Analysis

Keith Fuglie, Chief Economist

March 30, 2026

Investing in Agricultural Research to Sustain Growth and Competitiveness of US Agriculture

Public investments in agricultural research and development (R&D) have been a major driver of long-term productivity growth and competitiveness of US agriculture. Unfortunately, resources for public agricultural R&D have been declining in real terms, with annual spending down by about one-third from its peak in 2002; the US has fallen behind other major competitor nations in spending on agricultural R&D. To secure the country's agricultural future, the first policy priority is to increase Federal funding for agricultural R&D.

March 10, 2026

A Call to Rebuild U.S. Leadership in Food and Agricultural R&D

The United States must invest in agricultural R&D to benefit farmers, consumers, and the larger humanitarian and national security imperative of achieving a food-secure world.

By T.S. Jayne, Louise Fox, Keith Fuglie, and Adesoji Adelaja

February 11, 2026

Agricultural Productivity Growth, Resilience, and Economic Transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa

This 2021 analysis commissioned by the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development (BIFAD) reinforces a lesson that remains true today: agricultural productivity-led growth must anchor our international development strategy.

Food security leaders push for increased ag research to strengthen global food supply

Analysis

The Council builds upon the groundbreaking work of thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners from around the world. Here are a few pieces we find thought-provoking.

Investing in Agricultural Research to Sustain Growth and Competitiveness of US Agriculture

A Call to Rebuild U.S. Leadership in Food and Agricultural R&D

Agricultural Productivity Growth, Resilience, and Economic Transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa