Case studies

This analysis highlights the failure of two Central American countries with very different enabling environments (Honduras and Nicaragua) to develop their infant wooden furniture industries (or, in fact, any significant value addition to lumber), despite having abundant natural resources available and having experienced significant liberalisation of trade since the early 1990s. The link between trade liberalisation and trade growth is questioned, as are state-led approaches to natural resource management of forestry reserves.

This case study evaluates the outcomes of rural community-based tourism in Nicaragua (five communities) and Guatemala (four communities), as an alternative to more mainstream tourist development. Despite strong community organisations (cooperatives) and some tourism natural assets (caves and culture) – and, in the case of Nicaragua, reasonable infrastructure and access to markets – the financial sustainability of initiatives has been badly affected by an inability to link with the main distribution channels (tour operators and hoteliers).

This is an assessment of the impact of Brazil nut cultivation on the labour market and poverty in a region of Bolivia with few other economic alternatives. The study focuses on the terms and conditions involved in jobs created for collectors and processors during the short harvesting season.

This study evaluates the varying degrees of success with which small-scale producers, as a result of various donor projects, have been able to supply urban and international markets with trout from Peru. The study highlights the barriers faced by small local producers to access to export markets. It questions whether sophisticated markets can be used to reduce poverty and highlights the important role of local government in promoting private sector investment.

This is an analysis of the impact of organic and fair trade certification on banana producers and organisations in a relatively disadvantaged area of Peru. The study explores how relatively small-scale farmers – organised into associations – can benefit from niche markets. Higher input costs are more than offset by significantly higher prices obtained by accessing high-value export markets. The role of associations in supporting individual farmers is highlighted. Agricultural labour conditions on banana plantations are not explored in this analysis.