GFFA 2019 | Side Event WTO

Facing the global challenges of food security and zero hunger (e.g. as defined by SDG 2), inclusive trade and competitiveness are identified as fundamental pillars of a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. Local conditions differ among countries and regions leading to differing specializations in agricultural production and opportunities for trade.

The long-term objective of WTO agricultural negotiations is a fair and market-oriented agricultural trading system. Fewer restrictions and distortions in agricultural trade lead to competitive, healthy and sustainable development in the sector and allow for the most economic and eco-efficient supply of food to all consumers. This view seems to be questioned by more and more countries. What are the concerns behind this criticism and how to address them? What might be the solutions for the stalled multilateral negotiations? Is protectionism helping or harming the sustainable development and food security in developing countries? Which economy wide policy combinations are needed to support agricultural and trade policies in effectively boosting rural development worldwide?

Programme

• Welcome remarks, Parliamentary State Secretary Mr Stübgen
• Keynote speech by Professor Gabriel Felbermayr, IfW Kiel
• Facilitated panel discussions:

Speakers

• Commissioner Phil Hogan, EU Commission, DG Agri
• Josefa Sacko, Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture, African Union
• Director-General Alan Wolff, WTO
• Hendrik Bourgeois, VP for Corporate Affairs EMEA Cargill
• Marlehn Thieme, Welthungerhilfe (German Agro Action) (tbc)

Date

Friday, 18. January 2019, from 12:15 pm to 1:30 pm