Factors influencing farm succession decisions: evidence from coffee farmers of Colombia

Abstract

In Colombia and other South American countries, government programs have been implemented to improve the livelihoods of coffee farmers. However, the rate of farm succession remains low and the age of farmers continues to increase. Household surveys and focus group discussions were conducted in the community of Chaparral, Tolima Department, Colombia, to examine the socio-economic and institutional factors that influence family farm succession in the context of these cooperative programs. The study findings suggest that coffee income, parental motivation, secure land tenure, membership in farmer associations, and access to coffee labor have a significant and positive impact on farm succession. To enhance farm succession processes and boost farmers' incomes in the region, it is recommended to strengthen farmer associations and establish secure land tenure policies.