Value Chains in Development: Emerging Theory and Practice

Value chains that link poor producers in developing countries to strong markets have the potential to bring lasting prosperity and jobs to the poor. Value chain interventions can identify and address the bottlenecks that hinder the development of an industry. Value Chains in Development charts the rise of value chain analysis from the sub-sector approach, through classic business development services, and includes how to assess value chains, measure potential competitiveness and facilitate market-based interventions. Selected from among the best papers on this subject in Enterprise Development and Microfinance (formerly SED journal), 14 papers take the long view of a discipline that has recently become an essential tool for economic development in developing countries. In her introductory chapter the editor discusses what we can learn from past trends and more recent development.

These critical readings are essential background for students and practitioners of the market-based approaches to development.

Linda Jones is an independent consultant who is recognized as an international leader in value chain development, and was formerly Technical Director at MEDA and past-Chair of the SEEP Network.