This brief shares insights on enhancing economic opportunities in Guizhou Province in the People’s Republic of China. It draws on surveys of local stakeholders and on experiences of rural development in Australia, Japan, and the United States.
Rural industries in Guizhou have experienced significant growth but also excessive specialization in similar products and insufficient agricultural modernization. The authors propose establishing a market-oriented rural industry support system, improving mechanisms to help farmers benefit from agricultural development, and fostering innovation across the value chain. They also suggest leveraging local strengths to establish high-quality specialty brands and enhancing training and employment opportunities and social safety nets for vulnerable groups.