Agricultural overview and identification of alternative scenarios for the future

The document refers to themes such as the global economic review, an agricultural overview (l980-l988), designing an agricultural strategy, a look at the influence of some key variables, macro-economic policies, production and cropping systems, technology, suitability and diffusion, and market factors. The document point outs the need for recognition among policy makers and planners that, within the macro-economy the agriculture sector does not exist in isolation; there is a dynamic interaction among the various sectors. In order to optimise the output of the overall economy, there is the definite need for a greater understanding of the various factors and commodity markets within the region and the interactions of these with macroeconomic and prices interventions. This appreciation is possible only through more attention to empirical analyses. It adds that such an approach, together with, among other things, increased local involvement in planning and implementation, would serve to catalyse optimum output from agriculture leading to the ultimate realisation of the development goals. [The document includes the questions and comments for Gonzalo Estefanell and John Spence]. (MIBA)