Global food systems face mounting pressure. Especially from rising populations, shifting consumption, geopolitical instability, and climate change, challenging traditional agriculture's ability to meet demand sustainably and equitably. Consequently, a significant movement is underway to build fairer food systems. These systems aim beyond mere output, prioritising equitable distribution, reduced waste, empowered smallholders, and sustainable resource management. Recognising that production alone is insufficient, this transformation seeks to create more just and resilient food chains benefiting all, especially vulnerable communities disproportionately impacted by food insecurity and market volatility. Achieving fairer food systems requires a comprehensive strategy encompassing technological advancements, policy reforms, market interventions, and a fundamental re-evaluation of power dynamics to ensure greater equity and sustainability across the food chain.

The Caribbean’s agricultural sector exemplifies these global challenges and opportunities - a sector rich in potential but hampered by low productivity and productivity growth, weak market linkages, and systemic vulnerabilities. A 2019 CDB/Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) study, ‘The State of Agriculture in the Caribbean’, highlights how climate variability - including more frequent and intense hurricanes and rainfall events and prolonged droughts - has reduced crop yields by up to 30% in CDB Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs). Smallholder farmers who produce over 70% of the region’s food, face the most severe impacts. Compounded by unsustainable farming practices and land degradation, these challenges have entrenched the region’s reliance on food imports, which accounts for 60% and 80% of consumption, leaving Caribbean nations exposed to global supply chain shocks. The region also grapples with a high cost of a healthy meal, surpassing global averages, with households allocating a disproportionate income share.

Hosted on the sidelines of the Caribbean Development Bank's 55th Annual Meeting, the event will examine market dynamics and policy interventions to transform Caribbean agriculture in the face of these challenges. Discussions will centre on identifying and rectifying market failures hindering equitable resource distribution and the adoption of sustainable practices to meet Caribbean food and nutrition security needs. By convening experts, policymakers, agri-tech innovators, and stakeholders, the session will explore how climate-smart technologies, inclusive policies, and digital solutions can boost productivity while advancing resilience. The discussion will showcase regional and global best practices, emphasising the need to bridge the gap between policy, science, and on-the-ground implementation.