FAO highlights biotech in smallholder agricultural growth

Jan 25, 2024

By Farms.com

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has released a crucial report emphasizing the role of agricultural biotechnologies in meeting the needs of smallholder farmers. The report contains 15 case studies that highlight the application and impact of these technologies in developing countries.

Agricultural biotechnologies range from simple techniques like tissue culture to sophisticated methods like whole genome sequencing. These technologies are vital tools in the mission to transform global food systems. The FAO’s commitment to promoting these technologies underscores their importance in the realm of agriculture.

The case studies in the report span various sectors, including crops, livestock, and fisheries. They demonstrate that biotechnologies are not limited to GMOs and are highly relevant to smallholder farmers in developing regions.

These technologies contribute to increased productivity, improved livelihoods, enhanced disease management, and preservation of genetic resources, all crucial for sustainable smallholder production systems.

The report underscores the need for farmers to boost yields while addressing climate change challenges. The FAO identifies four critical elements for success: partnerships, sustained commitment, government support, and effective communication.

By presenting these case studies in the context of a rapidly evolving field, the FAO aims to inspire and guide those seeking to leverage biotechnologies for the benefit of smallholders.

This report not only highlights the advancements in agricultural biotechnologies but also reflects the growing recognition of their potential in ensuring a sustainable future for smallholder farmers worldwide.

Video: Will the 2025 USDA December Crop Report Be a Market Mover/Surprise?

Historically, the USDA December crop report is a non-event or another dud report as the USDA reserves any final supply changes to the final report in January of the following year in this case 2026. But after the longest U.S. government shutdown in history at 43 days and no October crop report will they provide more data/surprise and make an exception?
Our China U.S. soybean purchase tracker is now at 26.6% or a total of 3.2 mmt but for traders it’s taking too long to unfold.
The final Stats Canada production report was bearish canola and wheat projection a record crop in both (it adds to the global glut of supplies) and bullish local corn and soybean prices in Ontario/Quebec thanks to a drought. It will not help the fund flow short-term, the USDA may need to offset it?
A U.S. Fed interest rate cut of another 25-basis point next Wednesday (probability 87.1%) could help fund flow and sentiment in stock and ag commodities into year end.
More inflows into Bitcoin this past week saw prices rebound back above 90,000 with support at 82,000 and resistance at 96,000.
A V-shaped bottom in cattle suggest the lows are in after Mexico reported another new world screwworm case. Lower weights, seasonal demand and higher U.S. beef select/choice values with a continued closure of the Mexican border to cattle will result in a resumption of higher cattle futures into yearend.
Australia is expected to produce its 3rd largest wheat crop ever at 36 mmt adding to the global glut of supplies.
Reports of ASF in hogs in Spain the largest pork exporter in Europe could see the U.S. win more pork export business long-term.
If the rains verify into next week of 3-5 inches for Brazil it would go a long way to fixing the dry regions from the last 2-months, but the European weather model has been wrong for the past 2-months!
Natural gas futures are surging to the 3rd price count as frigid hold temps set in.
CDN $ is also surging to end the week on a very resilient economy and better employment numbers suggesting no interest rate cuts next week.
Finally, the CFTC report showed funds were net buyers of soybeans but sellers of corn, canola and wheat. In real time the funds have gone back to selling as they take some profits.