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 rural economy are also getting considerable attention.

　　In November of 2014, the WTO adopted the Protocol of Amendment to the Agreement on Trade Facilitation. On July 20 of 2015, Taiwan completed the signing process by delivering a formal “notification of agreement,” demonstrating our firm adherence to the principle of trade liberalization. Meanwhile, countries around the world are very active in negotiating and signing free trade agreements (FTAs) and in promoting regional economic integration. On October 5, 2015, consensus was reached in negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Negotiations have also continued for: (i) an FTA between mainland China, Japan, and Korea; (ii) the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP); and (iii) the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). Agricultural policymakers in all countries are now facing the major challenge of ensuring sustainable agricultural development under these new conditions.