SUCCESSFUL CONTRACT FARMING MODELS – 26-31 OCTOBER, 2012

Agricultural Development and Commercialization

The transition from subsistence agricultural production to functioning market-economy-based production models is a key challenge facing CLMV countries (Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam). 

The Mekong Institute (MI) recently conducted a week-long workshop and structured learning visit (SLV) to address this important issue in the lead-up to AEC 2015. 

The SLV, entitled Successful Contract Farming Models and Cross Border Trade, hosted 33 CLMV participants from national and provincial government agencies, farmers organizations and the private sector involved in contract farming and the booming cross-border agricultural trade. Addressing both the conceptual and practical implications and impacts of cross-border contract farming, the SLV sought to identify the key obstacles and challenges faced by agricultural communities and policy makers. 

Field trips to contract farms highlighted the importance of conceptual modules which emphasized linking smallholder farms to modern value chains as a tool enabling successful cross-border contract farming. Field sites included Suan Lung Krao Garden and Taniyama Siam Co. Ltd in Nakhonpathom Province, and Thayang Agriculture Cooperative in Petchaburi Province. 

As in all of MIs recent SLVs, the Successful Contract Farming Models and Cross Border Trade program served as a platform for multi-lateral engagement between public and private sector actors. Such meetings are vital to the future of the GMS; building lasting relationships and interpersonal foundations which will lead to greater regional cooperation and integration.

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Mrs. Guohua Liu

Director, Sustainable Energy & Environment (SEE) Department

Mrs. Liu Guohua is the Director of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Department at the Mekong Institute. Prior to this role, she worked in the Department of International Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, where she played a key role in shaping and implementing China’s cooperation strategies with UN development agencies. During this time, Mrs. Liu was actively involved in advancing initiatives related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on climate change and green development. Additionally, she contributed to the evaluation of projects funded by various Chinese initiatives, such as the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund, etc.

In addition to her work in the Department of International Economic Affairs, Mrs. Liu has an extensive diplomatic background. She spent 7 years in the Department of African Affairs, followed by a 4-year tenure at the Chinese Embassy in Lao PDR, where she gained deep expertise in both Southeast Asian and African affairs. These diverse experiences have played a crucial role in shaping her approach to sustainable development and international collaboration, particularly in building regional partnerships and tackling global challenges like climate change.

She holds a Master’s degree in Economics, with a specialization in Finance, from the Central University of Finance and Economics, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, specializing in International Economics and Trade, from the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics.