Where Will Demographics Take the Asia-Pacific Food System?

Abstract

Demographic changes in the Asia-Pacific region - expanded urban concentration, variability in population growth within the region, and an aging population base - will drive significant food system change. Costs associated with urban congestion will test the capacity of the region's food system to deliver a continuous flow of safe, reasonably priced, fresh and processed foods. Pressure to better connect urban areas to rural hinterlands and for trade liberalization will intensify to meet food needs of these growing urban areas. Differential rates of population growth and population aging among economies will affect the quantity and composition of foods demanded, hence private sector strategies and public policies.