Global food & agribusiness (F&A) has much to do: it needs to increase food availability, improve access to food, ensure balanced nutrition and stabilise the global food system. This expansion is further complicated in markets where clear growth signals have given way to the more subtle, but equally powerful trends of urbanisation and modified consumer behavior.
The recently adopted 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development sets clear global goals for ending hunger, achieving food security and improved nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. It will require ambitious action across global F&A. Action, in turn, requires investment that is targeted and well managed, so farmers, F&A companies and others that
are taking the required measures and associated risks receive acceptable returns on their investments.
In Rabobank’s view, transition to a smarter food system will provide an opportunity to realise many of the necessary gains. A smarter food system is more productive, more (globally) integrated, less wasteful and more profitable. It is more efficient in using resources to produce and deliver the food consumers need, where and when they need and want it, making it more sustainable.
A smarter food system combines technology and (big) data, and uses algorithms to change the way decisions are made and the speed with which decisions are taken—in food production, processing and distribution. By greatly improving supply chain connections, it offers scope to lift food production, optimise the use of resources, reduce waste and improve access to food. It should also improve stability in the global food system, encouraging investors along supply chains.