The role of economic policies in enhancing food security in developing countries: A socio-economic review

Abstract

Economic policies play a fundamental role in shaping food security outcomes in developing countries by influencing the production, access, utilisation, and stability of food systems. This review examines how fiscal, trade, agricultural, social protection, and monetary policies can enhance food security from a socio-economic perspective. Drawing on global evidence and selected case studies, the article identifies policy mechanisms that improve household food access, strengthen rural incomes, support productive capacity, and reduce vulnerability to shocks. It also highlights the constraints and trade-offs inherent in policy design and implementation. The findings suggest that coordinated policy frameworks combining support for smallholder agriculture, inclusive markets, targeted transfers, and macroeconomic stability yield the most robust improvements in food security. Policymakers must therefore adopt SMART (Selective, Measurable, Achievable, Responsive, and Transparent) policy packages tailored to local socio-economic contexts to achieve sustainable food security.