A viable and sustainable integrated rice seed sector requires integration of the formal and informal systems, with knowledgeable and empowered farmer seed customers and managers. Trip (2003) describes this need eloquently:Finally, it is worth repeating that the development of a commercial seed sector is not in competition with, or an alternative to, the strengthening of farm-level seed management capacities. Indeed, the emergence of a commercial seed sector will occur only where farmer seed systems are strong, where farmers know a great deal about what varieties are available, are engaged in widespread seed and information exchange and are confident and knowledgeable consumers.
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