Pacific Food System Outlook 2009-2010 : Market Volatility and the Food System

The Pacific Food System Outlook represents the first regionwide coordinated effort to provide the outlook for the Pacific food system. The food system includes not just production agriculture, but also the whole complex of economic relationships and linkages that tie the region's food consumers to producers. The goal of the Pacific Food System Outlook is to help increase knowledge about the diverse components of this vital segment of the global economy. The food system is one of the economic sectors most sensitive to the potential consequences of price volatility. The expectation is that price volatility will continue for at least the near term. Public and private sector decision-makers around the region need the best possible information to address this challenge. This year's report analyses the underlying factors driving volatility; the potential near-term implications for production agriculture, food security, and the broader food system; and the nature of measures and approaches that governments and the private sector might employ to reduce potential adverse economic impacts.

From China to Facebookistan, the Internet has transformed global commerce. A cyber-law expert argues that we must free Internet trade while simultaneously protecting consumers.

On the ancient Silk Road, treasure-laden caravans made their arduous way through deserts and mountain passes, establishing trade between Asia and the civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. Today’s electronic Silk Roads ferry information across continents, enabling individuals and corporations anywhere to provide or receive services without obtaining a visa. But the legal infrastructure for such trade is yet rudimentary and uncertain. If an event in cyberspace occurs at once everywhere and nowhere, what law applies? How can consumers be protected when engaging with companies across the world?

In this accessible book, cyber-law expert Anupam Chander provides the first thorough discussion of the law that relates to global Internet commerce. Addressing up-to-the-minute examples, such as Google’s struggles with China, the Pirate Bay’s skirmishes with Hollywood, and the outsourcing of services to India, the author insightfully analyzes the difficulties of regulating Internet trade. Chander then lays out a framework for future policies, showing how countries can dismantle barriers while still protecting consumer interests.

AnnuaL. 2001/2002-Each issue has a distinctive title.Vols. for published by ISEAS and Pacific Economic Cooperation CounciL.Continues: Pacific food outlookFood industry and trade-Asia-Periodicals.Food industry and trade-Pacific Area-Periodicals.Food prices-Asia-Periodicals.Food prices-Pacific Area-Periodicals.Agriculture and state-Asia-Periodicals.Agriculture and state-Pacific Area-Periodicals. Contents FOREWORD COORDINATORS AND FORECASTING PANEL A New Era of Volatility? Roller Coaster Prices: The Upswing Roller Coaster Prices: The Downswing Food System Impacts Policy Implications References Sponsor Profiles PECC Members