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Overcoming challenges to meet global needs

Former Indiana Senator Richard Lugar says there are several challenges facing the agriculture industry as they work to feed the growing global population.  But, he says, the task won’t be easy.  “Many governments have erected protections and barriers in agricultural trade,” he says.  “Very little money is being spent by countries on agricultural research and development.  Many regimes around the world are manipulating food production and distribution within their countries for political gain.”

Another challenge has been the rejection of biotechnology in food production from foreign countries.  “The argument against GMO seed goes on even though there is absolutely no evidence of harm to human beings from eating the corn or soybeans that are being produced on our farms that have genetically modified seeds or fertilizers,” he says.

In order to change the perception of GMOs, Lugar says farmers have to lead by example.  “This has brought extraordinary prosperity in the last 10 to 15 years to American farmers,” he says.  “Land values have increased because of the product being produced on those farms.  Acreage continues to decrease and for any country that has a food problem – they must take that seriously.”