The entire world has been impacted by population growth, climate change, and liberalization in agricultural trade. Governments and major international organizations have deep concerns about issues such as ensuring food security, improving nutrition, alleviating poverty in rural areas, promoting economic development, and sustainable utilization of natural resources. Issues related to food safety and the multi-functional values of the agricultural sector are also getting considerable attention.

　　In November of 2014, the WTO adopted the Protocol of Amendment to the Agreement on Trade Facilitation. This helps countries to move ahead in researching and determining their post-Bali work programs, and brings hope that there can be a successful finish to the Doha Round of negotiations. Meanwhile, countries around the world are very active in negotiating and signing free trade agreements (FTAs) and in promoting regional economic integration. Examples include the FTA between mainland China, Japan, and Korea; the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP); the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP); and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). National agricultural policymakers are now facing the major challenge of ensuring sustainable agricultural development under these new conditions.