Food policy research for developing countries: emerging issues and unfinished business

In order to be relevant and timely, food policy research must address expec ted future knowledge gaps and information needs. Identification of emerging policy issues and related future information needs to play an important ro le in setting priorities for such research. This article presents results f rom extensive consultations with various stakeholder groups in the area of food policy research. Eleven emerging issues and eight issues of unfinished business were identified as issues requiring priority in future food polic y research for developing countries. These issues outline both future food policy priorities for the developing countries and priorities for supportin g policy research. The impact of globalization, risks and opportunities ass ociated with new technology, and food safety concerns are expected to be at the forefront of the policy agenda for the next several years. (C) 2000 El sevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.