Food Security Concerns Amid Russian Invasion on Ukraine

As the Russian invasion on Ukraine continues, there are growing concerns about the potential impact of this conflict on Jamaica’s food security. Despite reassurances, local consumers continue to question if this will further affect their accessibility to basic food items, especially since they’re also affected by a sizable increase in inflation. Our reporter Velonique Bowen spoke with president of JMEA, John Mahfood who says it may be too early to detect the repercussions.

A common notion may be, Jamaica’s interest in the Russian invasion on Ukraine ended when the over 20 students who were trapped in the crossfire were safely evacuated. However, there are several aspects of the conflict that calls for the nation’s continued attention, including the potential effect it may have on food security. 

Speaking with CVM Live on Friday, President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) John Mahfood says it may be too early to panic. However he says one must recognize Ukraine is among the largest producers and exporters of food in Europe, some of which are vital to the Jamaican household. 

He says although Ukraine isn’t the main import spot for Jamaica, any disruption in their exportation can significantly affect the country. He says the recent increase in food items will be nothing compared to what will be seen if Ukraine is further demolished. He says there’s little the government will be able to do to curb food prices if the repercussions begin taking effect.

However, he suggests ways it can intervene to lighten the weight on gas prices, which is heavily dependent on Russia. Mahfood says a major part of predicting the impact on food security is to predict what Russia’s intentions are for Ukraine should they successfully take over.