What was the FAO Food Price Index value in August, and how does it compare to recent historical levels?

The FAO Food Price Index averaged 133.3 points in August, up from July's revised 130.8, marking the highest level since November 2022 — though still nearly 17% below the record peak of March 2022 following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

What are the main drivers behind the rise in global food prices according to the FAO?

According to the FAO, the rise in global food prices is driven by converging risks: extreme heat and drought in Europe affecting maize, sugar beet, and livestock output; the anticipated severe El Niño threatening palm oil and sugar production in Asia; escalating Black Sea attacks disrupting grain shipments from Russia and Ukraine; and U.S.-Iran tensions straining fertilizer supplies — collectively raising the 'risk premium' in food markets.

World food prices at highest since 2022 as supply risks mount, FAO says

Sep 4, 2026

FAO reports world food prices hit highest since late 2022 amid weather and war disruptions. The agency also cut its 2026 global cereal production forecast by 3.4 million metric tons.

reuters

2026-09-04

World food prices at highest since 2022 as supply risks mount, FAO says

2026-10-18

Global food inflation is expected to intensify as supply shocks pile up

World food prices at highest since 2022 as supply risks mount, FAO says

FAQ