Azernews.Az

Azerbaijan will not face a food shortage that will hit 40 countries around the world this year, according to research by international groups.
Ali Masimli, who chairs the parliamentary commission on economic policy, said the conclusion meant that the shortage is not expected in the country at least till the end of 2008. Nonetheless, the government should take steps to avert a potential threat.
Masimli said discussions on food safety have heated up of late, along with those on the mortgage crisis that has hit world markets. The emerging situation has alarmed the public in the world. Financial crisis, the closure of numerous banks and soaring crude prices have brought about the threat of inflation in countries around the globe.
"The issue has turned so serious that calls are now being made at the UN to boost investment in agriculture. The Azerbaijani government should therefore take urgent measures."
The expert noted that Azerbaijan is currently unable to meet its demand for wheat, butter and other basic foods in full, and part of these products is imported. Ensuring food safety should therefore be the government's primary goal. The steps taken will allow the country to meet the demand for these goods on its own. At the same time, imports of basic foods should be increased for the time being to avoid a shortage. "However, there is no need to raise uproar over the developments ongoing in the world."
He said that if wheat production is increased in Azerbaijan, the country will never face a shortage of grain in the future.