The report on food preparedness and supply capacity proposes ten measures that together would strengthen civil defence and Swedish preparedness. The effects of implementing these are a food sector that is profitable, competitive and robust, regardless of the global context.
“The creation of a robust food security system will take time and cost money, so it must start now. Sweden has investigated and discussed the issue for several years and, not the least in light of the events of the last few weeks, it is now really time to make decisions and create action,” says Per Arfvidsson, Deputy CEO, Lantmännen.
Of the ten proposals, four are given a special priority by Lantmännen. These are that:
- Building strategic inventory of critical inputs
- Clarify responsibilities and mandates for crisis preparedness and management
- Accelerate the processes for national interest classification of important facilities
- Make increasing food exports a national priority
Robust and effective food preparedness has positive consequences for the Swedish trade balance, as production volumes are proposed to increase to levels that exceed national needs. Exporting food is the most economically beneficial way to create robust preparedness volumes of food – on a large scale and at the national level.
“Lantmännen has long been well prepared to participate and play an important role in building up Swedish food preparedness. We are actively involved in several key projects, such as emergency storage of grain and input goods as well as investment in Swedish production of green mineral fertilizers,” concludes Per Arfvidsson.
The launch event will be held at Spritmuseum in Stockholm on March 7 and will also be broadcasted on SVT Forum.
Participants at the launch event:
Peter Kullgren, Minister for Rural Affairs
Christina Nordin, Director General of the Swedish Board of Agriculture
Magnus Demervall, CEO of the Federation of Swedish Entrepreneurs
Helena Markstedt, Public Affairs Manager, Relations Arla Foods Sweden
Paula Eriksson, VP Corporate Affairs & Communications, The Absolut Company
Per Arfvidsson, Deputy CEO, Lantmännen
Patrik Strömer, Nutrition Policy Expert at the Swedish Food Federation
For more information, please contact:
Lantmännen’s press service
Tel: 010 556 88 00
E-mail: press@lantmannen.com