The purpose of this guide is not to replicate past socio-economic studies on the subject of contract farming. Rather, the aim is to provide advice: first, to management of existing contract farming companies on how to improve their operations; second, to companies that are considering starting such ventures on the preconditions and management actions necessary for success; and, last but not least, to government officials seeking to promote new contract farming operations or monitor existing operations. The guide describes in detail the general modus operandi, internal functions and monitoring mechanisms of contract farming. It emphasizes that sustainable contract farming arrangements are only possible when the various parties see themselves involved in a long term partnership.