Linking Smallholder Farmers to Markets and the Implications for Extension and Advisory Services

Abstract

Introduction: The Case for Linking Smallholder Farmers to Markets There are approximately 1.5 billion smallholder farmers in the world, a figure that includes 75% of the world’s poorest people. Recent improvements in global commodity prices and growth in emerging economies are expanding domestic and export markets, creating opportunities for smallholder farmers who can consistently link high production with sales. The expansion of high value horticulture across the developing world is also providing oppor– tunities. Large corporations are starting to see farmers (including smallholder farmers) in Africa, Asia and Latin America as potential new suppliers for international supply chains, as well as growing domestic and regional markets.