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Millions of smallholder farmers who supply the UK are grappling with the dual pressures of climate change and the ongoing war in Iran. As these farmers struggle to cope, the UK government has come under fire for failing to introduce critical supply chain oversight rules that could alleviate their plight. With over two months passed since the deadline for announcing new regulations, campaigners are increasingly vocal about the urgent need for action to ensure fair treatment for producers abroad.
Government Under Scrutiny for Missing Deadline
Critics have labelled the UK government as “missing in action” following its failure to unveil new supply chain regulations that were expected by the end of March. These regulations are part of the UK’s Trade Strategy, aimed at promoting responsible business practices among companies operating domestically and internationally. Activists have been advocating for a mandatory Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD) law, which would require businesses to take measurable steps to address human rights and environmental issues within their supply chains.
The past few years have underscored the fragility of global supply chains, disrupted by events such as the Covid-19 pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the escalating climate crisis. The absence of robust oversight poses significant risks not just to farmers but also to the environment, with concerns ranging from forced labour to land degradation. As the government remains silent on its response to the sustainable business review, the fate of countless small-scale producers hangs in the balance.
Impacts of the Iran War on Farmers
The ripple effects of the conflict in Iran have been profound, pushing costs for essential supplies skyward. In Kenya, for instance, the price of a 50kg bag of fertiliser has surged from 3,500 Kenyan Shillings (£20) to 6,500 (£37). Such increases dramatically affect farmers’ ability to maintain production and meet their basic operational costs. A cooperative in Côte D’Ivoire has reported that over 70 per cent of its members are currently unable to access vital inputs due to the war’s impact on supply chains.
Sophia Ostler, senior policy manager at the Fairtrade Foundation, highlighted the urgency of introducing HREDD laws, stating, “The impacts of the War in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz mean that the need for such legislation is more urgent than ever.” Farmers producing staples like bananas, sugar, and cocoa are already facing crippling input costs and trade disruptions, underscoring the pressing need for regulatory intervention.
Voices from the Ground: Farmers Speak Out
Silvia Herrera, a small-scale coffee farmer from Mexico, recently shared her experiences with The Update Desk while in London to provide testimony on UK climate aid programmes. She described the harsh reality for farmers, saying, “Our cost of transport is up 50 per cent since the War began.” The logistics of moving coffee from her farm to market have become a financial burden, threatening her operation’s viability.
The effects of climate change compound these challenges, as irregular rainfall has disrupted planting and harvesting cycles. “We have seen more fires in recent years, which threaten many farmers, and landslides after heavy rains have destroyed parts of farms,” she explained. Such environmental changes not only threaten crop yields but also jeopardise farmers’ livelihoods.
Campaigners believe that implementing a law mandating HREDD could create a more equitable trading environment. Ostler noted that this regulation would level the playing field, ensuring that companies committed to fair treatment of workers are not undercut by those that exploit loopholes.
The Bigger Picture: Climate Finance and Its Challenges
Access to climate finance remains a significant hurdle for farmers in developing countries. Despite the UK’s obligations under the Paris Agreement to provide climate aid, many producers struggle to access these funds. Herrera pointed out that women, young people, and indigenous communities often face additional barriers in securing financing due to land rights issues. “It’s hard for us to have those documents or even the safe room to participate and bring our thoughts,” she lamented.
While some financial support has been made available from international sources, such as the German government, the scale of assistance is insufficient to address the widespread challenges posed by climate change. The UK government has signalled its intent to reduce overall climate finance from its aid budget, although it plans to leverage private capital for future investments.
Why it Matters
The plight of smallholder farmers in the UK’s supply chain is a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of global commerce and local livelihoods. As climate change and geopolitical conflicts continue to reshape the landscape, the urgent need for responsible business practices and adequate regulatory oversight becomes ever clearer. Without timely and effective intervention from the government, millions of farmers could face an uncertain future, risking not only their livelihoods but also the sustainability of the agricultural sector. Ensuring fair treatment and support for these producers is not merely a matter of ethics; it is essential for the stability and resilience of global food systems.
