Challenges and Strategies of Tomato Value Chain Development in Disadvantaged Areas

Rural Afghanistan Case Study

Abstract

This study investigated issues and challenges in the tomato value chain based on a case study in rural Afghanistan. We obtained data from surveys of the Khurasan Safa Tomato Paste Cooperative (K-Coop) and a tomato farm in Okuizumo Town (O-farm) as a contrasting case. We qualitatively identified critical factors for improving the tomato value chain in disadvantaged areas based on the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The findings indicate that K-Coop faces seasonal shortages in tomato paste. As a commodity, the company must rely on imports from neighboring countries. Processing relies on family labor, such as participating farmers. Therefore, packaging and other aspects of the process are inadequate to grow the business. The results indicate the importance of production coordination and improving the caliber of employees in tomato processing, such as education level, experience, and training.