Farmers' Perceptions of Obstacles to Business Development

Abstract

SummaryThis article examines perceived obstacles to business development of Dutch dairy farmers and compares them to Dutch broiler farmers and Swedish farmers. Understanding farmers' perceived obstacles is crucial for developing effective policies to support sustainable and resilient farms. Data were collected using a survey and analysed using factor and regression analysis. The study finds that rules and regulations are the most significant obstacle for all three groups of farmers. Dutch dairy farmers also face challenges related to land availability, permits and leasing, while Dutch broiler farmers have concerns mostly about foreign competition. Financial obstacles are significant but considered less important than regulatory and land‐related challenges. Farm characteristics, such as intensity of operation, off‐farm income, location, succession status and farmer's patience were statistically related to the perceived obstacles of Dutch dairy farmers. The associations found suggest that dairy farmers operating their businesses more intensively face more financial, social capital and land availability obstacles. It was also found that younger farmers or farmers with successors score higher on perceived obstacles concerning policy and land availability. Recommendations include improving information provision, simplifying regulations, and engaging stakeholders to reduce policy obstacles. Also, policies should consider farmers' unique needs and should be implemented in a decentralised way.