  • The APEC member economies comprise the United States, China, Japan, Thailand, and 16 other countries.
  • 40 kilometers separate Incheon from Seoul.
  • By 2030, APEC aims to strengthen regional food security through its road map.
  • By 2040, APEC aims to create a resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community.

Sources:

  • Yonhap News Agency, 10 August 2025.

Read more