How Iran's Poultry Insurance Got a Productivity Boost

The agricultural sector has long relied on insurance as a key risk management strategy. In Iran, the crop insurance fund, which is a quasi-government body, has been slow to innovate. For years, traditional methods have been the norm, with little room for change. However, in 2016, the fund's managers made a significant shift. They introduced a negotiation-oriented insurance approach specifically for the broiler industry. This new method involved collaboration with the broiler industry producers' union, rather than relying solely on government directives. Every step, including setting insurance premiums, was a joint effort. This new approach was a departure from the usual top-down method. It aimed to make the insurance process more inclusive and responsive to the needs of the broiler industry. The question remained: would this collaborative method lead to better outcomes? To find out, researchers looked at the total factor productivity of broiler insurance. They used the Malmquist index and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to measure changes before and after the new approach was implemented. The data spanned from 2010 to 2020, providing a comprehensive view of the impact. The results were clear. After adopting the negotiation-oriented method, the total factor productivity of insurance in the broiler industry saw a significant improvement. From 2016 to 2020, productivity increased by 19. 7% annually. This boost in productivity suggests that involving industry stakeholders in the decision-making process can lead to more effective risk management. It also highlights the potential benefits of moving away from traditional, government-driven approaches. However, it's important to consider the broader context. The success of this new approach in the broiler industry does not guarantee similar results in other sectors. Each industry has its unique challenges and dynamics. Therefore, while the findings are promising, they should not be seen as a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, they serve as a reminder that innovation and collaboration can drive progress, even in long-established systems. The agricultural sector is constantly evolving. As new challenges arise, so do opportunities for improvement. The shift in Iran's broiler insurance approach is a testament to this. By embracing change and fostering collaboration, the industry can continue to adapt and thrive. This case study offers valuable insights for other sectors looking to enhance their risk management strategies. It underscores the importance of flexibility, innovation, and stakeholder engagement in driving productivity and success.