Training, credit, and infrastructure for improving market access among small-scale producers in the Philippines

Abstract

Market access offers opportunities for technology adoption, productivity gains, and welfare improvement. Yet, small-scale producers in developing countries sell less than a quarter of their production in the market. The role of bundled interventions combining rural infrastructures, particularly farm-to-market roads, with access to extension and credit to improve market access remains insufficiently explored. This study investigates the impact of such bundled intervention on market participation and livelihood outcomes of small-scale producers in the Philippines. Results indicate higher market participation and income for treatment households, with a more pronounced impact among those near farm-to-market roads constructed by the project. Findings underscore the importance of implementing interventions that combine production support with infrastructure development to support the livelihoods of small-scale producers in remote areas.