Food Security in Asia and the Pacific amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has heightened food security risks in Asia and the Pacific. Disruptions to domestic and international food supply chains—caused as rising health risks led to major travel restrictions—have undermined food availability and accessibility. Domestically, disruptions in the upstream food supply chains have arisen from mobility restrictions and worker illnesses during planting and harvesting, in addition to hindered operations in processing, trucking, logistics, and trading. Losses of employment and income are also reducing food consumption, leaving vulnerable groups at risk of hunger and malnutrition. Basic food handouts are often limited and may not meet the nutritional needs of children and pregnant women. Internationally, border closures and export restrictions could imply limited availability and affordability of certain food items for countries that rely on imports.