SOUTH AFRICA, A MARKET WITH GOOD PERSPECTIVES
An auspicious diversification of the economy and good prospects for South-South cooperation are observed. It is not only one of the most dynamic emerging markets in the world but also the gateway to other African markets. In recent years tourism has also become a high income generating activity: there are about 900,000 arrivals per month, of which 210,000 are non African travelers.
CHINA: FOOD DEMAND INCREASES AND CONSUMPTION TRENDS ARE CHANGING
The ability to meet the growing demand for food in China with its own production is severely limited by the degradation of agricultural resources. The remarkable growth of the Chinese economy in the last three decades not only triggered a significant increase in food consumption, but also resulted in changes in habits and dramatically diversified demand.
There are less and less availability of arable land and much of the soils are impacted by different degrees of pollution, mainly by untreated industrial waste.
CHIKPEAS: RESEARCH IN QUALITY TO ACHIEVE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Science research in quality should be a priority whenever this agrifood primary segment looks for commercial development. Investing in researh is crucial to add value, improve competitiveness and gain access to new markets.
Other aspect to consider is organization and positive association in a scheme where all actors work together with sinergy and cooperate to conquer goals stated for short, middle and long term.
GCC, THE NEW ECONOMIC COMMUNITY
Soon, "Community" will cease to be an exclusive reference to Europe. The so-called Gulf Community, founded in 1981 and composed of Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, is on its way to be the new center of the world.
In 2017 the per capita income would reach US $36,839. This represents a very favorable scenario for food trade.