Farmers- Agricultural Enterprises linkage and its affecting factors: A survey in Thai Nguyen Province

Abstract

Strengthening the linkage between farmers and enterprises plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness of agricultural production, especially in developing countries. This study reviews previous research and identifies the factors affecting the relationship between farmers and enterprises in agriculture. Thereon, the authors developed a questionnaire to survey 384 farming households and 20 agricultural enterprises in Thai Nguyen province from January to March 2025, aiming to clarify the perspectives of both groups on this linkage and the affecting factors in the context of a midland, mountainous province where agriculture account for a significant part of the local economy. The survey results provide preliminary evidence regarding the impact of factors such as natural conditions, local market development, the legal and policy framework, enterprise development, the skills and capacity of agricultural labor, the application of science and technology, and the awareness and linking capacity of stakeholders. Among these, the most important factor is the awareness and linking capacity of the stakeholders, while the impact of the other groups of factors is generally equivalent. The study offers empirical evidence to support policymakers and business managers in designing strategies to strengthen sustainable linkages between farmers and enterprises.