Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
266 million people in 47 countries and territories faced high levels of acute food insecurity in 2025, equivalent to 22.9% of the analyzed population.
There is a 61% probability that El Niño will develop between May and July 2026 (IDB, 2026).
167 million people face moderate or severe food insecurity in Latin America and the Caribbean; in addition, more than 33 million suffer from hunger and over 181 million cannot afford a healthy diet.
More than 100,000 people in 250 rural communities benefited from anticipatory actions implemented in nine countries during the 2023-2024 El Niño event, with increases of up to 40% in maize and bean production in some Central American countries.
Nearly 30% was the year-on-year increase in grain harvests during intense El Niño events, such as 1997 and 2014-2016, due to productivity gains.
More than 20% is NOAA’s estimated probability of an extreme version of El Niño occurring, although experts warn that uncertainty remains.
83% of firms finance their investments primarily with their own resources.
76% of surveyed agrifood companies in Latin America and the Caribbean consider access to financing to be the main public policy priority for the sector.
More than 80% of the fertilizers used in Latin America are imported, which increases regional vulnerability to external shocks (Mundoagro, 2026).
A 30% increase in household consumption could result from greater access to irrigation (CAF, 2025).
