Inclusion of small producers in the food chain The case of Romania

Country context Scheduled for accession to the EU in January 2007 Agriculture employs 44% of the total labor force Utilized agricultural area is 62% of the total area Agriculture accounted for only 13% of GDP in 2000

Government strategy and World Bank response …to create a competitive and efficient national agricultural sector that is in compliance with EU requirements CAS : increased research and extension aimed at integrating small households into commodity and input markets MAKIS: improve the competitiveness of farmers and agro-processors in the EU accession environment

Project structure TIC Research Advisory Services Food Safety Agency Agro- processors Farmers

Training and Information Center (TIC) Gather knowledge on agricultural technologies to meet farmers needs and EU requirements Develop relevant extension packages and training modules Train extension agents and provide accreditation Train food safety inspectors Train researchers for integration in the European Research Area Develop and implement an integrated IT system

Research Establish two national reference laboratories for: –EU nitrates and sludge directives –Testing for the presence of GMOs Reform program for core public research services: –Safe plant nutrient management practices –Producing authentic virus-free materials for horticultural and vegetable crops –Field crops research program for plain and upland areas –Safe animal nutrition and feeding systems

Advisory services / extension Improving the existing public advisory system Contract extension activities

Food Safety Agency Institutional capacity building National reference laboratories: for veterinary hygiene and public health; and analysis of animal feeding stuffs Regional laboratories Border Inspection Points Animal welfare – demonstration and training facility