Global land investments in the bio‐economy: evidence and policy implications
回顾了农业依赖型国家土地投资的经验，量化了各国扩大面积与集约化的潜力，并识别了土地热潮初期吸引投资者的因素。研究发现，薄弱的土地治理反而增加土地需求，因此强调改善制度、透明度和问责制，同时为政策与研究提供具体建议。
Abstract For countries dependent on agriculture, the recent wave of investor interest in farmland could, in principle, help set in motion a virtuous cycle of economic growth and poverty reduction. A large literature documenting failure of such investments documents the risks involved. To appreciate associated opportunities and challenges, we review past experience, quantify country‐level potential for area expansion versus intensification, and identify determinants of countries’ attractiveness for investors in the initial stages of the “land rush.” The fact that weak land governance seems to increase, rather than reduce, land demand justifies an emphasis on improving institutions, transparency, and accountability while at the same time providing concrete suggestions for policy and research.