Well, inclusive agri-food systems and trade focus on making sure everyone in the agricultural value chain such as farmers, processors, distributors, and even consumers benefits fairly. You can picture it as designing markets, policies, and trade practices that support smallholder farmers, reduce inequality, strengthen food security, and promote long-term sustainability.
Agricultural trade ensures that food can move smoothly from farms to markets, both within and across regions. When trade systems function well, farmers earn better incomes, markets stay stable, and consumers gain consistent access to safe, affordable food.
Many farmers struggle with limited access to reliable markets, inconsistent or unclear government policies, poor transportation and storage systems, and weak linkages to buyers. These barriers reduce their earnings, increase post-harvest losses, and make it harder for them to grow or stay competitive. Strengthening trade systems helps remove these obstacles.
PiLAF combines research, outreach, and training to strengthen agricultural markets. Through research, we analyze trade flows, policies, and market dynamics. Through outreach, we engage farmers, cooperatives, and policymakers to co-create practical solutions. And through training, we build the skills stakeholders need to participate confidently and effectively in agricultural trade.