Agribusiness: Industry Study Final Report, AY 2003-2004, Seminar 1
Abstract
Although not intuitively obvious, agribusiness remains a critical component, not only in the overall U.S. economy, but to national security as well. American consumers often take food for granted, demanding more variety and convenience from the nation's food supply system. Even though the U.S. is blessed with an abundant food supply, any nation unable to feed its citizens or its armies puts its own sovereignty at peril. Much more than the Norman Rockwell version of an American farmer, agribusiness is big business, encompassing everything from the farm to the fork. Technological innovations over the past century have led to an unprecedented increase in productivity. As agribusiness becomes more global, it faces increased competition, questioning the industry's ability to sustain itself into the next century. To meet these challenges, agribusiness is turning more to vertical and horizontal integration, technology, and government intervention to remain competitive. This study assesses the industry by focusing on the value chain, the trends, the challenges, as well as the opportunities faced throughout agribusiness. As a matter of key importance to the industry, this report also focuses on food safety/agro-terrorism, biotechnology, trade, and changing American eating habits.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA435133
Entities
People
- Eddie Coleman
- Peter Stavrakis
- Rebecca Abraham
- Steve Randolph
Organizations
- Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy