Ethiopian delegation learns from Thailand’s horticulture success

ETHIOPIA – The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) recently facilitated a study tour to Thailand, allowing a delegation of seventeen Ethiopian representatives to gain valuable insights into the thriving Thai horticulture sector.

The delegation, which included members from the Ministry of Agriculture, EHPEA, the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, and the Agricultural Transformation Institute, explored various aspects of Thailand’s horticulture sector.

The visit focused on understanding the legal, operational, and marketing frameworks that have made Thailand a leader in horticultural investment.

During the visit, the delegation delved into the incentive schemes that Thailand employs to attract investment, as well as the market infrastructure and agro-logistics services essential for a robust horticulture value chain.

One of the key takeaways was the importance of collaboration between research centers, universities, and producers.

This collaborative approach has been pivotal in driving innovation and increasing productivity in Thailand’s horticulture industry.

“Thailand’s success in integrating research and production offers a model that we can adapt to improve Ethiopia’s horticulture sector,” said an EHPEA representative.

“Our goal is to implement strategies that will strengthen our value chains and enhance market access for Ethiopian products.”

The delegation’s study focused on several key areas: wholesale markets, retail segments, consumer behavior, organic farming models, the seed industry, and the integration of ecotourism with horticulture. These areas are seen as critical for Ethiopia as it seeks to refine its horticulture strategies.

Thailand’s experience offers lessons that could help Ethiopian stakeholders identify challenges and develop solutions to promote horticultural investments.

The integration of ecotourism, for example, could present new avenues for Ethiopia to diversify its horticulture sector and attract more investment.

Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, particularly horticulture, has become a significant contributor to the nation’s economic growth. This sector is not only generating employment but also playing a crucial role in earning foreign exchange.

The horticulture industry in Ethiopia has created over 200,000 jobs, with 80% of these positions held by women, promoting gender inclusivity.

As global demand for fresh produce, flowers, and ornamental plants continues to rise, Ethiopia is focusing on sustainable practices to meet this demand while also ensuring fair wages for its workers.

The EHPEA has introduced a cluster-based minimum wage system in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor and Skills and trade unions.

This system ensures that farms within specific clusters set fair and standardized minimum wages, reflecting the cost of living and local economic conditions.

This approach has led to a significant increase in average wages within the sector, providing workers with equitable compensation.

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