Formal Seed System

The formal seed system is a deliberately constructed system normally focused on cash crops (maize, cotton, soybean, rice, etc.). The sector is usually subject to national policies and regulations, and involves various stakeholders. A chain of interlinked activities results in seed products that are of well-defined quality in respect of genetic purity and physiological, physical and phytosanitary quality. These activities include research, multiplication, processing, distribution and uptake, transport and storage of seeds. The role of the private sector in a formal seed system is normally concentrated on seed production and marketing with appropriate compliance to quality assurance.