On October 14, 2024, a monitoring visit was conducted to the Selenge Tavan Khairkhan Cooperative, one of the cooperatives supported by the APFP-FO4A program through its national implementing agency, the National Association of Mongolian Agricultural Cooperatives (NAMAC). Located in Selenge province, Mongolia, this cooperative has been a model for sustainable agriculture and cooperative enterprise, demonstrating the impact of strategic support and funding on smallholder farmers.
The Selenge Tavan Khairkhan Cooperative received assistance for its business plan on vegetable marketing, providing additional working capital for the aggregation and distribution of its farmer-members’ produce. This support has enabled the cooperative to scale its operations, improve the livelihoods of its members, and advocate for organic agricultural practices across Mongolia. As a result, the cooperative has seen steady growth, both in terms of production capacity and market influence.
The cooperative offers a diverse range of products, including fresh vegetables, frozen and pickled vegetables, and jams. A significant milestone for the cooperative is its 100% organic certification, maintained through a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS). This system ensures product quality and reinforces the integrity of the cooperative’s commitment to sustainable and chemical-free farming. Membership has also expanded significantly, now representing 200 organic vegetable farmers across 12 cooperatives, a testament to the growing trust and success of the organization.
One of the key factors contributing to the cooperative’s success is its ability to supply organic vegetables to local markets, schools, and even mining companies. With consumer awareness of health and sustainability increasing, the demand for organic produce continues to rise. To meet this demand, the cooperative has employed innovative digital marketing strategies, allowing it to connect with more consumers and expand its market reach. The APFP-FO4A program has also enabled the cooperative to construct a cold storage facility, allowing farmers to store their produce until market prices become favorable, ultimately increasing their profitability and reducing post-harvest losses.
The APFP-FO4A program is implemented by the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development (AFA) and La Via Campesina and funded by the European Union and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
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