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This paper presents a synthesis of 15 success stories in the production, processing, and marketing of high-value food products (HVF) in developing countries in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. High-value food products, such as fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, meats, fish, dairy products, and vegetable oils, are defined as having high intrinsic value or a high rate of value added through processing. Trade in these products has expanded while trade and prices for other agricultural products, such as most staple crops, have stagnated or declined. The growing trade in HVF has prompted policymakers in developing countries to examine more closely how they can expand and diversify their e...
Employment services promote the efficient allocation of labor by, among other things, promoting labor mobility and improving productivity. This paper assesses the cost- effectiveness of services designed to expedite the exchange of labor between job-seekers and employers. The authors find that the benefits of employment services are not uniform. Benefits may be reduced in small countries with a large informal sector, or when the economy is stagnant and the demand for labor is depressed (even though the need for the services may be greater under such conditions). The authors advocate a balance between public and private sector delivery of employment services. They favor opening the private ma...
World Bank Discussion Paper 236. Agricultural support services play an important role in increasing agricultural productivity. Given the importance of agriculture to developing countries, governments have taken the lead in providing such services.
World Bank Discussion Paper No. 286. This report was commissioned as part of a project on the effectiveness of credit policies in East Asian countries. In the Republic of Korea, the government has played a pervasive role in promoting industrialization and economic development. The report documents the use of directed credit programs and highlights what made government intervention effective: its close consultation with industry, the existence of a competitive business environment, and a strong monitoring and evaluation system. The report notes the risk-sharing arrangements developed by Korean policymakers and the flexible adaptation of directed credit programs to the changing needs of the Korean economy. The authors also emphasize the long-term costs of reliance on directed credit programs and the measures taken in recent years to redirect the programs' objectives and redress the imbalances that have arisen along Korea's path to economic development.
Discusses ways in which the role of the state in promoting agricultural growth and development may be redefined. This report presents the proceedings of the 14th World Bank Agricultural Symposium held in January 1994. The papers explore ways in which the role of the state in promoting agricultural growth and development may be redefined. They also capitalize on important lessons emerging from experiences around the world. The report suggests that changing the role of government from market domination towards the provision of a regulatory framework that facilitates private sector activity is an ongoing process rather than a one-time occurrence. The papers also illustrate the wide variety of issues and the different approaches in the various countries that are redefining the role of government in agricultural development.
World Bank Discussion Paper No. 224. All of the World Bank's priorities for environmental aid to Asia are described in this comprehensive manual. Also featured is a framework to improve the region's environmental management and achieve sustainable
Agriculture in developing countries has been remarkably productive during the last few decades; however, the production levels were achieved at the cost of placing more stress on natural resources and the environment. This volume brings together state-of-the-art applied, practical research related to agriculture, development, and the environment in the developing world. It attempts to distill current knowledge and to summarize it in readable form for development practitioners. Where possible, authors use specific examples to indicate which approaches have worked and which have not, under which conditions, and why.
The economic integration of the European Community (EC) and its implications for Sub-Saharan Africa are examined in this anthology.
This study describes a strategy to reduce poverty by boosting labor productivity and economic growth. It focuses on Uganda's two key sectors, agriculture and industry. The strategy seeks to make Uganda a self-sufficient food producer and a major crop exporter. It also advocates policies that would make the nation less dependent on imports and better at marketing its own products. Some suggestions include ways to improve labor markets, raise agricultural output, and broaden the tax base. Other recommendationsdiscuss ways to develop the financial sector and spur savings and investment. Also examined are the government's economic adjustment policies and their effects on the poor. Analysts point out the different ways that poverty affects men and women. The study also discusses how to increase public funds for social services that would improve the labor force. It recommends policies that will help women become full partners in Uganda's development. Tables and other illustrations throughout the text provide detailed statistics on Uganda's economic status. Topics include crop yields, poverty indicators, gross domestic product, and public sector expenses.
China has done much to reform its price system, achieve macroeconomic stability, and restore growth. Nevertheless, price distortions remain in three key areas. This study suggests further price reforms for the energy, grain, and transport sectors. It explains why energy price adjustments should have only a modest effect on consumer prices, but a highly positive effect on the economy. It discusses why China may have to reduce consumer subsidies to achieve the necessary reforms for grain prices. The study describes what the government must do to strengthen commodity markets, generate competition, and make allowances for seasonal price variations. China's transport sector has been a critical development bottleneck. The paper reviews tariff adjustments and other reforms that would modernize the transport system and help it meet growing demand. These reforms also would encourage energy conservation and help integrate the national economy.