Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of a given country. Agriculture serves as the backbone of the economic system, from providing food to providing employment opportunities.
Some people tend to overlook the importance of agriculture. For decades, agriculture has been the source of production of essential food crops. Agriculture also provides a livelihood for most people under countries like Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and several others.
Reasons why agriculture is important:
Source of livelihood
Farming is the primary source of livelihood, even before the world has developed. There are about 70% of people that rely on agriculture as a mean of living. The non-developed agricultural activities are the result of this high percentage.
Supplies food and fodder
Agriculture is the primary source of food supply for both humans and animals. The domestic animals such as bovine, swine, and poultry animals provide the people’s daily food requirement – they provide meat, milk, and other essential food supply.
The primary source of raw materials
Many major industries use raw materials such as cotton, wood, sugar, palm oil, to manufacture products. They are used in pharmaceuticals, diesel fuel, plastic, and many more. The raw materials from agriculture have a significant contribution to many productions that the economic health of a given country strongly depends on it.
Plays a significant role in international trade
The country with plenty of supplies of raw materials benefits from exporting them and trading for materials that they do not possess. The raw materials make up the massive portion of what is sold internationally. If a country suffers from a lack of agricultural materials, the prices can go up and disturb the flow of trade.
Essential in national revenue
Agriculture is the primary source of national income from agricultural exports. For most developing countries, agricultural jobs help reduce the high rate of unemployment. While in developed countries, agriculture gives a small percentage to their national income.
Helps in economic growth
The economic development is connected to the agricultural sector. The positive union of trade, national revenue, and employment can result in a better standing of a country in the world. Healthy agriculture helps reduce poverty, improve development, and boost economic growth.
Helps heal the environment
Agriculture has the power to heal and harm the environment. A healthy biodiversity results in a better environment that leads to healthier soil, healthier pollinators, less erosion, and better water conservation. It is beneficial for the earth when a country focuses on its biodiversity.
Food security
Food security is the main requirement of any nation. Having a stable agricultural sector ensures food security. It is vital in one’s nation because it prevents malnourishment which is one of the major problems faced by the developing countries.
(Conclusion)
Agriculture is one of the most critical sectors in the world. Whatever you eat, drink or use came from agriculture. It drives the economic system and has major contributions in national revenue.
Agriculture plays a significant role in dealing with food insecurity and malnourishment. Every nation should strive for a better agricultural sector to cultivate economic growth and lessen the hungry people.