Publication

This paper describes how the availability of surface freshwater resources in Egypt, as in other developing countries in the Middle East, is a major challenge regarding food security. The article outlines various concepts of food security and explains that two basic strategies are possible for a country like Egypt, either importing food or growing more food domestically. The authors outline the water budget of Egypt, its availability and withdrawal of freshwater rate, and detail the ensuing policy options. The paper explains that in light of possible long-term limitations of national water budgets, the stability of the international food market is essential in allowing water scarce countries to develop a sustainable and economically viable food security strategy for their future.