A key challenge in systematically collecting data on intermediary agri-food value chain actors is that value chains take the form of a network, with actors linked by a series of transactions. Moreover, we have limited ex ante knowledge about the structure or scale of these networks, which complicates the construction of valid sampling frames and limits traditional random sampling approaches to collect data. To address these challenges, we adapt the respondent-driven sampling approach to collect data on intermediary agri-food value chain actors within their transaction-linked network and implement this approach in the arabica coffee and soybean value chains in Uganda and the rice and potato value chains in Bangladesh. We observe meaningful heterogeneity in the structure and scale of agri-food value chains across commodities and countries. Focusing on traders, we show that the respondent-driven sampling approach generates a larger sample of traders who differ in observable characteristics (i.e., value added, enterprise scale, and financial access) compared to a sub-sample of traders generated in a way that mimics traditional random sampling approaches used to study traders. We conclude by discussing how this respondent-driven sampling approach, applied within transaction-linked networks, can provide a useful data collection method for studying intermediary agri-food value chain actors.

Using sustainable food value chain development (SFVCD) approaches to reduce poverty presents both great opportunities and daunting challenges. SFVCD requires a systems approach to identifying root problems, innovative thinking to find effective solutions and broad-based partnerships to implement programmes that have an impact at scale. In practice, however, a misunderstanding of its fundamental nature can easily result in value-chain projects having limited or non-sustainable impact. Furthermore, development practitioners around the world are learning valuable lessons from both failures and successes, but many of these are not well disseminated. This new set of handbooks aims to address these gaps by providing practical guidance on SFVCD to a target audience of policy-makers, project designers and field practitioners. This first handbook provides a solid conceptual foundation on which to build the subsequent handbooks. It (1) clearly defines the concept of a sustainable food value chain; (2) presents and discusses a development paradigm that integrates the multidimensional concepts of sustainability and value added; (3) presents, discusses and illustrates ten principles that underlie SFVCD; and (4) discusses the potential and limitations of using the value-chain concept in food-systems development. By doing so, the handbook makes a strong case for placing SFVCD at the heart of any strategy aimed at reducing poverty and hunger in the long run.

This book is the first volume in a collection of contributions arising from a multidisciplinary project developed in the field of agri-food value chain analysis. The respective papers combine a range of disciplines to analyse major agri-food challenges in Europe and South America, offering readers a practical understanding of how risk and uncertainties can be managed by means of validated data and results from agri-food systems analysis. Experts from agronomy, information communication and technology, operations and supply chain management share their findings and propose novel approaches. Given its scope, the book will be of interest to a broad readership who want to learn about current agri-food challenges and requirements, and to professionals whose work involves real-life industry requirements, food and/or farming.

Intermediary firms within agri-food value chains operating between the farmgate and retailers typically account for at least as much, if not more, value added as the primary agricultural production sector of the economy, but little is known about how these small and largely informal firms conduct their business. Drawing on a set of innovative surveys implemented amid the arabica coffee and soybean value chains in Uganda and the rice and potato value chains in Bangladesh, we describe the financial activities of the firms that transform agricultural produce into food. We document four sets of results. First, across all intermediary actors in our data the overwhelming majority of transactions are cash-based. Second, although many intermediary actors are un-banked, access to financial accounts varies considerably by value chain segment, commodity, and country. Third, while most intermediary actors report using mobile money for personal purposes, especially in Uganda, very few use mobile money to facilitate business transactions. Fourth, although intermediary actors frequently report exposure to risk, very few effectively manage this risk. We conclude by discussing how intermediary agri-food value chain actors represent an underappreciated population for the promotion of new technologies both to improve the stability of the agricultural sector and to improve outcomes among smallholder farmers.

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to identify and explore a study on a network perspective added tasks: the case of agri-food value chain in Malaysia as well as including multidimensional conceptual framework.Design/Methodology/Approach-The data for this quantitative method were gathered from 200 firms. Agri-food value chain were used as key respondent as the reliability and the validity of the questionnaire were thoroughly examined. The results are based on regression analysis and equation modelling by using SPSS software. Then, the data will be analyzed in the network of each construct using the structural equation modelling approach.Findings - The findings of the study provide strong grounds that operation and market efficiency improvement are highly connected with advances in involved in actors, resources, activities and value added tasks support were found to be the network of firm performance. Research limitations/implications- As analytical effort in order to point out area that companies should emphasize as to improvement the effective management that give the potential benefit. Originality/Value - The report projects an enhanced conceptual framework that examines critical issues concerning the successful a study on a network perspective added tasks: the case of agri-food value chain in Malaysia, thus providing valuable outcomes for decision makers and academics. This theoretical study found that the framework could explain better each variable which has a a network perspective added tasks: the case of agri-food value chain in Malaysia towards firm performance.

This book aims to strengthen the skills of professionals who use, manage data for the benefit of farmers and farmers organizations by exposing them to the topics of importance of data in the agriculture value chain and how new and existing technologies, products and services can leverage farm level and global data to improve yield, reduce loss, add value and increase profitability and resilience.

Globalization has transformed agri-food markets, creating a single global market with reduced trade barriers. In theory, this should bring increased food security, yet challenges persist. Small farmers often need help integrating into global sourcing networks and meeting stringent food safety regulations. Additionally, there is increasing pressure on businesses and governments to address the environmental and resource consequences of agri-food production. Advanced Computational Methods for Agri-Business Sustainability offers a comprehensive analysis of agricultural sector challenges and provides practical solutions. It identifies potential issues in agri-food management and supply chains, offers mitigation strategies, and highlights opportunities for sustainable development. The book aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing insights for academics, policymakers, and industry professionals.