Paths to Food Sector Competitiveness: A Cross-Country Perspective

Abstract

The global food industry is undergoing transformation due to rising demand, climate risks, and shifting consumption patterns. Advanced economies are addressing these pressures by reforming institutional structures, leveraging innovation, and enhancing international competitiveness in the agri-food sector. However, limited research compares how distinct national models align innovation, governance, and export strategies to achieve food sector competitiveness, particularly for informing transition economies. This study examines the strategic mechanisms and institutional designs adopted by the United States, the Netherlands, and Japan to build globally competitive food systems. The findings reveal that while the U.S. relies on climate-smart scaling and federal coordination, the Netherlands integrates circular economy principles through cluster governance, and Japan embeds digital technologies within a culturally branded export strategy. Despite differences, all three emphasize public–private collaboration, innovation funding, and export facilitation. The study offers a unique comparative matrix that synthesizes diverse approaches into actionable insights, highlighting models adaptable to countries with varying resource bases and development levels. The research underscores that transition economies like Uzbekistan can enhance their food sector competitiveness by fostering institutional coordination, investing in innovation infrastructure, and adopting digital and branding strategies tailored to their contexts.