Terms of reference for the Feasibility Study “Exploring Cooperative Aggregation models in Madagascar’s vanilla sector” – value chain expert

2. Objectives of the Consultancy

To conduct an in - depth, field - based assessment of opportunities for cooperative aggregation among 10 Fairtrade - certified vanilla cooperatives in the SAVA region, generating the evidence base needed to identify and prioritise the most impactful aggregation model and to design a pilot. The Value Chain Expert will assess how aggregation can help cooperatives increase value capture (curing and quality management), strengthen market access, and reduce inefficiencies through cost sharing, pooled services, and economies of scale.

3. Scope of Assignment

To design and deliver a 2-month structured feasibility study assessing the viability of a "super aggregation" model in Madagascar's vanilla sector, enabling Fairtrade producers to increase value capture through improved curing, quality management and market access. The study aims to identify and prioritise where a super aggregation model will have the most impact for participating Fairtrade vanilla cooperatives in the SAVA region. The study responds to six (6) key research questions: 1.What are the key differences between producers/cooperatives in curing and processing facilities and capacities? 2. What structural and economic bottlenecks prevent producer upgrading in the vanilla value chain? 3. What technical and financial requirements are needed for shared curing and quality enhancement? 4. Which aggregation models (clusters, shared testing, processing centres) are most viable given current conditions? 5. What are the potential returns for producers and cooperatives under different scenarios? 6. How can donor or blended financing de-risk initial investment in aggregation infrastructure?

4. Deliverables

The desired outcome from the Services is to have a decision-ready feasibility assessment and pilot design for a cooperative aggregation model in Madagascar's vanilla sector, enabling FTA and its partner cooperatives to move from feasibility to piloting in the SAVA region.

The deliverables are as follows:

# 1Research Workplan Concept 2 Comprehensive Value Chain Value chain assessment;

3. Final Report with aggregation Pilot Model & Implementation Roadmap

5. Fees

Estimated at approximately 30 working days at a local daily rate of USD 400, plus a provisional budget of USD 5,000 for travel and other direct costs including workshop logistics, subject to local market conditions and agreed sample size.

6. Reporting

The Value Chain Expert reports to the Study Lead, with quality-assurance oversight from the FTA commercial team. Progress will be reviewed through bi-weekly Jour Fixe meetings. How to apply apply here on website or consultancydirect link here