Does MD2 pineapple variety adoption improve smallholder GlobalGAP certification? Evidence from Southern Ghana

Purpose This study estimates the determinants and impacts of Del-Monte-Dole (MD2) variety adoption on Global Good Agricultural Practices (GlobalGAP) certification for small-scale pineapple farmers in Southern Ghana. Design/methodology/approach The study uses primary data from 546 pineapple smallholder farm households and a recursive bivariate probit model to address research objectives. Findings This study’s findings show that contract farming, formal education and female-headed households increase the probability of smallholders adopting MD2 variety, whilst their decision to participate in GlobalGAP certification is positively influenced by the MD2 variety adoption, contract farming, farm size and female-headed households. Post-estimation analysis indicates that female MD2 variety adopters have a higher likelihood of participation in GlobalGAP certification than their male counterparts. Research limitations/implications This study focuses on two districts in Southern Ghana where export-oriented pineapple production and GlobalGAP certification are key farming activities. Practical implications This study’s outcome will be useful in designing policies and interventions to support both MD2 variety adoption and GlobalGAP certification among small-scale pineapple farmers in Ghana and other developing countries. Originality/value MD2 variety adoption and GlobalGAP certification are key factors affecting export-oriented pineapple production in Ghana. However, there is limited information on the relationship between these two critical factors. This study bridges the gap by estimating the impact of MD2 variety adoption on GlobalGAP certification, whilst accounting for selection bias and unobserved endogeneity. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-11-2024-0957