Energy and food prices have obviously been increasing dramatically. The economist has a nice chart showing where people spend most on food and fuel. In the USA, Canada, Western Europe and Australia people spend less than 25%. In Brazil, India, China, Mexico, South Africa, Turkey… they spend 25-40%. In Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Pakistan… they spend 40-50%. And in Mongolia, Nigeria, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar… they spend over 50%.
The data is from the IMF. As with any economic data there are issues to consider about comparing across countries. Still this is a stark illustration that the impacts those in the wealthy countries feel from rising energy and food prices are felt to a greater degree in poor countries (that already have economic difficulties).
Related: Food Price Inflation is Quite High – Helping Capitalism Make the World Better
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It is true that you have to be careful, for a number or reasons, comparing across countries and cultures.
The vast array of chemicals we in the U.S. use in the production of our food, whether vegetables, meat, or dairy is one big factor in our artificially low food costs. I think the number one reason is bad 4 letter word…. corn. I think the folks I reviewed in the following link would agree!
http://willtaft.com/health/are-we-really-made-of-corn/