Agricultural Value Chains

Agricultural value chains refer to the full range of activities and stakeholders involved in the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of agricultural products, from farm to table. These chains encompass all the interconnected steps and actors that contribute to bringing agricultural goods from producers to consumers. 

As an integral part of GOPA AFC's operation, working within agricultural value chains represents one of our core values. We bring our extensive experience to the forefront as the implementation consultant for our ongoing project, "Value Chain and Market System Development in the Fruits and Vegetables Sector," funded by GIZ and which fosters growth in Kyrgyzstan's green economy. The project emphasizes the enhancement of operational efficiency, quality and safety standards, and the provision of demand-driven value chain services in the agricultural sector. By supporting local producers and entrepreneurs, we aim to improve competitiveness, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to job creation and economic growth in the region. 

Over the years, we have provided expert advisory services to numerous national authorities, private-sector businesses, and food associations at various stages of the agricultural value chain. We support producers, facilitate the establishment of producer organizations, improve market structures, and assist in implementing quality management systems from “farm to fork,” in line with EU international standards. 

GOPA AFC has strong connections to the International ValueLinks Association, an independent network of practitioners working on value chain development and applying the methodological approach ValueLinks. Most GOPA AFC staff members are trained in ValueLinks and can apply this approach. We recognize the importance of assessing and promoting the whole value chain in order to allow a significant progress at all stages. 

We understand the interplay between diverse elements of the value chain and strive to enhance efficiency at every level. Our approach not only helps in the conservation of resources but also adds value to our clients' operations, ensuring their growth and sustainability even in a rapidly changing global agricultural landscape. To mention some flagship examples, we have executed five of the 16 Green Innovation Centres for the Agriculture and Food Sector (GIC) for GIZ in Nigeria, Ghana, Mali, Ivory Coast and India. The programme focuses on SMEs in 21 selected value chains. In addition, since 2009 we are running the Market Oriented Agriculture Programme (MOAP) for GIZ in Ghana, supporting the pineapple, citrus, mango and vegetables value chains. 

As comprehensive solutions from primary agricultural production to consumer protection become more essential every day, value-chain-based implementation methods are a basis in the framework of our pro-poor philosophy. Sustainability and quality management are thus core pillars of our approach. At GOPA AFC, we remain steadfast in our dedication to creating a future where agriculture thrives through efficiency and sustainability.