The experiences of South America, the former Soviet Union,
and China show that government policies, national institutions,
and even cultural values can profoundly affect the productivity
of a country's resources and the competitiveness of its products
in international markets.
The worldwide phaseout of methyl bromide could mitigate some
of the harmful effects of ozone depletion, but because the
fumigant is so important to agricultural production, the phaseout
could also have some negative effects for producers and consumers.
Farmers know that consumers are key to economic viability
and growth, and their preferences drive the evolution of the
farm industry. Three demographic trends will shape future
U.S. food markets: more mature consumers, more diversity,
and more people to feed.
Along with Federal regulations requiring more preventative
controls and bacterial testing, market mechanisms, such as
increased product branding and stricter food safety requirements
imposed by large buyers, are bolstering the safety of U.S.
meat and poultry.
