The sourcing strategies of global buyers can have profound implications for suppliers in low-income countries. Using novel data, research in the garment sector reveals how global buyers differ in their approach to sourcing and why that matters for suppliers’ margins.

How does participating in global value chains impact developing countries?

Union leaders exhibit better leadership qualities than average workers and cultivate collective action in labour movements through a coordinating role

English language courses for domestic managers improve their interactions with foreign managers, and potential employers value these interactions

Increased competition in agriculture markets sustained by informal contracts can diminish performance and value for all players in the supply chain

How much do international buyers in the garment industry use their market power to squeeze the mark-ups of Bangladeshi garment suppliers?

Linking farmers to global markets could spur growth and reduce poverty, but if markets do not work well these gains cannot be realised

How can smallholder farmers in Africa overcome barriers and export their produce to valuable Western markets?

Dairy farmers have high demand for infrequent payments, which help save. Poor enforcement, however, limits competition in the supply of these payments.