Agricultural Value Chain Analysis Tools and Methods

Abstract

Value chains vary significantly within and across sectors due to their dynamic and diverse systems, which are influenced by social, cultural, temporal, spatial, and commodity-specific factors. Consequently, no single methodology can comprehensively analyze all value chains, and the choice of methodology depends on the objectives and preferences of the analyst. The literature offers various tools and methods for investigating different phases of value chains, often employing a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches or focusing on one of them. This study emphasizes qualitative methods for agricultural value chain analysis, highlighting survey/interview techniques for data collection and value chain mapping as a widely used data analysis method. A comprehensive overview of the tools and methods used in agricultural value chain analysis has not been previously undertaken. This study aims to address this gap by reviewing the available literature on methodologies, tools, and techniques for data collection and analysis in agricultural value chains. Through an extensive review of guidelines, manuals, reports, discussion papers, and articles, this study identifies key tools and exemplifies their applications in agricultural value chain analysis. Additionally, it synthesizes diverse perspectives from various authors regarding the use of these methods and tools. This review provides a critical contribution to the field, particularly in the context of Pakistan, where such studies are scarce, offering a foundation for future research and practical applications in agricultural value chain analysis.

Agricultural Value Chain, Value chain methodology, Data collection methods, data analysis methods, value chain guideline, and value chain methods