Agricultural Value Chains Research Articles

Agro-Investments among Small Farm Business Entrepreneurs in the Era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Case in the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

Agro-investment in the fourth industrial revolution will be an imperative driving factor and a sacrosanct enabler for small farm business entrepreneurs to participate holistically in the agricultural economic value chain. Investing in advanced technology and entrepreneurship has the potential to promote business modernization and improve the productivity and profitability of farm businesses. This study assessed agro-investments in small farm business entrepreneurs in the era of the fourth industrial revolution in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. The study objectives were precisely to determine the perception of small farm business entrepreneurs on agro-investment and examine the impact of agro-investment for small farm business entrepreneurs in the fourth industrial revolution. The questionnaire used in this study employed structured and semi-structured questions for data collection, and an aggregate of 235 participants were randomly selected. The results on perception indicate that small farm business entrepreneurs mostly perceive agro-investment in the fourth industrial revolution as not suitable for small farm business conditions; this may be attributed to modern agricultural implements being predominantly manufactured in accordance with commercial sector specifications. The results from the binary logistic regression analysis on the perception of small farm business entrepreneurs in the fourth industrial revolution revealed that gender (P-value = 0.031), level of education (P-value = 0.04), farm size (P-value = 0.048), farming skills and knowledge (P-value = 0.027), farm productivity (P-value = 0.059) and investment opportunities (P-value = 0.057) were significant and influence the perception of small farm business entrepreneurs. The mean and standard deviation were used to assess the degree of severity of impact. From the results, sources of investment, technology, market participation, economic benefits, and government interventions were discovered to be impactful on agro-investment for small farm business entrepreneurs. The key contributions of agro-investments among small farm business entrepreneurs in the technological era embody catalyzed rural development, a diversified inclusive rural economy, and competitive participation in the agricultural food value chain. Another crucial contribution of the study is unlocking and accentuating the potential and opportunities that investors, technology designers, and manufacturers can exploit in small farm business agro-investments. This paper identifies and recommends that the South African government ought to create enabling environments for agricultural investment activities to thrive, especially among small farm business entrepreneurs, thereby providing grant funding and training, and enabling public-private stakeholder linkages.

Effect of exchange rate uncertainty, energy prices and sectoral spending on agriculture value added, household consumption, and domestic investment

The agricultural value chain is underpinned by the interdependence of agricultural value added, household consumption and domestic investment. Understanding the complex interactions between these microeconomic outcomes and the uncertainties in the macroeconomic variables of exchange rates, energy prices and sectoral spending remains under-researched. Therefore, this study examines the impact of exchange rate, energy prices and sectoral spending on agricultural value added, household consumption and domestic investment in Nigeria from 1981 to 2020. Using Kernel regularized least squares (KRLS), the results show that the average pointwise marginal effects of exchange rate and agricultural spending are positive, while the average pointwise marginal effect of energy price is significantly negative for the agricultural value-added model. The results also show that the exchange rate, energy prices and agricultural expenditure all have a positive effect on household consumption. Regarding domestic investment, the effect of the exchange rate is positive and statistically insignificant, while the effects of energy prices and agricultural expenditure are negative and statistically significant. The study recommends the need to strengthen the social safety nets currently in place in Nigeria to support households that are vulnerable to exchange rate fluctuations. In addition, incentives should be given to households and farmers to help use renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power for agricultural activities. Also, investment in value chains and agribusiness initiatives should be encouraged rather than just in crop production.

Impacts of Population Trends, Agricultural Supply Chains, and Environmental Decline in Otukpo LGA, Benue State, Nigeria

This research delves into the intricate relationship between population dynamics, agricultural value chain, and environmental degradation in Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, Nigeria. The burgeoning population in the region has precipitated notable shifts in land use patterns, agricultural methodologies, and the overall environmental landscape. A robust research methodology was employed to explore this phenomenon comprehensively. Both primary and secondary data were collected, with a sample size of 400 determined using Taro Yamane's formula. This sample was then strategically distributed among the 13 clans within the LGA, yielding 380 returned samples for meticulous analysis. Statistical analysis, facilitated by tools such as standard deviation and mean, was conducted using SPSS software. Employing a mean criterion of 3.0, questionnaires were administered via survey techniques to discern respondents' perspectives. The research findings illuminate the multifaceted impacts of population dynamics in Otukpo LGA. Notably, these dynamics have instigated challenges within the agricultural value chain, manifesting as farmland degradation and pollution. These repercussions have reverberated throughout the environment, precipitating biodiversity loss, soil contamination, and rampant deforestation. The research also underscores the nuanced nature of these challenges. While population growth undeniably exacerbates these issues, it is crucial to acknowledge the contributory role of ineffective public policies in perpetuating environmental and agricultural dilemmas within the region. In light of these findings, the research advocates for formulating sustainable policies and evidence-based solutions. Addressing these issues holistically demands a concerted effort to mitigate the adverse impacts of population dynamics on agricultural practices and environmental sustainability.

ENTOMOPATHOGENIC FUNGI AS MYCO-BIOCONTROL AGENT OF STORED GRAIN INSECT PESTS

Chemical insecticides have been a fairly successful means of controlling pests that cause harm to stored agricultural commodities. However, there are risks, involved in applying these pesticides continuously; these risks are fast becoming problem of global proportion. The overuse and misuse of chemical pesticides by agricultural value chain actors has made the development of new and lower-risk, benign methods for managing insect pests necessary. One lower risk method of managing insect pest that is gaining traction in terms of utilization is myco-biocontrol, one of which is entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) with a biological origin. Entomopathogenic fungi are pathogenic to insects, and based on their widespread presence in natural environments are purported as less harmful to the environment. Toxicologically, EPF are considered benign to man, making them desirable in the context of the new integrated pest management (IPM) framework. Fundamentally, this review covers the current state of knowledge regarding EPF fungi and their use for biological pest management as well as recent developments in the bio-control of stored-grain insects using formulated and unformulated strains. It also covers the mode of application, mechanism of action, and environmental factors necessary for the germination and growth of conidia.

FinTech solutions for sustainable agricultural value chains: A perspective from smallholder farmers

AbstractSmallholder farmers in developing nations face multifaceted challenges as they strive to secure fair prices for their agricultural products. With a primary focus on bolstering sustainable agricultural value chains (SAVC), this conceptual paper investigates the transformative potential of Financial Technology (FinTech) solutions. The study synthesizes insights from prior research on SAVC, hurdles faced by smallholder farmers, conventional strategies, and the untapped prospects offered by FinTech solutions in the agricultural sector. Utilizing the PRISMA strategy for comprehensive documentation retrieval, the study underscores the significance of creating a robust SAVC to empower smallholder farmers within the broader value chain landscape. It is found that Agri‐FinTech solutions represent a pivotal avenue for advancing living standards and cultivating agricultural sustainability in developing nations. The integration of FinTech solutions for agri‐credit mechanisms and product market facilitation catalyzes enabling pre‐production financing and ensures fair prices for smallholder farmers in the post‐production phase while neutralizing the value chain's exploitation potential. The study advocates for the expeditious adoption of information technology in developing countries, spotlighting the transformative role of Mobile Financial Services (MFS), which fortifies the agriculture sector, ensuring its resilience and responsiveness to the evolving demands of a globalized market. Drawing upon an evaluation of existing literature on FinTech‐enhanced agricultural initiatives in developing nations, the study outlines directions for future research and creates a path for a more nuanced understanding of the strategic enhancements necessary to fortify the SAVC, fostering a sustainable and equitable ecosystem for smallholder farmers.

The Second-Round Effects of the Agriculture Value Chain on Farmers’ Land Transfer-In: Evidence from the 2019 Land Economy Survey Data of Eleven Provinces in China

In the context of the separation of three rights of land and agricultural modernization, this paper is based on the land economic survey data from eleven provinces in China in 2019, covering the eastern, middle, and western regions of China. Based on the value chain theory and its “second-round effect”, which pertains to the multi-round effects of value chain distribution theory, various research methods such as Probit, Tobit, the two-part model, SFA, PSM, and the intermediary effect model are employed to analyze the direct impact of the agriculture value chain (AVC) on farmers’ land factor inputs and the income effects caused by them, which are the “second-round effect” of the AVC on land factor inputs. The research results show the following: Firstly, the AVC has a significant positive impact on the behavior and area of farmers’ land transferring-in, which helps guide farmers towards large-scale land operation. Secondly, the AVC significantly improves farmers’ production efficiency and promotes land transfer through differences in production efficiency, representing the “second-round effect” mechanism of the AVC on land factor inputs. Moreover, the AVC will increase farmers’ net land production income by 48.74%, which is the “second-round effect” of the AVC on farmers’ agricultural income and also the motivation for farmers’ land factor inputs. Finally, the expansion of land area and the improvement of production efficiency jointly increase farmers’ agricultural income, among which production efficiency plays a partial intermediary effect in increasing agricultural income if farmers join the AVC. This paper believes that we should further promote the market-oriented reform of land factors, support the innovation of the benefit linkage mechanism of the AVC, and promote appropriate areas of land operation by farmers, thereby achieving common prosperity and promoting agricultural modernization in China.

Collaboration in agricultural value chains: a scoping review of the evidence from developing countries

PurposeCollaboration in agricultural value chains (AVCs) has the potential to increase smallholders’ participation in international value chains and increase their benefits from participation. This scoping review explores existing collaboration models among stakeholders of AVCs in developing countries, examines enablers and constraints of collaboration and identifies policy gaps.Design/methodology/approachWe systematically searched three databases, CAB Abstracts, Econlit (EBSCO) and Agricola, for studies published between 2005 and 2023 and included 59 relevant studies on AVC collaboration.FindingsThe primary motivations for collaboration are to enhance market access and improve product quality. Key outcomes of collaboration include improvements in farmers’ welfare, market participation and increased production; only a few studies consider improved risk management as an important outcome. Robust support from government and non-governmental entities is a primary enabler of collaboration. Conversely, conflicts of interest among stakeholders and resource limitations constrain collaboration possibilities. Collaboration involving high-value crops prioritizes income increases, whereas collaboration involving staple crops focuses on improving household food security.Research limitations/implicationsThis study may have publication bias as unsuccessful instances of collaboration are less likely to be published.Originality/valueThis study is unique in highlighting collaboration models’ characteristics and identifying AVC policy and programmatic areas where private firms, farmers’ groups, local governments and donor agencies can contribute.

Impact of COVID-19 on agri-food systems: An assessment of actors along the food value chain in Ethiopia, Uganda, Nigeria and Mali

Food security in Africa was impacted as a result of supply chain disruptions and government lockdowns brought on by the Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. With participation from important actors in the agricultural value chain, the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) assessed the effect of COVID-19 on agri-food system in Ethiopia, Mali, Nigeria, and Uganda. Farmers, agro-processors, private service providers, off-takers and merchants, input dealers, and Ministry of Agriculture Extension service personnel are among the value chain actors that took part in the study. The survey, which was held from April 13 to April 16, 2020, used semi-structured tools and questionnaires aimed at the different stakeholders. The study used a cluster sample technique. The data were analyzed using SPSS software, which included frequency counts, percentages, rank correlation, and categorical regression. Based on the severity of the lockdowns associated to COVID-19, the survey found that the outcomes differed by country. The analysis shows a negative association between e-extension and education during the COVID-19 epidemic, but a high and positive correlation (p < 0.01) between extension services and postharvest services, as well as credit availability. Factors such as transportation, labor availability, price fluctuations, output market activity, loan availability, and food and nutrition security were significantly and positively correlated with COVID-19 awareness. Additionally, the respondents indicated that price changes were favourably correlated with labour availability and transportation, and that farming activities were significantly and positively correlated with food and nutrition security, labour availability, and the output market. According to the perspective data collected in every country during the COVID-19 epidemic, postharvest services, agricultural input activities, and food and nutrition security all heavily relied on extension services, with postharvest services having a negative correlation with extension services. The results of the analysis show that COVID-19 impacted several variables that are associated with extension services across the four countries. For instance, the R2 value of the relationship between value chain variables and extension service delivery across Mali (0.485), Nigeria (0.621), Ethiopia (0.426), Uganda (0.529), and the combined countries (0.511) indicates that the variation of the dependent variables can account for 48.5% of the variation in the values of the independent variable (extension service delivery) in Mali, 62.1% in Nigeria, 42.6% in Ethiopia, 52.9% in Uganda, and 51.1% in the combined countries. Farmers' access to agricultural labour, credit services, inputs for agriculture, and output markets was restricted by the ban on travel and social gatherings. Smallholder farmers should employ digital solutions more to strengthen the agricultural value chain's actors' resilience against potential pandemics or conflicts, according to the study's implications for extension services. This will reduce the requirement for extensive personal touch and travel in the delivery of extension services. The study also highlights how crucial it is for extension services to show tangible outcomes and benefits in order to increase farming communities' and value chain actors' resilience in any difficult circumstances. Key words: COVID-19, food systems, extension services, value chain actors, output markets

Illusion or reality? Building a metaverse community focused on value creation in the agricultural sector

Obsolete models, lack of professionalisation and an environment characterised by continuous changes have turned out to be a dangerous mix that has ended up stopping or slowing down the development of the agricultural sector. It is now necessary to design and carry out initiatives that counteract this trend, especially initiatives based on innovation and the use of technology. This article aims to analyse the implications of the new ways of working to be used in spaces created under the umbrella of a new technological order known as metaverse. Through the creation of a community of metaverses, capable of promoting interaction, collaboration and communication between the different agents involved in the value chain of the agricultural sector, the aim of this research is to create an integrated and collaborative trusting environment that allows consensual, well-founded and robust business decisions focused on cost savings and the optimisation of quality and productivity. This research seeks to benefit all agents involved in the agricultural sector value chain. By placing producers at the centre of the system, the approach described in this study aims to avoid the current imbalances between the interests of different agents, while promoting an innovative and sustainable agricultural sector committed to meeting the challenges of today’s society.

Sectoral Value Chain Mapping in Kakamega County, Kenya

The Kenyan agricultural sector will play a pivot role in achieving its national development roadmap, Vision 2030. This report explores the agricultural value chains within Kakamega County, Kenya, focusing on sweet potatoes, bananas, soya beans, vegetables, palm oil, honey, and avocados. Data collection for the study primarily involved direct engagement with stakeholders across the various sub-counties. The study revealed the unique characteristics and challenges faced in each value chain, laying the foundation for understanding the local agricultural dynamics. These challenges included equipment shortage, lack of technical skills, and poor marketing strategies. Recommendations are put forward to address the specific hurdles and optimize opportunities within each value chain. Fostering cooperative formations, exploring value addition and enhancement of technical skills are the common themes across the recommendations for the value chains. Further, training, certification acquisition, research and development and process optimization have been suggested to bolster productivity, quality and market competitiveness. The proposed interventions require collaborative effort from the stakeholders including government agencies, non-governmental organizations and the local communities. By creating an enabling environment and implementing the recommended strategies, sustainable agricultural-based growth and economic development, aligning with the national Vision 2030, can be fostered in Kakamega County, Kenya

Agricultural value chain and households' livelihood in Africa: The case of Nigeria

One of the critical issues of concern is how African countries can take agriculture as a business that creates wealth which can help transform rural communities, increase income, reduce poverty and help the continent achieve the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs) of no poverty (SDG-1) and food and nutrition security (SDG-2) by 2030. Hence, this study examines how participation in agriculture through cassava value chain can improve households' livelihood income in Africa using the case of Nigeria. To achieve its objective, the study utilised quantitative analysis approach to address the linkages among economic agents within the agricultural value chain. The logit regression and propensity scores matching technique are used for the quantitative analysis. The result show that, while more significant proportion of male cassava production household heads sell cassava in its fresh form, their female counterparts add value by processing cassava further into finished staple foods. Another key insight is the high involvement of youth and women in cassava production, processing and marketing. Thus, they have greater influence in promoting and improving households’ livelihood income. Therefore, more targeted efforts should be made by all stakeholders to ensure that youth and women have better, less expensive and dependable assess to facilities at lower interest rates to participate in agricultural value chain. This will engender inclusiveness of the vulnerable groups in agricultural value chain.

Food security, the agriculture value chain, and digital transformation: The case of Jamaica's agricultural business information system (ABIS)

Digital transformation has potential for improving food security through agriculture development. While these transformations are welcomed and while societies are generally moving towards modernization and digitalization, farmers in the Global South have not been transitioning into the age of digitalization, and so are unable to take full advantage in ways that can enhance the agro value chain. Considering this, what may account for the sub-optimal take up from digital transformation deployment in agriculture sector in a small island developing state? Has there been any successes to the agriculture value-chain? What are the lessons to be learned? While the systems are available and farmers may have an interest in using them, their lack of ability to maneuver these new technologies leads to non-take up/use of the new beneficial technologies. A general distrust in government further compounded by a general distrust in the use of the internet has polarized farmers from digital technologies. The sluggish operations of governments of the South have inhibited the innovation that is required to enhance take up of digital technologies in agriculture. Privatization of digitalization in agriculture is therefore proffered as an alternative to a state-owned and state-operated digital transformation of agriculture. A policy options framework is proposed as a starting point to mitigating some of the challenges faced and improving digital transformation efforts in agriculture.

Export of fruits, vegetables and their products from India - A study on growth rate and instability index

The study aimed to analyze the growth rate and instability index for export of fruits, vegetables and products of fruits and vegetables from India. The present study based on the secondary data, data were collected from Agricultural and Processed Food Export Development Authority (APEDA). Compound annual growth rate analysis and cuddy della valle instability index were employed for analysis of growth rate and instability index of fruits, vegetables and products of fruits and vegetables from India. Here secondary data for fruits, vegetables and products of fruits and vegetables was collected for the period of 2006-07 to 2021-22. The results reveals that the CAGR for the export of fruits and vegetables in terms of quantity and value showed a positive and significant growth rate for potato (12.59 and 21.56%), watermelon (11.75 and 21.19%), green chilli (9.03 and 20.70%), other fresh vegetables (8.49 and 15.99%), grapes (8.18 and 18.70%), pomegranate (7.91 and 19.15%), oranges (7.30and 17.98%), garlic (7.26 and 17.61%) and other fresh fruits (7.06 and 16.54%), But mango shows negative growth rate of -5.26 per centin terms of quantity and the highest instability index showed for orangesat 75.53 and 74.42, respectively. For products of fruits and vegetables in terms of quantity and value the CAGR for the export of raisins (41.00 and 50.48%), potato (prepared and preserved) (36.85 and 40.64%), other vegetables products (betel leaves and nuts) (15.28 and 23.09%), processed fruits, juices and nuts (10.15 and 18.76%), onion (dried and powdered) (6.71 and 15.06%), processed vegetables (5.41 and 14.04%), fruits and vegetables seeds (4.79 and 16.93%), guar gum (4.73 and 8.32%), mango pulp (3.63 and 2.33%) and cucumber and gherkins (prepared and preserved) (1.03 and 8.71%). But walnuts shows negative and significant growth rate of -9.97 and -7.51per cent and the highest instability index showed for potato (prepared and preserved) and guar gum at 67.98 and 105.79, respectively. This conclude that there had been absolute growth rate due to increased fruits and vegetables production, growing international demand for fruits, vegetables and products of fruits and vegetables, competitive pricing in global market. By this India can continue to expand its presence in global market, boosting economic growth and benefiting farmers and stake holders across the agricultural value chain and reduce risk of export in future days.

Will Artificial Intelligence be a Performance Booster to Agritech Start-Up?: Empirical Evidence from Emerging Economy

Indian agriculture is in the period of transition from traditional to modern agriculture. The role of various technologies in solving contemporary global issues is inevitable in any business sector, likewise in agriculture. This research work attempts to understand the impact of one such technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the agricultural value chain. Quantitative research methodology is followed in this research work and data is obtained from the agri companies that use AI for their operations and decision-making. A conceptual model is also developed for this purpose. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) methodology is adopted to understand the relationship between barriers, benefits, and the future of AI and the performance of the agri value chain. Hypotheses are developed for this purpose and tested based on the data collected from agritech companies. The result obtained proves that the benefits of AI and the future of AI have a positive impact on the value chain performance which in turn have a positive influence on organizational performance. However, it is found that barriers to AI adoption do not have much influence on adopting it and on the value chain performance of agritech companies. One of the major contributions of this research work is that it would be useful to the practitioners/Government in framing policies on implementing technologies in the agricultural sector.

Life Cycle Assessment of Dried Organic Apple Value Chains Considering Conventional and Heat-Pump-Assisted Drying Processes: The Case of Sweden

The increasing population pressure and demand for quality food, and the significant burden of agriculture on the environment, impede the sustainable development of the food sector. Understanding the environmental performance of different agricultural technologies and food value chains and identifying improvement opportunities play important roles in the sustainable development of this sector. This article presents the results of an environmental impact assessment of organic dried apples produced and supplied in Sweden, which was conducted using primary and literature-based data. A “cradle-to-consumer gate” life cycle analysis (LCA) method with a functional unit (FU) of 1 ton of fresh organic apples at the farm stage was used while considering conventional drying and heat-pump (HP)-assisted apple-drying techniques. The main environmental impact categories investigated were cumulative energy demand (CED), climate change impact (GWP), acidification potential (AP), and eutrophication potential (EP). The results indicate that the total CED values were 7.29 GJ and 5.12 GJ per FU for the conventional drying and HP-assisted drying methods, respectively, i.e., a reduction of about 30%. Similarly, the GWP values were 130 kg CO2 eq and 120 kg CO2 eq per FU, respectively. These findings highlight the importance of improving energy use and process efficiency to increase the sustainability of dried organic apple value chains.

A Comprehensive Mapping of the Coconut Value Chain Actors in Western Tamil Nadu, India

The coconut industry in Western Tamil Nadu, India, epitomizes the intricate interplay of actors and activities within the agricultural value chain. Despite India's prominent stature as the leading coconut producer globally, challenges persist, including price disparities and limited value addition. This study investigates the coconut value chain in Western Tamil Nadu, mapping its actors and activities to elucidate opportunities for enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Employing a multi-stage sampling technique, data were collected from 300 coconut farmers and various stakeholders. Six value chains were identified, encompassing domestic, processing, and export markets. Primary actors, including farmers, harvest contractors, commission agents, wholesalers, retailers, processors, farmer producer companies (FPCs), and exporters, were analyzed in terms of their roles and activities. Results highlight the significance of value chain mapping in understanding market dynamics and optimizing resource allocation. Channel III, facilitated by FPCs, emerged as a promising avenue for reducing costs and enhancing market efficiency. This study emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making and strategic interventions for fostering a sustainable and vibrant coconut industry in Western Tamil Nadu and beyond.

Exploring Cooperative Mechanisms in the Chinese Agricultural Value Chain: A Game Model Analysis Based on Leading Enterprises and Small Farmers

In the context of agricultural modernization in China, this paper examines the micro-level perspective of agricultural value chains. Drawing from three primary models of agricultural value chain cooperation—namely, “leading enterprises + small farmers”, “leading enterprises + cooperatives + small farmers”, and “corporate integration”—it establishes four game models: the decentralized decision-making game model, the two revenue-sharing game models, and the centralized decision-making game model. It systematically analyzes the cooperation mechanisms between leading enterprises and small farmers in upstream production links of the agricultural value chain, aiming to improve the cooperation strategy between leading enterprises and small farmers, elevate the status of small farmers in the agricultural value chain, promote increased income for farmers, and strengthen the agricultural value chain. The research findings are as follows: Firstly, the traditional contract of “leading enterprise + smallholder farmers” is incomplete, which makes it difficult to avoid opportunism and moral hazard that may arise between the two parties. By comparing multiple parameter values, it is found that this model is at a lower level of agricultural value chain development. Secondly, the model of “leading enterprise + cooperative + smallholder farmers” improves the tightness and stability of cooperation between leading enterprises and smallholder farmers. This model explains to some extent the operability of smallholder farmers sharing the value of the agricultural value chain. Compared with various parameter values, this model is at a medium level between other models. Finally, the “corporate integration” model is a fully vertical integration model. Compared with various parameter values, this model is at an advanced stage of agricultural value chain development. Therefore, agricultural value chains will ultimately develop toward the direction of corporate integration. This study has positive practical significance for enhancing the status and claim rights of small farmers, promoting increased income for farmers, enhancing the consistency of values between leading enterprises and small farmers, strengthening the stability of the agricultural value chain, and ultimately achieving common prosperity and agricultural modernization in China.

CHINA’S AGRICULTURAL FOREIGN TRADE FLOWS: TRENDS, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES

Purpose. The aim of the article is to analyse China’s agricultural import and export in the context of global geopolitical transformations and identification of trends, challenges, and opportunities for the state’s agricultural policy based on this analysis. Methodology of research. The following methods were used in the research: analysis and synthesis to evaluate the dynamics, product, and geographical structure of China’s agricultural foreign trade; SWOT analysis to assess the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities of the state’s agricultural policy; abstract and logical method to summarize information from various sources and create a comprehensive understanding of the researched problem, forming theoretical conclusions and generalizations; and graphical method to visualize the research results. Findings. It was found that in 2023, the dynamics of China’s foreign trade in agricultural products continued to show a growth trend that has been observed over the past decade. It was demonstrated that the development of China’s agricultural exports has effectively contributed to the deep expansion and diversification of the agricultural value chain, opening new opportunities for promoting high-quality agricultural development. At the same time, it was noted that China has abolished non-tariff measures on agricultural products and export subsidies for all agricultural products, making it one of the most open markets for agricultural products. However, it was proven that in terms of imports, China remains one of the most dependent countries in the world, which is related to the relatively small area of arable land, large population, and insufficient intensification, technological development, and mechanization of tangible agricultural production. Originality. The research on trends in the development of China’s international trade in agricultural products in the post-COVID period has been further developed, taking into account new geopolitical realities. Using the SWOT analysis method, the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities of China’s agricultural policy were identified. Practical value. The substantiated conclusions and recommendations derived from the research can be used to determine the strategic directions for the development of China’s trade relations, as well as to intensify agricultural trade flows between Ukraine and China. Key words: international trade, export, import, agriculture, peripheral regions, foreign policy, global risks, competitiveness.

Enhancing Small-scale Sugarcane Growers’ Productivity at Felixton Mill through Agriculture Value Chains Collaboration

Enhancing Small-scale Sugarcane Growers’ Productivity at Felixton Mill through Agriculture Value Chains Collaboration

Assessment of the Impact of Financial Intermediation on Gross Domestic Product in Nigeria from 1996 to 2022

This paper assesses financial intermediation in Nigeria and how it has impacted economic growth. The study sourced time series data between 1996 and 2022 from the Central Bank of Nigeria and utilized econometric techniques using Ordinary least square regression, Error correction model, and Pairwise Causality to assess the impact of the financial intermediation institutions on the growth of the nation's Gross Domestic Product. The paper focused on banks, capital markets, and the insurance industry being significant institutions in the financial system. The GDP is the dependent variable, while Credit to the Private Sector as a percentage of GDP (CPS/GDP) and Total Savings as a percentage of GDP (TS/GDP) were used as proxies for assessing banks' contributions to economic growth. Stock market capitalization was used as a proxy for the contribution of the capital market to economic growth, and Insurance industry assets were used as a proxy for the insurance industry's contribution to economic growth. The study revealed no co-integration and long-term relationship between economic growth and the financial intermediation variables. There was, however, a unidirectional causal relationship between economic growth and the banks and the capital markets. There was no causality between economic growth and insurance. We recommend that policymakers undertake periodic reforms to deepen the capacity of the institutions to support de-risking and funding small and medium enterprises and the agricultural value chain, which are vital channels for diversifying the economy. The regulatory authorities are pivotal in upscaling the institutions' contribution to economic development.