Power and governance in Indonesia's rice value chain: Evidence from South Sulawesi

Abstract

This study examines the persistent challenges of unequal value distribution, fragmented coordination mechanisms, and market disconnection in Indonesia's rice value chain, focusing on South Sulawesi. Despite improvements in production, smallholder farmers remain disadvantaged because of their limited bargaining power, dependence on intermediaries, and restricted access to market information and to post-harvest infrastructure. These issues are further compounded by a mismatch between production practices and evolving consumer preferences, reflecting deeper governance and institutional gaps in the system. This study aims to analyze how power relations, coordination mechanisms, and institutional arrangements shape value distribution and market responsiveness within the rice value chain. A qualitative case study approach was employed, integrating value chain mapping with semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including farmers, traders, millers, retailers, and government representatives in the study areas. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, supported by triangulation from multiple sources to ensure the robustness of findings. The findings reveal that traders and millers dominate pricing, quality standards, and market access, whereas farmers remain structurally constrained within dependency-based relationships with traders and millers. Weak transmission of consumer preferences and fragmented institutional support further limit farmers' ability to participate in higher-value markets. In addition, inadequate post-harvest infrastructure contributes to quality loss and reduced competitiveness of the sector. These dynamics reinforce systemic inequalities and inefficiencies in the value chains. The study concludes that the rice value chain should be understood as a socio-institutional system shaped by power asymmetries and governance failures. Addressing these challenges requires integrated interventions that strengthen coordination, improve market information flows, and enhance institutional alignment. Policies that promote participatory approaches, market-oriented extension services, and investment in post-harvest infrastructure are essential to support a more inclusive, efficient, and demand-responsive rice value chain.

Access to Document

Other files and links

• Link to publication in Scopus
• Open Access Version Available

Fingerprint