Contract Farming Resource Centre

Webpage launch for SMART and contract farming

New additions to CFRC library

Contract farming project in Lesotho successfully concluded!

Participatory approach to drafting contract farming legislation in Lesotho

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about contract farming updated

Welcome to FAO’s Contract Farming Resource Centre (CFRC)!

Contract farming is an agreement between producers and buyers made in advance on specific terms and conditions for the production and marketing of agrifood products. It has become more relevant in developing regions due to globalization and transformation of agrifood systems. Increasingly, it is reviewed as an innovative and inclusive business model for responsible agricultural investments and sustainability-aligned impacts.

CFRC is a “one-stop” website for news, training and learning materials, and publications related to contract farming managed by Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). FAO is responding to growing demand from Member States, development partners and the public to share knowledge, best practices and experiences, build capacities, and provide technical support for contract farming.

Key Documents

Model Agreement for Responsible Contract Farming - with commentary
The Model Agreement for Responsible Contract Farming was developed by FAO and IISD, drawing from the principles of the UNIDROIT/FAO/IFAD Legal Guide on Contract Farming. The Model Agreement is a simple and practical legal tool for buyers and producers to improve their business relations and help make responsible agricultural investment a (+) More
UNIDROIT/FAO/IFAD Legal Guide on Contract Farming
Contract farming, broadly understood as agricultural production and marketing carried out under a previous agreement between producers and their buyers, supports the production of a wide range of agricultural commodities and its use is growing in many countries. Mindful of the importance of enhancing knowledge and awareness of the legal (+) More
Guiding Principles for Responsible Contract Farming Operations
Developed with inputs from experts and practitioners, the publication presents a set of principles that are conducive to responsible contract farming. It is intended to serve as guidance for farmers and buyers engaged in contractual relationships, thus promoting good business practices and maintaining an atmosphere of trust and respect that (+) More