As the world grapples with rising protectionism, volatile markets and persistent geopolitical tensions, the stakes for developing countries have never been higher. The future of inclusive, sustainable development – and with it, the prospects for billions of people – hinges on affordable, long-term financing. Against this urgent backdrop, the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), taking place in Seville, Spain, from June 30 to July 3, presents a vital opportunity for coordinated global action.Multiple crises have reshaped the global financing landscape over the past two decades since the first International Conference on Financing for Development in Monterrey, Mexico, in 2002. Financing gaps have widened, official development assistance is declining, and private capital is retreating. Debt burdens are soaring: Nearly 40 percent of developing countries spend over 10 percent of their revenues on interest payments. Developing economies, especially those of the least developed and low-income countries, are increasingly being left behind. As a result, even as the cost of inaction mounts, the space for investment in critical areas like rural transformation, food systems and climate resilience is shrinking.The international community, particularly international financial institutions (IFIs) such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), plays a critical role. As a UN specialized agency and an IFI in its own right, IFAD brings a unique perspective that connects the multilateral development agenda with tailored, country-level financing solutions focused exclusively on agrifood systems and rural development. We work where the needs are greatest and the returns are highest. But like other institutions, we face the challenge of doing more with less in an increasingly constrained environment. FfD4 must deliver solutions that go beyond business as usual. Key emerging priorities in the process, such as domestic resource mobilization, increased private sector engagement, stronger multilateral development banks (MDBs) and systemic reforms of the international financial architecture, speak directly to IFAD's strengths. Our track record in fostering inclusive financial ecosystems, expanding market access, and building rural resilience positions us to be a central player in shaping a forward-looking financing agenda.Among the key solutions to creating a fairer and more inclusive financial architecture are three closely interlinked priorities. First, we must unlock greater private and public investment in rural development by supporting governments in creating stable, predictable environments that attract private capital to high-impact sectors.IFAD partners with public development banks (PDBs) through the AgriPDB Platform to strengthen their role in rural finance. With 522 PDBs holding $23.2 trillion and providing two-thirds of agricultural financing, IFAD supports innovative financing, such as on-lending in West Africa, and has made its first direct loan to Brazil's National Bank for Economic and Social Development to promote small-scale agriculture and climate finance.Since 2006, IFAD has also supported over 70 remittance-linked projects in 50 countries, launching initiatives with Italy and the EU to enhance remittances for rural resilience, inclusion and climate adaptation. Viewing remittances not just as private flows but as de facto public goods, IFAD urges governments to integrate them into development plans, foster competitive services and expand rural access to remittance-linked financial products. Scaling successful models through partnerships is crucial to expanding their impact.Second, we must address the current debt crisis and structural barriers that constrain sustainable development. IFAD supports countries in freeing up fiscal space through innovative instruments, while aligning investments with country-level strategic priorities.By channeling resources into rural areas, we help reduce debt-to-GDP ratios through initiatives that generate decent jobs for young people, support local food production and markets, build resilience to climate shocks and expand inclusive economic opportunities. Central to this effort is better leveraging concessional finance. IFAD's mandate is to mobilize and deliver concessional resources for agricultural investments in the poorest and most fragile settings.As an assembler of finance, we blend local, regional and global public and private funds to deliver grants and loans on highly concessional terms, ensuring that critical investments are responsive to local needs and reach those who need them most.Third, we must strengthen impact measurement and accountability by first supporting decision-makers in tracking, allocating resources and optimizing financing flows for food systems transformation, and second, ensuring accountability for the use of resources through systematic tracking and reporting on results and impact.IFAD leads in this area through its "3FS" methodology – Financial Flows to Food Systems – which aims to direct more and better financing to the food systems that underpin rural livelihoods, climate resilience and sustainable economic growth. This approach strengthens the case for coordinated investment in food security, nutrition and inclusive rural transformation, particularly in the face of widening financing gaps.Complementing this, IFAD systematically conducts rigorous impact assessments on a representative sample of at least 15 percent of its portfolio per replenishment cycle, making it the only international financial institution to apply such a comprehensive and consistent approach. We can demonstrate that our investments improved the incomes of 77.4 million rural people by at least 10 percent over a three-year period.The Global South is increasingly shaping the international financing for development landscape, not only as recipients of grants and concessional finance but also as emerging donors and knowledge partners. Through South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC), countries such as China are helping generate and scale up evidence-based solutions across developing regions.China has positioned itself as a global champion of SSTC, particularly within IFAD's framework. Its leadership is exemplified by a $20 million contribution to the IFAD-China SSTC Facility, which supports the exchange of innovative, context-relevant solutions across countries of the Global South. This facility has become a vital mechanism for mobilizing expertise, technology and practical approaches to rural transformation.Beyond financial support, China is actively facilitating global learning and peer exchange. A recent example is the SSTC learning event held in Fenghuang County, Hunan Province, where technology-driven, innovative solutions for rural women's empowerment, developed under IFAD-financed projects, were shared with a global audience. This underscores SSTC's potential as a catalyst for innovation and scaling up in digital agriculture and rural development.These grassroots experiences in Fenghuang are not only revitalizing local communities but also offering practical lessons for other developing countries. As China deepens its contribution to SSTC, such stories of inclusive rural transformation will resonate far beyond its borders and provide valuable inspiration for global conversations at FfD4.Now is the time to intensify our collective efforts and unlock the full potential of rural economies through scaled-up investment. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda adopted in 2015 explicitly recognized IFAD's vital role in mobilizing investments that enable rural people living in poverty to improve food security, nutrition, incomes and resilience, affirming IFAD as a key partner in shaping the international financing for development architecture.As we approach FfD4, there is a critical opportunity to agree on policies that close the financing gap, not just by increasing funds, but by ensuring finance is long-term, predictable and meets the needs of the most vulnerable. IFAD is ready to work with governments, including China, partners and the private sector to make development finance more inclusive, effective and resilient.

Raised in Sonid Right Banner, she grew up surrounded by vast landscapes and a close-knit community that shaped her values of perseverance, selflessness, and responsibility. These ideals guided her as she built Shanghai Huanhai Industrial Co., Ltd., a company specializing in sustainable, culturally inspired products. For years, her success remained within China. She never expected her business to compete on a global scale—until the UN Sustainable Procurement Program, a One UN initiative co-led by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and key partners, opened the door to international markets.From Local Success to Global Competitor“At first, I doubted we had what it took to compete internationally,” Liu admits. “But through workshops and matchmaking events, I saw how global demand aligned with what we were already doing.”The program provided training on international procurement, compliance requirements, and English-language proposals. It also connected Huanhai Industrial with real business opportunities through a curated supplier list. Soon, Liu and her team found themselves bidding for contracts with global organizations.Then came the breakthrough, Huanhai Industrial won a UNICEF contract. “That was our first international bid,” Liu recalls. “It proved we could thrive beyond China.” Navigating the Maze: Simplifying A Complex System, Building CredibilityInternational procurement can be daunting, especially for first-time bidders. Terms like compliance certifications and Incoterms were initially intimidating for Liu and her team. But the program’s advisors demystified the process, offering step-by-step guidance on paperwork and contract requirements.“The program turned a maze into a manageable process,” Liu explains. “The direct screening system was a gamechanger, rather than sifting through endless tenders, we were matched with relevant opportunities. Without that targeted approach, we might never have taken the first step.”Through initiatives like Delivering Responsibility in Vendor Engagement (DRiVE), UNOPS recognizes the holistic benefits of inclusive procurement. DRiVE, a UNOPS-developed supplier sustainability program, helps suppliers improve their sustainability practices, ensuring that businesses operate responsibly and in accordance with high standards of integrity. In China, the DRiVE initiative began with a pilot involving 13 local suppliers, focusing on data collection, assessment, inspection and corrective action planning. This pilot provided practical insights into sustainable procurement and inclusive supply chains, laying the foundation for aligning with international sustainability standards.By strengthening ethical supply chains, promoting environmental protection, and advancing equal opportunity, DRiVE enhances supplier credibility—an essential factor in building trust with international buyers. Breaking Barriers for Women EntrepreneursWinning the UN contract changed everything. “That credibility opened doors with European buyers who now see us as a trusted partner,” Liu says. “The UN stamp signals quality and ethics, which resonates globally. We’re no longer just a local brand—we’re a global contender.”Now, Liu is focused on expanding Huanhai Industrial’s global footprint, leveraging international logistics hubs, and mentoring other women entrepreneurs looking to enter the global market.Women entrepreneurs like Liu play a critical role in reducing inequality and driving economic growth. Increasing opportunities for women-led businesses in global procurement creates jobs, fosters innovation, and leads to more inclusive economies. Yet, many female entrepreneurs still face barriers in accessing markets and resources.UNOPS inclusive procurement programmes help break these barriers by equipping women-led businesses with the tools, training, and credibility needed to compete globally. With more women entering international supply chains, industries become more diverse, resilient, and innovative.“Every time we share our story, we inspire others to take the leap,” she says. “It’s about paving the way for the next generation.”A Lesson in AdaptabilityFor Liu, the biggest takeaway has been the power of adaptability. “The program taught me that success in international procurement isn’t about being ‘high-end’—it’s about being ‘hard as iron.’ Our backpacks weren’t flashy, but they met UN durability standards. That’s what matters.”With over 70% of its materials sourced from renewable resources and a strong commitment to sustainable production, Huanhai Industrial is now aligned with ten of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The company’s 1,500 eco-friendly products reach 375 counties across China, setting an example for businesses looking to blend sustainability with international trade.As Liu continues to grow her business and mentor future leaders, her journey serves as a powerful reminder: with the right support, women entrepreneurs can not only break barriers but redefine what’s possible on the global stage.About the UN Sustainable Procurement ProgramUNOPS, in collaboration with UNDP, has been instrumental in increasing the engagement of Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) and women-owned businesses in UN procurement in China, reflecting a One UN approach with joint efforts from other UN Agencies. This collaborative UN Sustainable Procurement Program has, to date, published over 55,000 procurement notices translated into Chinese, benefiting more than 2,500 enterprises and facilitating approximately 1,500 procurement participations. The program has also helped over 800 Chinese enterprises register on the UN Global Marketplace (UNGM), making up nearly 8% of all registered suppliers from China.Beyond supplier support, the program actively contributes to international UN procurement events, high-level visits, and knowledge-sharing sessions with UN procurement practitioners. Last November, the 2024 United Nations International Procurement Seminar (IPS) successfully concluded in Ningbo, China. The seminar marked the first-ever UN International Procurement Seminar in Asia. The two-day flagship event brought together over 50 senior procurement officers from 16 UN agencies and more than 200 representatives of domestic and international suppliers.By bridging the gap between SMEs and global procurement opportunities, the program is paving the way for more businesses, especially women-led enterprises, to thrive in international markets. Written By:Luh Danistri WidyaningrumCommunications InternUNOPS East Asia and Pacificluhdanistriw@unops.org

Smallholder farmers are the bedrock of rural economies, be it in China or globally. Operating on limited land and resources, their combined contributions to food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability are significant. Smallholder farms account for over 90 percent of agricultural production in China, while providing employment to hundreds of millions of rural workers. Their success is pivotal to improving local livelihoods and achieving broader national objectives such as rural vitalization and food sovereignty.In 2024, China made significant strides in advancing rural vitalization. Efforts to modernize agriculture, enhance rural infrastructure and improve farmers' livelihoods have helped reduce the urban-rural divide and bolster food security. These transformations include the integration of innovative technologies, the expansion of rural industries and increased market access for smallholder farmers. Despite the progress that has been made, however, some challenges persist. For instance, climate change and natural disasters pose significant risks to China's food systems. The growing frequency of extreme weather events — such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves — continues to threaten agricultural productivity and rural incomes, highlighting the urgent need for stronger climate resilience measures and targeted investments to safeguard rural communities.It is also important to note that intensive agricultural production has had a negative impact on natural resources and environmental management. As smallholders are included into agricultural value chains through the cooperative model, there is need to better harness institutional and technical innovations for the desired green transition.The empowerment of smallholders is central to these transformations. When equipped with the right tools and opportunities, smallholders drive economic activity, ensure the judicious use of natural resources and ensure food security for growing populations. By placing smallholders at the center of its rural development agenda, China is demonstrating how inclusive growth can address systemic challenges while creating sustainable and resilient rural economies. These efforts underscore the pivotal role smallholders play in bridging the gap between innovation and grassroots transformation.Over the past four decades, the partnership between the International Fund for Agricultural Development and China has shown what can be achieved when resources, innovation, and shared expertise come together. IFAD-supported initiatives in China's rural areas have empowered smallholders, delivering higher incomes, stronger rural communities, and a more resilient agricultural sector. China's sustained commitment to uplift its rural areas combined with the IFAD's global experience and technical know-how provides a blueprint for success that can inspire other nations.This enduring partnership will not stop here; it will continue to deepen and expand in the years to come. The newly approved Country Strategic Opportunities Programme for 2025-2030 marks the next chapter in this collaboration. Developed in close partnership with the government of China and in consultation with key in-country development partners, the COSOP is aligned to the government's development agenda and outlines strategic pathways to unlock the untapped potential of rural areas to sustain the gains of eradicating extreme poverty in the country. It focuses on enhancing rural livelihoods, advancing climate-resilient agriculture and strengthening rural institutions and systems. Through these targeted investments, the IFAD and China are showcasing a replicable and scalable model for sustainable rural development that has global significance.The foundation of rural vitalization rests on fostering inclusive growth and improving livelihoods. Indeed, a key pillar of the strategy is to achieve fully rejuvenated rural areas with well-off farmers and strong agricultural sectors through policies that encourage small-scale farmers to adopt modern farming and agricultural practices. Raising smallholder incomes is a crucial aspect of this transformation because only by raising incomes, creating jobs and strengthening value chains can rural communities prosper. For example, in Yunnan and Hunan provinces, IFAD-supported projects have empowered rural cooperatives to help farmers achieve economies of scale, access better markets, and secure fair prices for their produce.Simultaneously, climate-smart approaches — including sustainable farming techniques, climate-resilient infrastructure and drought-tolerant crops — are enabling farmers to adapt to the growing risks posed by climate change. These efforts enhance resilience and support long-term environmental sustainability.The new program will also place greater emphasis on South-South and Triangular Cooperation as a means to accelerate progress in rural transformation and the eradication of poverty globally. By facilitating the exchange of expertise, technologies and innovations among countries of the Global South, the IFAD and China are fostering partnerships that deliver shared solutions to common challenges.China's achievements in rural vitalization and poverty reduction offer valuable insights for replication. By placing smallholder farmers at the center of its development agenda, China demonstrates that economic growth and social equity can be advanced in tandem. Investing in rural areas does more than lift local livelihoods — it strengthens food security, drives climate action and fosters economic stability at both the national and global levels.Rural vitalization is not merely a national priority in China; it makes a huge contribution to the global rural transformation dynamics. By investing in smallholder farmers, we are laying the foundation for a more equitable, resilient and prosperous world. The IFAD-China partnership exemplifies what can be accomplished through sustained collaboration, innovation, and investment. Together, we can demonstrate that rural areas are vibrant engines of opportunity, benefiting farmers, economies, and societies at large. Now is the time to act — to empower smallholders, transform rural communities and build a future where no one is left behind.

The steep mountainsides of Yunnan province are green with orchards that supply sweet mangoes to eager shoppers across China. But getting the fruit to markets in the valleys is not a straightforward matter.Most farm vehicles can’t navigate the terrain, leaving farmers to carry heavy baskets down steep slopes themselves or hire expensive labourers. The mangoes often lose their freshness by the time they reach the market, cutting further into profits.In Huaping County, a newly installed monorail system is bridging the gap – and transforming communities in the process.Transporting rural youth homeWith so much hard and time-consuming labour needed to make even small returns, it’s no wonder that many of rural Huaping’s young people once simply left to find work in the cities.Xie Fanghua was among them. He seized the chance to go to Kunming, the provincial capital, to gain vocational training and find a high-paying job.But on a visit home to his parents, he noticed the difficulties farmers faced in getting their fruit to market – and spotted an opportunity to return to his roots. Xie left his city job and founded the Lijiang Fangyuan Agricultural Technology Development Company to devise solutions to his community’s problems. At first introducing a cable transportation scheme, Xie refined his ideas until he had developed the perfect solution to Huaping’s challenging terrain: a monorail system. His company laid custom-designed tracks starting from the points where harvested mangoes are sorted and packed, and ending at unloading points from which they can be transported.Today, a small train runs semi-automatically along the tracks, packed with fruit that it transports safely and efficiently down the mountainside. Spreading connectivitySeeing the change the monorail made in his own community, Xie was determined to make his technology accessible to other farmers who needed it. With a 1.15 million-yuan (US$158,000) loan from IFAD’s Y2RDP initiative matching his company’s own investment, Xie set up a 350 m2 facility in 2023 to expand production.The demand was immediate. Within a year, over 20,000 metres of track had been laid and were in use by 100 farmers. Y2RDP subsidies enabled farmers to purchase the system at a third below the market rate, while registered low-income farmers paid even less. While larger or more isolated orchards may set up their own systems, farmers with adjacent orchards often share a train to reduce costs. They pay a small service fee to cover the costs of purchase, operation, maintenance and fuel.The monorails have also created jobs, while support services such as professional weeding have sprung up around them. Best of all, as farmers increase their own incomes, agriculture is finally becoming an appealing option for young people in Huaping.“In Yunnan, there’s no terrain challenge we can’t solve when it comes to transportation,” says Xie, now 36 years old. “Our goal is to serve more fruit-growing locations and drive the development of the agricultural industry.”