The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) called for greater investment in rural areas across Latin America and the Caribbean at a regional meeting in Panama on 2 October. According to the organization, more than 80 participants from 15 countries—representing governments, international organizations, financial institutions, business and young people—discussed policies and partnerships that could expand economic opportunities outside cities. IFAD linked the agenda to slow growth, geopolitical uncertainty and rising climate risks.

Participants emphasized improving producers’ access to finance and markets, as well as their role in value-adding activities such as processing, storage and marketing. IFAD cited Innovatech, a programme funded by the Fund and the European Union that has connected more than 30 technology companies with over 1,000 small-producer organizations. Its solutions cover financial services, marketing, financial education and sustainable production. IFAD says its own data show that rural workers’ incomes can rise by as much as four times where private-sector engagement is strong; the release does not present that figure as a new result announced at the meeting.