Baseline Survey of Peach and Potato Growers in Swat (2012)

The project focuses on increasing the economic value of these sectors by minimizing pre- and post-harvest losses, increasing yields, and diversifying end market opportunities for producers. The project also aims to support the rehabilitation and recapitalization of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) affected by conflict and the 2010 floods. The baseline survey of peach and potato growers in Swat was conducted in 2012 to assess farm management, production, and marketing practices. The survey also examined access to credit services, technical advice, input supplies, market information, and market linkages. The findings of the survey informed the USAID Firms project in developing response strategies for better production and sales revenue. The survey revealed that a significant amount of produce is wasted due to pre- and post-harvest losses, and the growth of these sectors is limited due to a lack of access to inputs, market information, market linkages, and credit facilities. Additionally, the workforce in these sectors lacks training, and management practices are poor, resulting in an inability to meet product standards. The survey also found that there is a lack of pulping units to utilize B, C, and D grade fruit for pulp processing and value additions. The survey results showed that the peach and potato sectors create employment opportunities for a large number of people in the Swat district. However, the growth of these sectors is hindered by various challenges, including a lack of access to inputs, market information, and credit facilities. The survey also highlighted the need for technical advice, training facilities, and market linkages to improve production and sales revenue. The USAID Firms Project has devised sector development projects to improve production and increase sales revenue for the identified horticulture value chains in vulnerable areas of Pakistan. The project aims to support the rehabilitation and recapitalization of SMEs affected by conflict and the 2010 floods. The project's focus on improving the peach and potato sectors is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and improve the livelihoods of farmers and producers in the Swat region. The survey findings have informed the development of response strategies for better production and sales revenue. The project's approach includes improving access to inputs, market information, and credit facilities, as well as providing technical advice, training facilities, and market linkages. The project's goal is to increase the economic value of the peach and potato sectors and improve the livelihoods of farmers and producers in the Swat region.