The University of California, Davis and AVRDC – The World Vegetable Center were recently asked to coordinate a Global Horticulture Sector Development Assessment in partnership with Purdue University, Michigan State University and the University of Hawaii. This activity is supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The assessment process commenced with a Synthesis Workshop on Global Horticulture Challenges in Davis, California on 18-19 October 2004. Results from that workshop are available.

During the second phase, Regional Workshops are being held for Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Asia and the Near East. AVRDC – The World Vegetable Center has primary responsibility for this phase.

UC Davis is coordinating stakeholder surveys for each of the above regions previous to each workshop.

The Global Horticulture Assessment will conclude with a third phase of Analysis, Integration and Publication of Results.

The outcome of the entire process is expected to guide future USAID investment in horticulture.