Smallholder farmers, those with often less than 2 hectares, dominate food production in developing countries. Farms under 5 ha in Asia, Africa and Latin America account for over half of global output of staples like maize, rice, millet and wheat. Small farms also tend to use more labor and devote most land to food crops, making them highly productive per hectare. As Zero Carbon Analytics summarizes: “Farms of less than five hectares in developing countries account for more than half of global production of nine staple crops” including maize, rice and sorghum. Embedding these farmers in modern value chains is therefore critical for food security and rural incomes.

Small farmers and small processors lose a large share of potential income because of familiar, fixable problems: poor roads and transport, lack of storage, information gaps, weak bargaining power, and costly buyer requirements. Breaking Barriers pulls together proven, on-the-ground examples and practical steps that real producer groups and companies have used to change that — from Ghana’s cooperatives that co-own brands, to India’s village kiosks, Kenya’s aggregation networks, solar cold rooms in Nigeria, and franchise-style agribusiness and insurance models in Africa and Latin America.

Global markets offer substantial prospects for developing nations to export a diverse range of fresh fruits—including mangoes, pineapples, papayas, and various exotic tropical produce. Consumer demand in key regions such as the European Union, North America, China, Japan, and South Korea is driven by an increasing appetite for nutritious, year‐round, and distinctive fruits. However, successfully tapping these markets requires navigating strict regulatory environments, intricate logistics, and other market-specific hurdles. This article examines these prospects and obstacles while proposing practical solutions.

Africa’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of the continent’s economy, employing over 60% of its population and contributing significantly to food security and livelihoods. Yet, smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of this sector, face immense challenges. Limited access to resources, unpredictable markets, climate change, and isolation often leave them trapped in cycles of poverty and food insecurity. However, amidst these challenges lies a transformative solution: farmer cooperatives. By uniting their efforts, smallholder farmers can amplify their voices, share resources, and access opportunities that were once out of reach. This article explores how cooperatives are empowering African farmers, fostering resilience, and driving sustainable development across the continent.

Winston Churchill once said, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts”. This sentiment rings especially true in agribusiness, a sector facing challenges like climate change, market volatility, and regulatory hurdles. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities for growth, innovation, and sustainability. This guide is a roadmap for small farmers and agribusinesses to transform setbacks into steppingstones for success. Packed with actionable strategies, real-life examples, and lessons learned, it shows how embracing failure, fostering innovation, and collaborating effectively can build resilience and drive sustainable growth. Whether you’re a smallholder farmer or an agribusiness owner, this guide will equip you to thrive in the face of adversity.