The Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Implications for Food Security in the Commonwealth

Food security is essential for economic well-being and maintaining social and political order. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated production and supply chain disruptions, along with the effects of climate change, have triggered an increase in food prices globally.

Recently, the Russia–Ukraine conflict and the disruption of supplies from the Black Sea region have increased turbulence in the global grain and edible oils markets, accentuating inflationary pressures on food prices. Besides higher prices for staple foods, sunflower oil exports from Russia and Ukraine have dried up, sending buyers scrambling for alternative sources and driving up prices.