The number
The FAO Food Price Index has reached a new 23-month high of 130.7, surpassing its previous high of 130.0. This increase in the index, which is based on a 2014-2016=100 baseline, reflects rising food commodity prices worldwide.
Context
The FAO Food Price Index is a measure of the monthly change in international prices of a basket of food commodities, including wheat, and is used as a benchmark for the food industry. The current high of 130.7 indicates increased price pressure on these commodities, which may have significant implications for global food security and trade. According to the FAO FFPI monthly data, the previous high was 130.0, observed prior to the current reading of 130.7 as of 2026-04-01.
What to watch next
- The impact of weather patterns on wheat production and its effect on the overall food price index, as the FFPI is heavily influenced by commodity price fluctuations, such as the price of wheat.
- Potential trade implications, including tariff adjustments and quotas, as governments respond to rising food prices.
- The reaction of major food-importing countries to the rising FFPI, which may lead to increased food imports or changes in consumer behavior.
- The relationship between the FFPI and other economic indicators, such as inflation and GDP, to better understand the broader economic implications of the rising food price index.
Source: FAO