The power of international value chains in the Global South

Firms could build competitiveness and grow by engaging in South-South value chains and producing higher value-added goods, according to a survey of more than 550 East African companies. The North offers opportunities for international engagement and higher sales, but connecting to the South helps firms move up the value chain and allows knowledge transfer.

This report shows major trends that have propelled the South, including the recent proliferation of regional trade agreements and increasing trade in technology-intensive products. Decision makers should increasingly support regional cooperation to boost South-South trade and investment alongside South-North initiatives.