The government department for international development (DFID) is backing a project to create opportunities for small-scale fruit and vegetable producers in Africa on UK and other European markets.
The project’s researchers are seeking input from companies throughout the supply chain - including retailers - both large and small - and foodservice supply companies, but most especially importers and wholesalers.
“We are asking the trade to spend a few minutes filling in a special questionnaire to return to the Fresh Produce Consortium and we will pass on the returned questionnaires,” said an FPC spokesman.
“The starting point for the researchers is that consumers in the UK now expect top quality food from around the world, produced according to high ethical, environmental and safety standards, at an affordable price and in all seasons. However, there are concerns that the way supply chains are managed - through rationalisation and through standards and certification processes - represents a potential barrier for small-scale producers, who form the backbone of the rural economy in many developing countries.
“The UK government sees securing and strengthening these export market opportunities - including tackling barriers and other factors limiting access - as a strategic opportunity for achieving development goals. The subject is also seen as a priority within the UK G8 Presidency.”
DFID is backing the programme, which is being carried out by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and the Natural Resources Institute (NRI) to explore the issues and implications for private and public policy. The programme aims to work closely with the whole supply chain - including standard-setting bodies - to overcome barriers so small-scale producers can participate in international horticultural supply chains.
The programme recognises the private sector as a partner in economic development and in poverty reduction. The programme will focus on the export horticultural crop sector from sub-Saharan Africa.
There are three main themes: dialogue along the chain and with agencies and donors in the relevant countries; information on standards setting and compliance issues; and good practice.
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