Author (s):
BizCLIR TeamDate:
May 2009Publication:
N/AAbstract:
The business of agriculture occupies a critical space in most economies. Distinct and special among industries, agriculture is the dominant source of employment for a large share, even a majority, of the population in developing nations. Accordingly, governments treat the regulation of agriculture and food differently than any other sector. Unlike the output of other sectors, many agricultural products are basic necessities: agriculture provides the food, fiber, fuel, and construction materials necessary to sustain human existence. Governments everywhere assume responsibility for assuring that the distribution of agricultural commodities is great enough and equitable enough to provide a reasonable quality of life for its citizens.Agriculture and Agribusiness: Starting a Business is a briefer that mirrors the analytical framework used by the World Bank Group?s Doing Business series (www.doingbusiness.com) and adopted by USAID?s Business Climate Legal and Institutional Reform Project (www.bizclir.com). Divided into four sections (Legal Framework, Implementing Institutions, Supporting Institutions, and Social Dynamics), this briefer highlights the specific issues that must be addressed in local legal, regulatory, and institutional environments if agribusiness is to be economically productive, contribute to environmental sustainability, and assure a safe and reliable food supply.
