Annual food stock carrying costs are two to three times greater than interregional food transportation costs, so food would be more affordable. Trade also provides more choice for consumers and more reliable supplies at a lower cost, offering a more diverse, nutritious diet. Achieving these objectives will require a great deal of political will. A world based on trust, understanding and interdependence - which leads to peace. Simply put, a more prosperous world knit together by an open food system is a much safer place.
Trade creates prosperity.
Prosperity promotes peace. Of course, these are dividends from open trade generally, making both individual families and countries more secure. But no area of commerce will do more to advance these goals than agriculture and food trade. That's why I hope we can all work together to take down the protectionist walls that impede sustainability, prosperity and security. I'd like to end with one more thought.