How resilient are global agri-food supply chains?

The global population is projected to increase by more than a third, or 2.3 billion individuals, between 2009 and 2050. This surge in population will significantly impact food demand, particularly for income-sensitive food crops such as meat, dairy products, and vegetable oils.

The agri-food supply chain (AFSC) is a critical component of global food security, encompassing the entire process from production to consumption.

However, unbeknownst to many, AFSCs are increasingly complex and challenging and require innovation through the advent of sustainable practices, technological advancements and strategic planning to ensure food safety, quality and availability.

A new book – Frontiers in agri-food supply chains: Frameworks and case studies – takes a considered approach to detailing the recent developments across the sector which support the changing demands placed upon agri-food supply chains.

“This volume – edited by a trio of agri-food supply chain experts – delivers a very useful overview of how agri-food supply chains can help tackle current challenges related to climate change, sustainability requirements and the need for sufficient healthy food,” says Professor Jack van der Vorst, Wageningen University & Research in The Netherlands.

Technological advancements play a crucial role in enhancing AFSC efficiency. The integration of digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, big data, and sensor technologies has shown promise in optimizing supply chain operations, ensuring data transparency, and improving traceability.

But not all AFSCs are the same and different regions bring forth different challenges and benefit from different innovations.

For example, the diversity of consumption patterns and the significant contributions of different activities across the supply chain highlight the complexity of Asia’s AFSCs. Challenges such as food safety, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts necessitate state-led interventions and the adoption of agri-food tech ecosystems to enhance supply chain resilience.

Whereas, improving AFSCs in Africa involves addressing challenges related to infrastructure, climate change, and market access. Implementing fair investment policies to attract green infrastructure investments and integrating global value chains are essential for enhancing food security and economic growth in the region.

One element that doesn’t fluctuate between regional AFSCs is the fundamental need for effective planning and control. Demand planning, forecasting, production planning, inventory management, and distribution are critical components that ensure efficiency and effectiveness.

The status of agri-food supply chains is marked by significant challenges and opportunities. Addressing these challenges through technological advancements, sustainable practices, and strategic planning is essential for ensuring food security and resilience in the face of global disruptions. Collaborative efforts and continuous innovation – as demonstrated in this new book – will be key drivers in shaping the future of AFSCs.

“We probably live in one of the most interesting times to study agri-food supply chains,” says Professor Sander de Leeuw, Chair in Operations Research and Logistics at Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands and co-editor of this new book.

“This book aims to provide a foundation for understanding these complex systems and inspire further exploration into making agri-food supply chains more efficient, resilient and sustainable,” he adds.

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