Global Food Prices Reach Highest on Record After War in Ukraine

Natalie Shomali, Staff Reporter, The Pawprint

The UN reported that global food prices increased to their highest levels ever seen in March after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The conflict in Ukraine has disrupted exports through the Black Sea, blocking access to the region where over a quarter of wheat is exported worldwide. 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), food products cost a third more than they did exactly one year ago.

Meats, cereals, and cooking oils have reached record-breaking costs. 

Wheat prices increased by 17.9% in March, and maize prices by 19.1%.

The FAO warned that the world is likely to see increased prices, lower stocks, and disruption in the wheat market in the near future. 

The World Food Programme (WFP) claimed that hindered exports would affect many countries in East Africa, including multiple already experiencing increased drought and conflict. 

“The higher price quotations are particularly concerning for countries already struggling with other crisis, including conflict, natural disasters, economic conditions or, as it is often the case, some combinations of those,” said FAO spokesperson. 

The WFP alerted that Russia and Ukraine are key sources of fertilizer in East Africa, and the disturbance could affect local production, causing food prices to increase even further.