Agribusiness

                                                “The greatness of the United States is founded on agriculture.”   
                                                                                                              L. Ogden Armour, 1922

Mr. Armour’s assertion (and depiction – refer to Chart I)1 concerning United States (US) agriculture described an isolationist-minded America that was cultivating the fruits of its labor – unaware that it would eventually become the “most agriculturally productive country in the world.” Today, his words continue to resonate as American agriculture remains “uniquely tied to both our country’s culture and economy.” With the capacity to feed those who reside within US borders and simultaneously generate excesses to feed other developed and developing nations, it is clear that “agriculture remains the most valuable of US industries.” This tremendous capacity comes with even greater responsibilities founded in providing for US and global food security, both of which directly influence and impact US national security.

Over the next several decades, as global shaping forces continue to intensify and changes in the agribusiness industry reshape the food supply chain, the US will need to further develop and capitalize on its national agricultural capabilities. The ability of the US to expand its national
competitive advantages, while maintaining its comparative ones, will be essential to adequately lead food security efforts.

This industry study report assesses the current state of agribusiness and food security through both a US and global perspective. This approach provides an effective way to analyze the most pressing challenges and to further understand and pursue the most compelling opportunities.
The most significant agribusiness threats, Chinese economic competition and US vulnerabilities to agroterrorism, were taken into consideration when assessing overall national security impacts and the ability to pursue and provide for food security. The analysis made it clear that
“understanding the issues are not enough and that smart US engagement is a necessity.” Consequently, the ability of the US to creatively lead both US and global food security efforts must be informed by whole-of-government policy recommendations, which this industry report offers for consideration.
 

Read the report →