The critical role of smallholder farmers in ensuring global food security has been widely acknowledged. Smallholders produce up to 80% of food supply in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa and not only are they supporting their families, but also rural communities and ultimately all of us.

In Asia, we have 74% of the world’s 570 million farms: with the vast majority run by smallholder farmers. Although they work on 85% of the region’s farming land, their own land area is limited. For example, in India, 47% of farms are less than half a hectare in size.

The challenges facing smallholder farmers are many and complex. However, when provided with the right support to develop skills and improve resources, these growers can improve their farms’ performance as well as their own livelihoods. This is why we have “Empowering smallholders” as one of six commitments as part of our Good Growth Plan.