تأكيدًا لدورها المتصاعد على الساحة الدولية.. إعادة انتخاب المملكة في اللجنة الإدارية لمجلس الحبوب الدولي
On October 16, 2023, the International Grains Council (IGC) held its 62nd session in London, where it reaffirmed the election of Saudi Arabia to its Administrative Committee for the 2025-2026 term. This committee consists of 16 member nations elected from a larger pool of 30, which includes the European Union representing 27 countries.
The decision to re-elect Saudi Arabia was emphasized by Ahmad bin Abdulaziz Al-Fares, the Chairman of the General Authority for Food Security. He described this election as a significant endorsement of the Kingdom’s growing stature on the international stage, as well as its substantial economic influence both globally and regionally. Since joining the IGC on September 1, 2010, Saudi Arabia has actively participated in council decisions that play a vital role in stabilizing global grain markets.
During the 62nd session, the council engaged in discussions covering various issues pertinent to grain markets, rice, and oilseeds. Key topics included global supply and demand trends, maritime shipping concerns, and the implications of non-tariff barriers on international food commodity trade. Additionally, discussions centered on trade-related policy developments and strategies to bolster global commercial cooperation through multilateral trade agreements. The meeting also addressed administrative and financial matters concerning the council’s operations.
The Saudi delegation to the IGC session was led by Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Fawzan, the Deputy Chairman of the General Authority for Food Security. This leadership underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to being at the forefront of international dialogue on food security.
The IGC, established in 1949, is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to fostering international cooperation in the grain trade. It aims to contribute to market stability and bolster global food security by providing neutral analysis of supply and demand fundamentals in the grain and oilseed sectors. The council enhances transparency within these markets through the exchange of information and thorough market analysis, and it regularly reports on market developments and policy changes.
Saudi Arabia’s continued involvement in the IGC not only strengthens its global agricultural strategies but also positions it as a pivotal player in addressing food security challenges. Through its engagement in the council, the Kingdom plays an instrumental role in shaping policies that may impact grain production, distribution, and consumption worldwide. This proactive approach indicates the commitment of Saudi Arabia to contributing to stable grain prices and ensuring food availability for all.
The outcome of the IGC’s decisions is particularly significant in light of recent trends in global grain markets, which have faced volatility due to various geopolitical factors. Countries are increasingly affected by changes in trade policies, climate change, and other unpredictable elements that can impact agricultural output. The discussions held during the IGC’s meetings, including the perspectives put forth by member nations, serve as a crucial platform for refining approaches to these ongoing challenges.
In essence, Saudi Arabia’s reaffirmation as a member of the IGC’s Administrative Committee reflects not only its ambition to assert itself in global food conversations but also its recognition of the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling pressing challenges in the agricultural domain. As the Kingdom engages with other member states, its experience and insights could contribute appreciably to the formulation of more resilient and sustainable food systems worldwide.
