2018 Reports

Agricultural Investments under International Investment Law

Coleman, Jesse; Berger, Thierry; Brewin, Sarah

Increased investment in large-scale agricultural, forestry, and fishing projects has raised concerns about pressures on lands and natural resources, and the negative impacts these investments can have when poorly regulated and irresponsibly operated. New disputes between investors and states concerning these investments have sparked commentary regarding the potentially chilling effects they may have on effective regulation of inward investment. At the same time, public and private investments in agriculture are identified as global priorities in the sustainable Development goals. Policy-makers are therefore seeking to facilitate investments in agriculture to advance food security, nutrition, equality, climate and other sustainable development objectives.