WHAT SMALLHOLDERS NEED FROM SEED SUPPLIERS

1. Technical efficacy

• Good performance under farmer conditions
• Known response under different agro-ecological conditions

2. Reliable quality

• The quality of seed and other inputs is not obvious until crop harvest so quality assurance at the time of supply is particularly important;
• Genetic quality is hard to guarantee so rigorous seed selection and testing programmes must be maintained;
• Efficient seed delivery systems are essential.

3. Availability

• Timeliness
• Availability at a location convenient to the farmers
• Supply of seed varieties specific to market requirements

4. Pricing

• Farmer willingness to buy seed is dependent on the market value of the crop
• Low yields compound farmer reluctance to use purchased inputs

5. Packaging

• Required unit size
• Provides adequate protection and quality assurance
• Provides appropriate technical information

Most of these factors are relevant to all agricultural inputs, not just seed.