Agricultural value chain guide for the Pacific islands

Abstract

A farmer-inclusive value chain development approach is a powerful formula for developing sustainable market linkages in the Pacific. We need to apply new thinking to modernising and sustaining agri-food systems as the impacts of climate change, unpredictability in global trade, migration and conflicts threaten progress towards the goals of zero hunger and end to poverty and malnutrition. Innovation in all aspects of the agrifood system, from production to processing, financing and marketing as well as in how producers organise themselves to address these challenges is critical. To foster the transition into modernised food systems that provide sustainable incomes and nutrition for farmers/ fisherfolk and rural communities, we need new and or improved technologies, business models, laws and policies and empowered farmers and producer organisations. Strengthening public-private-producer partnerships and the linkages between agri-SMEs, financing institutions and governments is key. A shift of mindset is needed that values farmers as entrepreneurs and farming as a business.