Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

- Food and energy needs are perpetually increasing

In his speech, TOBB Food Industry Council President Necdet Buzbaş stated that as the world’s population and the diversity of its needs increases, so does people’s need for food and energy. Stating that with the advent of new technologies, an increase in production input and therefore waste is observed and that nature is faced with the problems of increased productivity.

- Status of commodity prices

Necdet Buzbaş stated that we are faced with a world much different from the last century’s generous grain economy, saying, “Until recently sudden jumps in commodity prices were not viewed with much regard as soon afterwards, a return to low priced foods were seen. This situation aided in the shaping of political stability at the end of the 20th century. The price increases we see today raise demand and make it hard for address supply. Truly a paradox.”

- “Effective policies should be implemented, not fashionable ones”

Buzbaş spoke, “We support decreasing consumption of fossil fuels, and we do not see this as a luxury but a necessity. We believe that food is a more important strategic asset than oil. Any pressure which may be exerted on our capacity to provide clean, healthy and sustainable food to our people is unacceptable. We must implement policies by analyzing benefit and effect, not because it is fashionable.”

- “Diminishing arable land”

Food, Agriculture and Livestock Ministry Undersecretary Vedat Mirmahmutoğlulları said, “The arable lands in the world are diminishing every day.” Mirmahmutoğulları spoke on the dangers of continually shrinking farming soil due to loopholes in the legislation or necessity.