The Race for Global Food Security

Overview of the series

Exploring the race to secure global food supply and the case for agricultural innovation

Global | In-Person and Online | May - September 2025

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Critical Conversations. Global Impact. Be Part of the Solution.

This series of events hosted by the Financial Times in partnership with CGIAR, will explore the critical intersection of agricultural innovation, investment, and global food security, aiming to catalyse investment into solutions that address the escalating challenges that climate change and population growth are posing to food security. Hosted on the sidelines of major global meetings the in-person audience will gather senior leaders engaged in the sector. Meanwhile, the broadcast to the global audience will be able to engage a broad range of stakeholders and wider awareness of the challenges and opportunities.

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The Race for Global Food Security | In-Person & Online - New York

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Global food security is under growing strain, driven by climate change, population growth, and geopolitical instability.

Extreme weather events—droughts, floods, and heatwaves—are disrupting food production, while a rising global population increases demand. From the science, it is clear that these polar forces are only set to exponentially increase, create further challenges and larger disruptions to food security. It is also clear that scientific developments could be the most impactful solution.

Advancements in genetic research can develop climate-resilient crops with greater drought, heat, and flood tolerance. Sustainable farming practices, such as precision agriculture and regenerative techniques, can help optimise resource use and protect soil health. Meanwhile, alternative proteins—such as plant-based and cultivated meat—offer ways to reduce reliance on traditional livestock farming. Innovation in food preservation, storage, and distribution can also cut waste and improve efficiency across supply chains. Strategic investment in these areas will be crucial to safeguarding future food supplies. By prioritising R&D, policymakers and industry leaders can help ensure a more secure and sustainable global food system.

However, agricultural research and development faces investment hurdles. Public funding has declined in many developed nations, leaving gaps in essential long-term research. Private investment often prioritises short-term commercial gains, neglecting sustainable practices and the needs of marginalised farmers. Market failures hinder funding for public goods and complex, long-term projects. The uneven distribution of investment leaves developing countries, where food security is most threatened, with limited resources. Additionally, a shift in research focus to environmental and animal welfare concerns, while important, can sometimes detract from direct crop yield improvements. Increased, strategic, and equitable investment is crucial to address global food security challenges.