Introduction

Developing countries and primary commodities are two categories that seem to correlate naturally, so much so that the phenomenon of commodity dependence is commonly associated with the macroeconomic perspective on development economics. The conventional empirical background to the discussion of real commodity prices, in the context of economic development in particular, is that of a long term price decline. The focus on food sector exports as a source of export revenue is best interpreted in the general context of mobilising external resources. An analysis of the food sector and trade within this sector can go further, however, in addressing the food security angle and the associated question of food availability. Market entry of substantial supplies from non-conventional sources could in principle ameliorate or even compensate supply constraint effects following peak oil production if an economically sustainable supply can be secured. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.