Agri-food system transformation : a case study of the effects on Cambodian pig value chain actors : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of AgriCommerce, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Abstract

Agri-food system transformation has rapidly spread from developed countries to developing countries in Asia including Cambodia. It is often argued that the transformation presents both economic opportunities and challenges for smallholder enterprises of agri-food value chains. Pig production is a very important livestock sub-sector in Cambodia via both the provision of protein for the general population and critical employment and income stream not only for rural households but also all actors along the value chains. The main aim of this research is to examine the effects of agri-food transformation on pig value chain actors in Cambodia. The findings of this study are useful for all Cambodian pig value chain stakeholders include concerned government authorities, development partners (NGOs), research institutes, private investment sector, as well as the value chain actors. A qualitative approach was employed in this study. Data was collected through secondary source and primary source via face-to-face interviews with respondents from the government, industry as well as pig value chain actors from the study province, Kampong Speu. The findings of the study identified the restructuring patterns and a number of key opportunities and challenges faced by the various actors along the chain. Provided the effects of the transformation, it is projected that in short to long term, those smallholder chain actors along the pig value chains in Cambodia will increasingly be replaced due to the competition with larger players, and their inability to comply with the changing market requirements. Due to their constraints and important role in the development of rural agricultural community, this study pointed out that Cambodian smallholder pig producers are the most affected chain actors and need immediate supporting interventions from the relevant stakeholders. The study concluded that better governmental regulative, technical and financial policies and pig producers’ vertical (market arrangements with buyers) and horizontal (collective action) coordination are essential in tackling the challenges facing Cambodian smallholder pig producers under this transformational market environment. Keywords: Agri-food system transformation, Cambodian pig value chains, smallholders, vertical coordination, horizontal coordination