Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a leading entity committed to eradicating hunger and enhancing food security globally. Established in 1945, the FAO is headquartered in Rome, Italy, serving as a central hub for international agricultural cooperation.

Financial Indicators

For the 2022-2023 biennium, the FAO operates on a budget of USD 3.2 billion. This budget is primarily supported by contributions from member nations, which account for approximately 43% of the total, with the remainder covered by voluntary contributions. These financial resources enable the FAO to implement a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering global food security.

Important Events

The FAO has recently collaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO) to enhance animal surveillance in response to the H5N1 avian influenza outbreak. This partnership is crucial for developing strategies to detect, prevent, and manage avian influenza, thereby safeguarding both animal and human health on a global scale.

Another significant event is the rise in the FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) to 128.3 points in April 2025, driven by increased prices for cereals, dairy, and meat, despite declines in sugar and vegetable oil prices. Conversely, the global food price index has shown a decline for the third consecutive month as of November, primarily due to reductions in dairy products, sugar, and vegetable oils.

The FAO is also involved in measuring food loss and waste in dairy farms, working with the National Dairy Institute of Uruguay to implement strategies that minimize waste and promote sustainability in dairy production.

Company Plans

The FAO is dedicated to combating hunger and advancing sustainable agricultural practices. The organization is committed to strengthening international partnerships and pioneering innovative solutions to address emerging food security challenges, including those posed by climate change and pandemics like avian influenza.

A critical initiative involves boosting livestock productivity to reduce global antibiotic usage, a vital step towards achieving a sustainable agricultural future. Additionally, the FAO is actively supporting Nigeria's livestock strategy, focusing on essential areas such as animal health, feed production, and disease control.

Moreover, the FAO has highlighted insects as a high-quality protein source comparable to meat and fish, with protein content in many species exceeding 60% of dry matter, showcasing an innovative approach to addressing global nutritional needs.

The FAO has also warned that partial blockages of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to increased energy and fertilizer costs, potentially impacting agricultural and dairy production worldwide.

Established in 2001, World Milk Day by the FAO aims to raise awareness of milk's importance as a global food and the contributions of the dairy industry to nutrition and sustainable agriculture.

Modified: 2026/06/14