In today’s world of overlapping and intensifying shocks, resilient agri-food supply chains are no longer a ‘nice-to-have’, they are a necessity. From pandemics and wars to climate extremes and cyber threats, the question is not ‘if’ the next disruption will happen, but ‘when’ and how well we’ll respond.
That’s why we recently gathered a diverse group of stakeholders at the OECD Forum on Resilient Agri-Food Supply Chains. Held under Chatham House rules to promote open dialogue, the event brought together policy experts, business leaders, researchers, and practitioners to explore today’s challenges and identify practical, forward-looking solutions.
Evolving food logistics: Strengthening resilience in transport and infrastructure
The day began with a spotlight on the critical role of transport and infrastructure in resilient agri-food supply chains. These systems have proven resilient and adaptable but continue to face evolving challenges such as port congestion, freight cost fluctuations, labour shortages and energy market volatility.
We heard that the old ‘just-in-time’ model, designed for efficiency, low inventory, and fast, predictable deliveries, is rapidly being replaced by ‘just-in-case’ strategies. Agility, flexibility, and better risk management are becoming the new standards. When disruptions occur, be it a transport strike or a blocked canal, it’s effective public-private coordination plays a key role in maintaining the steady flow of goods.
Untangling the trade web: Simplifying rules for smarter trade
Attention then turned to cross-border trade and regulation, the invisible infrastructure that keeps agri-food products moving. Trade in the agriculture sector is governed by a complex patchwork of food safety, health, sustainability, trade agreements and environmental standards.
While these rules are vital, overlapping or inconsistent requirements can increase costs, delay shipments, and create barriers for smaller players. Participants explored how smarter trade tools can improve resilience, particularly in times of shocks. There was also a call to recognise the growing complexity of non-tariff measures (NTMs) and the importance of trade facilitation, including streamlined processes, improved infrastructure, and greater transparency, to help ensure that modern agri-food trade works for all, especially in developing regions.
Innovation with inclusion: Making new tools work for everyone
Innovation was a recurring theme throughout the Forum with insights shared on AI pilots, new technologies' living labs and examples of public-private collaboration. Many tools offer great potential, but one message was clear - technology alone isn’t enough.
For innovation to be effective, it must also be inclusive. That means ensuring small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), often the most vulnerable to disruption, are not left behind. It requires investment in digital skills, shared infrastructure, and accessible financing. It also means building trusted frameworks for data sharing, where confidentiality and collaboration go hand in hand.
From insights to action: What comes next?
Three key takeaways emerged from the discussions:
- Resilience starts before any shock hits. It’s not only about recovery. It’s about building systems that can anticipate, adapt to, and absorb shocks.
- Collaboration is critical. From farmers and suppliers to policymakers and global companies, everyone has a role to play. We are stronger together.
- Coherence creates strength. Alignment between policies, partners, and platforms matters. Fragmentation wastes resources, while coordinated systems save lives.
Agri-food systems are central to our economies, our health, and the future of the planet. The resilience agenda isn’t about resisting change; it’s about shaping it. If we get it right, we won’t just survive the next shock, we’ll thrive, ensuring food that is accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all.
At the OECD, we are committed to turning these insights into action. Our tools on food system resilience, agricultural trade, and supply chain preparedness are designed to help countries build more sustainable, inclusive, and secure agri-food systems.
📌 Read more on resilience in agriculture and food systems:
https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/sub-issues/resilience-in-agriculture-and-food-systems.html
