FAO.org

Investments in agriculture have proven to be one of the most effective means of reducing poverty in rural areas of developing countries.

Acting in accordance with the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security can help investors better understand and manage the substantial financial, legal, operational and reputational risks inherent in investing in landbased assets. Those who plan and operate their investments in a way that is consistent with the Guidelines can reduce their investment risk and increase the likelihood of realizing a reasonable risk-adjusted return. Such investments are more likely to be successful if everyone – investor, local community and government – benefits. The Guidelines provide a framework for achieving this win-win-win scenario. This technical guide is intended to help investors act with due diligence to achieve socially responsible and financially sustainable investments in agricultural land.