“Linking Farmers to the Tourism Market” - PAFPNet E-discussion for the month of May

For the month of May, the Pacific Agriculture and Forestry Policy Network (PAFPNet) is hosting a discussion on “Linking Farmers to the Tourism Market”.

The tourism sector is a growing industry in the Pacific region. In several Pacific states, earnings from tourists contribute to between 20-50 percent of GDP outstripping the contributions of other export sectors.  Tourism in the region is now valued at $2.27 billion averaging a share of 7.2% of GDP and employing 6% of labour force[1]. Annual tourist arrivals in the region has increased by 3.5 percent in the last 5 years – in line with global growth rates of 3.6 percent- this underscores the immense value of the sector – and opportunities for the agriculture sector. Food Tourism is growing, covering approximately 30% of tourism revenue on an annual basis[2]. Supplying tourists, hotel s and service workers with locally produced fruit and vegetables can significantly contribute to farmer livelihoods. The European Union and SPC’s Pacific Agriculture Policy Project (PAPP) is helping farmer’s better link to markets – such as tourism. This month explores a number of questions aimed at better supplying local fresh produce to hotels

We would like you to share your views on the questions below:

1)Hotel chefs are interested in fresh, quality local produce but often state that consistent supply can be a problem. State up to five (5) ways as to how this can be addressed?

2)Can governments help through specific policy incentives for both farmers and hotels, If yes, what are some examples?

3)Information,  awareness and capacity is often stated as important for buyers and sellers

I.What key information do farmers need from hotels?

II.What training/capacity do farmers need to better understand and supply hotels?

III.What key information do hotels need from farmers?

IV.Should there be ways or mediums (websites etc) of enabling hotels and farmers to easily contact each other.

4)Value-add agri-products are also an immense opportunity. How can countries promote ideas, research, production and supply?

5)Some crops are currently produced seasonally. This is a constraint and an opportunity.  How can this be addressed by the sector?  Please cite any examples if possible.

Please join them to contribute to this discussion by emailing lrdhelpdesk@spc.int.

[1] Seidel H, Lal P (2010) The Economic Value of the Pacific Ocean to Pacific Island Countries and Territories, IUCN, Suva 

[2] World Travel and Tourism Council (2012) The Comparative Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism