GLOBAL SURVEY AND ANALYTICAL FRAMEWORK FOR FORESTRY OUTGROWER ARRANGEMENTS (FAO)

摘要

Outgrower schemes are an emerging feature of forestry development in many countries, yet the socio-economic value of such schemes is still to be fully assessed. The main aims of this study were to assess the extent and main characteristics of forestry outgrower schemes globally, with an emphasis on developing countries, and develop an analytical framework to assist the comparative analysis and development of existing and future outgrower schemes. This study provides a broad overview of forestry outgrower schemes in operation around the world. A major component of the study was to survey forest industry staff who manager outgrower schemes, with a response rate of 21 percent received for the study's questionnaire - covering 17 schemes. Given the limitations of the study, it is not presented as a comprehensive review of all forestry outgrower schemes in operation. Based on the information derived from the outgrower schemes reviewed by this study, the key issues that contribute to the success of schemes include the extent: 1. arrangements are appropriate (e.g. partners should have a reasonable likelihood of deriving benefits, contribute to the strengthening of the sociocultural and economic context of local communities); 2. contributions (e.g. land tenure, business viability) and partnerships are secure; 3. production and market risks are accurately calculated and shared; 4. partners have the social and technical expertise to genuinely negotiate arrangements; 5. partners are informed of realistic prospects and opportunities (e.g. flexibility of options); 6. arrangements and forestry practices are consistent with sustainable forest management principles - at the local and regional levels; and 7. arrangements contribute to wider community well-being.