Examining the impact of public policy on smallholders/small suppliers

12 June 2024, 10:45 - 12:00

Recent legislation intended to regulate large multinational corporations is inadvertently burdening small holder farmers and small-scale suppliers. While the public policy aims to address issues such as environmental protection, labour standards, or product safety, its broad application can be disproportionately affecting smaller entities that lack the resources and infrastructure to comply. Any public policy aimed at systematically changing the conduct of large multinational corporations must consider ensure that it places the responsibility for compliance and adherence on the large corporate and avoid any unintended consequences for small holder farmers and small-scale suppliers. Striking a balance between policy objectives and the needs of smaller entities is essential to foster a fair and inclusive policy environment that supports the viability of these vital contributors to local and global economies.

This collaborative forum aims to shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by smallholders and small suppliers in navigating the regulatory environment, with a focus on identifying policy gaps, barriers to growth, and areas where support is needed. Through open discussion and exchange of perspectives, the roundtable endeavours to formulate recommendations for more inclusive and supportive public policies that foster the sustainability, resilience, and prosperity of smallholders and small suppliers, recognizing their crucial role in food security, rural development, and biodiversity conservation.