The new scramble for Africa was triggered by a convergence of events: surging demand for biofuels, rising consumption patterns in China and India and the 2008 global food crisis, when the price of corn and wheat tripled, almost overnight. Responding to sudden hyperinflation, rioting and panic buying, at least 30 countries, including Argentina, Vietnam, Brazil, Cambodia and India, banned or sharply reduced food exports. In short order, Japan and South Korea, who import 70 per cent of their grains, joined a parade of countries turning to Africa to lock in means of production beyond their borders.
sunnykabra on 24 Dec 13The ranks of the world's billionaires have yet again reached all-timehighs. The 2013 Billionaires list now boasts 1,426 names, with an aggregate net worth of $5.4 trillion, up from $4.6 trillion. 210 newten-figure fortunes are found out . Once again the U.S. leads the list with 442 followed by Asia-Pacific (386), Europe (366), the Americas (129) and the Middle East & Africa (103).
