Challenges of agri-food supply in city region food systems: an emerging economy perspective
Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies
ISSN: 2044-0839
Article publication date: 12 May 2021
Issue publication date: 22 March 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This paper explores the challenges of food security from source to consumption of agri-food value chain by considering urban–rural linkages in city region food systems (CRFSs) and proposes a strategic framework for CRFS identifying strategies to promote urban–rural linkages among multiple stakeholders.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative case study approach to a fruit and vegetable value chain from rural source to consumption in the Colombo City region identifies the challenges of food security. A snowballing sampling method was used to gather information from retailers, wholesalers, commission agent, farmers and consumers. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews, observations and secondary data sources. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Findings
Challenges in food security in the value chain related to five areas: input and production, infrastructure, public institutional support and policy, finance, and food market. Colombo city is heavily dependent on food sourced from other cities due to limited land and lack of locally situated commercially oriented farmers.
Research limitations/implications
This research is limited to a selected number of fruits and vegetables in the Colombo city region and leaves out other food items.
Originality/value
This study contributes to informing policy and decision-making processes to promote a more balanced rural to city food value chain in Colombo City that could benefit all stakeholders from rural small-scale producers to urban consumers.
Keywords
Citation
Weerabahu, S.K., Samaranayake, P., Dasanayaka, S.W.S. and Wickramasinghe, C.N. (2022), "Challenges of agri-food supply in city region food systems: an emerging economy perspective", Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies, Vol. 12 No. 2, pp. 161-182. https://doi.org/10.1108/JADEE-01-2021-0004
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited