Improving Agricultural Market Performance:
Developing Agricultural Market Information Systems
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Though the outlook data in Figure 17, especially the national-level projections, are important in
determining supply situations and potential price levels in domestic markets, it is critical for
import-dependent countries to also assess the international supply outlook (Figure 8).
Challenges faced by member countries in providing relevant national data is reported to be
affecting the quality of the information provided and sustainability of the system (Box 5).
Box 5: Challenges Facing MED-AMIN
Source: Interviews with Philippe Poquotte, FAO AMIS, 20th September 2017 and Christine Ton Nu, CHEAM, 25th
September 2017 both in Egypt
Figure 18: MED-AMIN’s Report on Global Wheat Outlook (2017)
Source
This system is centred around government data collection systems in the member states and
therefore only works when collaboration is comprehensive and data is available and robust.
However, there are difficulties in obtaining data from the member countries. One of the reasons
for this situation is that some of the data, for example on grain stocks, is considered politically
sensitive. Availability of national-level human resources to support MED-AMIN is also a
constraint, leading to most member countries of the MED-AMIN reporting only 50% of the data
required. Some MED-AMIN officials are concerned that these challenges can undermine the long
term viability of MED-AMIN in in the region.