Global Trends and Uncertainties

There are a number of trends and uncertainties, over which we have no control, that have a significant impact on the agriculture industry. The global population is increasing. Energy demand is increasing, and we are aU aware of the price of oil. In some parts of the world, there are shortages of critical resources, such as 

Global population growth is about 1.3% every year and is expected to reach 7 billion by 2015 and 9 billion by 2050. Forecasters have estimated that the number of cities greater than one million people will double to 60 over the next decade. These new cities will be in developing countries, placing significant pressure on the food supply infrastructure. World income is rising annually at 1.3%. More disposable income impacts people s diets as they demand more protein. 

Looking at the above chart, everyone knows that China and India have big populations, but it is interesting to note that countries with large percentage changes in population also include Brazil and Argentina. 

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