FAO Agricultural Development Economics Policy Brief, No. 42.

Agrifood systems are supported by transport networks. Robust transport networks can prevent or limit increases in travel time – and consequent impacts on food costs – when an adverse event limits or prevents access to critical network links. This policy brief examines the potential impact of localized 1-in-10-year flood scenarios on the food transport networks of Mozambique, Nigeria and Pakistan. Simulations reveal that such events increase food delivery time, heightening food costs and food loss at the local level, with potentially major impacts on local populations. The ability of the transport network to efficiently transport goods at the national level can also be reduced. Therefore, robust transport networks are crucial for supporting agrifood systems' resilience. Improved infrastructure and services – from roads to ports to transport or storage facilities, including cold chain logistics – are key for ensuring international trade connectivity and reducing food loss. Developing risk-sensitive and climate-resilient infrastructure is also important for managing the risks that can disrupt it.

The findings in this brief have been adapted from the FAO report The State of Food and Agriculture 2021. Making agrifood systems more resilient to shocks and stresses.