Linking small scale farmers in China with the international markets; A case of apple export chains

This study demonstrates that the Chinese apple export chains are highly coordinated through ongoing long term loyal network relationships and vertical integration. Various chain governance mechanisms were formed and link small-scale apple farmers in China with export markets. These institutional innovations have perfected chain performances by improving the efficiency of price transmission and generating higher profit margins for chain actors, in particular for small-scale farmers. Relevant policy implications and further challenges are discussed in the conclusion