New Books Network Jeff Neilson, "Fortress Farming: Agrarian Transitions, Livelihoods, and Coffee Value Chains in Indonesia" (Cornell UP, 2025)
Oct 25, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Neilson, an Associate Professor of Economic Geography at the University of Sydney, explores the intricate coffee value chains in Indonesia. He unveils the concept of 'fortress farming,' where smallholders adopt defensive strategies to preserve their livelihoods while navigating global markets. Jeff discusses the impact of off-farm incomes on household economies and cultural identities, as well as the implications for agrarian transitions and sustainability. His insights illuminate the balance between tradition and modernity in rural Indonesian life.
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Farming's Secondary Income Role
- Rural Indonesian households increasingly earn significant income from non-farm sources like remittances and services.
- Jeff Neilson argues this diversification reshapes the role of farming within livelihoods and development policy.
Multi-Scalar Institutional Environment
- Institutional environment captures multi-scalar rules, norms, and incentives shaping farmer behavior.
- Neilson combines value-chain literature with North's institutional economics to explain livelihood choices.
Corporate Control Through Value Chains
- Lead firms (roasters) control value capture via branding and strategic suppliers, limiting farmer leverage.
- Firms increasingly exert influence in sourcing regions through sustainability programs and training.
