Asian Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development

Towards a resilient mango (Mangifera indica) industry in Central Luzon, Philippines: A case study of Nueva Ecija's development needs

2025-09-24T21:27:18-05:00

The mango industry functions as a vital economic sector for Nueva Ecija but faces rising production instability, which requires urgent development of protective measures. The output trend shows a decline since the last few years, although it experienced growth before, indicating emerging weaknesses that require specific solutions. The study described the current farm practices in planting materials, cultural management, harvest, postharvest, marketing, and financing through a descriptive quantitative design involving 110 growers from 11 cities and municipalities in Nueva Ecija province. Researchers collected data through structured questionnaires and analyzed it using frequency and percentage distributions. The research showed strength in access and availability of production equipment, while weaknesses include inadequate working capital and limited training. Opportunities are in value-added production through the processing center of the Palayan City Mango and Grain Growers Association. However, the rising cost of farm inputs, pest infestation, and adverse weather conditions continue to affect profitability. The development plan entails capacity building, pest management, and infrastructure enhancement to make the mango industry more resilient in Nueva Ecija.

Effect of climate change on agricultural productivity: A case study of Nigeria

2025-11-19T23:25:26-06:00

Over the time, the escalating buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has been altering the distribution of precipitation, elevating temperatures, stimulating more frequent instances of severe weather events, and causing shifts in the timing of growing seasons. However, in the Nigerian context, it is worth noting that the agricultural sector, along with its agro-allied industries, holds significant potential to stimulate economic growth and foster diversification away from reliance on crude oil. Against this backdrop, this study examined the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity in Nigeria. The study reveals that climate change variables have a positive impact on agricultural productivity in the country. Based on the findings of the analysis, the efficacy of managing the ongoing fluctuations in climatic variables can be modestly enhanced through the implementation of government policies that prioritize mitigation measures.

Molecular detection and distribution analysis of papaya ringspot virus-p in North Sumatra, Indonesia

2025-11-19T23:33:44-06:00

The Papaya Ringspot Virus-P (PRSV-P) presents a significant threat to papaya cultivation, especially due to inter-island fruit trading, which facilitates its rapid spread. In North Sumatra, PRSV-P has caused substantial damage to papaya plantations, resulting in decreased fruit yields. This research aimed to elucidate the bio-ecological and molecular characteristics of PRSV-P in papaya, emphasizing its potential seedborne transmission route. Field assessments were performed in Deli Serdang, Dairi, and Pakpak Bharat, where symptomatic plants exhibited dark green ring spots on fruits and mosaic patterns on foliage. Samples were analyzed with DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR, and nucleotide sequencing, while a synthesized infectious PRSV-P clone was manually introduced into juvenile pepper plants to confirm pathogenicity. DAS-ELISA validated infections in leaf and seed specimens, while RT-PCR analysis identified elevated proportions of whole viral genomes. Sequence analysis revealed over 99% nucleotide and amino acid identity with PRSV-P strains from Bali and Thailand, signifying a close genetic affinity. The detection of PRSV-P in papaya seeds constitutes the initial molecular evidence of seed transmission in North Sumatra and indicates a possible method for long-distance dispersal independent of insect vectors or vegetative propagation. These findings highlight the imperative to incorporate molecular diagnostics into monitoring initiatives and to implement effective management techniques, including seed health assessments, creation of resistant cultivars, and stringent phytosanitary protocols. This study underscores the pivotal significance of seed transmission in the epidemiology of PRSV-P and its ramifications for sustainable papaya cultivation in Indonesia.

Good agronomic practices: Varieties capsicum annuum l. And fertilizer dosages influenced and suppressed aphis gossypii population abundance

2025-11-20T00:18:58-06:00

A field study was conducted on the population abundance of the pest, Aphis gossypii, on several selected Kulai varieties treated with different fertilizer dosages at Universiti Teknologi MARA Melaka Branch Kampus Jasin, from February to November 2021. Aphis gossypii can cause direct harm to crops. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different chili varieties (Kulai 1033, Kulai 568, and Kulai 461) and fertilizer dosages low, optimum, high, and control on the population of Aphis gossypii, with five replications each, designed using RCBD. The study found that the least presence of Aphis gossypii was detected in treated chili plants of Kulai 568 with a low fertilizer dosage, while the highest was observed in treated chili plants of Kulai 1033 with a high fertilizer dosage for both cropping periods. In conclusion, the presence of Aphis gossypii was most prominent on plants treated with higher fertilizer levels. Additionally, selecting the optimum fertilizer dosage is a key strategy in pest management, as it plays an important role in mitigating the infestation of aphids.

Assessing climate change impacts on cereal production: The role of fertilizer use and GMM-based estimation

2025-11-20T00:20:42-06:00

Environmental hazards cause a decline in food production, leading to food crises and overall instability among different nations. This scenario is more prevalent in the case of cereal production in some developing countries, particularly in South Asian regions. In line with this, research has been conducted to examine the impacts of climate change variables (rainfall, temperature, carbon dioxide emissions, methane emissions, nitrous oxide emissions) and control variables such as cereal production and fertilizer use on cereal output. The analysis considers cereal productivity while incorporating secondary data. A two-step Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach has been applied, considering eighteen top productive countries as dependent variables, with climate variables and control variables to analyze their connectivity. The study found that climate change variables significantly affect cereal production across the sample countries, except for methane emissions. Additionally, fertilizer use contributes to increased cereal crop yields. The findings are valuable for policymakers to identify specific negative effects of climate variables and adopt effective strategies to enhance cereal production. Ultimately, updating policies, applying modern farming techniques, and employing skilled human resources should be prioritized to address these challenges.

Households’ livelihood diversification and its influencing factors in the Vietnam’s smallholder mixed farming systems

2025-11-20T00:26:54-06:00

This study aims to measure the extent of household livelihood diversification, identify its effect on household income, and determine key factors that influence households' livelihood diversification. A total of 426 smallholders were randomly selected for a survey in Hue City, Vietnam, conducted from December 2024 to April 2025. The Simpson Index of Diversity (SID) was used to quantify the extent of livelihood diversification, and a Tobit regression model was applied to determine the determinants of households' livelihood diversification. The findings revealed a moderate level of livelihood diversification (mean SID=0.303), with smallholders engaging in a combination of on-farm, off-farm, and non-farm livelihood strategies. Livelihood diversification was found to have a positive impact on household income. Six factors including age, education level, number of family laborers, number of skilled laborers, participation in credit schemes, and technology adoption were positively and significantly associated with livelihood diversification levels. These results underscore the importance of promoting diversified livelihoods to enhance income and resilience among small-scale households. The study suggests that rural development policies should prioritize human capital development, strengthen access to appropriate technologies, and expand credit opportunities to foster inclusive and sustainable livelihood diversification of smallholders in developing countries.

Determinants of climate change awareness among emerging commercial maize farmers in Limpopo province, South Africa

2025-11-21T23:27:04-06:00

Farmers’ awareness of climate change is a crucial starting point for developing effective adaptation strategies and environmental management. A low level of awareness can delay the implementation of adaptation measures, increasing farmers' vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change. This study employed a deductive approach and a quantitative method to analyze factors associated with climate change awareness among emerging commercial maize farmers in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Primary data were collected from 288 randomly selected farmers using a semi-structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using a Binary Logistic Regression model in SPSS version 28. The results indicated that education (coef. = 0.347; sig. = 0.060), discussion of climate change within farming organizations (coef. = 1.994; sig. = 0.011), farmers’ belief that climate change negatively impacts farming (coef. = 0.790; sig. = 0.005), and social media usage (coef. = 5.026; sig. = 0.000) were statistically significant factors. The study recommends enhancing climate change education, utilizing social media to disseminate information, and encouraging discussions about climate change among farmers. Additionally, policymakers and the government should allocate sufficient budgets for farmers’ training workshops focused on climate change awareness, adaptation strategies, and environmental management.

Actor dynamics in farmland protection: A MACTOR analysis in Tasikmalaya, Indonesia

2025-11-21T23:48:10-06:00

Agricultural land protection is vital for ensuring food security, especially in peri-urban areas of developing countries facing rapid urbanization and land conversion. This study analyzes actor interactions in implementing Sustainable Food Agriculture Land (SFAL) Protection in Tasikmalaya City, Indonesia, using the MACTOR (Matrix of Alliances and Conflicts: Tactics, Objectives, and Recommendations) method. The use of MACTOR in farmland protection in Indonesia is still limited. The study provides a novel approach to uncover alliances, conflicts, and power asymmetries among policy actors. Data were collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with stakeholders from government institutions, farmer organizations, and the private sector. The analysis identified eleven key actors and six strategic objectives, including regional regulation, soil fertility, irrigation management, cost-efficient farming, and livelihood diversification. Results show that private developers exert the greatest influence, followed by the city government through the Regional Development Planning Agency, sub-district authorities, and the Mayor. In contrast, farmers and their groups remain marginalized with limited policy influence. Despite this, there is formal alignment among actors toward land protection goals. The study highlights the need to strengthen farmer institutions, enhance transparent land governance, and develop multi-actor collaboration to balance agricultural sustainability and urban growth pressures.

The cost of access: Examining asset-based barriers to formal agricultural markets in rural Jozini, South Africa

2025-11-22T00:49:47-06:00

Small-scale rural farmers in South Africa encounter persistent barriers to formal market participation, despite the potential of these markets to enhance income stability, agricultural development, and food security. This study investigates the structural and institutional constraints that limit small-scale farmers’ engagement with formal value chains, with particular emphasis on the role of asset availability and management. Employing the Asset Vulnerability Analytical Framework (AVAF), the research examines how deficiencies in critical assets (physical, financial, and institutional) contribute to farmers’ marginalization. A qualitative methodology was adopted, drawing on data from six focus group discussions with small-scale farmers and seven semi-structured interviews with key informants in Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal. This approach enabled a comprehensive understanding of both farmers’ experiential realities and institutional perspectives on market access. Findings reveal that farmers’ capacity to meet formal market demands is constrained by logistical challenges, market saturation, limited organizational capacity, and inadequate transportation. Furthermore, insufficient institutional support and the absence of cooperative structures undermine farmers’ bargaining power and market preparedness. The study highlights the necessity of a multidimensional strategy that prioritizes infrastructure development, institutional support, and capacity building to facilitate the integration of small-scale farmers into formal markets and to enhance their long-term livelihood security and resilience.

Comparing conventional practices and good agricultural practices: socio-economic impacts on smallholder vegetable farmers in Cambodia

2025-11-22T01:08:27-06:00

Vegetable production is essential in Cambodia's agricultural sector, contributing to sustainable rural livelihoods, domestic demand, and the economy. However, the quality of vegetables remains limited, largely due to improper application of cultivation techniques. In this regard, good agricultural practices (GAP) have been introduced in the country to address this issue. The aim of the study was to determine the factors influencing GAP adoption and income in vegetable farming systems, explore challenges and perceptions related to the CamGAP standard, and compare the economic performance of GAP and non-GAP farmers. The study was conducted in six provinces between January and June 2024, involving interviews with 85 GAP and 60 non-GAP leafy vegetable farmers. A two-sample t-test was used to compare household characteristics and economic outcomes between the two groups. Likert scale surveys evaluated potentials and constraints to vegetable production, while LASSO regression models identified factors influencing GAP adoption. Results indicate that age, GAP application, and total production costs significantly affected farmers’ income. GAP application is notably associated with membership in agricultural cooperatives. The average income was 346.7 USD per 0.1 hectare for GAP farmers and 170.7 USD per 0.1 hectare for non-GAP farmers. GAP application increased incomes and resulted in higher-quality products due to reduced chemical use during cultivation. Strengthening and expanding agricultural cooperatives are essential for promoting wider GAP adoption, increasing rural incomes, and reducing environmental impacts in vegetable production.

Local food innovation for food security in west timor during social restrictions

2025-11-22T01:28:38-06:00

Food security during social restrictions is crucial, making the strengthening of local food systems essential in such situations. The study aims to (i) analyze the influence of food processing technology innovation, local food management, and the quality of local food on food security in West Timor during social restrictions, and (ii) identify strategic priorities for achieving food security in West Timor. The research was conducted on Timor Island, particularly in North Central Timor Regency, with a sample of 75 respondents distributed across four sub-districts. The analysis employed logistic regression and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The logistic analysis revealed that innovation in local food management significantly influenced food security (α = 5%) with an odds ratio of 18.119, whereas innovation in local food processing technology (odds ratio = 1.429) and the quality of local food (odds ratio = 1.593) were not statistically significant. Further analysis using AHP identified the strategic priorities for achieving food security, which included: technology transfer procedures (32.20%), upstream and downstream integration of local food—including production, preservation, processing, packaging, marketing, and consumption (31.90%), regulation of local food nutritional standards (21.90%), and management of local food stocks (14.10%). Based on these findings, a comprehensive roadmap is necessary to effectively achieve food security in the region.

Transforming serayu sediment into compost-amended medium for soybean cultivation

2025-11-24T21:44:56-06:00

River sediment accumulation poses both environmental and management challenges in tropical watersheds; however, these sediments possess physicochemical properties that can be valorized for agricultural use through appropriate amelioration. This study evaluated the potential of Serayu River sediment from three sites: Somagede, Banyumas, Kebasen (Indonesia) as a growing medium for soybean (Glycine max L. Merril) cultivation. Twelve sediment-based media were formulated by combining sediment with compost, zeolite, and biochar in different ratios and tested in a completely randomized design with three replications. The sediments exhibited sandy clay loam to clay loam textures, neutral pH (7.60–7.66), but low organic matter (1.69–2.40%) and nutrient contents. Compost amendment substantially improved media fertility and crop performance, whereas zeolite and biochar treatments produced moderate responses. The best results were obtained from compost-amended treatments M3 (sediment: compost = 3:1) and M6 (1:1), which increased plant height by 17–19%, stem diameter by 61–74%, and filled pod number by 51–61% compared with the control. Principal component analysis confirmed that compost treatments consistently clustered within the high-performance quadrant, demonstrating synergistic effects on vegetative and reproductive traits. These findings indicate that compost-enhanced sediment can serve as a sustainable alternative growing medium, addressing sediment disposal issues and improving soil fertility for legume production. The study highlights a viable pathway for circular agriculture and sustainable sediment management in tropical river basins, with future research recommended to include heavy metal assessment, multi-season field validation, and biological inoculation for optimizing nitrogen fixation.

Green fields, safe meals: Applying the fuzzy delphi method to align experts agreement on sustainable agriculture practices in Malaysia

2025-11-25T06:26:58-06:00

Rising global food demand and environmental concerns have intensified the need for sustainable agricultural practices that ensure both food safety and long-term productivity. Food safety certification serves as a vital mechanism for promoting sustainable farming by enhancing product quality, market competitiveness, and compliance with international standards. This study examines the determinants influencing Malaysian farmers’ adoption of food safety certification. A systematic literature review identified 35 potential elements, which were subsequently evaluated through expert consensus using the Fuzzy Delphi Method involving 30 agricultural professionals. The analysis validated 22 critical elements encompassing technological, organizational, environmental, and economic dimensions that significantly shape farmers’ adoption decisions. The findings highlight that awareness, perceived market benefits, institutional support, and certification cost are among the most influential drivers and barriers. These results offer strategic insights for policymakers, certification authorities, and agribusiness practitioners in designing targeted interventions to strengthen farmers’ participation in certification programs. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of adoption behavior in Malaysia’s agricultural sector and provides a foundation for enhancing certification uptake in similar emerging economies, ultimately supporting regional food security and sustainable agri-food trade.