New Zealand Aid Tools Activity Tools 

Market Chain Approach

Tool Summary

Draft: 11/03/2010

Author: Tony Banks, Senior Advisor Livelihoods

Approved: 06/07/2010

For help contact : Tony Banks, Senior Advisor Livelihoods

Next review due: 06/07/2011

Business Process Owner: Rick Woodham, Deputy Director Economic Growth & Livelihoods

 
Print version: Knowledge Note | Market Chain Approach | PDF (164kb)

About this document

This document outlines the Market (or Value) Chain Approach (MCA) and its practical application to the identification and/or design of development Activities. It is intended for use by MFAT staff managing the New Zealand Aid Programme and partners involved in the identification, design and/or implementation of market-oriented development Activities.

It is intended to equip Development Programme Managers and managers at post (with appropriate support from advisory staff) with sufficient understanding of the MCA to use it in their work but not necessarily enough for them to be able to undertake a MCA themselves - which is usually the role of partners and/or contractors. 

Please contact Tony Banks, Senior Livelihoods Advisor, with any queries or feedback.

Summary

This guideline:

  • Outlines a framework for understanding market chains and the broader market context in which they are situated
  • Explains how the Market Chain Approach (MCA) can add value to development Activity identification and/or design
  • Indicates when the use of the MCA should be considered
  • Outlines how to apply a MCA approach on a step-by-step basis
  • Identifies useful MCA resources for further reference