This book synthesizes the findings of a longer work which sets out a strategy for raising rural incomes. It emphasises the creation of diversified rural economies with opportunities within and outside agriculture. Agricultural policies need to be integrated within an overall mix of policies and institutional reforms that facilitate, rather than impede, structural change. By investing in public goods, such as infrastructure and agricultural research, and by building effective social safety nets, governments can limit the role of less efficient policies such as price controls and input subsidies.
Table of contents:
Executive summary 1. Introduction 2. The short- to medium-term effects of agricultural policies in developing countries 3. Long-term structural change and the agricultural transformation 4. A strategic framework for strengthening rural incomes 5. Market stabilisation policies 6. Input subsidies 7. Policy conclusions References
