IMPACT OF FOOD IMPORTS FROM RUSSIA AND UKRAINE ON THE FOOD SECURITY OF GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL COUNTRIES

Abstract

The article analyzes the impact of food imports from Russia and Ukraine on the food security of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The analysis focuses on data collected by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) from 2000 to 2021 and a literature review of the impact of armed conflicts on food security. In the context of the war between Russia and Ukraine, it is emphasized that it negatively affects food security on the international stage, which may lead to a deepening food crisis. Correlation and linear regression analysis were used to determine the relationship between food imports from Russia and Ukraine and total food imports to GCC countries to examine whether there is a relationship between these variables. The correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between food imports from Russia and Ukraine and total food imports to GCC countries, while the regression analysis showed a moderate positive relationship. However, it was noted that GCC countries have taken steps in recent years to become more independent of a single supplier of agricultural products and improve food security. Ultimately, the results of the analysis suggest that food security in GCC countries requires further attention and action to increase independence and reduce the risk of food shortages.