Unlocking Food Security in Asia: A Comprehensive Recipe for Success

By Parjiono and Chandra Kusuma

Asia faces big challenges when it comes to food security, which is crucial for many countries in the region. With South Africa set to lead the G20 in 2025, the theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’ will highlight this pressing issue. It aligns well with Asian nations’ goals for food self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

Food insecurity is a major concern in Asia, where many people struggle with hunger. In 2023, between 713 to 757 million people faced hunger, despite sufficient global food production. This shows how far we still have to go in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals aimed at eliminating poverty and hunger.

Hunger affects not just individuals but also communities. It disrupts healthcare, hinders education, and decreases productivity, leading to deeper inequalities and maintaining cycles of poverty in developing Asian nations.

Asia is a diverse region, with countries at different stages of economic development. Wealthier nations play a key role in creating strategies for food security. For example, Japan and South Korea are leading efforts in global agricultural cooperation, while Singapore showcases advanced urban farming technologies that offer solutions for land-scare areas.

The balance between trade and self-sufficiency has influenced Asia’s food security policies. China illustrates this duality; it invests heavily in domestic agriculture while still being a major importer of key food items like soybeans and corn.

Trade has historically helped stabilize food supplies, especially during crises. Some argue that protecting local markets can cause food shortages. The 2008 global food crisis, however, raised concerns about relying too much on trade, pushing many Asian countries towards self-sufficiency.

The ASEAN+3 Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) shows how regional cooperation can blend self-sufficiency with trade. By working together, countries can ensure food supply stability while still gaining the benefits of trade.

Agriculture is vital for many Asian countries. It contributes significantly to their economies and provides jobs. Yet, food insecurity often hits vulnerable groups the hardest, especially in countries like Indonesia, India, the Philippines, and Pakistan. To close this gap, focused investments in farming, infrastructure, and climate resilience are essential.

Indonesia is an interesting case study in promoting food security. President Prabowo Subianto has set ambitious goals for food self-sufficiency within four years. The establishment of the National Food Agency (Bapanas) in 2021 reflected a serious commitment to improving food policies.

Public spending in areas like land management, irrigation, and logistics is crucial for Asia’s food security plans. Indonesia’s budget for food security in 2025, which amounts to 139.4 trillion rupiah (around US$8.6 billion), demonstrates the commitment to build a more self-sufficient agriculture system. Food diversification efforts are underway to reduce reliance on staple crops, increasing resilience against market shifts.

Improving nutrition through initiatives like free meal programs in Indonesia is also crucial for child development and long-term growth. These efforts align with regional visions, such as Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045, which aims to integrate food security into overall national development goals.

Other Asian nations are also stepping up. India is adopting digital agriculture, while Vietnam enhances its supply chains. Thailand focuses on sustainable farming practices. Wealthier countries support these developments by sharing technology and resources.

However, challenges remain. Climate change threatens crop yields, and urbanization limits farmland. Poor infrastructure complicates the distribution of food. Addressing these issues will require innovative solutions and collaboration among countries.

Regional organizations like ASEAN are vital for cooperation. Initiatives such as the ASEAN Food Security Reserve and APTERR are crucial for strengthening food resilience. By sharing best practices across nations, Asia can improve its ability to tackle food insecurity together.

Asia is also actively participating in global discussions like the G20. The G20’s focus on sustainable agriculture and resource mobilization can help improve food systems. Initiatives like the Agricultural Market Information System offer valuable insights to support better decision-making in food security.

South Africa’s upcoming G20 presidency will emphasize the role of artificial intelligence in agriculture. AI can enhance farming efficiency and reduce waste, contributing to more sustainable food systems.

Food security isn’t just an agenda item; it’s a fundamental human right and essential for sustainable development. Through platforms like the G20 and enhanced regional cooperation, Asian countries have the chance to lead the way. By investing in agriculture, fostering partnerships, and using global platforms, Asia can help create a more equitable and resilient food system, securing the right to food for everyone.

About the authors:

• Parjiono is Indonesia G20 Finance Deputy and Assistant to the Indonesian Minister of Finance for Macroeconomics and International Finance.
• Chandra Kusuma is Team Leader for the G20 and OECD at the Ministry of Finance.

This article was published by East Asia Forum.

The opinions expressed in this article are the authors’ own.

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