In the sprawling landscapes of emerging economies, where the future of global food security is increasingly at stake, a groundbreaking study has shed new light on the transformative power of information and communication technology (ICT). Led by Abbas Ali Chandio from the School of Economics at Guizhou University in China, the research delves into the intricate relationship between ICT adoption and food security in seven key emerging economies: China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Mexico, Brazil, and Turkey.
The study, spanning from 1995 to 2019, employs a robust suite of econometric approaches to unravel the complex dynamics at play. Using the Westerlund ECM co-integration test, the PMG method, and the D-H causality test, Chandio and his team have uncovered compelling insights that could reshape agricultural policies and practices in these regions.
One of the most striking findings is the significant impact of mobile phone and internet usage on long-term food security. According to the study, a rise in mobile phone usage boosts food security by 0.092%, while increased internet access contributes an additional 0.036%. “These numbers might seem small, but in the context of global food security, they represent a substantial shift,” Chandio explains. “The widespread adoption of mobile phones and internet access can lead to more efficient farming practices, better market access, and improved agricultural decision-making.”
The research also highlights a bidirectional causal relationship between mobile phone use and food security, suggesting that as mobile phone usage increases, so does food security, and vice versa. However, the relationship between internet use and food security is unidirectional, indicating that while increased internet access enhances food security, the reverse is not necessarily true. This nuanced understanding could guide policymakers in tailoring interventions that maximize the benefits of ICT in agriculture.
The study’s findings underscore the long-term benefits of ICT adoption, showing that the impact on food security is more pronounced over extended periods. This has significant implications for policymakers and stakeholders in the E7 countries, who are encouraged to invest in ICT infrastructure and promote mobile phone and internet use, particularly in rural areas. “By doing so, we can strengthen the farming system and increase sustainable food production,” Chandio emphasizes.
The commercial impacts of these findings are far-reaching. For the energy sector, which is intrinsically linked to agricultural production, the increased efficiency and sustainability brought about by ICT adoption could lead to more optimized energy use in farming. This could translate into cost savings and reduced environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.
As the world grapples with the challenges of feeding a growing population in the face of climate change, this research offers a beacon of hope. By leveraging the power of ICT, emerging economies can pave the way for a more secure and sustainable future. The study, published in the journal ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems’ (which translates to ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems’), provides a comprehensive roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to harness the potential of technology in transforming agriculture.
The implications of this research are vast and could shape future developments in the field. As ICT continues to evolve, so too will its role in agriculture, potentially leading to even more innovative solutions for food security. The findings of this study serve as a clarion call for increased investment and strategic planning in ICT adoption, ensuring that the benefits of technology are fully realized in the quest for global food security.