Drivers and barriers for organic rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in northern Iran: experts’ consensus using the Delphi method

Abstract

ABSTRACT Organic agriculture has received attention in Iran because of the environmental problems that have resulted from the overuse of chemicals in agriculture, but despite the many benefits, the adoption rate of organic farming is still low. This study used an expert consensus Delphi technique in three rounds to identify drivers and barriers for organic rice production in the Guilan Province, Iran. The Kendall’s coefficient of concordance was used for assessing experts’ consensus. Informing about the benefits of organic rice consumption and obtaining an ID card for eco-labelling of organic rice by governmental regulatory bodies were the most important drivers for organic rice farming. On the other hand, the high cost of inspection and supervision of organic farms by the Iranian Organic Association and the lack of attention to the role of branding in the promotion of organic rice consumption were the main barriers for organic rice farming. In addition, farmers’ risk aversion due to reliance on rice as the only source of annual income and thus farmers’ economic dependence on rice was another important barrier. The findings of this study highlighted the vital role of the government and the agricultural extension agencies in promoting organic rice production in Iran. It is recommended that the government should consider providing direct incentives to organic rice farmers and extension services should support organic farmers to maintain or enhance grain yields.