The global value chains applied to the agribusiness: challenges and prospects

Résumé

This article examines the global value chain (GVC) framework and its relevance for analyzing the organization and transformation of the agribusiness sector. The main objective is to assess how GVC analysis contributes to understanding the coordination, governance, and international fragmentation of agri-food production systems in a context of increasing globalization. Drawing on an extensive review of the literature, the study highlights the key conceptual and methodological contributions of the GVC approach, particularly its ability to capture inter-firm relationships, value creation processes, and power asymmetries along agri-food chains. The results show that the GVC framework provides valuable insights into the strategic positioning of firms and countries within global agribusiness networks, as well as into learning, upgrading, and governance mechanisms. However, the analysis also reveals several limitations, notably regarding the consideration of territorial specificities, temporal dynamics, and socio-environmental dimensions. The article concludes that, despite these limitations, the GVC approach remains a relevant analytical tool for studying agribusiness value chains, provided it is complemented by institutional, territorial, and dynamic perspectives. Future research should focus on integrating sustainability issues, regionalization processes, and resilience strategies to better capture the evolving challenges and prospects facing global agribusiness value chains.