Item List

Limited investment in agricultural education and career development

The shortage of skilled professionals in the agribusiness services sector stems from limited investment in agricultural education, training programs, and career development pathways.

Fragmented data collection systems due to lack of coordination and investment

Insufficient market information and data are a result of fragmented data collection systems caused by a lack of coordination among government agencies, service providers, and producer organizations.

Lack of effective coordination and communication among stakeholders

There is a significant lack of coordination and communication among service providers, producers, government agencies, and industry groups.

Overreliance on declining government support

An overreliance on declining government support and a set of market failures has resulted in underdeveloped private sector service provision.

Fragmented, small-scale producer base leads to high costs and low economies of scale

Hawaiʻi Island's agricultural sector is characterized by a multitude of small-scale and part-time producers who are geographically dispersed and cultivate a diverse range of crops.

Lack of Coordination Among Stakeholders

The export commodities value chain in Hawaiʻi is fragmented, characterized by weak institutional frameworks and a lack of effective collaborative mechanisms among stakeholders.

High Energy Costs and Lack of Sustainable Solutions

Hawaiʻi's energy sector is heavily reliant on imported fuels, resulting in some of the highest energy costs in the nation. This dependence affects the agricultural sector significantly, particularly for producers engaged in energy-intensive activities like drying, processing, and cold storage of export commodities such as macadamia nuts and coffee.

Underinvestment in Agricultural Education and Workforce Development

Persistent underinvestment in agricultural education, training programs, and extension services has led to significant gaps in workforce development and skill acquisition.

High Barriers to Entry for New and Young Farmers

Systemic barriers make it challenging for new and young farmers to enter the agricultural sector on Hawaiʻi Island.

Lack of Support for Transition to Diversified Agriculture

The decline of the sugar plantation industry was not accompanied by adequate investment and policy support for developing a diversified agricultural services sector.

Fragmented Market Information Systems and Lack of Data Infrastructure

The absence of integrated and accessible market information systems leads to information asymmetry and inefficiencies in the agricultural value chain.

Inadequate Biosecurity Infrastructure and Policy Implementation

Insufficient funding, coordination, and enforcement of biosecurity measures have led to inadequate pest and disease management services on Hawaiʻi Island.