The State of Investments in Fruit & Vegetables - A Global Report
Sowing the Seeds for a Colorful Revolution in Food Systems
Led by Responsible Innovations with global partners including the World Vegetable Center, CGIAR’s FRESH Initiative, UC Davis, and the University of Bonn, this effort convened expert panels in the Philippines, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Benin, Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, Guatemala, and Honduras. Using participatory methods (Delphi and Q), experts estimated investment levels, diagnosed the implications of underinvestment, and co-identified strategic opportunities.
Despite its vital role in nutrition, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth, fruit and vegetable (F&V) research and development (R&D) remains underfunded when compared to all other crops. This global study delivers the first cross-sector, expert-driven estimates of F&V R&D investments across nine countries. The findings are clear: underinvestment is holding back innovation, productivity, and access to fruits and vegetables. We now know where the gaps are and where targeted action can unlock big gains.
Prominent Findings:
F&Vs receive significantly less investment than other crops, despite growing global demand for nutritious diets and the importance of F&Vs in food-based dietary guidelines.
The consequences are real: from stagnant innovation and poor postharvest infrastructure to limited extension support and persistent gender barriers.
Experts across all countries agree on five urgent, high-impact investment areas that can catalyze change now.
Demand-Driven, Priority Investment Areas:
- Addressing Postharvest Losses and Building Value Chains
- Enhancing Extension through Capacity Building and Digital Innovation
- Elevating Nutrition and Consumer Demand for Fruits and Vegetables
- Strengthening Seed Systems and Research Infrastructure
- Enabling Market Access for Women through Policy Instruments
