WUR looks at horticulture sector development for emerging markets

The rapid rise of the middle class and rising per capita income in emerging economies are leading to increasing demand for healthy, safe and sustainably produced horticultural products. These developments offer new opportunities for farmers and stakeholders involved in the sector. However, it also requires the transition from highly fragmented and informal market channels to a more professional horticultural sector. Development of the national horticulture sector may in turn open up opportunities for accessing the international export market for horticulture products.

Strengthening value chains for progress
Modern production practices, value addition activities, value chain governance, viable market channels and a conducive enabling environment are some of the key factors for successful horticultural value chains. If properly enhanced, value chains can bring about opportunities for business development, profit and income generation, employment creation, food and nutrition security and GDP growth.

Make a difference as a professional
This course gives access to the latest insights of world leading Dutch knowledge organisations and private companies from the horticulture sector and covers the complete horticulture value chain. The program specifically addresses the following aspects:

Broad expertise on horticultural production, both protected and open field;
The importance of post-harvest, quality and logistics processes;
Insights in domestic and international market systems;
In-depth knowledge on socio-economic aspects of horticultural value chains;
Value chain analysis, management principles and integrated strategies for horticultural development
Attention to international standards for good agricultural practices and quality issues in international trade;
Insight in the relevant international institutional and policy developments, as well as the relevance to your own country;
Understanding of the role of multi-stakeholder processes in developing vibrant markets.

Requirements
Technical staff, policymakers, scientists, private sector professionals and program / project managers who want to develop the horticultural sector in their home countries, are invited to enroll. Participants should be proficient in English, and have at least a BSc degree or an equivalent academic qualification and five years of work experience in a related field.

Source: Wageningen UR