International commodity agreements (ICAs) are agreements between two or more countries regarding the price, production, and trade of a particular commodity. The purpose of these agreements is to stabilize commodity prices, ensure a steady supply of the commodity, and promote economic development in producing countries.

ICAs are typically organized around specific commodities such as cocoa, coffee, sugar, and rubber. These agreements usually involve the creation of a governing body consisting of representatives from each participating country. The governing body is responsible for setting quotas on production, coordinating policies on price stabilization, and monitoring compliance with the agreement.

One of the main objectives of ICAs is to stabilize commodity prices. These agreements set minimum and maximum prices for the commodity to prevent sudden fluctuations in price that could disrupt markets and harm producers and consumers. The agreements also establish a buffer stock system, where participating countries agree to purchase surplus commodities when prices are low and release them when prices increase. This helps to stabilize markets and ensure a more predictable price for producers.

Another goal of ICAs is to ensure a steady supply of the commodity. The agreements set quotas on production to prevent overproduction, which can lead to a surplus of the commodity and lower prices. By controlling production, the agreements aim to maintain a balance between supply and demand. This helps to ensure a more stable market for both producers and consumers.

ICAs can also promote economic development in producing countries. By setting a minimum price for the commodity, the agreements provide a guaranteed income for producers. This can help to lift people out of poverty and stimulate economic growth in developing countries. Additionally, ICAs may provide funding for research and development in the production and processing of the commodity, which can increase efficiency and improve quality.

However, ICAs have faced criticism for their effectiveness. Some argue that the agreements can be too rigid and may not respond quickly enough to changing market conditions. Others argue that the agreements can lead to the creation of cartels that can manipulate prices and exploit consumers.

In conclusion, the purpose of international commodity agreements is to stabilize commodity prices, ensure a steady supply of the commodity, and promote economic development in producing countries. While ICAs have faced criticism, they remain an important tool for managing the global economy and ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources.