Afghanistan Rice Sector Assessment

IFC is commissioning this study to get a better understanding of the sector's landscape and the state of the current supply chain (i.e., agro-ecological mapping, gaps in production technology, production capacity, major producers, distribution network, etc.) in order to determine if immediate investment opportunities exist or more upstream support can be designed to build sustainable rice production in Afghanistan to achieve self-sufficiency and maintain food security. The study shall also further focus on the identification of opportunities and bottlenecks, and hurdles that impede the growth of and have held back private sector investments in the sector.

• Comprehensive Methodology Development: Develop a robust methodology for addressing the specified areas of sector and supplier assessment. This should encompass data collection, analysis techniques, and approaches for interviews and consultations with stakeholders.

• Primary Research and Fieldwork: Conduct extensive primary research and fieldwork, including interviews and consultations with relevant stakeholders in the rice sector in Afghanistan. This involves gathering firsthand information and insights to inform the analysis.

• Data Collection and Analysis: Collect, organize, and analyze data pertaining to the sector assessment, including historical data, market trends, pricing, production costs, quality parameters, and climatic and social challenges. Additionally, gather data related to supplier assessment, such as company profiles, financials, market share, and distribution mechanisms.

• Alternative/Additional Indicator Proposal:Suggest alternative or additional indicators that could enhance the assessment, along with potential sources for data collection. This allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of the sector and suppliers.

• Report Compilation:Compile all research findings, analysis, and insights into a comprehensive report. Ensure that the report includes clear references to sources, websites visited, people consulted, and businesses met during the research process.

• Consultation with IFC Team:Collaborate closely with IFC team members to discuss and refine the methodology before finalization. This step ensures alignment with project goals and expectations.

• Mapping and Profiling:Create a detailed mapping of rice processors in Afghanistan and provide in-depth profiles for 20-30 major rice processing companies. This should include ownership details, contact information, financial data, customer segmentation, distribution channels, and more.

• Supplier Integration Analysis:Evaluate the potential for supplier integration through the inclusion of by-products and waste processing, aiming to improve the financial performance of the companies in the sector.

• Identify Bottlenecks and Hurdles: Identify and analyze firm-specific bottlenecks and hurdles faced by rice producers, suppliers, and distributors, as well as external challenges impacting the sector.

• Market Comparison and Export Analysis: Compare local rice products with imported rice in terms of food safety and quality parameters. Analyze the potential for rice exports, including regional market demands and export opportunities.

• Documentation and Annex:Ensure that the final report includes a detailed annex with references to sources, websites, news references, and individuals or organizations consulted during the research.