A case study on the opportunity and challenges faced by organic farming in Jiangsu Province

Abstract

ABSTRACT Entrepreneurship plays an important role in developing the agricultural sector and increasing opportunities for farmers to promote sustainable livelihoods. The study aims to enhance discussion and gain an in-depth understanding of farm entrepreneurship in the context of sustainability in China. We conducted a case study of five farmers practicing organic farming through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. The analysis shows that organic farms enhance sustainability through many economic, social and environmental contributions. Additionally, emerging societal awareness of healthy foods and the increasing demand for organic products are among the most important opportunities contributing to the growth of organic farming. Despite this, farm entrepreneurship among organic farms faces many challenges, such as land use rights, lack of business networks and government subsidies. However, the government is the main player in promoting sustainability practices among entrepreneurs and society through agricultural policy development and promotion of organic products. We believe that this paper is the first attempt to study organic farm entrepreneurship in China from an entrepreneurs’ viewpoint. The conclusions could have potential implications and guidelines for promoting organic agriculture policies in national and international contexts. The conclusions have significant implications and potential guidelines for promoting sustainability in national and international contexts.