High Corn Prices Threaten Food Security

Grain prices in the region have soared over the last year. Between June 2010 and June 2011, the wholesale price of white maize increased by 56% in Guatemala, 112% in El Salvador and 65% in Mexico.

These increases have had a strong impact on the staple foods: The average food inflation in the region was between 7% and 8% between April and June.

An article in Laprensagrafica.com notes: "The figure contrasts with the heterogeneity, in Nicaragua in June food inflation rose 1% above its April level. In Costa Rica and Panama it fell by 1% during the same period.

Maize has the most delicate balance between supply and demand of all the cereals, with inventories that tend to get reduced. The rise in international corn prices is reflected in the wholesale and retail price of white maize in Central America and Mexico. "

Source: laprensagrafica.com

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A report has been released detailing wholesale prices of agricultural products in Central America and retail prices of petroleum products.

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