The paper
This paper maps countries’ connections to value chains in textiles and clothing and in agriculture, with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa. It examines how those connections relate to infrastructure and trade facilitation at home and in neighboring countries.
Research findings
- Better infrastructure and trade facilitation are associated with stronger value-chain connectivity, with clearer results for textiles and clothing than for agriculture.
- Neighboring countries’ performance also matters, highlighting the regional character of production networks and transport links.
Policy takeaways
- Coordinate infrastructure and border reforms across countries, rather than planning only within national borders.
- Assess regional corridors and supporting services together when seeking to connect African producers to value chains.