1. Inclusion of small producers in the food chain The case of Romania

2. Country context Scheduled for accession to the EU in January 2007 Agriculture employs 44% of the total labor force Utilized agricultural area is 62% of the total area Agriculture accounted for only 13% of GDP in 2000

3. Government strategy and World Bank response …to create a competitive and efficient national agricultural sector that is in compliance with EU requirements CAS 2002-2004: increased research and extension aimed at integrating small households into commodity and input markets MAKIS: improve the competitiveness of farmers and agro-processors in the EU accession environment

4. Project structure TIC Research Advisory Services Food Safety Agency Agro- processors Farmers

5. Training and Information Center (TIC) Gather knowledge on agricultural technologies to meet farmers needs and EU requirements Develop relevant extension packages and training modules Train extension agents and provide accreditation Train food safety inspectors Train researchers for integration in the European Research Area Develop and implement an integrated IT system

6. Research Establish two national reference laboratories for: –EU nitrates and sludge directives –Testing for the presence of GMOs Reform program for core public research services: –Safe plant nutrient management practices –Producing authentic virus-free materials for horticultural and vegetable crops –Field crops research program for plain and upland areas –Safe animal nutrition and feeding systems

7. Advisory services / extension Improving the existing public advisory system Contract extension activities

8. Food Safety Agency Institutional capacity building National reference laboratories: for veterinary hygiene and public health; and analysis of animal feeding stuffs Regional laboratories Border Inspection Points Animal welfare – demonstration and training facility