US Leads G20 Talks to Protect Food and Fertilizer Amid Middle East War
The United States has stepped up as chair of the Group of 20 (G20) to convene additional meetings focused on how the war in the Middle East is disrupting food supplies and fertilizer availability. The U.S. aims to rally major economies—including Russia and China—alongside the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank to ensure farmers receive essential inputs.
During a recent gathering of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors that coincided with spring sessions of the IMF and World Bank, officials discussed how war‑related price spikes and supply chain breaks are driving up costs for farmers. They also warned of a potential 45 million‑person spike in hunger due to delayed fertilizer shipments at a critical time in the growing season. While no firm plan emerged, the meeting underscored strong support for future cooperation.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced last week that the U.S. would push for a coordinated effort to guarantee fertilizer access worldwide. He argued that a swift, joint response could prevent the war’s economic shock from turning into a long‑term food crisis. The IMF has already lowered its growth outlook, citing higher energy prices and disrupted trade routes.
Most G20 members backed the U.S. idea, though a few said they could not commit by week’s end. Staff‑level talks will continue, aiming to turn the discussion into an actionable consensus. Details on how this coordination would work remain unclear.
Several G20 countries stressed the need to avoid export bans or limits on fertilizers, especially for low‑income nations that depend heavily on imports. They welcomed the IMF and World Bank’s plan to meet this week, assess aid requests from struggling countries, and coordinate the best response. The discussion highlighted that maintaining diversified fertilizer production is key to shielding vulnerable communities from market shocks.
Under Bessent’s leadership, the G20 has paused many committees on climate and sustainability to focus on core macroeconomic issues. A Treasury spokesperson said the goal is to make the G20 “a more nimble, action‑oriented group.” Washington hopes that this renewed focus will lead to tangible results for food security and market stability.
