Program challenges and future opportunities

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the results of the author's findings and options identified for addressing policy and program changes. It reviews the major forces of change in the marketing system identified as impacting policies and programs affecting food and agricultural marketing. An overview of the major options suggested as areas that deserve further discussion and analysis as a basis for policy and program changes in the future is then presented. Market conditions are generally materially different than those which existed at the time when contemporary policies were established. Some programs have failed to be adequately adjusted to accommodate these changes in market conditions. The evolution of markets to coordinated and managed supply chains; contracts and market structure; technology; and expectations of market performance relative to food safety, consumer information, variety, and nonmarket social values are highlighted as forces leading to policy changes affecting food and agricultural marketing. Finally, the chapter identifies priority areas for attention to address market and legislative failures.