The Latin American and Caribbean region produces a vast variety of global high-value crops, from traditional staples such as cacao, coffee and sugar, to organic fruit, quinoa, amaranth and acai. However, the lack of information and support mechanisms hinder producers from accessing the high-value agro-food chains.
Governments can prevent the entry of fruits and vegetables into their territory insofar the measures applied are in line with the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).
To address foodborne disease, governments and international organizations have created HACCP, a system based on seven principles to ensure food safety.
A study conducted by the Inter-American Development Bank found that small and medium-sized producers can play a competitive role through collective organization in high-value agro-food chains.
A survey on the readiness of banks in Latin American and the Caribbean to finance SMEs found that 73% of banks are inclined to expand their portfolio in this area. The IDB group remains the most important international financial entity providing assistance to regional banks.
Studies show there is an increasing global demand for organic imports in developed countries and that ethical arguments may be the best way to distinguish products in this expanding marketplace.
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