The Contribution of the Agricultural Sector to Global Food Security

This article is dedicated to the examination of key aspects of the agricultural sector within the context of ensuring food security at the global level. The aim of this study is to investigate the role, signif- icance, and position of the agricultural sector in securing global food security through the formation of a food supply chain across various levels of the world economy. The definition of the essence of the Global Food Security Index (GFSI), the agro-industrial complex, and the agri-food system has enabled the con- sideration and analysis of the critical importance of the agricultural sector for global food security. It is noted that the agri-food system has emerged as the subsequent stage of development following the agro- industrial complex and more effectively reflects contemporary challenges and the needs of global food security. This system encompasses not only economic but also social, environmental, and cultural dimen- sions of food security. A comprehensive study of the agri-food system as a modern, integrated concept of sustainable development in the agricultural sphere, along with its constituent elements, facilitated the development and substantiation of a food supply chain, including its structure and functions at different levels of the world economy. It is posited that the food supply chain serves as the primary mechanism for ensuring global food security. For each link of the food supply chain, factors influencing their functioning have been identified and systematized. The authors conclude that stable growth of agricultural production is a pivotal factor in ensuring an adequate supply of food products. The efficiency of the agricultural sector, its capacity to adapt to climate change, implement innovations, and ensure sustainable develop- ment are crucial determinants for global food security. Concurrently, global food security is also contin- gent on the effective interaction of all links in the food supply chain. Only a comprehensive and systematic approach can ensure the stable and reliable functioning of the global food security system.