Cassava, Coffee, and Global Food Prices

When we think of agricultural commodities that are traded at a global level we often focus on what commodities we grow and raise locally. Often times we can lose site of the big picture when it comes to global commodities, trade, and prices. This week we feature an article from the FAO that highlights international agricultural commodity prices and what it means for trade and farmers and consumers around the globe. We encourage you to read the linked article and utilize the discussion points to guide you conversations in classrooms, coffee shops, and communities around the world.

Declining International Prices to Ease Food Import Burden for Poorest Countries 

Discussion Points

• What are overall worldwide trends in agriculture commodity and food prices? Who benefits? Who will face challenges?
• What are the trends with cassava globally? Depending on your location around the globe what roll does cassava play in your diet? Why or why not is it a popular crop in your area?
• Coffee is the widest traded tropical product in the world. What is the outlook for coffee trade and prices?
• Often times when we talk commodity prices we look at how farmers or consumers are impacted. Who else is impacted by commodity prices and trade outside of the farmer and consumer? How are these others impacted?