APRIL-MAY 2002

(SUMMARY)

This assessment and review had the following objectives:

1. Assess the current status and future outlook of crop improvement including variety evaluation and testing, variety maintenance and breeder seed production.
2. Collect, analyze and summarize detailed information on the actual seed needs of farmers in Afghanistan during the 2002 spring, summer and fall seasons, and how these could be effectively met from external sources and on time.
3. Analyze the current status and functioning of the formal seed system in Afghanistan in terms of its capacity and scope for quality seed production, distribution and use by farmers nationwide, and prospects for future development.
4. Analyze the current status and functioning of the informal seed system in Afghanistan in terms of varieties and seed sued, quality considerations, exchange and distribution channels in operation, views and perceptions of farmers, and the prospects for future development.
5. Prepare a draft code-of-conduct for seed sector interventions, including seed production, distribution, import of seed and planting material.
   

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