Media Release
The United States Fights World Hunger
May 6, 2008
"The American people are generous people and they're compassionate people. We believe in a timeless truth: To whom much is given, much is expected. And so therefore at home we are working to ensure that the neediest among us can cope with the rising food prices. And with the new international funding I'm announcing today, we're sending a clear message to the world: that America will lead the fight against hunger for years to come."
– President George W. Bush, May 1, 2008
Increase in Global Food Prices
Several factors have contributed to recent hikes in global food prices. These include increased demand in rapidly growing emerging economies; rising energy costs; several years of bad weather in Australia, China, and parts of Eastern Europe, which have hit wheat harvests especially hard; export restrictions imposed by several countries, some with significant commodity stocks; and, to a lesser extent, increased biofuel production, which accounts for only an estimated three percent of the 43 percent increase in global food prices.
The U.S. Government Takes Action
Rising prices have complicated worldwide food assistance efforts and made it more difficult for the United States to meet existing commitments, much less to help the growing number of people who need aid. Nonetheless, President Bush recently announced that the United States will make available $200 million more in emergency food aid through the U.S. Agriculture Department's Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust. Together with the additional $770 million President Bush requested last week from the U.S. Congress to support food aid and related development programs, this adds up to nearly $1 billion in new funds to bolster global food security. With other food security assistance programs already in place, the United States will likely spend nearly $5 billion in 2008-2009 to fight global hunger. This funding will also allow the United States to help farmers in developing countries increase their productivity and improve distribution.
Other Countries Have Roles to Play, Too
The United States is working with other developed countries to secure commitments for additional food aid. We are working toward the conclusion of a successful Doha Round agreement, which would reduce and eliminate tariffs, other barriers, and market-distorting subsidies for agricultural goods, thereby making food cheaper and more available for consumers around the world. We are also urging countries that restrict agricultural exports to lift those restrictions. The United States will coordinate our efforts with international organizations and other donors while continuing to provide leadership on food issues.