NECESSARY AND SUFFICIENT CONDITIONS FOR AGRIBUSINESS SUCCESS OF

SMALL-SCALE FARMING SYSTEMS IN NORTHERN VIETNAM

Laboratory Exercise No. 1

A JOURNAL ARTICLE REVIEW

PRESENTED TO THE FACULTY OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT
VISAYAS STATE UNIVERSITY
VISCA, BAYBAY CITY, LEYTE

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR MGMT 198n - AGRIBUSINESS RESEARCH METHODS

VIRTUDAZO, BRIGITTE C.
ENDONG, MARY JOY N.
TAGRA, KERSTINE KAYE P.

Group No. 4

September 2023
Article Title: Necessary and Sufficient Conditions for Agribusiness Success of Small-scale
Farming Systems in Northern Vietnam

Author(s): Tuan M. Ha, Ockie J. H. Bosch, and Nam C. Nguyen

Citation: http://dx.doi.org/10.11114/bms.v1i2.820

Structure

The study aims to evaluate and understand the essential factors needed for successful
small-scale agricultural enterprises in Haiphong, Vietnam. It focuses on improving farmers'
market access and removing constraints that hinder the development of small farmers' market
access. It intends to identify the circumstances and actions required to assist local producer
groups in maintaining their livelihoods and incomes, particularly in light of the difficulties that
small-scale farmers experience in accessing markets.

Early Intention Outline

The abstract and introduction of the research paper clearly state the purpose of the
investigation. It begins by underscoring the significance of establishing market access for
small-scale farmers as a rural development and poverty alleviation method. The researchers
talked about what they wanted to achieve and then went on to talk about different things that
smallholder farmers have to struggle with when it comes to getting into the market and
suggested possible ways to fix them based on the results of the study. In this way, the study
made a holistic assessment of the challenges faced by small agricultural enterprises in
Haiphong and focused on practical solutions that could allow them to take advantage of market
opportunities.

Moreover, the study was conducted in response to the obstacles faced by smallholder
farmers in Haiphong, including land fragmentation, high production costs, and difficulties
accessing contemporary supply chains. The paper specifically indicates that it seeks to find not
only essential but also sufficient conditions for agricultural success, with a focus on building
local cooperatives and investing in social and human capital.

Implications for Policy and Development

The researchers highlight the significance of government policies and development

initiatives in generating the required conditions for small-scale agricultural success throughout
the study. This includes regulations concerning land access, infrastructure, research, marketing,
engagement, such as collaboration between government agencies, service providers,
agribusiness firms, and small farmers. Such teamwork is regarded as critical for overcoming
market access restrictions.

Contract farming (CF) has been identified as an important technique for small farmers
seeking access to contemporary supply networks. According to the findings, measures that
promote CF can considerably help smallholders. The need for developing and strengthening
local producer groups or cooperatives is emphasized in the report, as they can assist small
farmers in meeting the volume and quality requirements of agribusinesses. Additionally, the
report emphasizes the need to invest in human and social capital, such as farmer knowledge
and skill development, and create trust in producer-buyer interactions.

In general, the report achieves its goal by offering a comprehensive analysis of the
obstacles faced by small-scale agribusinesses, recommending practical interventions, and
emphasizing the importance of government policies and multi-stakeholder collaboration in
attaining success. The study's purpose is to improve the economic prospects of small farmers in
Haiphong, which corresponds with a larger goal of rural development and poverty reduction.

Awareness of Current Debate

Existing Debates Addressed in the Field

The goal of the study was to examine the conditions necessary for small-scale
agricultural success. The study discusses a number of important issues and arguments on the
subject of agricultural development, especially as they relate to small-scale farming in
Haiphong, Vietnam. The study's relationship to these aspects is as follows:

a. Market Access for Small Farmers:

The study contributes to the ongoing discussion over small-scale farmers' access to
markets, particularly in emerging nations like Vietnam, where poor market access poses a
serious problem for rural populations. It recognizes the importance of ensuring market access
for agricultural products for the improvement of rural areas and the reduction of poverty.
Additionally, it draws attention to the difficulties faced by small-scale farmers in Vietnam, such as
their access to resources, knowledge of the market, and level of competition.

b. Barriers to Market Access:

The study outlines a number of obstacles that small farmers face in order to access
markets, including a lack of market intelligence, inadequate infrastructure, a lack of resources,
and fragmented infrastructure. These impediments are consistent with more general views of
global smallholders' challenges.

c. Policy and Support for Agriculture:

It highlights how crucial it is for small-scale agribusinesses to have supportive policies

and outside assistance. According to the study, policy components, including research,
extension services, and market data, are crucial. This is consistent with existing discussions on
how government measures may help small farmers.
 d. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration:

The study emphasizes the value of multi-stakeholder engagement, including

public-private partnerships, in removing barriers, enhancing smallholders' access to markets
and livelihoods, and assisting them in gaining access to contemporary supply chains. This is
consistent with conversations on the function of cooperation in agricultural development.

e. Contract Farming:

The study acknowledges the significance of contract farming as a means for small
farmers to boost their revenues and gain access to markets. This is in line with talks on contract
farming, which is a topic of discussion in agricultural development circles regarding its
advantages, difficulties, and effect on smallholder income. Contract farming links smallholders to
contemporary supply chains.

f. Role of Cooperatives:

The study emphasizes how local producer organizations (cooperatives) may help
smallholders in supply chains by resolving issues with market access. This is consistent with
discussions on the possible advantages of cooperatives for smallholders.

g. Human and Social Capitals:

The study underlines the value of enhancing farmers' knowledge, resilience, and
relationships of trust by investing in their human and social capital. This is connected to
continuing discussions about social capital and capacity-building in agricultural development.

h. Systemic Interventions:

The study aims to comprehend the systemic interactions between the numerous
variables influencing the success of small-scale agriculture. In order to contribute to the larger
conversation on systemic approaches to agricultural development, it seeks to discover
treatments that can deal with these challenges.

In summary, the study addresses important issues and debates within the field of
agricultural development, with a specific focus on improving the success of small-scale
agribusinesses in Vietnam. The study provides a case study that can guide policies and
practices aimed at enhancing the livelihoods and market access of smallholder farmers. It also
provides insight into the partnerships, capacity-building, and policies that are crucial to
sustained rural development.

Gap(s) and/or Current Issue(s)

The study offers useful insights into the obstacles faced by small-scale agribusinesses in
Haiphong, Vietnam, and proposes remedies. However, there are some gaps and present issues
that can be identified in the study. The following are some of those:
➢ Limited Temporal Scope: The study was conducted during 2013–2014, which indicates
that the findings might not fully reflect the current situation. The dynamics of small-scale
agribusinesses may alter as economic, social, and political circumstances do. An
updated study would present a more realistic picture.

➢ Specificity of the Local Context: The study concentrates on Haiphong, Vietnam, which
has distinctive characteristics. Although the results are useful for this particular area,
they might not be readily transferable to other areas or nations. The investigation should
be aware of the uniqueness and restrictions on generalizability of the local setting.

➢ Limited Discussion of Gender Dynamics: Gender dynamics in small-scale

agribusinesses are not clearly discussed in the study. It's crucial to take into account
how gender roles and disparities could influence market entry and success. A more
thorough understanding would be provided by an inclusive investigation of
gender-related concerns.

➢ Environmental Sustainability: Although small-scale agribusinesses' environmental

sustainability is discussed, the study largely concentrates on their economic and social
elements. In an era of increasing environmental concerns, addressing sustainability
issues, such as resource management and eco-friendly activities, is vital.

➢ Quantitative Data and Metrics: Although the study identifies factors influencing
success and offers a qualitative analysis of those factors, it is lacking in specific
quantitative data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of the suggested interventions.
The study's applicability would increase with the establishment of precise success
metrics.

➢ External Issues: The study only briefly mentions external issues, such as global market
trends, climate change, and government policies that go beyond local regulations, that
may have an impact on the success of small-scale agribusinesses. It is crucial to
comprehend how these outside circumstances affect the suggested solutions.

➢ Long-Term Viability: Although the study finds a number of interventions, it doesn't

thoroughly examine their long-term viability. Are they long-lasting, and how do they
adjust to changing conditions? For the creation of effective policies and strategies,
long-term perspectives are crucial.

➢ Youth Inclusion: The integration of youngsters in agribusiness is not discussed in the

study, which is largely concerned with the difficulties faced by small-scale farmers. For
the sector's future, it may be essential to promote youth participation and attend to their
unique needs.

➢ Market Dynamics: Although the study indicates the significance of market access, a
more thorough examination of market dynamics—including pricing structures, demand
swings, and rivalry among agricultural firms—would be helpful.
 ➢ Technology Integration: Given the quick development of technology in agriculture, the
study might examine how digital platforms and technology adoption can assist
small-scale agribusinesses in reaching new markets and increasing productivity.

In conclusion, even though the study offers insightful qualitative analysis and suggests
interventions for small-scale agribusinesses in Haiphong, filling in the gaps and resolving the
concerns will increase its application, completeness, and usefulness. Additionally, continuing
study and monitoring may be required to modify and improve the suggested solutions over time
given the changing difficulties in agriculture.

Methodology

The study was conducted in Haiphong, a lowland production area in Northern Vietnam,
between 2013 and 2014. The study included 75 participants, including 35 local small farmers
from four rural districts in Haiphong, as well as representatives from key government ministries,
organizations, extension institutes, and agricultural corporations.

Several steps were involved in the approach:

Baseline studies were carried out to gain a better understanding of the existing state of
small-scale farming and local market conditions.

Workshops and focus group discussions with stakeholders were done to obtain a deeper
understanding of important issues and identify actions to remove market access
constraints.

To avoid power imbalances and gain views, separate discussions and workshops were
held with various stakeholder groups.

During a plenary workshop, the results of these discussions and workshops were
presented for comment and validation.

Small-group conversations with key stakeholders were held to clarify linkages between
various variables identified in prior workshops.

The Vensim® program was used to create a causal loop diagram (systems model) that
depicted causal linkages between variables as well as potential leverage points for
systemic actions.

The developed model was presented again to all stakeholders during a plenary
workshop for input and revision.

To summarize, the study used a thorough and participatory approach, data gathering
methodologies, and systems modeling to examine the prerequisites for the development of
small-scale agribusinesses in Haiphong, Vietnam.
Appropriateness of the Methodology

The study's methodology appears to be adequate for the study's research objectives,
which include examining the requirements for the success of small-scale agribusinesses in
Haiphong, Vietnam. The methodology combines data collection techniques and analytical
approaches. The following is an evaluation of the methodology's suitability:

● Baseline Studies: The research begins with two baseline studies to assess the existing
state of local farming systems and market conditions. This is an important stage because
it provides the background for understanding the obstacles and opportunities that
small-scale agribusinesses confront. These baseline investigations are critical for
structuring future debates and initiatives.

● Workshops and Focus Group Discussions: The study includes workshops and focus
group discussions with diverse stakeholders, including small farmers and
representatives from key departments and organizations. This interactive technique is
ideal since it enables the collection of varied perspectives and thoughts. It also ensures
that those directly involved in small-scale agribusinesses have a voice.

● Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) Modeling: A distinctive and valuable feature of the
methodology is the use of a CLD modeling program, Vensim®. This system's thinking
method aids in visualizing and comprehending the intricate linkages and
interdependencies between the numerous aspects influencing agricultural success. CLD
modeling is useful for investigating causal relationships and feedback loops in dynamic
systems such as agricultural production and market access.

● Data Validation: Through plenary workshops, the study presents results for comments,
addition, and validation. This iterative process guarantees that the data and findings are
extensively evaluated and validated by stakeholders, increasing the research's
credibility.

● Analysis of Qualitative Data: The study relies on qualitative data gathered through
discussions, workshops, and CLD modeling. Qualitative data analysis is appropriate for
gathering rich, context-specific information such as stakeholder viewpoints, difficulties,
and potential solutions. It enables in-depth analysis of topics.

● Contextual Specificity: Conducting the study in Haiphong, Vietnam, adds contextual

specificity to the methodology. This approach emphasizes that the challenges and
opportunities confronting small-scale agribusinesses vary greatly depending on the local
context. As a result, the place chosen is consistent with the research's aims.

● Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: It is appropriate to involve various stakeholders, such

as government departments, service providers, agribusinesses, and small farmers.
Understanding the intricacies of the agriculture system and creating collaborative
solutions require multi-stakeholder collaboration.
 The methodology, in general, integrates data collection approaches such as baseline
research, workshops, and CLD modeling with a participatory and context-specific approach. It
enables a thorough examination of the requirements for the success of small-scale
agribusinesses in Haiphong. However, the methodology's suitability is ultimately determined by
the research aims, and in this case, it corresponds well with the study's goals of analyzing and
removing the barriers to market access and achieving agribusiness success in a given location.

Theoretical Framework

To acquire information and create a systematic awareness of the difficulties faced by

small farmers in Haiphong, Vietnam, the study largely uses participatory workshops and
qualitative research methodologies. The study uses a participatory method and causal loop
diagram (CLD) modeling to examine the issue and potential interventions, even though it
doesn't specifically specify any models or frameworks. These components' connections to
models and frameworks are as follows:

1) Participatory Approach - Workshops, focus groups, and interactions with several

stakeholders were all used in the project, which used a methodology based on
participatory rural appraisal (PRA) or participatory action research (PAR). These
methods stress incorporating stakeholders and local communities in the research
process to learn about their needs and opinions.

2) Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) Modeling - A system dynamics method for creating
causal loop diagrams is through the use of Vensim® software. Although not stated
directly, this methodology is based on the idea of system dynamics, which examines the
interactions between many variables in complex systems. The CLD supports system
dynamics modeling by assisting in the visualization of feedback loops and causal
relationships within the context of the study. It was created to demonstrate the dynamic
relationship that would strengthen producer group capacities and result in "multiple"
impacts that would finally increase the revenue of participating small farmers. This
makes it the foundation of the investigation or inquiry in the study.

3) Systems Thinking- The study's emphasis on comprehending the main problems and
obstacles to market access from a systemic perspective is in line with systems thinking's
core tenets. The study's use of CLD modeling is consistent with the systems thinking
paradigm, which emphasizes the need to take feedback loops and unintended
consequences into account when solving complex problems.

4) Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration- It is consistent with ideas of multi-stakeholder

collaboration and partnerships for development that the study worked with a broad range
of stakeholders, including local farmers, government agencies, service providers, and
agribusiness firms. This approach acknowledges the significance of incorporating a
variety of actors in addressing complicated situations, but it is not a specific model or
framework.
 In conclusion, the study doesn't expressly cite any particular models or frameworks as its
starting point. Instead, it employs a participative strategy, system dynamics modeling (CLD), and
systems thinking principles to get a comprehensive understanding of the difficulties faced by
Haiphong's small farmers and pinpoint viable responses. It also highlights how crucial
multi-stakeholder cooperation is to overcoming these difficulties.

Results

The study examines critical success factors for small-scale agribusinesses in Haiphong,
Vietnam, with an emphasis on improving rural livelihoods. Here are the key findings and results:

➔ Priority Improvement Areas

The study identifies four priority areas for improvement to improve the rural lives of
small-scale farmers in Haiphong, Vietnam. These include increasing income, increasing
productivity, developing cooperatives and producer groups, and enhancing health.

● Income Enhancement: Improving market access, lowering production costs,

and creating supplementary job options were identified as critical for enhancing
small-scale farmers' income.

● Production Efficiency: To lower farmers' workloads and enhance efficiency, the

results of the study emphasized the need to support the availability of production
devices, capacity building, production infrastructure, and efficient service groups.

● Cooperatives and Producer Groups: Cooperatives and producer groups were

considered critical for improving market actor linkages, lowering production costs,
and improving product quality.

● Health Improvement: Reducing workload, enhancing environmentally friendly

production facilities and practices, encouraging rural cleanliness, and giving
improved access to healthcare services were highlighted as vital for improving
the health of small-scale farmers.

➔ Interrelationships Among Factors

The study discovered substantial interrelationships between these characteristics, with

market access being a "necessary condition" for increasing income because it helps solve other
difficulties such as severe workloads and bad health. The formation and strengthening of
producer associations were deemed "sufficient conditions" for maintaining market links.

➔ Barriers to Market Linkages

The study discovered various barriers impeding market linkages in Haiphong, including
fragmented production, poor cooperative coordination, low farmer knowledge, and adverse
policies for local agribusinesses. These concerns lead to businesses' unwillingness to enter into
contracts with local farmers.
 ➔ Opinions of Stakeholders

According to the findings, there are significant commonalities in the perspectives of

numerous stakeholders, including small farmers and other players. Stakeholders propose a
variety of methods to increase market linkages, such as government interventions, trust-building
between companies and farmers, cooperative capacity-building, and generating mutual
circumstances for both parties.

➔ Systemic Benefits of Capacity Building for Producer Groups

The study indicated that interventions to improve the capacity of local cooperatives could
have "multiple" benefits using causal loop diagram modeling. These effects included increased
income, lower production costs, higher product quality, stronger ties with market participants,
and enhanced political capital to influence policies in favor of smallholder agriculture.

Overall, the study emphasizes the necessity of addressing a variety of interconnected

issues, such as market access, production efficiency, cooperatives, and health development, to
improve the success of small-scale agribusinesses in Haiphong. It also emphasizes the
importance of systemic initiatives in achieving long-term beneficial outcomes for small-scale
farmers in the region.

Implications and Future Research

The study contributes to the corpus of knowledge in several unique and beneficial ways,
and its findings have important implications for agriculture and rural development. The following
are the significant contributions, consequences, management applications, and opportunities for
future research:

Unique and Valuable Contributions

I. Systems Thinking Approach: One of the study's unique contributions is its use of a
systems thinking approach, which included the creation of a causal loop diagram (CLD).
This method aids in comprehending the complicated interplay of numerous elements
impacting small-scale agribusinesses.

II. Pay Attention to Necessary and Sufficient Factors: The study identified some
necessary conditions for achieving successful agribusiness. While many studies
emphasize the relevance of essential conditions, this study emphasizes the importance
of adequate conditions, such as establishing local cooperatives, investing in human and
social capital, contract farming, multi-sectoral collaboration, improved transparency and
accountability, and enhanced support from the local government. As a result, the local
stakeholders and smallholder farmers should make coordinated and conscious efforts to
achieve these conditions so that these farmers will gain a spot in the modern supply
chain.
 III. Local Context Specificity: The study analyzes the requirements for small-scale
agribusiness and the coordinated solutions to support local producer groups in
sustaining livelihood and income. By performing the study in Haiphong, Vietnam, the
research tackles regional concerns and solutions. Therefore, this context-specific
methodology gives useful information for policymakers and stakeholders working in
comparable environments.

Implications of the Findings

I. Policy Implications: The study highlights the significance of government policies and
development initiatives in assisting small-scale agribusinesses. Making an agribusiness
successful also depends on how supportive the local and national governments are in
crafting legislation that would benefit and create a bigger impact on the agribusiness
industries. Government intervention plays a vital role in shaping the agricultural
landscape of the area, thus promoting more dynamic conditions on the farms. Some of
the interventions of the government include enhancing research and improving
extensions to diffuse advanced technologies in modern farming, providing market
information, and providing risk management aids such as safety net programs, credit,
and agricultural insurance. It also includes providing farmers with access to land, land
consolidation for large-scale production, marketing assistance, and investing in
production and rural infrastructure.

II. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: The necessity for multi-stakeholder collaboration,

including government departments, service providers, agribusinesses, and small
farmers, is one of the implications. Collaboration can help smallholders overcome market
access constraints and increase their competitiveness.

III. Contract Farming: The study emphasizes contract farming's importance in connecting
small farmers to contemporary supply chains. Policymakers and agribusinesses should
think about putting in place CF arrangements that benefit both parties.

Management Applications of the Findings

I. Capacity Building: The study contributes to the knowledge gap between smallholder
farmers and agribusiness companies towards a better understanding of their causal
relationship and the systemic interventions that need to be employed to address the
hindrances to having a successful agribusiness in the area. Thus, local cooperatives and
producer groups should work to improve their management, production, and quality
control capabilities. Members may benefit from increased market access and money as
a result of this.

II. Human and Social Capital Investment: Invest in small farmer training and skill
development to improve their production techniques and management skills. Investment
in human and social capital has been proven to contribute to enhancing the knowledge
 and technical know-how of farmers, improving their productivity and competitiveness, as
well as creating a closer relationship between the producers and buyers. Proper training
of smallholder farmers on the proper use of technology to improve production efficiency
is a great factor in increasing the capacity of farms, thereby producing more volume that
can be offered to large agribusiness companies in the urban districts.

III. Building Trust and Social Capital: It is critical to build trust and social capital among
members of producer groups. Trust can lead to more successful agriculture collaboration
and contractual partnerships.

Areas for Further Research

I. Long-Term Impact: Examine the long-term impact of the proposed initiatives on small
farmers' livelihoods and incomes. Examine whether the gains are sustained over time.

II. Comparative Studies: Conduct comparative studies in different locations or nations to

better understand how contextual factors influence the effectiveness of small-scale
agribusiness solutions.

III. Gender and Social Inclusion: Investigate the role of gender and social inclusion in
small-scale agriculture. Look at how interventions might be adapted to meet the specific
needs and obstacles that women and marginalized groups confront.

IV. Technology Innovation: Investigate the role of technological innovations, such as

digital platforms and mobile applications, in boosting market access and coordination
among small farmers and agribusinesses.

V. Climate Change Impact: Evaluate the resistance of small-scale agribusinesses to the

effects of climate change and propose adaptation and mitigation methods.

In conclusion, the study's distinct strategy, emphasis on essential and sufficient

circumstances, and local context specificity provide useful insights for assisting small-scale
agribusinesses. Its findings have policy, multi-stakeholder collaboration, capacity building, and
social capital development implications. Long-term impacts from interventions, comparative
studies, gender issues, technological breakthroughs, and climate change resistance can all be
investigated further in future research.

Conclusion

The article highlights the special importance of strategic cooperation and integration for
successful small businesses in Haiphong, Vietnam. The issue highlights the need for diverse
stakeholders, including government agencies, smallholders, and manufacturers, to work
together to address market access issues. Moreover, the study proposes a comprehensive
intervention that includes structuring the capacity of early managers, investing in reproductive
and social capital, and developing trust among stakeholders. These multifaceted approaches
are seen as key to overcoming common challenges faced by smallholder farmers.
 Likewise, the conclusion shows the important role of government programs and support
in the success of the agricultural sector. It also acknowledges the growing importance of quality
control and compliance with food safety standards and emphasizes the role of primary
associations in agricultural product quality. Ultimately, the results demonstrate the multiple
benefits of capacity restructuring, including reduced costs, increased productivity, and better
access to treasuries and demand. Overall, the results demonstrate that an integrated and
collaborative approach is needed to enhance the success of small agricultural enterprises in
Haiphong.

Consequently, the following is a comparison of the conclusions of the study with other
similar academic work:

Article Title: Assessment of a Farmer Base Network in Promoting an Integrated Farming

System at the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Author(s): Ha Van Vo, Nhan Kieu Dang, Thach Ngoc Le, Be Thanh Tran

Citation: https://doi.org/10.22004/ag.econ.199417

The article “Necessary and Sufficient Conditions for Agribusiness Success of

Small-scale Agriculture Systems in Northern Vietnam” focuses primarily on the situation of
farmers from the point of view of drivers and barriers to market access. A related article entitled
"The Assessment of the Farmer Base Network for Promoting the Integrated Farm System in the
Mekong Delta in Vietnam" focuses on the current situation of farmers and how to raise their
situation through a network of farmers organized by themselves. Both articles describe farmers
facing similar challenges and using different approaches to find solutions to their dilemmas that
could help them increase their income through market access.

Farming is one of the most important sectors that humans need because it is where the
supply of goods comes from. Moreover, by empowering our farmers, agricultural supply would
increase, as well as by having easy access to markets, farmers' revenue would also increase.
These two articles provide the necessary knowledge to make us realize that farmers are also
suffering a dilemma just like us as ordinary buyers of their products. The realization that the
farmers of Vietnam are suffering problems just like what the farmers of the Philippines are
currently facing is a bit sad since both are agricultural countries. Empowering them through
helping and providing knowledge that could boost their production, support coming from the
government, and also through their own initiatives would result in a higher level of production
and an increased income. Subsequently, these two articles supply relevant information to us as
agribusiness students. They give us an idea of the situation of our farmers, whether they are
local or foreign.

In general, the ideas given in these articles would help us understand the situation and
how we can help mitigate this kind of problem among farmers.
Article Title: Systemic Interventions Addressing Market Access Challenges of Smallholder
Vegetable Farmers in Northern Vietnam

Author(s): Tuan M. Ha, Ockie J. H. Bosch, and Nam C. Nguyen

Citation: https://doi.org/10.1504/IJMABS.2015.072262

Following an examination of both studies, it is clear that they have common themes and
approaches to tackling agricultural difficulties in Vietnam. Here are several generalizations, both
partial and comprehensive, based on the points made throughout the research articles and what
may be learned from them:

1) Importance of Participatory Approaches: Both studies emphasize the importance of

incorporating numerous stakeholders, including farmers, government agencies,
non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and companies, in the process of identifying
and addressing agricultural concerns. This participatory method contributes to a more
complete knowledge of difficult situations.

2) Systemic Interventions: In both articles, the importance of systemic interventions in

addressing agricultural difficulties is emphasized. This entails going beyond individual
issues and comprehending the interdependence of numerous elements affecting
agricultural systems.

3) Government Assistance: Government assistance and policies are critical to enabling

agricultural development. Both studies lead to the conclusion that favorable government
policies and programs are required for small-scale agribusinesses and clean vegetable
production to succeed.

4) Learning and Reflection: The research articles emphasize the importance of fostering
collaborative learning settings among stakeholders. Stakeholders can contribute their
expertise, concerns, and expectations through participatory processes and workshops,
resulting in changes in perceptions and actions.

5) Local Context Matters: While systemic interventions and participatory approaches are
beneficial, they must be customized to the specific local situation. Each region may
confront unique agricultural difficulties and opportunities, necessitating context-specific
solutions.

6) Budget Restriction: The second study discusses budget restrictions that constrained
the scope of the study. This underlines a practical problem that academics encounter
while undertaking fieldwork and argues that thorough research may necessitate
substantial funding.

In summary, these research articles offer useful insights into solving agricultural
difficulties in Vietnam. They highlight the value of teamwork, systemic thinking, and government
assistance while also acknowledging the need for context-specific solutions. Researchers and
policymakers can use the techniques and conclusions of these studies to build strategies for
sustainable agricultural growth in similar environments.

Article Title : Inclusiveness of Contract Farming along the Vertical Coordination Continuum:
Evidence from the Vietnamese Rice Sector

Author(s) : Hélène A. Ba, Yann de Mey, Sylvie Thoron, Matty Demont

Citation: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264837718307786

The similar research article of the study being reviewed deals with the concept of
"inclusivity" in contract farming along the vertical coordination continuum, which is a test of the
Vietnamese rice sector. The study highlights the importance of encouraging small-scale farmers
to use contract farming and how government intervention can facilitate inclusiveness in contract
farming arrangements. It has some relevance to the previous article, which focuses on the
success of Vietnamese agriculture businesses. Both articles seem to deal with Vietnamese
agricultural issues, but they take different approaches.

The first article discusses the basic conditions for the success of small agribusiness,
while the second article focuses on contract agriculture and its role in the rice value chain.
However, there are some common themes. Both articles highlight the role of government
policies and interventions in improving agricultural practices and promoting inclusiveness. The
second article specifically refers to the government's efforts to promote contract agriculture and
agricultural organizations. This is in line with the idea of government intervention discussed in
the first article. Overall, both articles seem to be related to improving Vietnam's agricultural
sector, but from different points of view and with different emphasis. They share a common
thread of government participation to improve the performance and inclusiveness of the sector.

In conclusion, the research articles highlight the obstacles that farmers in Vietnam
confront, notably in terms of market access. They emphasize the importance of empowering
farmers through knowledge, government support, and their own initiatives to increase
production and income. Moreover, the studies emphasize the importance of involving various
stakeholders, including farmers, government agencies, non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), and businesses, in addressing agricultural issues. Collaboration and participation
contribute to a more complete grasp of complex challenges. The papers also emphasize the
importance of systemic responses, recognizing that agricultural problems are frequently
interconnected. Addressing these concerns necessitates a multifaceted approach that extends
beyond individual issues. Furthermore, the viability of small-scale agribusiness and contract
farming is dependent on government policies and programs. The studies stress the importance
of government engagement in improving agricultural practices and encouraging inclusion.
Subsequently, through collaborative learning among stakeholders, aided by participatory
processes and workshops, attitudes and actions change. This collaborative learning helps to
shape policy, governance, and multi-stakeholder engagement. While systemic interventions and
participatory approaches are necessary, they must also be adapted to the unique local situation.
Each location faces its own set of agricultural difficulties and possibilities, requiring tailored
solutions. Additionally, the studies address practical obstacles associated with budget
constraints in performing comprehensive research. This emphasizes the practical limits that
researchers may face while conducting fieldwork. To sum up, the three articles emphasize the
importance of government in improving agricultural practices, assisting farmers, and fostering
agricultural inclusivity.

In general, these study publications offer useful insights for researchers, legislators, and
anyone else interested in addressing agricultural challenges, promoting sustainable agricultural
growth, and empowering farmers in similar circumstances. In order to achieve these aims, they
emphasize the significance of collaboration, systemic thinking, and support from the
government.

References

Ba, H. A., Mey, Y. D., Thoron, S., & Demont, M. (2019). Inclusiveness of Contract Farming along
the Vertical Coordination Continuum: Evidence from the Vietnamese Rice Sector.
Retrieved September 17, 2023, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/
pii/S0264837718307786

Ha, T. M., Bosch, O. J. H., and Nguyen, N. C. (2015). Necessary and Sufficient Conditions for
Agribusiness Success of Small-scale Farming Systems in Northern Vietnam. Retrieved
September 10, 2023, from http://dx.doi.org/10.11114/bms.v1i2.820

Ha, T. M., Bosch, O. J. H., and Nguyen, N. C. (2015). Systemic Interventions Addressing Market
Access Challenges of Smallholder Vegetable Farmers in Northern Vietnam. Retrieved
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Vo, H. V., Dang, N. K., Le, T. N., & Tran, B. T. (2013). Assessment of a Farmer Base Network in
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