Posts

The need for divesifiaction in imports

Image
Topic: International Trade  What is in it for you:  Of the 6,000 plant species humans have eaten over time, the world now mostly eats nine, of which just three —  rice, wheat, and maize —  provide 50% of all calories . The cheaper the food gets, and the lower the imports from the government, the dependence on the above-mentioned crops rises and given with it the dependence on a few select countries . In addition to that, people now have diets with more fats and carbohydrates, and fewer nutrients.  Effects:  The UN estimates soaring costs will push 71 million people globally below the poverty line .  Global crop yields could fall about 30% because of climate change, while food demand is expected to jump 50% in the coming decades, according to United Nations estimates. New opportunities and Future insights:  It will be a long road for any of these initiatives to make a notable difference against the trend for homogenization the industrialized supply chain promotes.  Both the current

Saudi-US Tensions Simmer

A dispute over oil risks causing irreparable harm to US relations with Saudi Arabia, a crucial partner for Washington in the Middle East. Causes: Nearly two weeks on from a decision by OPEC+ to cut oil production, tensions are escalating. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan fired the most recent salvo, saying the US would consider changes to the security and military support it provides Riyadh. “The president isn’t going to act precipitously,” Sullivan said on Sunday to CNN. Biden will “take his time to consult with members of both parties put over oil risks causing irreparable harm to US relations with Saudi Arabia, a crucial partner for Washington in the Middle East. Effects: In response, officials across the Middle East have denied the supply decrease was politically motivated or a reflection of support for Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Saudi Defense Minister Khalid Bin Salman said the decision was “due to purely economic reasons,” while ministers from