Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
25 times higher is the proportional investment in agricultural research and development in North America and Europe (51%) compared to Latin America and the Caribbean (2%), evidencing a deep technological gap according to UNESCO data (2021) (Velásquez, A., 2025).
300% has grown in the last decade the international trade of native varieties from Latin America such as quinoa, amaranth, maca, avocado, and specialty coffee, reflecting a growing interest in ancestral foods and agricultural biodiversity (Velásquez, A., 2025).
20% increase in added value have experienced traditional Latin American crops adapted to international standards, such as Hass avocado, Geisha coffee, or specific varieties of Andean potato, demonstrating opportunities for bio-businesses (Velásquez, A., 2025).
60% more food must be produced by Latin America by 2050 to contribute to global food security in the context of climate change, growing population, and resource constraints, requiring intensive innovation according to strategic projections (Velásquez, A., 2025).
45% could increase Latin American agricultural productive efficiency through the coordinated implementation of digital transformation strategies, including adapted mechanization and robotics, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence according to CAF projections (Velásquez, A., 2025).
35% could increase the contribution of the agricultural sector to the Latin American bioeconomy through the implementation of emerging technologies and circular approaches throughout the production chain, according to prospective analysis included in CAF's strategy (Velásquez, A., 2025).
2% of global investment in agricultural research and development corresponds to Latin America and the Caribbean, well below North America and Europe (51%) or Asia (39%), according to UNESCO data (2021) cited by CAF (Velásquez, A., 2025).
3.3 events per year was the average number of droughts in LAC between 2013 and 2023, an increase from the 3.0 recorded between 1990 and 2000 (FAO et al., 2025).
3.6 flood-related disasters per year were recorded in the Caribbean between 2013 and 2023, compared to 2.4 between 1990 and 2000 (FAO et al., 2025).
1.3% of GDP and 16% of agricultural GDP in LAC correspond to agricultural support (Conroy et al., 2024).
