FAPDA is a global real-time policy database in which every policy record is validated by FAO policy experts. The database distinguishes between two types of policies based on their temporal dimension in terms of effects and objectives. A multi-year plan or a long-term strategy will be classified under policy frameworks, conversely, if the policy is targeted and produces immediate effects, it belongs to policy decisions.

Policy frameworks are classified according to the following categories:

• national socioeconomic development
• agrifood systems
• energy
• social well-being
• labour and employment
• capital formation
• natural resources and climate change
• trade and markets
• disaster risk reduction and management

Additionally, policy frameworks can be classified according to the Quality Indicator of Policy Documents (QUIPD) assessment, allowing for the extraction of best practices.

Policy decisions grouped into:

• Consumer-oriented policies, provide direct support to consumers and vulnerable groups such as cash transfers and other social safety nets, food assistance (e.g. school feeding), price controls (e.g. fixed maximum price for consumers supported by subsidies).
• Producer-oriented policies, influence production using measures such as fixed minimum producers prices, public purchase mechanism and distribution of subsidized inputs.
• Trade-oriented and macroeconomic policies, include trade policy instruments such as tariffs and exports control to impact prices and/or domestic supply, as well as the management of the exchange rate.

A specific designed classification allows tracking regulatory evolution of commodities and commodity groups. 

Both policy decisions and frameworks can be classified according to different thematic policy datasets, based on their alignment with the following global development frameworks:

• Sustainable Development Goals (only frameworks)
• FAO Global Roadmap (only frameworks)
• G20 Policy Basket Initiative (both frameworks and decisions).

All entries are verified, documented and classified based on the FAPDA policy decisions classification, developed from FAO’s Guide for Policy and Programmatic Actions at Country Level to Address High Food Prices.

Download the User guide (2026) for more information.

While FAPDA strives to provide accurate, complete, and up-to-date information, no guarantee is given. FAO website terms and conditions apply. Please report any errors or omissions to [email protected]