‘Perfect storm’ in food prices hits Asia’s outlook

In a recent report, the United Nations warned that surging food prices after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine amounted to a “perfect storm” of risk to economic development in Asia.

The UN may be understating the threat.

On any list of descriptions that economists overuse, “perfect storm” is right at the very top. Except, of course, when no other expression will do in a region already reeling from Covid-19-related disruptions.