Asia and the Pacific is a very socially, culturally and economically diverse region. Trade liberalization and foreign investments have contributed to rapid economic, human capital and agricultural growth, and decreased price distortions. However, the benefits have been unevenly shared among and within countries and between men and women. Export-oriented policies have resulted in reduced investments for domestic markets, leaving rural populations behind and threatening food and nutrition security. Despite progress in food security and poverty reduction, the region still has more than 500 million hungry people.  In 2011, 743 million people – about 20 per cent of the total population – were living in extreme poverty (on less than US$1.25 PPP), with significant disparities across the region. Urbanization and changing consumption patterns and diets have led to changes in food supply chains. Agribusinesses and emerging supermarkets are exercising increasing control, requiring regular supplies of food and more stringent food safety and quality standards.