Two areas which will have far reaching consequences for the future of United States agriculture are discussed: (1) biotechnology; and (2) critical economic research in world trade and commodity supply management. Topics in the first area include: controversies related to biotechnology; the relative importance of health, safety, and environmental regulations affecting the commercialization of biotechnology; the relative importance of targeting policies affecting the commercialization of biotechnology; and the expansion of federal responsibilities in biotechnology. Also included are recommendations related to the relative importance of public perception affecting the commercialization of biotechnology, and to scientific expertise and manpower. Topics in the second area include the world food system of the 1970s (examining factors influencing the demand for and consumption of food) and the outlook for the 1990s (considering how population, economic growth, and government policies will affect world agriculture). These topics and recommendations related to conducting critical macroeconomic research and attracting and retaining economic research expertise in the U.S. Department of Agriculture can help in assisting policymakers who develop long-term goals and formulate the new farm bill. Supporting documentation (including a list of existing federal responsibilities regarding agricultural biotechnology by agency and function) is included in appendices. (JN)