FAO Warns Hormuz Disruption Could Trigger Global Food Crisis

(MENAFN) The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that a prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could escalate into a global food and agriculture emergency by delaying shipments of key agricultural inputs and driving up costs worldwide.

In a statement on Monday, the FAO said continued instability in the vital maritime route could affect the transport of fertilizers and energy-related supplies, with knock-on effects on food production and prices.

FAO Chief Economist Maximo Torero said time is running out to prevent wider consequences, noting that developing countries would be hit hardest due to their vulnerability to rising input costs and tight agricultural cycles.

He warned that higher fertilizer and energy prices could reduce crop yields in the coming seasons, potentially leading to increased food inflation and economic strain in 2027.

Governments, he added, may be forced to intervene to stabilize domestic markets, which could further affect global economic conditions.

The organization said its latest Food Price Index for March remained relatively steady due to sufficient global supplies, particularly in cereal markets. However, it cautioned that pressures are expected to rise in the coming months as farmers reassess planting decisions amid uncertainty over fertilizer availability and energy costs.

FAO officials also described the current situation as an “input crisis,” warning that failure to stabilize supply chains could turn it into a broader humanitarian and economic emergency.

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